Escape to Paradise: La Casona's Medellín Magic Awaits!
Medellín, My Medellín: A Review of La Casona – Where Magic (Mostly) Happens
Okay, folks, buckle up. I've just crawled out of the vibrant chaos that is Medellín, Colombia, and I’m still buzzing. And, naturally, I spent a good chunk of that buzz at La Casona, the hotel screaming "Escape to Paradise!" in the heart of the city. Let’s just say, the screams were partially justified.
First things first: Accessibility. This is where La Casona gets a gold star…and a few deductions. Wheelchair accessibility is listed, and mostly true. They've got an elevator, which is a huge win in a city built on hills. However, navigating some of the common areas felt a little tight – think charming, but not always optimal for full-blown mobility aids. Still, a solid effort compared to other places in the area. Facilities for disabled guests are advertised, so I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt and assume they're genuinely trying.
Internet, oh sweet, sweet internet. Thank the digital gods! Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And reliable. Crucial for a modern traveler who needs to stay connected (me!). They also have Internet [LAN] if you're feeling old school (or, you know, a cybersecurity freak). Internet services were pretty dang good. No complaints there.
Cleanliness and safety is where I was most impressed. Coming out of…well, let's just say the last few years of travel experiences, I was hyper-aware. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Staff trained in safety protocol, and a general air of cleanliness? Check, check, and check! They even had Hand sanitizer dispensers everywhere. I felt safer than in my own damn apartment! They've really put in the effort and got Hygiene certification. They offered Room sanitization opt-out available, which I actually appreciated that flexibility. Kudos, La Casona, kudos.
Dining, drinking, and snacking is where things start to get interesting. Let's be honest, I'm here for the food, more than the massage. The restaurants are a draw, though, I must admit, it's not all perfect.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Listen. I adore a good buffet. And La Casona's Asian-inspired breakfast was a DELIGHT. They also had a Western breakfast option. So many options!
- Happy hour: Solid. Cocktails were well-made, the atmosphere was lively, and the price…well, let's just say my wallet wasn’t screaming.
- Restaurants: I ate at two, both with A la carte in restaurant and offered Asian cuisine in restaurant, one of them was quite delicious.
- Room service [24-hour]: Crucial. Especially after one too many Aguardientes. This is a MAJOR plus!
Ways to relax and "things to do"… here's were things got really good. I’m a sucker for a good pampering session and La Casona delivers on the spa front.
- Spa: I am doubling down on the Spa experience. I had the best experience I've ever had. The Massage was amazing, but let me tell you about the Body Wrap. They used some kind of local, fragrant concoction that made me feel like I was wrapped in a cloud of tropical flowers. It was pure bliss.
- Pool with view: The Swimming pool [outdoor] was beautiful. Definitely Instagram-worthy.
- Gym/fitness: Okay, I confessed, I didn't use the Fitness center. I was too busy eating.
Services and conveniences: They thought of everything! They had Concierge, Cash withdrawal, Daily housekeeping, a Convenience store, and Currency exchange. Honestly, I barely had to leave the hotel, which, let's be honest, is a win when you're trying to fully unwind.
For the Kids: I saw families there, and it seemed like they had a good time. While I don't have kids, the family-friendly atmosphere was a welcome contrast to some of the more…adult hotels I’ve stayed in.
Getting Around: They offer several things, with Car park [free of charge] for the car.
What's In-Room: Okay, time to get super specific.
- Air conditioning: Very important.
- Daily housekeeping: Nice to come back to a clean room.
- Free bottled water: Essential for hydrating after all the fun.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Because, duh.
Now for the honest stuff, the things that weren’t perfect.
- The soundproofing wasn't always perfect. I’m a light sleeper, and occasionally, I heard the city's vibrant nightlife creeping in.
- The room decorations were… eclectic. It's charming, but sometimes it felt a little crowded, visually.
- The minor imperfections are totally worth it -- the imperfections often feel like a part of the charm.
Overall Impression:
La Casona offers a delightful blend of modern comforts and Colombian charm. It’s a solid choice for anyone visiting Medellín, especially if you crave convenience, a touch of luxury, and a whole lotta pampering. The staff were genuinely friendly and helpful, the location is fantastic, and the spa…oh, the spa. Just go.
