Hotel Casa Mara by Akel Hotels

The location is great, but I left very disappointed. I paid for two extra nights and had to leave early because of kidney problems. There was no refund. When I asked if my group could use a room to shower, they first said yes and then changed it to no. It felt like they'd sold my room twice. The shower had almost no pressure, and it stayed warm, so there wasn't even a cold shower option. In Cartagena's extreme humidity, a shower is necessary. It was the worst one I had in three weeks in Colombia. The bed was extremely hard, with no spring mattress, and after one night my back was already bothering me. I also found hair in the bathroom and a sock from the previous guest. Hotel workers made a lot of noise by the small pool, drilling, working and talking loudly. I'd had such great hotels in Medellin and Santa Marta that this was a real letdown.

Laini at reception welcomed me with a huge smile and was an absolute sweetheart. The room was very clean, and the location worked perfectly for the things I wanted to see and do. I was there for Nee Years, and it was a few blocks from the fireworks, far enough away that I could come back and sleep. There are two pools, one in the courtyard and another on the roof with a nice view over the area. Reception is open 24 hours, and you get buzzed in through a locked gate, which felt secure. I had booked somewhere else but wasn't impressed when I arrived. They let me pay for just one night, and I'm so glad I switched. I'd stay here again without hesitation.

I worked on an island outside Cartagena and spent my weekends at this lovely little sanctuary. It's on a quiet street, just a minute's walk from busy Plaza Trinidad. The hotel is arranged around a garden and pool, with rooms surrounding the center, like a riyadh. My room was spacious and impeccably clean. The staff were friendly and professional, and knew the city really well.

Laney at the front desk is the person I remember most from the friendly people I met in Cartagena. She went out of her way to help with advice, directions, accommodations, my Spanish and storing my bags. She really made the stay enjoyable. The heritage building has loads of charm. My room was spacious, with a modern bathroom, clean room and comfortable bed. The air conditioning worked well and the wifi was excellent. Hot water came and went, which is common in the area. Breakfast was hot and very good, and the rooftop pool was a nice extra. The front desk also had beach towels available. For what I paid, it was very good value. I'd definitely stay again.