Hotel El Pedregal

DO NOT stay at this hotel, don't be fooled by some of the old reviews, they must have changed owners or something. There are many others around for similar prices with much better service and cleanliness. During my two month stay in Cartagena I stayed in many hotels in the old town and getsemani. This was by far the WORST experience. I checked in to find that the room was disgusting and not at all what it looked like on the pictures, it was also very noises and the neighbourhood outside looked dangerous. We asked to cancel our booking and were assured by the receptionist it was no problem and we would not be charged. A week later I checked my transaction history to find they had charged me the full amount for my stay. I went into the hotel with my Spanish speaking girlfriend to ask about what had happened and the receptionist was very unhelpful saying that they had a policy of no refunds, even though we had previously been told by a member of their staff that we would not be charged. My girlfriend talked to the owner who was extremely abusive and began shouting at her saying they wouldn't give us any money. He also insulted her numerous times, we are both in out early 20s but he was calling her a stupid child and showing us no respect whatsoever. Overall a terrible experience, would not recommend this hotel to anyone.

El Pedregal: Good A/C, but turn the refrigerator off if you don't need it, since it produces a lot of heat. Decent roof and view of the sky. Can't quite see the ocean, but you'll see most of a good sunset if you're up there. Comfy bed. As others have reviewed, it can be noisy. On our Wednesday night, the music (loud bass which your can hear even through earplugs) ceased about 11:30 at night and then started again around 7am. I'd never stay here on a weekend or holiday, and a someone else noted, the street might even have a surprise birthday party to keep you awake. Finally, the TOILET PAPER REPORT: A bit rough, but thick enough you don't need to wad up an excessive amount: 7/10 for the toilet paper.

No English spoken, may be a new owner at this point. You are locked in during stay and even though there is someone usually there to let you out (and in) it made me uncomfortable. Area outside door consisted of several men hanging out, drinking, fighting, etc. It was within walking distance to several interesting plazas and the Old City.