My Highly Subjective Recommendation:
Book it. Right now. Especially if you need an escape.
The Offer: Escape to Paradise: La Casona's Medellín Magic Awaits!
Are you ready to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Medellín? Then, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable experience at La Casona! This isn't just a hotel; it's a gateway to paradise, where the city's magic meets unparalleled comfort and relaxation.
For a limited time only, book your stay at La Casona and enjoy:
- Complimentary welcome drinks & a bottle of wine.
- Exclusive discounts on spa treatments: Indulge in our signature body wrap and massage therapies designed to melt away stress and leave you feeling rejuvenated.
- Free late check-out: Sleep in and savor every last moment of your escape.
- Free Airport Shuttle.
Don't miss out on this chance to experience the charm of La Casona and the allure of Medellín. Book your escape to paradise now!
Istanbul's Hidden Gem: Lapis Inn Hotel & Spa (Former Ambassador Hotel) - Unforgettable Luxury!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this isn't your average, sterile travel itinerary. We're diving headfirst into the gloriously chaotic experience of staying at La Casona Hotel Boutique in Medellín, Colombia. And trust me, it's gonna get messy. Think less crisp, clean spreadsheets, and more…well, me frantically scribbling in a notebook while simultaneously trying to eat a mangosteen.
The La Casona Debacle: A Medellín Love Story (and a Few Minor Disasters)
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Bliss (Followed by Mild Panic)
1 PM: Arrival at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE). Okay, first impressions? HOT. Like, "I should have worn a silk shirt, not a wool one" hot. The air conditioner in the taxi seemed to be conspiring against me. I'm sweating, I'm slightly grumpy, and I'm pretty sure the taxi driver thinks I'm a total idiot for accidentally saying "Gracias" to the guy who just tried to sell me a knock-off watch.
2 PM: Transfer to La Casona. The taxi ride itself was a wild ride. Picture it: narrow streets, motorbikes weaving like caffeinated bees, and houses clinging to the hills like they're afraid of falling off. I swear, at one point, I saw a chicken riding on a bicycle. Or maybe it was the heat. Whatever.
2:30 PM: Check-in at La Casona. Oh. My. God. The description online? Accurate. The courtyard? Lush. The staff? Ridiculously charming. They offer me a tamarind juice, which is basically the nectar of the gods. Suddenly, the whole "sweaty, grumpy idiot" thing fades away. I'm in LOVE. Completely, hopelessly, head-over-heels in love.
3 PM: Room Exploration and Immediate Regret. My room! It's got a balcony overlooking the courtyard, a ridiculously comfortable bed, and a shower that could probably wash away all my sins. I'm so busy taking photos, I forget to unpack. This will be a mistake.
3:30 PM: Panic Sets In - Where Are My Damn Adapters?! I swear, I packed them. Did I? No. Guess I'll be forced to wander the streets later looking for a converter while resisting the urge to buy all the empanadas.
4 PM: Strolling Around the Hotel. The place is a maze! A beautiful, sun-drenched, bougainvillea-covered maze. I keep getting lost, which is NOT a bad thing. I discovered a secret little library nook, perfect for pretending to be a sophisticated intellectual.
6 PM: Sunset Cocktails on the Rooftop (Or Attempt Thereof). Okay, the rooftop bar is supposed to be the place to be. But I'm still sweaty and lost. Plus, that flight, and the whole adapter situation. I stumble up there, feeling like a slightly deranged, sunburnt tourist.
6:15 PM: The View!! Seriously, the entire city spills out before you, a glittering tapestry of lights. The bartender is extremely helpful and makes an amazing cocktail, though I am not sure what it's named. What I DO know is that it's the perfect combination of sweet, sour, and strong.
7 PM: Dinner at La Casona's Restaurant. The food is amazing! I decided to try a traditional dish that tasted like a warm hug. I met some super friendly tourists and got chatting with them.
9 PM: Collapse into Bed, Grateful for Existence. The adapter search can wait until tomorrow.
Day 2: Exploring Medellín – And the Mystery of the Missing Adapter
8 AM: Breakfast in the Courtyard – Heaven. Fresh fruit, arepas (OMG, the arepas!), strong coffee. I could happily live here forever. While eating, I had the thought that maybe my adapter was still in a bag.
