When my guide picked me up at the airport, she told me Bogota is a business city, not a tourist city. While she was an enthusiastic host and seemed to know everything else about her hometown, I had to disagree with her on this one.
No, the energy in Bogota doesn’t revolve around foreign visitors, and no, the city doesn’t immediately seduce like Cartagena or Cusco. It’s a busy, modern metropolis of some 8 million people who do business there. Many of them also shop in stylish boutiques and eat very well. There are no “tourist places” in town; it’s all for locals.
This little gem is located in a safe and residential neighbourhood, just blocks from many great restaurants.
I was lucky enough to meet the owner, who gave me a full tour: the 7 homey rooms are very well appointed and all designed with different furniture. Each bathroom has its own style as well, with different tiles sourced locally. You can tell that every object has been chosen with care and love, and put at one spot after cautious consideration.
The common areas consist of a kitchen that is free to be used by any guest, as well as a living room, a garden, a library and a courtyard: all great for a chat, a drink, do some work or just chill.
The decor is fresh, colorful and witty. It is perfect if you want an experience the comfort of a home, rather than the usual hotel where you’re just another guest. In fact, the staff is very friendly, yet not invasive. It is great to have so many things included in the rate as you’re not constantly reminded that you will be charged extra, by having to sign a bill.
I am not sure how Helena made it happen, but you feel in someone’s home, without sensing you’re invading anyone else’s space, or that you couldn’t touch this or that. It is this perfect mix between a House and a Upscale B&B.
I was there on Business, but this hotel is great for Leisure too. It can even be bought-out, which would be great for a celebration with family.
I probably haven’t been in such a cute establishment ever before, and I will be thinking about this hotel for a while. It made me want to come back to Bogota at least another 6 times, to experience each of the bedrooms.
