NH Cartagena Urban Royal

The rooftop pool is a great finishing touch, with lovely views of the coast and skyline. Service was excellent from the moment we walked in, and the rooms are a decent size. NH Urban Royal was a pleasant surprise and exceeded our expectations. It’s very well located, with the best restaurants no more than 10 minutes away. Breakfast had everything you’d expect, including a varied buffet, fresh fruit, eggs made to order, attentive service, and delicious coffee.

The pool and service were great, but the rooms and beds were a real letdown. I’ve rarely slept on a bed this uncomfortable. It was so hard that, as a side sleeper, I had to put a sweatshirt underneath me because it hurt my hip. The amenities also felt lacking for a place calling itself four-star. If it were rated two or even three stars, I wouldn’t be writing this, but at four stars it needs an upgrade. I rarely post negative reviews and usually give a business the benefit of the doubt, but I can’t understand how this hotel got that rating. I’m surprised there aren’t more reviews about the hard beds.

The hotel looks great from the outside and sits in a perfect spot in Cartagena’s old town, but the interior could use some refreshing. Rooms facing the square are nicer, though music from the rooftop opposite can make them impossibly loud at night. The inner rooms are quieter. Breakfast is very good, thanks in part to the staff’s efforts, especially Maria and Michelle.

Maria looked after us at breakfast each morning and was wonderful. After we ate, she’d bring over these great health shots. The location was excellent, and the staff were amazing.