9 AM: Attempts at Organization and Final Adapter Hunt Okay, so. I am starting to have a theory on where my adapter is, but first! I actually attempt unpacking my suitcase, because I cannot live like this. Also, a quick search through every single bag I brought. Still nada.
10 AM: Metro Ride and Plaza Botero. The Metro is clean, efficient, and ridiculously cheap. I'm in awe of the speed of this city. This is also where I stumble around for a whole hour, trying to get a converter. Then, I am off to the best part! Plaza Botero is a feast for the eyes. Those bronze sculptures are just magnificent.
11:00 AM: Comida (Lunch). I spot a great little street food stand, and I decide to try some empanadas. This is where my Spanish starts to fail.
12:00 PM: The Cable Car to Parque Arví. This is the highlight of my trip! Climbing up through the mountains on the cable car really gives you a great view of the mountains themselves, and the whole area.
3:00 PM: A Trip to Comuna 13. This is a must-do. I joined a walking tour to learn about the history of the neighborhood and it's resilience. The street art is vibrant, the vibe is lively, and the overall mood is one of hope.
6 PM: Back to La Casona, and…FINALLY! Adapter Found! Relief washes over me. I may have cried a little.
7 PM: Dinner, this time with a book.
Day 3: The Coffee Plantation and the Improvised Salsa Lesson
8 AM: Coffee. La Casona's coffee is amazing. The end.
9 AM: Day trip to a Coffee Plantation. I booked a tour and prepared for the day.
10 AM: The Coffee Experience. The plantation? Gorgeous, the coffee? Even better. I learned how to roast beans and brewed it, and the entire experience was the best thing I have done in my life. This experience was the best kind of immersion. I loved every second of it.
2 PM: My Attempt at Salsa. Okay, so I've been watching the locals dance, and I'm feeling brave (or maybe just caffeinated). I went to a bar, spent every time I had on the dance floor. It was a messy, sweaty, hilarious disaster. My feet are currently screaming.
6 PM: Back to La Casona. Final Dinner.
Day 4: Departure
8 AM: Last breakfast in the courtyard. Soaking in the beauty one last time.
9 AM: Checkout, but also: goodbyes. I'm genuinely sad to leave. The staff are like family now, the place itself holds so many memories.
10 AM: Transfer to the Airport. The taxi ride feels different this time. Less anxiety, more appreciation for the city.
1 PM: Departure. Okay, so I'm sad to leave, but also excited to return. La Casona, you have my heart. And Medellín, you've got my slightly bruised, but rhythmically improving, feet.
Final Thoughts:
Medellín is a city that gets under your skin. And La Casona is the perfect base camp for exploring all its wonders. It's not perfect, it's a little chaotic, and it's absolutely unforgettable. Just remember to pack your adapter! And maybe learn a few simple phrases in Spanish. You'll need them. Trust me. Now go, get lost, and fall in love. You'll be so glad you did.
Escape to Paradise: Stunning Porto-Vecchio Villa Sleeps 6!
Escape to Paradise: La Casona's Medellín Magic Awaits! - The Absolutely Unfiltered FAQ
Okay, so La Casona... is it *really* paradise? Like, Instagram-perfect paradise?
Paradise? Ha! Let's be real. Instagram is a lie, a glorious, carefully curated lie. Is La Casona idyllic? Parts of it, absolutely. The views from the pool? To die for. Seriously. I almost did once. I was so relaxed, I nearly face-planted in the chlorine. Picture this: sun, cocktails, the whole *thing*. It's the kind of "paradise" where you forget you have responsibilities. Which, let me tell you, is a dangerous feeling when you’re supposed to be, you know, working. But hey, at least the Wi-Fi (mostly) worked. Sometimes. Okay, mostly didn't. But the *potential* for Instagram-worthy shots? 10/10. The reality? Me, slightly sunburned, hair a mess, desperately trying to remember if I needed to water the plants back home. So, not *quite* the curated perfection. But better. Definitely better. More real.
What kind of rooms are available at La Casona? And are they, like, *clean*? (This is a serious question.)
