Hotel Isla Real

The little things made a big difference during our great family stay. The staff and food were both great, and the manager Kathy was the best. We'll be back.

There was no spa or wellness service like the listing described. The gym was just two rusty bikes and some weights, and our room was dirty, including stains on the toilet seat that made it look as though it hadn't been cleaned. The hotel felt run down and dirty, though the staff were friendly and helped us get back to Cartagena. A strange place.

We were so unhappy with this stay that we won't come back, and I wouldn't recommend the hotel. At booking, the price was listed, but when we arrived they tried to charge us more. After a few phone calls, they accepted the booked price. The bathroom was very old, with a really odd sink. We arrived early and saw nobody else, then realized later that we were the only guests. There was always construction or repair work going on. The hotel felt almost abandoned, with staff wandering around disorganized and looking as if they didn't want to work, so we preferred spending time at another nearby hotel. Food took nearly two hours to arrive on our first day, when we ordered typical fish dishes and a burger. Prices were high, as they are elsewhere on the island, but waiting 1.5-2 hours wasn't what we expected. Music by the pool was too loud, and they also played movies or football matches at high volume without considering the guests. The hotel sold us a tour to five islands. We expected a good tour from a hotel, but it was one of the worst I've taken. The employee who sold it lied about the itinerary, which turned out completely different, and when we asked for a refund he blamed the tour company and took no responsibility. We also paid 40mil pesos per person for a private boat back to Cartagena, expecting pickup at the hotel. They said the waves were too big, so we'd have to go to Bochacina where the boats arrive. When we asked whether the motors to get us there were included, they said yes. The motors arrived and asked us for money. The man who sold us the boat then said he hadn't said that was included. I feel they sell things with lies and refuse to take responsibility. There are better hotels nearby.

The rooms had full air conditioning, and the staff took great care of us. Leo was especially good at everything and is one of the best bellmen I've met. Ask for Leo if you come here, he'll look after you. Everything was amazing.