Medellín's Most Luxurious Escape: Unveiling the Novelty Suites Hotel
Medellín's Most Luxurious Escape: Novelty Suites Hotel – A Review (And My Honest Thoughts)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I've just emerged from the gilded cage (aka the Novelty Suites Hotel in Medellín), and I'm here to tell you everything. Forget the brochures, the meticulously crafted press releases. This is raw, unadulterated me, spilling the beans. Prepare for a journey. I'm talking accessibility, spa days, the holy grail of Wi-Fi, and enough opinions to fill a Colombian coffee plantation. Let's dive in!
First Impressions (and the Wi-Fi Saga):
Landing at El Dorado airport after a red-eye is rough. You emerge looking like you've wrestled a badger. So, the fact that Novelty Suites offers an airport transfer? Genius. Straight into a shiny black car, bottled water already chilling, and BAM! You're at paradise.
The first thing I craved? Wi-Fi. I mean, I need to Instagram my lavish life, you know? And praise the digital gods! The "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" wasn’t hyperbole. It was actually true. And not just mediocre Wi-Fi. We're talking warp-speed, download-Netflix-in-a-nanosecond Wi-Fi. I practically wept with joy. (Wipes away a single, dramatic tear). Not only do you get that, you got Wi-Fi in public areas. And if, for some ungodly reason, you need LAN, you got that too! Internet for days!
Accessibility & Inclusion: A Big Win (and a Little Bit of a Miss):
Now, I didn’t specifically need accessible features, but I always pay attention to this. And Novelty Suites shines in this department. Elevator? Check. Facilities for disabled guests? Check. They thought about it. The public areas were thoughtfully designed, and the staff seemed genuinely invested in making everyone feel comfortable.
However, I did notice a few potential hiccups. While the physical accessibility was excellent, some of the websites and promotional materials could be more inclusive in their language and imagery. It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference. Overall, though, kudos to Novelty Suites for prioritizing inclusivity. Keep that up, guys!
The Room (and the Blackout Curtains That Saved My Sanity):
My room was… well, let's just say it was fit for a king (or a slightly less regal, but still fabulous travel blogger). The bathrobes, the slippers, the blackout curtains… Oh, the blackout curtains! After that red-eye, those curtains were my saviors. I slept like a log, blissfully unaware of the bustling city outside. (Side note: They also had a scale. Because, priorities.)
The room had everything. Seriously. Air conditioning (essential in the Medellín heat), a mini bar stocked with temptations, a coffee/tea maker (hello, caffeine!), and a desk for pretending to work while actually just scrolling through Instagram. Complimentary bottled water? Always a plus. Extra long bed? Yes, please! And the soundproofing?! Perfection. I didn't hear a peep from my neighbors. I could have practiced my opera singing routine and no one would have noticed.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure (Mostly):
Okay, let's talk food. The restaurants are plentiful. Buffet in restaurant? Yes, please. Western cuisine? Check. Asian cuisine? Also, check. A la carte in restaurant? You got it. Poolside bar? Need I say more?
The breakfast buffet was a feast. Think mountains of fresh fruit, pastries that practically begged to be devoured, and eggs cooked to your exact specification. The coffee shop served a decent coffee/tea in the restaurant… I’m not sure why this is listed separately. The snack bar was perfect for warding off those mid-afternoon hunger pangs. Room service [24-hour] meant I could order truffle fries at 3 AM. Glorious.
I did have a slight hiccup with the "alternative meal arrangement." I'm a vegetarian, and while they do have a vegetarian restaurant (score!), I found the options a little… repetitive. More variety would be appreciated. But hey, nobody's perfect!
Relaxation Station: Where Dreams Are Made (and Massages Are Received):
This is where Novelty Suites truly shines. The spa! Oh, the spa! They have a sauna, a steamroom, and a swimming pool [outdoor] with a pool with a view that will make your jaw drop. I spent a solid few hours just staring at the mountains.
The massage was heavenly. I opted for a deep-tissue, and I walked out feeling like a brand new human. They also offer Body scrubs and Body wraps. Next time, I am so so doing the works. The Fitness center looked well-equipped, though I'll be honest, I mostly opted for the pool. There's also a Foot bath which is pure bliss.
Cleanliness & Safety: Peace of Mind (and Sanitizing Everything):
In the post-pandemic world, cleanliness is key. And Novelty Suites excels here. Anti-viral cleaning products were used throughout, Daily disinfection in common areas was the norm, and Rooms sanitized between stays. I felt incredibly safe and secure. Hand sanitizer stations were everywhere. They took it seriously. Safe dining setup? Check. Staff trained in safety protocols? Double check. They even have a doctor/nurse on call, just in case! You can opt-out of room sanitization! I was impressed.
