Sofitel Baru Cartagena

Liked: The see

Disliked: Price

Liked: New

Disliked: The worst possible stuff, they make you look stupid and guilty if you they to prove something is not on the quality, if you do not know spanish, do not come here. Trying to overcharge multiple times of same service, scamming on every corner and doesnt take care of guests.

Liked: It’s an ok resort. Definitely not a 5 star or “luxury” as advertised or described in other reviews. Nice grounds but questionable design choices.

Disliked: The service was spotty. Most of the staff were very nice but some were snippy and had attitudes. The walkways in some areas were treacherous (rough and uneven stones). It was a relaxing stay, but wouldn’t recommend staying more than 2-3 days.

Sofitel Barú Cartagena is absolutely stunning. The property is perfectly manicured, beautiful, and the service is truly top of the line. Unfortunately, the meal and beverage pricing is absolutely exorbitant. The prices are difficult to justify, especially considering the local economy and, in particular, the salaries in the region. The quality and setting are excellent, but the food and beverage prices are simply not explainable or reasonable by local standards. What was even more disappointing were the over-the-top tipping practices. A “service charge” was automatically added to each bill, followed by an additional line for a voluntary tip. Then, at checkout, we were presented with a "suggested" 10% tip calculated on the entire daily total for all the days of our stay. When we inquired about this, we were told that this was intended to tip the rest of the hotel staff, including administrative staff. The constant nickel-and-diming is simply outrageous, particularly in a country with such a significant economic disparity. For a property of this caliber, I would expect much greater transparency and a more reasonable approach to pricing and tipping. The setting is spectacular, and the service is excellent, but the overall dining costs and tipping practices seriously detract from the experience.

Liked: Beautiful Beach

Disliked: Maybe too pricey for what you get

Liked: The breakfast buffet was one of the few things we enjoyed. However, we were shocked to see a raccoon in the hotel corridor eating another guest’s breakfast.

Disliked: Extremely overpriced and far below Sofitel standards We booked a penthouse at approximately USD$1,500 per night, expecting the level of service associated with the Sofitel brand. Unfortunately, the experience was deeply disappointing. Basic amenities were repeatedly missing, including bathrobes and proper evening bedding or turndown service. We requested assistance with the jacuzzi at least five times before anyone finally came. For a penthouse at this price, this level of neglect is unacceptable. The dining experience was equally poor. The menu offered very limited options, and our food took approximately one hour and forty minutes to arrive. Humo restaurant was a major disappointment, both in terms of service and overall experience. The beach service was also chaotic and unfair. Many chairs remained empty for long periods while staff claimed they were reserved for other guests, making it extremely difficult to find a place despite paying premium rates. I was honestly embarrassed in front of my friend. We paid the price of a luxury hotel but received service comparable to a budget property. The service, attention to detail, and overall experience did not come close to the Sofitel standards we have experienced elsewhere. Terrible value for money. I would not recommend this hotel.

Liked: The staff very nice and the executive chef Patrice, French guy very nice, great food

Disliked: Expensive a bit for a hotel in Cartagena. Yes private but not that much

Liked: Absolutely Fantastic Hotel. I only can say positive things about it. Breakfast, rooms, the beach, the pools - everything was great and very well maintained. My family had a lot of fun.

Disliked: My only negative comment has nothing to do with the hotel, rather with the transport going back to the airport. Going to the hotel we took the boat - great experience. Going to the airport we had a lot of traffic and got a little bit nervous (as we thought that it would take us approx. 1.5 hours). It was Friday later afternoon / evening, so it took us about 2.5 hours instead. So, I guess, consider more time for your return trip to the airport.