Founded in 1533, Cartagena is undoubtedly one of Latin America’s most beautiful cities lost somewhere in time between the 16th and 19th centuries, with the Caribbean sea providing a sparkling backdrop. Sir Francis Drake laid siege to the city but the fortress walls and cannons remain, making the area within the old walled city a living museum. Many of the city’s colonial mansions have been carefully restored and the houses display the best of Spanish colonial architecture, painted in a feast of Caribbean colours and covered in bougainvillea. Latin music fills the streets and the city has a relaxed, cosmopolitan vibe. Take an evening stroll like a local along the narrow streets or enjoy a ride in a horse drawn carriage along the sea-front. Cartagena really is delightful and we and we haven’t even mentioned the stunning beaches and nearby islands. Every holiday in Colombia should include at least a couple of days here.