Cartagena Resort Hosts Fashionable Weekend Getaway

A stylish crowd descended upon Cartagena, Colombia, over the weekend, drawn by the luxurious surroundings of the Four Seasons resort. The hotel's 131 rooms were taken over by a fashionable group of guests who spent several days celebrating Colombian culture.

Among the attendees were Lauren and Andrés Santo Domingo, who brought their A-list friends to the party. Designer Johanna Ortiz hosted an intimate lunch for the group at her sun-drenched home on Saturday afternoon, where they enjoyed tropical-tinged ready-to-wear and watermelon margaritas with a view of the city.

Guests were encouraged to explore the hotel's suite dedicated to Moda Operandi, where they could browse and select looks from Colombian brands such as Silvia Tcherassi and Mercedes Salazar. Lauren Santo Domingo, chief brand officer at Moda Operandi, aimed to highlight the talents of local designers throughout the weekend.

Lauren Santo Domingo described Cartagena as a city with "magical realism," referencing its famous son Gabriel García Márquez.

As the weekend's festivities unfolded, Lauren Santo Domingo led her stylish entourage on an impromptu exploration of Cartagena's vibrant streets, pointing out hidden gems along the way.

The group made a brief stop at Ortiz's forthcoming store, showcasing the city's unique blend of colonial charm and modern flair. This eclectic mix is a hallmark of Cartagena's rich cultural heritage.

The Four Seasons Cartagena property itself is a testament to the city's storied past, incorporating elements from various eras into its design. Located in the Getsemaní district, it offers stunning views of the walled city, a colorful and historic neighborhood.

On Friday night, guests gathered in the hotel's airy lobby, admiring its white marble walls and glass atrium as they sipped Prosecco and socialized with one another. The evening's dinner at Mario Carbone's The Grand Grill was a lavish affair, featuring steak and prawn cocktail, followed by an indulgent dessert spread.

The next day's activities centered around relaxation and rejuvenation as guests indulged in soothing massages at the hotel's spa, Umari.

After a tranquil morning, everyone reconvened for pre-dinner cocktails at the base of the Atrio imperial staircase, where Lauren Santo Domingo led a group in a spirited toast to Latin American culture.

The evening's festivities began with dinner in the 16th-century cloisters, which house the hotel's colonial-style rooms and feature an elegant courtyard under four magnificent Banyan trees.

A highlight of the night was a heartfelt performance by dancers from Jóvenes Creadores del Chocó, who paid tribute to the people of the Chocó region affected by the recent devastating earthquake.

The evening's festivities continued well into the night, with a lavish dessert spread that catered to every sweet tooth in attendance. The offerings ranged from classic berry pavlova to decadent tiramisu, alongside trays of vibrant Colombian chocolates.

A midnight snack of lobster rolls, hot dogs, and pizzas was served to satisfy any lingering cravings, but for those who still had energy to burn, the party only gained momentum.

The Catroux Presidential Suite, with its expansive terrace overlooking the city below, became a hub of activity as guests spilled out onto the balcony. The views were breathtaking, but it was clear that many had their eyes fixed on the party unfolding before them.

As the night wore on and fatigue began to set in for some, others continued to dance and socialize, making the most of their time in Cartagena. It's a testament to Lauren Santo Domingo's ability to bring people together through her events.

The unofficial late-night party zone was abuzz with familiar faces, including Johanna Ortiz, Catalina Londoño, and Juliana Sardi, all of whom were clearly having the time of their lives.

As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that Lauren Santo Domingo's Four Seasons Cartagena celebration had been an unforgettable experience for all who attended.