Hotel LM, A Boutique Colonial Hotel in Cartagena's Old City

Of all the boutique hotels cropping up in restored, colonial mansions in Cartagena's Old City, this is perhaps the most luxurious—and it's one for foodies who want to learn how to cook traditional Colombian specialties in the large kitchen. Open since late 2007, the 7-room Hotel LM is named for its location on the charming street Calle de la Mantilla, centrally located within the fortress walls of the historic port city, which happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site!

Pass through the tall, wooden doors of the all-white facade into stylish interiors decorated with an array of modern art and furniture, and Oriental carpets and artifacts from all over the world. Guest rooms are spare and spacious with king sized beds, flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi and gorgeous bathrooms featuring brickwork; note that most bathrooms only have showers, so if you want to soak in a huge, deep jet tub, book the Baño Suite. You can take your chef-prepared breakfast on the sunny rooftop terrace, which has a small pool, a cabana for massages, and lovely views of the old city and its cathedral.

In the evening, views of the illuminated skyline are especially romantic, so why not ask the Executive Chef Benjamin Rocha to prepare a private dinner to be served there? A Colombia native, Rocha speaks English and studied at Florida's Culinary Arts Institute, later honing his skills in Miami, Barcelona, India and Thailand. (He also happens to be very handsome!) It may seem odd that the hotel doesn't have a public restaurant; instead, guests must let Benjamin know what they'd like in advance, and he'll prepare a custom meal served in the chic dining room or the aforementioned fantastic rooftop (which, by the way, is an excellent spot for hosting an intimate party or wedding reception). Upon request, he'll teach cooking classes in LM's interactive kitchen, and he's happy to recommend top restaurants within walking distance.

Airport transfers are included in the room rate, and the hotel's staff can help arrange spa treatments, yacht trips, private guides and other local diversions. This is a great new arrival in the increasingly hot destination of Cartagena.

Room rates from $395.