Trapped behind a familiar façade of a colonial mansion in the faded-romance of Cartagena’s historic quarter, the charming boutique hotel Ananda’s modern interiors betray most people’s preconceptions when entering.

Thanks to a more modern renovation and set-out the lounge and bar are tastefully minimal yet very inviting. The inner courtyard with its jade-coloured pool and white sun loungers surrounded by the traditional balconies of the upper floor is wonderfully stylish.

Simple, contemporary and comfortable, the 23 rooms come in three different categories and some have their own balconies.

There is a good in-house restaurant with a Mediterranean menu and with any hotel in the historic quarter worth its salt, a lovely roof terrace with a Jacuzzi for elevated views over the densely-packed edifices and the hustle and bustle of the streets below.