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.

The northwest coast of the island of Basse-Terre is home to the lovely Jardin Botanique de Deshaies, a lush garden displaying some of the most beautiful specimens of the rich flora of the Caribbean islands.

The safest bet when it comes to finding ATMs at the cruise terminal is heading to the financial district, which is only 15 minutes away on foot. All cash withdrawals are in Trinidad and Tobago dollars (TT dollar), although US dollars are also widely accepted.

Just behind the ruins of Memphis, this 8-metre-long statue was carved from a single block of alabaster. It’s smaller than the Giza Sphinx but still impressive up close. No one’s entirely sure who it represents — maybe Hatshepsut or Amenhotep II — which just adds to the mystery. It’s a quick stop, but worth it if you’re already in the area.