Decameron Galeon Santa Marta

After five days, they asked at checkout how the hotel could improve. In many areas, I said, because the experience left a lot to be desired. The reception staff weren’t clear or friendly when explaining the hotel services, and there was no warm invitation to activities or real effort to make them engaging. The karaoke was dull, partly because of the singers and also because the hosts brought so little energy. Bingo felt just as forced and lifeless. The singer had no spark, and we left after two rounds. I also heard children weren’t allowed to take part, which disappointed several families. The food at the bars and restaurants was basic, with limited variety, and the strict schedules added pressure. Bars far from the beach made it inconvenient to get a drink without a hike or a rush. Going between places took away from the relaxed vacation feeling. The beach closed at 6 p.m. and the pool an hour later. That didn’t seem like a safety measure to me, but more like a staffing issue. Towel service was handled just as rigidly, which made things less comfortable. The cocktails were very basic too. In the end, the safe choices were beer, micheladas, vodka tonics, or rum and coke. All inclusive… I’m still wondering.

The people working here do try to go above and beyond when they can, and that’s about the only positive I can offer. I can’t say I’m looking forward to staying with the Decameron brand again. The hotel is listed as three stars, and that seems accurate. Rooms are basic but okay for resting, if the noise lets you. The food is okay too, nothing special. The loud noise, though, is pretty much nonstop, with a nightclub atmosphere day and night. Putting a club or bar in the lobby right below the rooms, open until 2 a.m., really doesn’t work. The hotel could do a lot better with the timing and placement of its entertainment. I understand it has to cater to different ages and audiences, but there’s no consideration for guests who want quiet or to hear the sea.

The hotel has a lot of potential, but service needs a lot of work. Very few people acknowledge guests, and the evening reception staff were too busy gossiping to notice anything. The guards are very rude. Some minor repairs are needed, and the drinks and food could be better. The beach closing at 6 p.m. because the sun is going down is understandable, but the well-lit adult pool shuts at 7 p.m. That’s not good when it’s still hot and humid.

We liked the hotel and would recommend it. Our room was clean, and the housekeeper made sure it was nice every day. The shower window faced the ocean, which was really cool. Food was generally good and plentiful, with lots of breakfast and lunch choices, though some meats could be more tender and healthier snacks should be included. The front desk never picked up when I called a couple of times for information. The staff were very friendly and ready to help with whatever we needed or wanted.