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| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 2 |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Sleeps | 7 |
| Apartment / Condominium | |
| Suitability |
|---|
| No Pets |
| Smoking Allowed |
| Suitable for Children |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 17 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
Get the real scoop!
All reviews are written by verified travelers
Details
| Rental type | Apartment / Condominium |
| Minimum Stay | 3 nights |
| Bedrooms | 2 Total |
| Bathrooms | 2 Total |
| Sleeps | 7 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyNo Smoking allowedYes Suitable for childrenYes Suitable for the elderlyAsk Wheelchair accessibleNo |
| Theme | Historic, Town |
Description from the owner
This charming colonial ground floor apartment with a contemporary touch has the privilege of facing the lovely square "Plaza Fernandez de Madrid", as it forms part of a major historic mansion. This vacation rental consists of two bedrooms with three comfortable queen-sized beds, two bathrooms, living area with full-size sofa bed, dining area and kitchenette (mini-fridge, microwave, two-burner hotplate, and coffeemaker), A/C (mini-split), ceiling fans, cable TV only in living room, Internet Wi-Fi.
The Hotel Sta. Clara, Iglesia Sto. Toribio, Casa Garia Marquez are just steps away as well cafes, restaurants, bars, nightlife...all the ma...Read more
Amenities
Location
Charming Colonial Apt with a Contemporary Touch!
Cartagena, Colombia
(Property location is approximate) ?
What's Nearby:
Additional Location Information
Feel free to check out my slideshow on Cartagena de Indias at:
http://tripwow.tripadvisor.com/tripwow/ta-00ce-8b52-4e59?ln
Location Type Town
Rates
Rates shown in $ USD (change)
| Date | Weeknight | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Minimum Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Summary | $150 - $300 | $150 - $300 | $0 | $0 | 3 nights |
| Apr. 1 2013 - Apr. 8 2013 Easter/Semana Santa |
$200 | $220 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Jun. 21 2013 - Jul. 21 2013 Summer/Colombian School Vacation |
$220 | $250 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Nov. 4 2013 - Nov. 11 2013 Fiestas Novembrinas/Cartagena Independence Carnival |
$200 | $220 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Dec. 24 2013 - Jan. 6 2014 Peak/x-Mas-New Year's |
$300 | $300 | - | - | 3 nights |
| All Other Dates | $150 | $150 | - | - | 3 nights |
| Can't find rates for your travel dates? Contact the owner | |||||
Rental fees
- Additional guests - $25 / person - Per-Person Adjustment - Fee applies to parties of more than guest(s)
- Cleaning - $25 / week - Other
- Cleaning fee - $25 / stay - Cleaning Fee
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: May 03, 2013 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
Overall Rating
ExcellentVery Good
Average
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MsBeautySoul
London, United KingdomGreat apartment in the heart of Plaza Fenandes
Left on 03/09/2013 for a stay in January 2012
Maria's place is excellently located in the heart of the old city in Plaza Fernandes, right next to the restaurant Plaza Majagua which do a fabulous meat platter. If you don't feel like going far you can just sit on your doorstep and soak in all the action around you. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, although one should know that the to get to the end bedroom you have to walk through the other. Maria was very helpful and always available if we had any questions or queries. She helped us to arrange a trip to Taganga and was a beacon of knowledge.
The apartment is great value for money and I would definitely stay there again. -
jlrisley
Lima, PeruAwesome location!
Left on 01/02/2013 for a stay in December 2012
Overall, we enjoyed our stay in the apartment and were especially grateful for how centrally located we were in El Centro. We were traveling with our 5 month old, and even though we were right on the plaza, sandwiched between two restaurants, the noise didn't seem to disturb his sleep or ours. The apartment itself met all of our expectations, was modest, but had everything we needed, and the service we received from Maria, her father, and the women who work in the cafe, was outstanding. However, before you rent the apartment, you should know that you have to walk through the first bedroom to get to the second bedroom, which is farther from the air conditioner, and definitely warmer, and that the second bathroom is oddly layed out and didn't have hot water when we were there. Otherwise, everything was lovely!
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Mimasu
EspooLocation excellent but not on second floor w balcony as the pics
Left on 09/06/2012 for a stay in June 2012
Location excellent but not on second floor with balcony as the pics may seem. Otherwise the apartment was nice and cosy. The 2 bedrooms were in a row, so you had to walk through the first one to get to the rear one. So not much privacy there, in addition, in the first bedroom here were to doublebeds side by side. The aircon was efficient, but still it did not reach perfectly to the rear bedroom.
