Nacar Hotel

The main communal areas at Nacar include the ground-floor restaurant and rooftop terrace. The former is open for breakfast (freshly-baked breads, homemade jams and hot entrees) and dinner, with menus that showcase Colombia's two coasts. Surrounded by walls of greenery, there is also a central courtyard and small pool. From the terrace, enjoy views over the roofs of Cartagena's Old Town as well as tasty dishes like ceviches and carpaccios. The hotel also has a spa with a range of treatments inspired by traditional Eastern remedies.

With fresh, white walls and ambient lighting, Nacar has 49 rooms and suites. They all have polished wooden furnishings in various shades, and spacious bathrooms with a spa-like appeal. Some rooms have a large bathtub in the bedroom area. The largest category is the Junior Suite, which includes a comfortable seating area, rotating flat-screen TV, and Nespresso machine. Other amenities include aircon, a minibar and hairdryers.

Nacar is just a short walk away from two of Cartagena's most prestigious squares, Santo Domingo and San Diego, as well as the impressive Clock Tower. Peruse the historic structures of Old Town, stopping to pick up filigree jewellery or hand-woven bags at markets, then take a tour of the Palacio de la Inquisicion, learn about Colombia's indigenous peoples at the Museo del Oro Zenu or stand in awe at the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas – the view from the top is staggering.