Cartagena, the walled city on the Atlantic coast of Colombia, is the destination in this week's smart deal. Gate 1 Travel (tel. 800/682-3333; www.gate1travel.com) has a special offer for three nights of accommodations, round-trip airfare, fuel surcharges, and daily breakfast, priced from $399. It's valid for a range of travel dates from June-December; the first departure date is June 7. The price is based on travel from Miami but other cities are possible for an additional cost. The entry level price reflects double occupancy at the Regatta Cartagena Suites Hotel, a tourist class property near the beach. For a $50 upgrade, the Hotel Dunn, on the beach, is available, and $400 more buys you a stay at Sofitel Santa Clara, housed in a 17th-century colonial building in the city's historic center but a mile or so from the beach.
Why would you want to go to Cartagena? The old colonial core, with cobblestone streets, plazas and museums provides a romantic backdrop. The beaches are a great way to spend a warm sunny afternoon. And finally, the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
