Fun Classes for Expats Living in Cartagena
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Cartagena by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Cartagena, immersing yourself in the local culture and community is a fantastic way to enrich your experience abroad. Engaging in classes tailored to English-speaking adults can be both enjoyable and educational, offering opportunities to learn new skills, explore Colombian culture, and meet like-minded individuals. From cooking traditional dishes to mastering the Spanish language, there's a variety of classes available that cater to different interests. Here's a curated list of classes in Cartagena that are perfect for those still getting to grips with the local language but eager to dive into new experiences.
Cartagena Spanish School
Type of Class(es): Spanish Language Courses
Location: Getsemani, Calle de la Sierpe No. 29-03, Cartagena
Cartagena Spanish School offers a range of Spanish courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Their interactive approach to language learning includes cultural immersion activities, making it easier for English-speaking adults to pick up the language while enjoying the vibrant local culture.
Celele Cocina Workshop
Type of Class(es): Caribbean Cooking Classes
Location: Getsemani, Cartagena
At Celele Cocina Workshop, you can learn how to prepare traditional Caribbean dishes under the guidance of expert chefs. These cooking classes are a great way to understand the local cuisine and gain hands-on experience in the kitchen, even if your Spanish is still a work in progress.
Cartagena Art School
Type of Class(es): Painting and Drawing Classes
Location: Manga, Cartagena
Cartagena Art School provides a creative outlet for expats and digital nomads. With classes in painting and drawing, you can express yourself artistically while learning from local artists. The visual nature of these classes makes them accessible regardless of your Spanish proficiency.
El Barón Café & Liquor Bar
Type of Class(es): Cocktail Making Classes
Location: Plaza San Pedro Claver, Cartagena
El Barón offers cocktail making classes where you can learn the art of mixology. These classes are conducted in a fun and interactive environment, perfect for socializing with other expats and locals while learning to craft delicious drinks.
Cartagena PADI Dive School
Type of Class(es): Scuba Diving Courses
Location: Bocagrande, Cartagena
For those interested in exploring the underwater world, Cartagena PADI Dive School offers scuba diving courses in English. The courses range from beginner to advanced levels, allowing you to safely enjoy the marine beauty of the Caribbean Sea.
La Presentación Casa Museo Arte y Cultura
Type of Class(es): Cultural Workshops and Art Exhibitions
Location: Centro, Calle Estanco del Aguardiente No. 5-63, Cartagena
La Presentación is a cultural center offering workshops and art exhibitions that showcase Colombian heritage. These activities are often accessible to non-Spanish speakers and provide a deep dive into the country's rich cultural tapestry.
Volunteer Opportunities
Type of Class(es): Volunteering and Community Service
Location: Various locations in Cartagena
Participating in volunteer work is a rewarding way to learn Spanish while giving back to the community. Many organizations in Cartagena welcome English-speaking volunteers and provide opportunities to work in areas such as education, conservation, and social services.
Wine Tasting Cartagena
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting Classes
Location: Centro, Cartagena
Wine Tasting Cartagena offers classes for wine enthusiasts to learn about and taste a variety of wines. These sessions are typically led by knowledgeable sommeliers and can be a delightful way to meet other wine lovers in the city.
Cartagena Photography Tours
Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops and Tours
Location: Various picturesque locations in Cartagena
For those with a passion for photography, Cartagena Photography Tours provides workshops and guided tours to capture the city's beauty. These tours are often available in English and are a great way to improve your photography skills while exploring Cartagena.
Caribe Jewelry and Emerald Museum
Type of Class(es): Jewelry Making Workshops
Location: Bocagrande, Cartagena
At Caribe Jewelry and Emerald Museum, you can take part in jewelry making workshops where you'll learn about the craftsmanship behind Colombia's famous emeralds and even create your own piece of jewelry.
Please note that the availability of classes and specific locations may vary, and it is recommended to contact the institutions directly for the most up-to-date information.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.