{"code":"CTG","location":"South America, Colombia, Cartagena, Rafael Nuñez International Airport","faq":[{"question":"What are the standard check-in and check-out times?","answer":"Common check-in times for most Cartagena hotels are around 3:00 PM, with check-out typically by 12:00 PM. Confirm exact times directly with your specific hotel, as policies can vary."},{"question":"Is breakfast included in the room rate?","answer":"Many hotels in Cartagena offer breakfast included in the room rate, particularly with flexible or higher-rate bookings. Budget rates are often room-only, so verify details when booking."},{"question":"Are there airport shuttles or transfers from Rafael Nuñez International Airport (CTG)?","answer":"Many mid- and upper-tier hotels provide paid airport transfers from Rafael Nuñez International Airport (CTG), and some offer complimentary transfers for specific room categories. Registered airport taxis and ride-hailing apps are also common alternatives. Confirm availability and fees directly with your hotel."},{"question":"How far is the hotel from Rafael Nuñez Airport and main attractions (Old Town, Bocagrande)?","answer":"Rafael Nuñez Airport is roughly 10-20 minutes by car to Bocagrande and 15-25 minutes to the Old City, depending on traffic conditions. Exact travel times vary based on the hotel's precise location."},{"question":"What are the typical cancellation and prepayment policies?","answer":"Cancellation policies depend on the rate and hotel: flexible rates often allow free cancellation up to a set date, while non-refundable rates are generally cheaper but without refund options. Prepayment requirements also vary. Always read the policy shown at booking."},{"question":"Is Wi-Fi free and reliable?","answer":"Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hotels, particularly in public areas and guest rooms at mid- to upper-tier properties. Speeds and reliability can vary, especially at boutique or budget hotels, so business travelers should confirm expected bandwidth (e.g., upload/download Mbps) if needed."},{"question":"Are there accessible rooms and facilities for guests with disabilities?","answer":"Some modern hotels and chains offer accessible rooms and adapted bathrooms. In the historic Old City, step-free access and adapted bathrooms are rare due to building layouts. Request detailed descriptions, ask for photos or floor plans, and get written confirmation if accessibility is essential before booking."},{"question":"Are hotels in Cartagena safe for solo travelers and women traveling alone?","answer":"Tourist areas like the Old City, Bocagrande, and Getsemaní are generally safe during daytime and busy evening hours. Petty theft can occur; use hotel safes, avoid isolated streets at night, and use registered taxis for transport. For emergencies, dial the Cartagena police and tourist assistance number: 123."},{"question":"Do hotels provide baby cots, extra beds, or connecting rooms for families?","answer":"Many hotels offer cribs and extra beds, and some provide connecting rooms. Free stays for children under 5 to 12 years old are common at Cartagena hotels but vary by property. These amenities are usually available for an extra fee or subject to availability, so confirm family policies when booking."},{"question":"Are pets allowed?","answer":"Most hotels in Cartagena do not allow pets, though some pet-friendly properties exist. Service animals are generally allowed under local regulations. Notify the hotel in advance about any service animals."},{"question":"What payment methods are accepted?","answer":"Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels. Smaller guesthouses may prefer cash in Colombian pesos (COP). Some hotels may request a card on file for incidentals and a passport or ID at check-in."},{"question":"Are gratuities and service charges included?","answer":"Many restaurants and some hotels add a 10% service charge; VAT/taxes may also apply. If service charges are not included, a 10% tip is customary for good service. Check your bill to avoid double-tipping."},{"question":"What languages do hotel staff speak?","answer":"Spanish is the primary language in Cartagena. Staff at tourist-oriented and larger hotels often speak English. At smaller or family-run properties, English proficiency may be limited."},{"question":"What safety and health measures are in place (hygiene, security)?","answer":"Most hotels maintain routine hygiene and security measures, including cleaning protocols, safes, CCTV, and key-card access. Since practices differ by property, ask the hotel for its current health and safety protocols, especially if you have specific concerns."},{"question":"Are there on-site dining and special-diet options?","answer":"Many hotels have at least one restaurant and can accommodate common dietary needs like vegetarian or gluten-free options with advance notice. For strict medical or cultural diets, contact the hotel before arrival."},{"question":"What are local customs or expectations I should know about?","answer":"Colombians are generally warm and polite. Dress is casual in daytime tourist areas but tends to be smarter in nicer restaurants. Tipping is appreciated, as noted in payment guidelines. Hotel staff appreciate courteous advance notice for special requests."