Hotel San Martin

In a town filled with massive white skyscrapers, the yellow two-story Hotel San Martin Cartagena looks downright charming. With a Spanish-tile roof and large windows, the hotel looks like it would fit right in amongst the walled city’s historic buildings. Inside, the charming lobby feels homey yet subtly elegant. It makes a grand first impression, especially for a budget hotel. Rattan furniture is arranged in a cozy seating area, while bright local artwork livens up the white walls. The majority of guests here are Colombians, but there’s a fair share of Canadians and Americans as well. Though most staff members do not speak English, many do their best to communicate with non-Spanish speaking guests. Travelers who are nervous about a language barrier shouldn’t be hesitant to stay here. Hotel San Martin Cartagena is suitable for all kinds of travelers, including families, businesspeople, solo backpackers, and couples.  

Hotel San Martin Cartagena is located in Bocagrande, Cartagena’s Miami-like neighborhood with lively beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene. The hotel is located on Avenida San Martin (surprise, surprise), one block from the beach and within walking distance of multiple shops, restaurants, bars, malls, and casinos. Hotel San Martin is about a 10-minute drive from Cartagena’s historic walled city, and about a 20-minute drive from Rafael Nunez International Airport.  

Rooms at Hotel San Martin Cartagena are small and simple. They feature modern, if bland decor but are clean and neatly kept. White walls and white tile floors create a crisp palette for dark clapboard furniture. Beds are dressed in white sheets and blue patterned bed runners, and are arranged as two twins or one double. Framed artwork depicts scenes from Cartagena’s old city, and adds a hint of local flavor to the rooms. 

Amenities include a desk and chair set, a minibar, and a basket of oft-forgotten travel essentials like toothbrushes and dental floss — but the latter two incur extra fees. Rooms are also equipped with flat-screen TVs, electronic safes, and air-conditioning. Bathrooms are tight, but have sleek granite countertops and glass enclosed showers. Some guests complain that hot water can be iffy, while others swear by the water temperature and pressure. Hot water is still considered a luxury in Cartagena — a city that regularly sees temperatures rise over 90 degrees Farenheit — and most budget hotels do not have any.   

Hotel San Martin is really just a place to sleep. There aren’t any communal amenities, like a pool, spa, or fitness center, and there’s no on-site restaurant. The hotel does serve a free continental breakfast each morning, which many guests choose to enjoy on the hotel’s pleasant outdoor patio. Hotel San Martin has free Wi-Fi that works well across the property.