Hotel Estelar Blue

The gym was the letdown: a very small room with about four machines, and two were broken when we visited. Getting to the nearest metro is a trek, about 30 minutes downhill and uphill on the way back. Still, El Poblado's Zona Rosa is only around a 20-minute walk through quiet residential streets, where we felt perfectly safe. The hotel itself is in a peaceful neighborhood away from the bars and clubs, so we slept well. Our spacious bedroom, large clean bathroom, and extremely comfortable bed helped too. Breakfast was excellent, and this felt like a reliable, comfortable four-star place.

The laundry issue dragged on for days. Staff knocked loudly on my door three times before 8:30 in the morning, waking me each time. On the last visit they asked if I wanted to send clothes out. I asked when they'd be back and was told 5:30 that day. Two days later, my pants were still missing, despite repeated promises to return them. I also felt singled out at the desk. The next day, several groups went straight past the front desk and up to the elevators. I stopped to ask for water bottles, and the employee questioned only me, asking my room number and who was with me. I'm Black and was the only native Spanish speaker there, so next time I'll just act oblivious and speak English. He asked for both my passport and hers, although we're both Americans traveling with the same group that had just passed without being questioned. Then he charged me a fee just for bringing her upstairs so she could pick up some magnets, and ignored what I said. The gym is about the size of a bathroom, and the staff were neither attentive nor helpful. This was a terrible stay with terrible service and people. I won't come back, and I hope the tour agency I booked through stops using this hotel.

The location has its upsides and downsides, but the lack of connectivity and the “jejen” insect are real inconveniences.

The breakfast was fresh and tasty, with plenty of choice and great coffee. I also slept really well in the especially comfortable bed. My room was clean, peaceful, and comfortable, with a lovely city view, a nice place to unwind after exploring. It's in a safe, walkable spot near restaurants, shops, and interesting places to visit. From the moment I arrived, the staff were kind and welcoming, and everyone was friendly and helpful. My stay at ESTELAR Blue Hotel was calm and pleasant. I'd happily return and recommend it to people visiting Medellín.