Ananda Boutique Hotel

The star of the show is Anandá's rooftop pool, a perfect spot to enjoy views over the city. There are also three patios, one with a hot tub and bounty of day beds. Ranked one of the best in the city, Vedana Restaurant serves a blend of Colombian, Spanish and African flavours, which you can enjoy in the intimate dining area or in the pretty courtyard. There is also a yoga area on the top floor and spa with its own sauna and Turkish bath.

With exposed beam ceilings and gleaming wooden floors, Anandá has four room categories: luxury, deluxe, superior and the junior suites. All are furnished with cushioned chairs and large beds draped in white linens (the Junior Suite boasts a four-poster), as well as large wardrobes. Other amenities include a minibar, TV and vases of colourful flowers, while the bathrooms are neat and functional.

There's so much to do in the coastal city of Cartagena, from admiring the street art of Getsemani to learning all about Colombia's indigenous peoples at the Museo del Oro Zenu. The hotel will also happily arrange boat trips to the Rosario Islands, which are well-known for their stunning reefs, mangroves and watersports. Anandá is just a few blocks away from Santo Domingo Square, a vibrant spot with lovely alfresco cafes and the famous reclining sculpture by Fernando Botero.