Hyatt Regency Cartagena

The Hyatt Regency Cartagena is the pick for travellers who want a big, modern hotel by the sea, with the walled city close enough for evenings out. It rises over Bocagrande, the narrow peninsula of high-rises and beaches south of the old town. Its 380 rooms include suites and Club rooms, many with views over the Caribbean Sea or Cartagena Bay. The pool deck is the highlight, with infinity pools that seem to run into the ocean, a children’s pool and loungers, and Bocagrande Beach is about a minute’s walk away. The Aqoral Spa offers massages and body treatments, and there are several restaurants and bars plus room service. It is a polished international hotel rather than a colonial charmer, and that is the point: big rooms, reliable service, strong air conditioning and space to spread out, with the historic centre a short taxi ride away when you want it.

Location and getting around: Bocagrande is about ten minutes by taxi from the walled city, depending on traffic, and taxis are easy to find outside the hotel. The beach is just across the road. The Convention Centre and the La Bodeguita dock for island boats are on the way to the old town, and the airport is a longer taxi ride across the city, so allow extra time at rush hour.

The rooms: rooms are contemporary and generous by city standards, with large windows; ask for a high floor with a sea view. Club rooms add lounge access, and suites suit families who want more space. The hotel also lists residential-style vacation rentals for longer stays.

Who it suits: families, business travellers and couples who want a beach-and-pool hotel with easy access to the old town. Bocagrande’s own beach is busy and its water less clear than on the islands, so think of the pool as the main event.

Good to know: free self-parking is listed, which helps if you rent a car. Pool hours are limited to the daytime and early evening, and breakfast is often charged separately.