Services & Conveniences: They Thought of Everything:
Concierge service? Check. Daily housekeeping? Absolutely. Laundry service? You betcha. They even offer cashless payment service so you don't need to worry about money. They have currency exchange. I was impressed by the sheer number of services available. They made my life so easy. The gift/souvenir shop was a nice touch, too, though I may have maxed out my credit card.
For the Kids (and the Babysitters):
While I didn’t travel with any small humans, the hotel seemed very family-friendly. Babysitting service available? Check. Kids meal? Definitely. Kids facilities? I didn't see any play areas, but I'm sure they could be accommodated.
The Little Things (and the Rambles):
I could go on, and on… I will. The security [24-hour] gave me peace of mind. The soundproof rooms were a godsend. The terrace was perfect for sipping an evening cocktail. They even had CCTV in common areas (and, surprisingly, CCTVs outside property). The elevator was a lifesaver with my heavy suitcase! The little touches, like the umbrella in the room (I forgot mine!), and the complimentary toiletries, made all the difference.
I didn't explore the seminar facilities, but they have a meeting/banquet facility, indoor venue for special events, and outdoor venue for special events. It looks well equipped.
The Verdict: Medellín's Most Luxurious Escape? Absolutely.
Novelty Suites Hotel is a luxurious escape in the heart of Medellín. It's a place where you can truly relax, recharge, and indulge. It's not perfect, but the pros far outweigh the cons. From the lightning-fast Wi-Fi to the heavenly spa treatments to the impeccable service, Novelty Suites delivers.
My Quirky Observations:
- The staff were genuinely friendly and helpful. No forced smiles. Just genuine warmth.
- The hotel has a very “Instagrammable” vibe. Prepare to take a lot of photos.
- I may or may not have ordered room service every single night. Don't judge me.
- I found the proposal spot.
The Imperfections?
- The food options specifically for vegetarians could be expanded.
- Some of the marketing could be more inclusive.
But these are minor quibbles. Overall, I had an amazing experience.
Ready to Experience the Novelty in Medellín? Book Your Luxurious Escape Today!
Tired of the same old hotel routine? Crave a getaway that's equal parts luxury, relaxation, and convenience?
Then prepare to be wowed. Novelty Suites Hotel in Medellín awaits, offering an unparalleled experience designed to pamper your senses and leave you feeling utterly refreshed.
Here's what awaits you:
- Unrivaled Comfort: Sink into plush beds, indulge in luxurious bathrobes and slippers, and enjoy the ultimate in privacy with our signature blackout curtains. Every room is a haven of tranquility.
- Blissful Relaxation: Melt away stress in our world-class spa, complete with a sauna, steamroom, and a swimming pool [outdoor] with a breathtaking view. Treat yourself to a deeply relaxing massage and
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's travel itinerary. We're going to Medellín, Colombia, and trust me, it's going to be a rollercoaster. Novelty Suites Hotel? Sounds… well, novel. Let's see if it lives up to the name.
Medellín Meltdown: A Totally Real (and Probably Slightly Chaotic) Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Altitude Adjustment (Mostly Just Me Feeling Awful)
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE). Ugh. Airports. The smell of jet fuel and desperation. Pray to the travel gods my luggage makes it. (Secretly, I'm terrified of losing my lucky socks. They're crucial for emotional stability.) Taxi to Novelty Suites Hotel. Google Maps says 45 minutes. My gut says… longer. Pray for the taxi driver to be sane.
- Anecdote Alert: Landed, grabbed my bags, and immediately felt like I was swimming through molasses. Medellín's altitude is no joke. I blame the airplane peanuts. First impression of the hotel: sleek, modern, and… a little too much gold for my taste. The lobby is gorgeous.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Check into Novelty Suites. Hopefully, the room isn’t a dungeon. Unpack. Immediately nap (altitude, remember?). Wake up feeling slightly less like a zombie, but still sluggish. Wander around the hotel, get my bearings (and desperately search for coffee).
- Rant Zone: The room is nice – a little minimalist for my taste, but clean. But the AC is like a jet engine. I'm sweating, then freezing, then sweating again. It's a constant battle. And the Wi-Fi? Please, let it work. My boss doesn't need to know I'm on vacation but I do need to check in.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 10:00 PM): Find food. Seriously, I'm starving. Explore the area around the hotel. Maybe… just maybe… try to learn a few basic Spanish phrases. "Hola" and "cerveza" are probably enough, right?