Rooms? Okay, the rooms are... let's just say they vary. There's something for everyone, from the "splurge on the suite because you deserve it and your bank account can handle it (probably)" to the slightly-smaller-but-still-perfectly-functional-and-clean options. Cleanliness? Honestly? Spotless. Absolutely spotless. I'm a bit of a germaphobe (don't judge!), and I was seriously impressed. Fresh linens, fluffy towels – the whole shebang. They *clearly* put a LOT of effort into keeping the place sparkling. I actually found myself judging the cleanliness of my own bathroom at home after I got back. Talk about post-vacation blues, right? And the air conditioning? Oh, sweet, sweet relief. Especially after a long day of... well, doing pretty much nothing but soaking up the sun. (Don't tell my boss.)
The food! Tell me about the food. Is it all arepas and bandeja paisa? (Not that there's anything wrong with that...)
Okay, food. This is a BIG category, people. Bandeja paisa? Yes, absolutely. And you *should* eat it. It's a culinary Everest, a mountain of deliciousness you conquer out of sheer willpower (and maybe a little bit of regret later). Arepas? Obvs. But La Casona also offers a surprising array of other AMAZING dishes. I'm talking fresh seafood, pasta that would make your nonna weep tears of joy, and these little empanadas... OMG, I could've *lived* on those empanadas. I tried. Didn't last long. They disappear too fast. And the fruit! So. Much. Fresh. Fruit. Mangoes, passionfruit, pineapple... my tastebuds were in a constant state of euphoria. I gained five pounds. Worth it. Every. Single. Pound. The breakfast buffet alone is worth the trip, tbh. And the coffee? Pure Colombian gold. Seriously, I'm craving a cup right now.
Is it in a safe area? I've heard things about Medellín...
Medellín's transformation is incredible, and La Casona's location felt very secure. I'm not going to lie, I went in with a bit of apprehension. You hear stories, right? But I felt totally safe the whole time. The staff is super helpful and will offer advice on the best places to visit and the safest ways to get around. They really care about the guests. They'll set you up with reliable taxis, recommend restaurants, and everything. And honestly, the area around La Casona felt very peaceful. I'm not saying it's *entirely* devoid of risk - you still need to be aware of your surroundings, of course - but I would not let safety concerns stop you from going there. Do your research, listen to the locals, and be smart. It's a beautiful city with a lot to offer.
What's the staff like? Are they helpful? Are they... *friendly*?
The staff? Absolute gems. Seriously, the best. From the front desk to the cleaning crew, everyone was genuinely kind and helpful. They will go above and beyond. They're not just *doing their job*; they're making you feel welcome. They have a way of making you feel like you are the only person staying there. They remember your name (even if you forget theirs, which, *oops*!). They offer recommendations, help with bookings, and generally make your life easier. I had a small crisis involving a missing charger (don't ask), and they were absolute lifesavers. They even made me a special drink one day just because they could see I was having a rough morning. That level of service? Unbeatable. You will feel like you are staying in a friend's place. A friend with exceptional taste and a penchant for five-star service, that is.
Is there anything I should NOT do while I'm there? Any advice? (Be blunt!)
Okay, blunt time. Don't be that loud, obnoxious tourist who yells at waiters and expects everyone to speak perfect English. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases (even "hola" and "gracias" will go a long way). Seriously. Don't flash your expensive jewelry or wave around huge wads of cash. Tourist traps are EVERYWHERE, so do your research or ask the staff for recommendations. Don't drink the tap water. And for the love of all that is holy, don't expect everything to be perfect. Stuff happens! Flights get delayed, the Wi-Fi goes down (again!), and sometimes you'll just miss your train. Roll with it. Embrace the imperfections. They're part of the adventure. And one last thing: don't be afraid to go off the beaten path. Some of the best experiences happen when you get a little lost. (Just maybe don't get *too* lost.)
So, the pool... is it worth the hype?
The pool. *Sigh*. Okay, it's not just worth the hype, it's the *reason* to go, people. The view is breathtaking. Literally. I swear I held my breath for a solid minute the first time I saw it. You can spend an entire day there. I *did* spend an entire day there, reading a book, occasionally dipping my toes in the water, and sipping on cocktails. The infinity edge gives you the illusion of swimming into the mountains. And the water temperature? Perfect. NotWorld Of Lodging
