Alfiz Hotel Boutique, Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city steeped in history and swashbuckling adventure. Situated on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, it inherits all the romance and legend of Spanish-era treasure hunting, smuggling and pirates. In fact, the old walls that earned the city its heritage status were built expressly to repel pirates like Sir Francis Drake and John Hawkins. The Alfiz hotel, whose name derives from the term for ‘framed arch’, dates back to the 1600s and has performed various duties, from warehouse, hostel, hardware store, emporium, apothecary and bar. During meticulous restoration some 10 years ago by specialist architect, Pedro Ibarra, numerous artefacts were found including cannonballs, hidden features and even human remains.

Today this boutique hotel comprises eight completely different rooms, each reflecting some aspect of the city’s past and decorated to theme. While there is no restaurant per se, relaxed breakfasts are served in the bright and airy courtyard. There is also an ornate library and sitting room with volumes from controversial, leftist-leaning Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel Garcia ‘Gabo’ Marquez. Take one upstairs to the delightful rooftop terrace and Jacuzzi.

The location within the walled city itself is ideal for visitors who want to fully immerse themselves in the aura of this fascinating old town. Walking tours to all the attractions are a simple stroll, as are restaurants, shops, bars and museums. alfizhotel.com/ingles