About us — Casa Barbara

Barbara Smalley, Casa Barbara owner
I’m from the U.S. and have lived most of my life there, but have also lived for a couple of months to a year in Germany, Spain, Australia, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Belize. I came to Cartagena in 2011 thinking I’d stay for six weeks and ended up staying for two years! I taught English to adults at the Centro Colombo Americano de Cartagena and in addition started helping with Cartagena vacation rentals in 2012. That has grown to also helping with vacation rentals in Belize and coming back to Cartagena in 2015 to purchase my own apartment, Casa Barbara! It’s a beautiful city & country — come to Colombia, you don’t know where the adventure will lead you!

Interested in staying at Casa Barbara for a 30+ night stay? Message me with your intended dates, number in your party, a bit about yourselves, & any questions! Book directly for best rates & avoid fees charged on AirBNB, Vrbo, etc!
Ask me about vacation rentals in Belize, too!

Vacation Rentals in Cartagena, Balcones & Moneda Apartments
Casa Barbara Cartagena


Walter & Tara, Managers, Casa Barbara 
Tara is originally from Oregon & Walter grew up in Chicago, but they fell in love with Cartagena shortly after arriving in this city several years back. They live in Marbella, not far from Casa Barbara, and know the apartment and the city like the back of their hands. You will be well cared for!

Mary Alvarez


Marlidis, Housekeeping, Casa Barbara
Magical Marlidis makes Casa Barbara immaculately clean before, after, and during your stay! She can also make some great Colombian dishes if you wish — arepas, arroz con coco, patacones ….. Just ask & it can be arranged! Originally from Montería, she has lived in Cartagena for over 30 years. As reviewed by a guest: “During our stay, Marlidis cooked us an authentic Colombian meal which was delicious. We HIGHLY recommend this and her!!