We told that we were a bit disappointed and they handled it very well. So very pleased with that. And as said, the location could not be any better, the apartment is situated right on a cure little square in the old town.Response from Maria C. - 09/11/2012
Owner
Thank you for your review, however the title needs further clarification.
Actually the balconies belong to the studios upstairs, which form part of the whole property. Those studios are posted on airbnb.com and not on FlipKey.
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Sam3k
Astoria, NYBeautiful apts in a Wonderful Location
Left on 09/06/2012 for a stay in April 2012
I went there in april this year and had a wonderful time and will be going back again in a week and will stay in the same apartment. The staff is very helpful and the apartments are really nice. Maria was very quick and responsive whenever you reach out to her. ( stay in the one on the first floor one week and one week in one of the apartments on the second floor) There are some nice restaurants downstairs and the view of the plaza is phenomenal. You're right in the old city and staying here gives you a wonderful feeling of tranquility, simplicity and pure joy.
Some constructive feedback:
+ The bed in the apartment on the second floor is very noisy. Needs some oiling up.
+ The sofa in the second floor is very very old and is painful to seat in it as you immediately feel the frame.
In overall, i strongly recommend this apartment. -
lindsaylee74
venice, caAwesome value for group in best neighborhood
Left on 03/01/2011 for a stay in February 2011
3 queen beds, 2 showers, and a sofa bed. Plus CNN. In best walled city neighborhood, safe as heck--I haven't seen that many cops since the WTO protests in Seattle. Easy, responsive owners. Noisy, but so is everyplace in Colombia.
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Rajeev60763
New York City, New YorkAmazing location - True Cartegena Experience
Left on 02/28/2011 for a stay in February 2011
Maria and her father made booking and checking-in very easy. Couldn't ask for a better location. The front door of the apartment opens up right into a plaza/park, lined with restaurants, live music bar around the corner, horse carriages riding by and fantastic people all around. I tried both restaurants just next door, both hit the spot!
The apartment itself has the classic Colombian door and opens up into the living room which has a large fold-out couch, two rocking chairs, dining table and tv. Didn't use the kitchen much but it has a small two-burner cooking surface. The apartment is railroad style, meaning you have to walk through the 2-queen sized beds bedroom to get to the other bedroom which has its own bathroom. Very comfortable and the aC/ceiling fans kept us nice and cool while in the apartment. I traveled with one couple and one other young single.
The area itself is great, some higher-end restaurants are in close walking distance. Cafe del Mar, though a bit touristy must be enjoyed for a drink at sunset, Playa Blanca is a Top 5 beach scene for me (seen Brazilian coast, south of Spain/France and Thailand and a few others) so lots to compare it to. Also arranged the Tutumo de Volcan (mud volcano) through a local hostel.
Thanks Maria! -
ralsenz
Los AngelesGreat times in the center of the walled city
Left on 11/01/2010 for a stay in October 2010
We went through many changes in our arrival and departure dates, and the number of people in our group. Maria and her father kept everything straight and accomodated our every request. In the end we had seven people staying in the downstairs apartment for four nights and almost had to rent one of the smaller upstairs rooms for the overflow. Unfortunately we were never able to meet Maria as she was out of the country at the time of our visit, but her father was very nice and took care of all of our needs. During the week he was upstairs remodeling one of the beautiful new apartments with balconies onto the plaza so he was readily available if there were any questions. We have rented condos on other occasions and it has always been a good choice, this was no exception and we recommend this rental to anyone who wants to get that at home feeling while experiencing a new place.
We were very pleased with the location, as you have heard it is right on Plaza Fernandez de Madrid, it made the perfect spot to go in any direction to explore the walled city on foot, and carriage, or take a taxi over to Boca Grande for the beach. Having the kitchen made it easy to share breakfast with the family in the morning and snacks during the evening. We sampled some of the many fine restaurants for the traditional Colombian main meal of the day (lunch) and something simple in the evening. It turned out to be a fantastic visit to an incredible city in a wonderful country. We had many adventures and did everything that we planned except going to Isle Rosario, one thing that we did not plan on was that October is the rainy season. It is only thunder storms but it made the weather bad enough that we were not able to go on the day that we had scheduled and then we left the next day. Oh well, something to do on the next trip. -
Jen K.
Louisville, KYDon't pass this up... great apartment!
Left on 10/19/2010 for a stay in September 2010
This apartment is truly a gem in one of the most beautiful areas of Cartagena.
The apartment is clean, well decorated, and has plenty of room. Maria was a wonderful host. She answered all our questions before we arrived, and was waiting to flag down our taxi after our short ride from the airport. She stocked the refrigerator with water and milk so we wouldn't have to go to the store the day we arrived. She gave us plenty of maps and menus to help us plan what we wanted to see and eat while we stayed there.
