Roomer

Selina Cartagena

Cartagena, Colombia
$20-30 (Dorms) / $70-130 (Privates)/ night

Book this if You want a high-energy launchpad in trendy Getsemaní where coworking meets rooftop pool parties.

Why People Love It

7.5⭐472 reviews
  • 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

Quick Take: 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.

Reviewed by @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!

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Great social vibe and location, but the bathrooms are often grim and the noise is relentless.

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

Cleanliness & Maintenance

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™

3.5LOUD
LOUD
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Rooftop DJ sets (until 12am-1am)
  • Street traffic and pedestrians on Calle Larga
  • Hallway noise and slamming doors

Before you book

Good to know

  • 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

What to pack

  • High-fidelity earplugs (essential)
  • Padlock for dorm lockers (bring your own)
  • Quick-dry towel (dampness is an issue)

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Standard/Deluxe Rooms in Building A (interior courtyard view) for slightly less noise
  • Suites on upper floors for better light and views

Rooms to avoid

  • Micro Rooms (claustrophobic, no windows, shared bath bottleneck)
  • Ground floor rooms near reception (high foot traffic)
  • Rooms directly under the rooftop bar (vibrating bass)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“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 & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

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.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    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 things to know before you go

  • 💡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.

Local Playbook

Map

See where Selina Cartagena is located and what's nearby.

Key amenities & services