- Quirky Observation: Apparently, everyone in Medellín is impeccably dressed. I feel severely underdressed in my travel sweats. Note to self: buy a new outfit. Tomorrow. Maybe.
- Emotional Reaction: Eating arepas on the street, finally finding a coffee shop, and actually trying to order it in Spanish. Felt proud.
- Messy Structure: Okay, so the area around the hotel… a bit confusing. Lots of one-way streets. Google Maps is my best friend (and probably my future therapist). Found a tiny little arepa place, the owner gave me the cheesiest grin and I got my first taste of delicious, street-style Medellin. I can't even. Seriously, I think I reached a caffeine high I never realized I could!
Day 2: City Exploration and My Attempt at Salsa (Spoiler: It's Awful)
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Coffee (double shot, please). Head to Comuna 13. Seriously, I'm excited and a little nervous. Heard amazing things, but also stories of the neighborhood's past. Want to do it respectfully.
- Opinionated Language: This is the real Medellín. Can't just go through the motions – I want to feel it.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Lunch in El Poblado. Explore the area. Visit Parque Lleras. It is beautiful!
- Rambles: The food. Oh, the food! Decided to eat at a restaurant, the flavors were so rich, I felt like I was swimming in savory bliss!
- Doubling Down on Experience: Comuna 13. Okay, so the tour was intense. But the transformation… the art… the resilience. God, I teared up more than once. The graffiti tour was AMAZING, such a powerful experience. I can't even begin to describe the story it's telling. It's just… raw. And the energy of the people? Unbelievable. I could have stayed there all day. I think this will be the highlight of the trip.
- Evening (6:00 PM - late): Salsa lessons! (Wish me luck. I have two left feet and zero rhythm.) Drinks and maybe a late-night snack.
- Emotional Reaction: Dancing. Oh God, the dancing. I swear I stumbled over my own feet more than once. But it was so much fun!
Day 3: Guatapé and the Big Rock (and Possibly Another Meltdown?)
- Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Early start! Tour to Guatapé and El Peñón de Guatapé (that giant rock). Travel time: about 2 hours each way, so a long day. Pray I don't get car sick.
- More Rambles: So, the bus ride. Slightly cramped. But the scenery… the scenery is absolutely mind-blowing. Lush green hills, sparkling lakes… Colombia is seriously stunning. But where's the bathroom?
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Climb El Peñón. I'm not entirely sure I can handle the hike, but I’ll try. The view has to be worth it, right? Explore the colorful town of Guatapé!
- Immediate Reaction: I made it to the top! Okay, maybe I struggled, but the view… the panoramic view from the top of El Peñón is insane. It's what postcards are made of. I should become an Instagram influencer at this point.
- Evening (6:00 PM - late): Return to Medellín. Dinner.
- Imperfection: That long journey back… I was exhausted. Slept the entire ride and missed the part where the driver had some kind of road rage with the other driver.
Day 4: Gardens, Ghosts, and Goodbye (Maybe?)
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Botanical Garden. A moment of peace before I am thrown back into the world.
- Quirky Observation: The botanical garden is a riot of colors and smells. So peaceful. The most beautiful thing I've seen so far, next to Comuna 13.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Visit the Museo de Antioquia (Art Museum, to soak up some culture). Last-minute souvenir shopping.
- Evening (5:00 PM - Late): Farewell dinner. Reflect on the trip. Decide if I want to move here!
- Emotional Reaction: This trip flew by. I didn't want it to end. I felt like I blinked, and now I'm leaving.
- Messy Structure: Seriously, though, where did the time go? I feel like I just arrived. And I'm going to miss the food, the music, and the people. And maybe even the altitude. Mostly.
- Opinionated Language: Seriously considering moving here.
Day 5: Departure (Hopefully with Lucky Socks)
- Morning (Any time): Check out of Novelty Suites. Taxi to the airport. Pray my luggage makes it home. Start planning my return trip.
- Final Thoughts: Goodbye, Medellín. You were beautiful, chaotic, and utterly unforgettable. And, you know what? Those lucky socks? They totally worked. Until next time!
Novelty Suites: You Think You're Ready? (You Probably Aren't) FAQs – Because Reality Bites (and Sometimes Tastes of Tiny Cakes)
Okay, Spill. What's the ACTUAL Vibe at Novelty Suites? Everything's So…Polished in the Ads.
Those “Novelty” