Another one of the city's many religious structures, the Saint Nedelja Church dates back to as early as the 16th century, and can be found in the heart of Sofia. If you enjoy old icons and beautiful architecture, stop by along the route of your itinerary.

The amount of churches in Lima can be overwhelming to a first-time visitor. Wherever you look, you will find beautiful religious buildings rich in both architectural detail and history, especially when walking around the city centre. To make your life easier, we have selected five churches that are well worth visiting: 1. Lima Metropolitan Cathedral (2nd picture) In the city's main square, the cathedral is not only Peru's most important catholic church but also the first one ever built, dating back to the foundation of Lima in 1535. Inside the cathedral lie the bones of the city's conquistador, Francisco Pizarro. 2. Basílica and Convent of San Francisco (1st picture). A curious fact about this church is that it was built on top of catacombs, which served as a cemetery during colonial times. A visit to its basement will surprise you with bones and skulls of around 25 thousand people. 3. Sanctuary of Saint Rose of Lima. It was erected in the exact place where Santa Rosa was born. Here, you can explore the grounds where the city's patron lived and treated the poor. 4. Basilica and Convent of San Pedro. Many consider it to be the most beautiful church in Lima. Check out its magnificent interior and see for yourself. 5. Parroquia Santa María Reina. Its unusual oval shape is the big draw here. *Bonus: Church of La Merced. Even if you decide not to enter this one, just take your time admiring the stone carvings on its beautiful facade.

A different way to discover what the city has to offer in terms of culinary delights, a food tour is good for those looking to discover some under-the-radar family-run restaurants and sample some incredible local cuisine. A reputable company that offers such tours is Balkan Bites.

Just an hour's boat trip away from Cartagena lie the magnificent Rosario Islands, which belong to Colombia's only underwater natural park (Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park). Abundant marine wildlife (including over 50 species of corals) and some of Colombia's best beaches draw in many in search of relaxation and active pursuits such as snorkelling and diving. Isla Grande is best for kayaking through unique mangrove forests and seeing the phosphorescent plankton light up the waters of a brackish lake at night, while Playa Blanca is Cartagena's most spectacular white-sand beach (also reachable by land). It should be said that the company you choose to tour with has the potential to make or break the experience. Low cost tours can mean multiple intermediate stops en route to your destination, as well as unpleasant surprises such as no transfer back to your hotel. Try and choose a trusted company with consistently good reviews, or opt for a private tour. Mind that seas may be rough at certain times of the year, particularly in December and January, when tours on smaller boats may even become dangerous.