Loopinn Hostel Cartagena

Wonderfully nice surprise arriving at this hostel. Expectations never too high at this price point. But my needs are fairly simple. Check in very easy, I had booked on Last Minute. Room wasn’t ready so stashed bag and went out to explore the town. On my return, I went to a very clean, sunny room on the second floor. This was November and the room was very warm. The rooms face southwest, so they get a little of sun in the afternoon. Lovely in November, but I’d be concerned about July. Rooms do have aircon, hopefully that would be effective. Room perfect for my needs, two people may find it very cosy. No wardrobe, just shelves. A stool and a chair, which was put to good use on those sunny afternoons on the small terrace. I was impressed by the shower, both a drench shower and hand held in a separate wet room, lots of space. Toilet was by front door with a sink in the room. No fridge. There’s a separate kitchen where one could prepare simple meals, and there is a dining area. In the basement there are vending machines with sweets and soft drinks. There is also a laundry room. €5 to wash and dry. Machines could hold a much larger load than I brought. All in all I found the place great. A few negatives to be aware of. As it’s located very near the transport hubs, there do seem to be some shady characters in the streets. To access the hotel, it’s necessary to walk up some daily steep stairs. There is a side road at C. San Crispín. Stayed one night longer than I had planned and I was allowed to move to another room, as the one I’d been in is always booked by a returning customer. Second room, just as nice. €39 which was very reasonable. Lastly, the hostel has a sun terrace a separate smoking terrace on the roof and something I’d never seen in a hostel before, a big tunnel slide over three floors. Great for kids (& naughty adults I assume). A great find, I would heartily recommend, oh, and the reception staff were all unfailingly lively.

The location is great, it is a short walk to the old center of town, but also close to the train and bus stations. I arrived early, but that was no problem and we could check in. The staff was friendly and helpful whenever we asked them about anything. The only downside to the stay was the cleaning could have been better. But I will recommend people to stay at the place.