Property
Located outside the historical center of Cartagena, this resort property is along the beach. They’ve got a private beach for guests, and swimming pools too—one with a slide.

Location
We probably wouldn’t have stayed here without children, as there are lovely options in the Old Town, but this was an ideal choice for a family and our kids absolutely loved it. The hotel is along the beach and just a 10-15 minute trip to town with the free shuttle bus service, which runs frequently, or an inexpensive taxi ride.

Sleeps
Standard rooms have two double beds and sleep up to 4.

Highlights
Enjoying mornings and early afternoons swimming in the pool and in the sea before our excursions into the gorgeous colonial town during the cooler late afternoon/evening hours.

Good to know
The breakfast buffet is very good, and is included in the price. Rooms, and the resort itself, are nice, but not luxurious. Staff were helpful and very friendly with the children. The resort seems to be popular with Colombian families and our children had a great time meeting new friends. Security is a very good at the hotel, which can be an important factor when choosing a hotel in Colombia. The sea itself at Cartagena is fine for swimming, but it is not crystal-clear water. However, a day trip to the nearby Las Rosarios islands is a lovely way to enjoy the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

Cartagena is a gem—the colonial architecture is so well preserved and it is a delight to wander around the streets and squares. The protective wall is in good condition and makes for an enjoyable stroll. The San Felipe fortress is a must-see. The tunnels are rather challenging to navigate (if you are claustrophobic, this is not for you!) and children under 6 are not allowed inside. Older children will love it.

Contact
http://www.hotellasamericas.com.co/

Written by Kimberly Sullivan

Property
Located right in the center of historical Bogota (La Candelaria), just two blocks from Plaza Bolivar. The colonial homes which were converted into the Hotel de la Opera once housed the personal guard of Simon Bolivar. The building and its courtyards are lovely and have been beautifully restored.

Location
La Candelaria is the colonial center of Bogota. Plaza Bolivar, the Cathedral, the Gold Museum and Botero Museum are all just steps away from the hotel. Many more hotels are located in Bogota’s northern suburbs, where many tourists prefer to stay. The colonial center has changed dramatically in the past years. Security is high and security forces are ubiquitous. We felt very safe traveling as a family with young children, and preferred the charm of the colonial center as our base.

Sleeps
Hotel rooms are normal size and you can request an extra bed. Children 5 and over pay an additional fee to sleep in the parents’ room.

Highlights
Staying in the colonial center. The pool was lovely for a dip after very long, very busy days. My younger son turned three when we checked into this hotel and he was thrilled when room service surprised him with a (delicious) piece of chocolate cake.

Good to know
We were very pleased with our choice and loved exploring the colonial architecture and seeing all the renovation work being undertaken in Bogota’s historic center. However, this is not a classic “family” hotel. Breakfasts, included in the price, are more quiet and elegant than what we would normally choose when traveling with our kids. Likewise, the pool is fine for a quick dip after a busy day, but is not really an environment in which children can run and play. That being said, the staff were great with our children and our children enjoyed our stay as much as we did. Bogota is at a very high altitude (2600 meters from sea level). Be sure to relax and get lots of rest on your first day to let your body adjust to the altitude. Take the cable car up to Monserrate for the spectacular view over the sprawling city.

Contact
http://www.hotelopera.com.co

Written by Kimberly Sullivan