There are plenty of great restaurants around Plaza Fernandez de Madrid. The square is also a great place to get coffee from people toting thermoses. There is plenty of activity there-musicians, break dancers, people playing checkers. It's full of wonderful local flair. We also loved walking to Plaza San Diego just a few blocks away, where artists displayed their paintings and jewelry. Don't miss the street cart empanadas there. They are out of this world!
Staying in the apartment gave us a sense of what it is like to live in Cartagena. We loved wandering around and having the flexibility to cook at home. The apartment is in a perfect location; everything in the old walled city is within walking distance. There was so much to see, and the beauty is almost too much to take in. We always felt safe and everyone was so nice.
I have only one complaint about the apartment: every morning at 5 am, two trucks would pull up and unload empty bottles on to the street. The process took two hours and was enough to wake even a heavy sleeper like me (and keep me awake). It wouldn't change my mind about staying there, but I'm surprised no previous reviews mentioned it. That being said, it's still a wonderful place to stay!Response from Maria C. - 10/21/2010
Owner
Thanks Jennifer for the awesome review, and it was also a pleasure having you and your family stay in this apartment :D
I have taken note of your valid complaint about the trucks unloading those cases of bottles onto the street...Hopefully, the city will take action as we now have a tangible statement to present to the 'Tourism Board' here in Cartagena, for the sake of future travelers wanting to find accomodations on this square.
Best regards,
Maria
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Mosgrove
Venice, CAQuaint, Central and over all amazing
Left on 06/01/2010 for a stay in May 2010
I stayed for over a week in both of Maria's studios in Cartagena and could not be happier. The first 4 days 7 of us stayed in the larger, ground floor apartment and the following 5 days my wife and I moved upstairs to the Studio/Loft. Both apartments a little kitchenette, AC, Fans, a fold out couch and TV. Main apartment has 3 queens and 2 bathrooms. Studio/Loft has 1 queen and 1 bathroom. The apartments are an interesting mixture of Spanish colonial and Republican styles, tastefully decorated, and both very clean. Its location is on what I consider to be the best Plaza in Cartagena's old city - Plaza Fernandez de Madrid - as it's not over run by tourists, yet is popping with everyday life. There are many restaurants and bars within walking distance (and a great local cafeteria type place that is much cheaper if you walk back into the inner courtyard on the west side of the plaza). There is also several Exito supermarkets within a 5 minute walk where we stocked up on breakfast and lunch items that we were able to cook easily in the house when we didn't feel like going out. Cartagena seems to be a city that prides itself on service (sometimes to a fault - See Playa Blanca Beach Masseuse - be prepared to defend yourself) and Maria is no exception. She went out of her way to ensure that we were comfortable and had everything we needed. My wife and I moved to the smaller upstairs studio/loft for the last 5 days of our stay and were equally as happy. A note about the wireless - as of now, the router is in the studio/loft where you there is great reception and I was able to make i-Phone Skype calls to my hearts delight. That being said, the signal did not reach very well for us down into the Main apartment - this could be easily remedied through the purchase of a stronger router, but it may be something you want to check with Maria if it is important to you. That's it! You're crazy if you don't stay here!
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djeremy
San Francisco, CaliforniaSkip the hotels and stay here
Left on 04/29/2010 for a stay in April 2010
Being that this was my second trip to Cartagena, I
decided to try renting an apartment instead of
staying in an over priced hotel. Maria (the owner)
is great. She was very easy to communicate with and
quickly responded to all emails and questions. You
can tell she really cares about your stay and
making sure everything is just right.
The apartment is great and close to everything.
Exito is a few blocks away, great restaurants and
shopping are very close and it's a short cab ride
from the airport.
As far as the apartment goes, it's very comfortable
and spacious and the pictures posted are are a fair
representation of how the space looks. Four people
could easily stay here without it being too
crowded. The one thing to keep in mind is that this
area is a bit noisy because of it's location. It
didn't bother me, but it may bother you. :-)
Highly recommended if you're looking for a place to
stay in the walled portion of the city. -
raeni
Los AngelesLovely apt at the heart of Cartagena
Left on 03/25/2010 for a stay in March 2010
The apt is very cute and spacious! About 10 minutes
taxi ride away from the airport, and very
conveniently located too. The area is pretty
happening, right in front of a cute plaza with
plenty of street vendors around for late night
delicious street food after we go out.
There were 4 of us girls and we felt very
comfortable and safe staying there. We literally
walked everywhere from restaurants to bars/clubs,
landmarks etc.
