CARTAGENA of INDIAS, COLOMBIA - JANUARY 28, 2012: Fresh fish is cleaned and cut by a vendor in Bazurto market on January 28, 2012 in Cartagena, Colombia. Bazurto is a major urban market, colorful, chaotic and full of life. (Photo by Kaveh Kazemi/Getty Images)

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For adventurous souls only, Cartagena's labyrinthine central market, 4km outside the old city walls, is both dirty and enthralling – an all-out assault on the senses. If it's marketable, it's for sale here: there are endless stalls of fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, and plenty of options for grabbing a quick bite or chilled beverage. Pay close attention to your belongings and don't wear flashy jewelry. Grab a taxi (COP$7000 from the Old Town) and explore away.