The hype
Great social vibe and location, but the bathrooms are often grim and the noise is relentless.
Selina Cartagena
$20-30 (Dorms) / $70-130 (Privates)/ notte
Prenota se You want a high-energy launchpad in trendy Getsemaní where coworking meets rooftop pool parties.
Perché piace così tanto
- Two rooftop pools with killer sunset views over the bay
- Prime location in Getsemaní, steps from the best nightlife
- Solid coworking infrastructure for digital nomads
In sintesi: Now rebranded as 'Socialtel Cartagena,' it’s the same party-hard, sleep-light hostel vibe with a fresh coat of paint and lingering maintenance issues.
Recensito da @Pricelesspassport: I stayed in a private suite here and it was the perfect balance. I could work from my massive bed during the day and hit the rooftop for drinks at night. The AC was a lifesaver in the Cartagena heat!
Cosa hanno detto gli ospiti che hanno soggiornato qui
Reality check
The 'soundproof windows' advertised are a myth; you will hear the street, the hallway, and the DJ.
- You're a solo traveler looking to make friends instantly
- You prioritize a pool and a desk over a quiet night's sleep
- You want to be in the heart of the action in Getsemaní
Pulizia e manutenzione
6.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is generally okay, but they often miss dust under beds and corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Dorm bathrooms are a frequent complaint ('gross', 'wet floors'); private suites are better but watch for mold in grout.
- Maintenance: Showing its age. Peeling paint, dripping AC units, and broken locker latches are common.
- Linens & towels: Towels can feel worn and sometimes have a lingering damp smell.
- Odors & scents: Strong musty/mildew odor in windowless rooms and Building B corridors.
Sleepability™
3.5RUMOROSO
0-4RUMOROSO
4-7.5MODERATO
7.5-10SILENZIOSO
- Rooftop DJ sets (until 12am-1am)
- Street traffic and pedestrians on Calle Larga
- Hallway noise and slamming doors
Prima di prenotare
Buono a sapersi
- The property is split into two buildings across the street from each other
- Coworking access is usually an extra daily fee (~$10-15) unless booked in a package
- There is NO parking on site; you'll need to find a public lot nearby
Cosa portare
- High-fidelity earplugs (essential)
- Padlock for dorm lockers (bring your own)
- Quick-dry towel (dampness is an issue)
Genio delle camere
Migliori scelte
- Standard/Deluxe Rooms in Building A (interior courtyard view) for slightly less noise
- Suites on upper floors for better light and views
Camere da evitare
- Micro Rooms (claustrophobic, no windows, shared bath bottleneck)
- Ground floor rooms near reception (high foot traffic)
- Rooms directly under the rooftop bar (vibrating bass)
Genio delle richieste camera – copia e incolla
“I am a light sleeper. Please assign a room in Building A, away from the street (Calle Larga) and not directly underneath the rooftop bar/pool deck.”
FAQ e consigli nascosti
Tutto ciò che vuoi davvero sapere prima di prenotare.
Is it Selina or Socialtel?
It is officially 'Socialtel Cartagena' as of late 2024, but many locals and taxi drivers still know it as Selina.
Is breakfast included?
Generally no. The on-site restaurant 'Magnetic Burger' serves breakfast, but it's usually à la carte or paid separately.
How is the WiFi?
Strong in the coworking space (20-40 Mbps) and lobby; hit-or-miss in the rooms, especially in Building B.
Can I bring my dog?
Likely no. Socialtel's new policy states 'No pets allowed,' a departure from Selina's pet-friendly rules.
Is the pool open to non-guests?
Yes, usually with a consumption minimum or day pass, which adds to the crowd on weekends.
Is there hot water?
Yes, but pressure can be inconsistent and 'lukewarm' is often the best you'll get.
Suggerimenti degli Insider
- ✨
The 'Library' in Building A is a hidden quiet spot if you need to take a call without paying for coworking.
- ✨
Building B guests often have to cross the street to use the kitchen or main reception in Building A.
- ✨
Check the AC immediately upon arrival; some units are stuck on 'freezer' mode or drip water.
5 cose da sapere prima di partire
💡The 'Micro Rooms' share one single bathroom for the whole floor (up to 4 rooms) — a morning nightmare.
💡You might be asked to wear a wristband for your entire stay.
💡The 'soundproof' windows mentioned in listings are single-pane and block almost nothing.
💡Security can be lax with non-guests entering for the rooftop; watch your stuff.
💡The damp/musty smell is baked into the walls of Building B due to humidity and lack of ventilation.
Guida locale
Mappa
Scopri dove si trova Selina Cartagena e cosa c'è nelle vicinanze.