Hello, everyone! 👋 Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Santa Marta, Colombia, for some client meetings. While there, I stayed at a couple of hotels and encountered a mix of truly terrible and surprisingly delightful experiences. I’m excited to share my insights with you, hoping they’ll help anyone planning a trip to this beautiful city.
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⛔ **Blacklist: Hotel Marco Polo Rodadero**
Stay far away from this place! From the very beginning, it was clear that something wasn’t right. The first red flag? Their hotel entrance looked nothing like what was advertised in their photos. To make matters worse, after booking through Booking.com (and confirming payment with my bank), the hotel claimed on the second day that they hadn’t received the room fee.
They then demanded I pay again—cash upfront 💰. One staff member even threatened me, saying I’d have to leave if I refused to pay. Wasn’t this blatant extortion?
I immediately settled the bill, packed my things, and left without hesitation. Back home, I contacted my bank to dispute the fraudulent charge and provided them with the invoice for the cash payment as evidence. Shockingly, after all that drama, the hotel later reached out, asking me to leave a glowing review. How could I possibly recommend such a place to others, especially fellow Chinese travelers?
Communication was another major issue. Most of the front desk staff only spoke Spanish, which made interactions incredibly difficult despite my basic knowledge of the language and fluency in English. There was one staff member who spoke decent English, but even their attitude wasn’t particularly helpful.
And let’s talk about sleep—or rather, the lack thereof. At night, the hotel was an absolute cacophony of noise 🎶. Nearby casinos and restaurants blasted music until 4 AM, making rest nearly impossible. To top it off, there was no hot water for showers! Seriously, how is this acceptable? Despite some glowing reviews online, I seriously doubt those people stayed in the same building I did. Avoid this trap at all costs!
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✅ **Redlist: Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta**
Now, onto the bright side—my stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Santa Marta was nothing short of extraordinary! Located right by the sea, this hotel offers breathtaking ocean views just steps away from your room 🌅. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and stepping outside to feel the refreshing sea breeze. It’s pure paradise for anyone looking to unwind and recharge.
Convenience is key here too. Just around the corner, you’ll find currency exchange services, cozy coffee shops, and travel agencies ready to assist with any plans you might have. For fitness enthusiasts, the hotel gym boasts state-of-the-art equipment, while the sparkling pool and elegant restaurant cater perfectly to your relaxation needs. Every moment spent here felt comfortable and luxurious—a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
This is where I wholeheartedly recommend staying if you’re visiting Santa Marta. It’s a cut above the rest!
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These are my honest experiences, and while everyone’s preferences may vary, I hope my story helps guide your decision when choosing a hotel. Always take the time to read multiple reviews before booking, and remember—you deserve a memorable and stress-free vacation. Wishing you all a fantastic trip filled with joy and relaxation! 🥰
