Meandering canals, cobblestone streets and hidden wine cafes make Venice a natural choice for honeymooners, but Cartagena, known as "the Venice of South America," offers a much more affordable alternative -- minus the gondolas, Koch says
The Spanish colonial city is also known for its winding streets, water views, art, architecture, salsa dancing and traditional Colombian dishes like seafood stew or red snapper with fried plantains.
Koch says the city is now very safe for tourists and recommends staying at the grand Hotel Charleston or the more intimate Tcherassi, which has just seven guest rooms in a 250-year-old mansion. The boutique hotel even offers a discounted rate of around $550 a night in February and March.
Another aspect to love: Flights to Cartagena cost about 25% less, on average, than a trip to Venice between January and March, which is also a particularly good time to go, according to data compiled by Travelocity.
Need to break out of the winter doldrums? You can beat the crowds and save money if you book now.