Maria, the owner is very very responsive and very
accommodating! Maria's father greeted us when we
get there and he was very kind and helpful in
directing us on where to go and the areas to avoid.
Overall great place to stay especially is you have
a a group more than 4 ppl since you can hang out in
the living room and drink wine etc.
Love the hot water and wifi too!! -
dave
atlantaGreat location and a great host
Left on 03/22/2010 for a stay in March 2010
Enjoyed 5 days in Cartagena and was lucky to find this gem of a rental. The location couldn't be better. Maria was very helpful in recommending restaurants and local things to do. The apartment is very clean and welcoming. The back bedroom does get a bit warm, but hardly an issue in March. I would highly recommend this apartment to anyone headed to Cartagena -
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jnyc
New York CityGreat Location, Comfortable and Clean Apartment
Left on 03/01/2010 for a stay in February 2010
This apartment is located in a very prime area (1 block or so from the hotel Santa Clara. Walking distance to the clocktower, restaurants, nightlife etc. The owner, Maria is very responsive, helpful and is a native English speaker. Keep in mind that the old town in Cartagena is very loud at all times day/night and this apartment is no exception as it faces a major plaza. If you are sensitive to noise or want to sleep late bring ear plugs :) Otherwise, a most enjoyable experience.
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Oyster Man
NY, NYCartagena Wonderful
Left on 02/03/2010 for a stay in January 2010
The apartment is gorgeous and in the heart of Cartagena. I forget the square that the apt is adjacent to, but its wonderful! Stepping out of your room and into an inviting square with excellent restaurants, bars and venues just a stone's throw away.
In the morning we'd walk less than 3 minutes to get our morning pastries at the pastry shop and fresh fruit from street vendors cutting there on the spot. For lunch and dinner there are a myriad of choices in in varying price levels, but almost all excellent in taste. Near the Hotel Clara is the famous Cevicheria, highly recommended. If your just looking for something more casual, the take-out pizza place on the same square as Maria's apt is excellent. They bring the pizza out to you in the square where you can enjoy it in the warm Cartagena breeze.
The interior of the apartment is astounding with high ceilings and ornate woodwork. The classic tile floor stays cool even if its sweltering outside. And there is an air conditioner for those extremely hot days.
Overall, Maria's apt is a beautiful place to stay in the heart of the centro district.
I highly recommend it!! -
Corie Humble
New yorkGreat location, and great space
Left on 01/25/2010 for a stay in January 2010
Maria's apartment was the perfect stay in Cartagena's old city. It was great to rent with friends and stay in a comfortable place, in a great area (one block away from the Santa Clara). We loved the square around the park- there were great options for food- either inexpensive street vendor's, or cafe mulatta was amazing and inexpensive.
Maria was also super helpful, and knowing that a building like that is in such good hands and is being restored with such great thought and care- makes me want to keep going back. -
anib1977
philadelphia, pa.Fantastic Apartment right in the heart of old colonial Cartagena
Left on 01/22/2010 for a stay in January 2010
Our stay in Cartagena could not have been better mostly due to the apartment we had. Our door opened to one of the most charming squares in all of old town Cartagena,Plaza Fernandez de Madrid. The apartment had everything: air conditioning, hot water, a mini kitchen,cable etc. Maria was even gracious enough to arrange for our laundry to be done.It was decorated with love, staying true to the Spanish colonial architecture but with modern artwork.There were also plenty of great restaurants,shops,and cafes a few steps away. We spent 4 nights there and didn't want to leave. What a great city! What a great apartment! We will definitely return to both Cartagena and our charming apartment at Plaza Fernandez de Madrid.THANKS AGAIN,MARIA!!
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aleccamp
Philadelphia, PAGreat location - in the heart of the old city
Left on 01/19/2010 for a stay in December 2009
The apartment is located right on one of the squares in the old city. The apartment has old colonial charm with beautiful wooden ceilings and large wooden front door. The layout needs to be explained as it may not be for all visitors. There are two bedrooms with 3 beds total. To get to the one private room, you first have to go through the other room (with 2 beds) thus limiting the privacy in the larger room. The private room at the back can also be a bit on the warm side as the a/c doesn't reach it.
As a place to stay for a week, I would highly recommend it - certainly more so than a hotel as the location is fantastic and the cost per night far less than surrounding hotel rates. We stayed for one month and this may be have been a little too long as there is rarely quiet time in the old city. The noise is almost constant, be it the restaurants (there is one next door - The Majagua - also recommended) with the live street entertainers or the sound of car horns. So if you're looking for a relaxing, peaceful getaway, this might not be for you. But then, Cartagena might not be for you at all.
Overall though, I would recommend this place. Maria, the owner, is fantastic and very helpful.
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