It was my first ever solo trip! I knew for a long time that I wanted travel to Cartagena, Colombia. From my research I felt that it was the safest place for me to visit as a solo traveler. While booking for hotels, I came across some of the most beautiful places in Cartagena. But, Alfiz Hotel Boutique and it’s history immediately caught my attention. Before booking my stay at the hotel, I was in constant communication with the hotel’s Reservation Manager Pablo Palacio about my solo travel plan. Every question I had, he replied right away and already made me feel welcome.

The cab ride from Rafael Núñez International Airport to the hotel was approximately 12,000 Colombian peso (roughly $4)! It was a short 15 minute ride. I definitely recommend taking the yellow cab everywhere you travel in Cartagena. Once you arrive at the hotel you immediately feel like royalty! The wonderful staff knew all the necessary information about my stay and took me on a tour of the hotel. I felt right at home since day 1.

Once you walk through the gate, you enter a private haven!

A place full of history, Alfiz hotel is 300 years old. The construction of the building began around the 1700s! The process to restore and preserve the hotel took almost two years and was finished in 2007.

I stayed at the magnificient ‘Conquista’ room on the first floor. The room was decorated in honor of Pedro de Heredia, who founded the city on the 1st of June 1533 as San Sebastián de Calamar. The hotel has a total of 8 thematic rooms. I wanted a quite getaway and that’s exactly what I experienced. Right outside the hotel is a busy street with tourists and locals roaming around all day & night. But, once you enter the hotel you feel at peace and just can’t wait to hit the comfy white bed.

The dining area was right outside my door. Nestled next to a green garden and quaint kitchen.

The street that leads to the center of Cartagena. The supermarket, museums, street markets, banks and the most amazing restaurants were all only 5 minutes from Alfiz Hotel.

Thanks to my new friends at Alfiz Boutique Hotel for taking care of me in an unknown land. This experience was one for the books.

All photos taken by me.

xoxo, Afroza