Location: Cartagena, Colombia
Event: Cartagena Independence Day will be observed by the city with a parade and road closures between Thursday, November 7thand Sunday, November 10th. The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid all areas/neighborhoods east of Centro Commercial Caribe Plazaduring this time. There may be illegal local neighborhood blockages asking pedestrians and motorists for money. Additionally, there may be illegal blockages between Cartagena and Barranquilla.
We encourage all citizens to take extra security precautions during the festivities. U.S. citizens are advised to use main roads, avoid large crowds, and avoid confrontations with festival participants. Do not hail taxis from the street. Pay attention to your surroundings and personal belongings, wear little or no jewelry, including watches, and carry as few valuables as you can. Avoid using your cell phone in public, especially near the street. If you are with small children, be aware that you may be targeted due to having your attention divided between your children and the events around you. Criminals using scopolamine to sedate/incapacitate their victims may increase their activity during the festivities.
On November 7th, at 12:00 p.m. the Independence Parade is scheduled to begin outside Hotel Corales, continuing on Avenida Santander to Parque de la Marina, and scheduled to end in Plaza de la Aduana and Plaza de los Coches.
On November 8th, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the National Beauty Contest will take place in Bocagrande Bay in Plaza de la Aduana and Plaza de losCoches. Calle 6, as well as all the roads leading to it in Bocagrande and Castillograndewill be closed at least two hours prior to the contest.
On November 9th, at 7:00 p.m.,the Salsa party will start in the La Plaza de la Aduana, and the Parade for Independence and Diversity will begin at Avenida Daniel Lemaitre and proceed to Parque del Centenario.
On November 10th, the Cabildo de Getsemani begins at 2:00 p.m. in Plaza de la Trinidad, and Queen’s election at 7:00 p.m. in Plaza de Toros.
Actions to Take:
-
Remain on main roads only.
-
Avoid crowds
-
Avoid confrontations with festival participants.
-
Avoid hailing taxis; use a dispatch service or cell phone app.
-
Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are with small children.
-
Wear little to no jewelry and carry few valuables. Keep a low profile.
-
Avoid using your cell phone in public.
-
Never leave food or drinks unattended in public.
-
Never accept food or drinks from strangers.
-
Do not invite strangers to your lodging or residence.
-
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
-
Keep car doors locked, and windows rolled up.
Comment