Casa Morales Cartagena by Soho
By Tripfix“Casa Morales Cartagena by Soho,” a hotel located in Cartagena, Colombia. Since you haven’t asked a specific question, I’ll provide a brief overview based on available information. If you’d like something more specific—such as a review analysis, booking details, or something else—just let me know!
Casa Morales Cartagena by Soho is a 4-star hotel situated in the vibrant Getsemaní district of Cartagena de Indias. It’s known for its historical charm, tied to the legacy of Colombian artist Darío Morales, who once owned the property and drew inspiration from it. The hotel blends colonial architecture with modern comforts, offering spacious, air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, private bathrooms, and amenities like flat-screen TVs and kitchenettes. Some rooms even feature balconies with city or pool views.
The location is a standout—within walking distance of key attractions like the Walled City (about 7-10 minutes), San Felipe de Barajas Castle (15 minutes), and nearby beaches like Marbella and Bocagrande (both around 1.8 km away). Guests often praise its proximity to restaurants, bars, and cultural spots in Getsemaní, making it ideal for exploring Cartagena’s historic and lively side. The hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and a 24-hour front desk, adding to its appeal.
Reviews from travelers highlight the friendly staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and the value for money, though some note minor drawbacks like the lack of an elevator or occasional noise from nearby construction. It’s rated highly for location (often around 9.3-9.6 out of 10) and overall experience (around 8.8-8.9 out of 10 on booking platforms).
guest reviews analysis
- Location (9.3-9.6/10)
Guests consistently rave about the hotel’s prime spot in the Getsemaní district. It’s a short walk (7-10 minutes) to the Walled City and surrounded by vibrant bars, restaurants, and cultural landmarks like San Felipe de Barajas Castle (15-minute walk). Many appreciate being able to explore Cartagena on foot without needing taxis, calling it a “hidden gem” for its proximity to both history and nightlife. - Staff Friendliness
The staff earns high praise for being attentive, kind, and proactive. Guests mention specific acts—like arranging taxis, storing luggage post-checkout, or providing local tips—that enhance the experience. Comments like “they went above and beyond” and “super helpful” are common. - Spacious and Comfortable Rooms
The colonial-style apartments, often with balconies or pool views, are described as “spacious,” “clean,” and “comfortable.” Amenities like air conditioning, kitchenettes, and flat-screen TVs meet expectations, with some noting the rooms exceed their “already high expectations.” The historical tie to Darío Morales adds a unique charm that guests enjoy. - Value for Money
Many reviews highlight the hotel as a “luxury experience at a lower price.” The combination of 4-star features (pool, terrace, 24-hour desk) with reasonable rates makes it a standout for budget-conscious travelers seeking quality. - Pool and Ambiance
The outdoor pool is a hit, especially in Cartagena’s heat, with guests calling it a “plus” and “perfect for relaxing.” The colonial architecture, rooftop terrace views, and Morales’ artwork throughout the property create a “beautiful” and “palatial” vibe.
- Noise Issues
A recurring complaint is noise, particularly for street-facing rooms. Getsemaní’s lively atmosphere means nightlife or early construction (noted in some reviews) can disrupt sleep. While some say it’s manageable, others found it “unbearable” or “hard to relax” during the day. - Pool Size and Maintenance
The pool, while appreciated, is often described as “smaller than expected” based on photos. A few guests suggest it could use a “power wash” or better upkeep, though it’s rarely overcrowded. - Minor Maintenance Gripes
Some report issues like limited hot water in showers, damp walls, or outdated bathroom/kitchen fixtures. These don’t dominate reviews but pop up enough to note. One guest mentioned a resolved hot water issue, suggesting responsiveness varies. - No Elevator
The lack of an elevator in this multi-story colonial building frustrates some, especially those with luggage or mobility concerns. It’s a trade-off for the historic charm, but not always highlighted pre-booking. - Misleading Photos or Expectations
A handful of guests felt the property’s images oversold the experience—citing uncleanliness or construction nearby as discrepancies. One extreme case involved a last-minute cancellation by the hotel, though this seems rare.
- Rating: 8.8-8.9/10 (Booking.com baseline)
The hotel enjoys a strong reputation, with most guests recommending it “without hesitation.” Couples especially love it (9.3/10 for two-person trips), and families appreciate the apartment-style layout. Negative feedback tends to focus on manageable inconveniences rather than dealbreakers, suggesting a solid experience tempered by location-specific quirks (noise, no elevator). - Trade-Offs: You’re paying for location, charm, and service over flawless modernity. If you prioritize walkability and atmosphere over silence or cutting-edge facilities, it’s a win.
- Request pool-view or interior rooms to avoid street noise.
- Clarify hot water and elevator expectations pre-arrival.
- Book early—limited rooms (only 8-10 mentioned) mean it feels exclusive but fills fast.