About Cartagena

For superb views of this fascinating Colombian city and the magnificent Spanish-built San Felipe de Barajas fortress, which has defended it since the 16th century, head first for La Popa -the 17th century hilltop monastery which is open to visitors despite monks still living there.

All of Cartagena is a World Heritage site but the jewel in its crown is undoubtedly the ancient walled city within. This took nearly 200 years to complete and you will love exploring its narrows streets and pretty squares, its ramparts and especially its dungeons, which would be spooky but for the slightly bizarre presence of a lively flea market.

The new city, Bocagrande, has plenty of shops and malls where you can buy some of the emeralds for which Colombia is famous. There is also a Gold Museum, if you prefer just to window-shop. And there are some excellent beaches for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling or scuba diving.