},{"question":"How hot and humid is Cartagena, and what should I pack?","answer":"Cartagena has a tropical climate, which is hot and humid year-round. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a reusable water bottle, and mosquito repellent for evenings. Rain showers are more likely during April-May and October-November."},{"question":"Do hotels provide laundry services and ironing?","answer":"Most mid- and upper-tier hotels offer laundry and pressing services, often at an extra cost. Typical turnaround time is 12-48 hours. Smaller guesthouses may offer limited or local laundry options. Confirm pricing and turnaround time at check-in."},{"question":"Are there business facilities (meeting rooms, printing, conference services)?","answer":"Larger and business-oriented hotels commonly provide meeting rooms, business centers, and printing equipment. Boutique properties may offer limited services. Confirm availability and any fees ahead of time."},{"question":"What should guests with mobility, sensory, or other accessibility needs ask the hotel?","answer":"When booking, specifically ask about step-free access, elevator availability, door widths, bathroom grab bars, roll-in showers, visual fire alarms, and staff assistance policies. Request photos or floor plans if needed and get written confirmation of accommodations."},{"question":"Is parking available on-site?","answer":"Many hotels in Cartagena provide on-site parking, often secure. Space may be limited, particularly in historic areas, and fees can range from approximately $15-30 USD (approx. 60,000-115,000 COP) per day. At large hotels in Bocagrande and by the airport, self-parking is common; some offer valet options. Confirm availability and cost directly with the hotel."},{"question":"Does the hotel have a fitness center or a swimming pool?","answer":"Most mid-range to luxury hotels in Cartagena feature a swimming pool, which is a highly desired amenity given the hot climate. Many also offer a fitness center or gym for guest use. Check the hotel's specific amenities list before booking."},{"question":"What types of power outlets are used in Colombia?","answer":"Colombia uses Type A and Type B power outlets, which are the same as those used in the United States and Canada (two flat parallel pins or two flat parallel pins with a grounding pin). The standard voltage is 110V at 60Hz."},{"question":"Is tap water safe to drink in Cartagena?","answer":"While tap water in Cartagena is treated and used by locals, most travelers choose bottled water due to differences in mineral content. It is also advisable to use bottled water for brushing teeth to avoid stomach upset."},{"question":"Can the hotel assist with booking local tours or transportation?","answer":"Most hotels, particularly those catering to tourists, offer concierge services that can assist guests with booking local tours (such as to the Rosario Islands or Totumo mud volcano) and arranging reliable transportation like taxis or private cars. Most front desks can book with licensed operators."}],"tips":["As a foreign tourist, verify your exemption from the 19% IVA (VAT) on accommodation by presenting your physical passport and your immigration stamp at check-in. Savings apply only to qualifying room rates; incidental charges may still include tax. If the desk does not automatically request these documents, be prepared to ask for the exemption.","Book airport transfers in advance or use the official taxi desk at Rafael Nuñez International Airport to confirm rates and avoid nighttime safety concerns. Estimated fares are 10,000-15,000 COP (approx. $2.50-$4 USD) into the Old City; major hotels may offer pre-booked transfers with confirmed pricing.","Agree on taxi fares before beginning your ride from Rafael Nuñez International Airport, as meters are rarely used. Typical rates to the Old City or Bocagrande are 10,000-15,000 COP (approx. $2.50-$4 USD); ask for the exact fare up front and consider ride apps like InDriver or Tappsi. For safety, take a photo of the taxi’s license plate.","Transfers from Rafael Nuñez International Airport to the Old Town or Bocagrande usually take 15-30 minutes. Allow extra time during rush hours, festivals, or the December-January holiday season; check real-time navigation apps for current traffic. Hotel concierges may monitor flight delays and coordinate pick-up if you book directly.","Secure your hotel room well ahead during peak seasons such as the Cartagena Hay Festival (January/February), FICCI (March), New Year, or Christmas for best rates and availability. Booking 2-3 months in advance for major events is recommended, and review the hotel's cancellation policy for flexibility.","Prioritize hotels with dependable air conditioning and a pool, since Cartagena’s heat and humidity are constant throughout the year. Many upscale hotels have rooftop or courtyard pools, and late afternoon swims help avoid peak sun. Most large hotels also provide AC in public areas.","Bring your passport for foreigner registration and a credit card or cash for the incidental deposit, as many Cartagena hotels require this at check-in. Confirm the required deposit amount in advance, as it can vary by property, and ask about alternate payment options if needed.","Confirm all local taxes and service charges before booking, as they often appear separately on your bill. Business travelers should request a factura (invoice) upon check-in for expense claims, making sure to provide the correct tax ID; check if digital invoices are available at your hotel.","Search recent guest reviews and photos on platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com to verify pool maintenance, noise level, and AC performance before booking colonial hotels. Filter for reviews from recent months, and check whether the hotel is a branded chain, which tend to standardize amenities.","If you require strong internet or meeting rooms, confirm bandwidth, business center hours, or available workspaces directly with your hotel before booking. Ask for a speed test screenshot or details on connectivity; many top hotels list their business amenities online.","For Cartagena's tropical climate, check that your room's AC works and use DEET or picaridin repellent for mosquito protection, especially for dengue and Zika risk. Most luxury hotels offer mosquito nets or regular fumigation, but bringing personal repellent is still recommended. Many upscale properties also provide sunscreen at the pool.","While many hotels accept cards, smaller restaurants and vendors mainly use cash (Colombian Pesos). Use bank ATMs or official airport counters for cash, and alert your bank before travel. Some premium hotels offer currency exchange at reception, but rates are often less favorable than local banks.","Tipping is customary for quality service in Cartagena. Typical amounts are $1.25-$2.50 USD (5,000-10,000 COP) per bag for bellhops and $2.50-$5 USD (10,000-20,000 COP) per day for housekeeping, with more for exceptional concierge help. Tips may be accepted in cash or added to bills at larger hotels; check if a service charge is already included.","Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash. Avoid poorly lit or empty streets at night and book hotel-arranged taxis or use ride apps for safer travel. Save digital copies of important travel documents, and keep keys secure in the pool or public areas.","Request early check-in or late check-out in advance, as fees may apply and are often higher for standard rooms than for loyalty program members. Most hotels will store luggage if your flight is later than the typical noon checkout time.","For families, ask about connecting rooms, cribs, shallow pools, child menus, or activity clubs ahead of arrival. Lifeguard service is not standard in all hotels; request confirmation of safety features for each pool.","Solo travelers should look for hotels with 24/7 reception, secure entry, strong safety reviews, and well-lit neighborhoods around Old Town or Bocagrande. Some large brands offer keycard-only floor access and security staff; female travelers may request additional options like female-only floors when available.","Many hotels provide complimentary breakfast, but options vary from local fare (like arepas and fruit) to a basic continental spread. Notify the hotel in advance about dietary needs, and ask about room service or packed breakfasts for early departures.","Use your hotel concierge for trusted recommendations on sunrise or sunset viewpoints, rooftop bars, Rosario Islands/Barú tours, and local dining, booking through them to avoid scams. Not all hotels have a dedicated concierge; many allow bookings for verified tours through their branded app.","Stick to bottled water for drinking in Cartagena. Ask the front desk about hotel health protocols or for directions to nearby medical centers; many hotels provide free bottled water and can refer you to partnered private clinics for faster care.","If you have mobility needs, confirm elevator access and request an accessible room or step-free access before booking, as many colonial or boutique hotels have limited elevators or stairs. International hotel chains generally comply with accessibility standards.","Occasional power outages occur in Cartagena, so choose a hotel with a backup generator to minimize disruptions. Confirm that generator coverage extends to both rooms and public spaces if this is critical for your stay.","Learn simple Spanish phrases such as 'gracias' (thank you), 'por favor' (please), and '¿Cuánto cuesta?' (how much is it?) to improve your experience. Download a translation app for more complex needs in advance.","Greet hotel staff with a polite 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes', and dress modestly when visiting churches or government buildings away from the beach. Smart casual dress is expected at most upscale hotel restaurants.","Before heading to any beach or island, ask your hotel’s front desk about safe hours, recommended vendors, and current swimming or boating conditions, as safety and quality can vary. Some hotels offer exclusive transfers or coordinate escorted tours for guests."]}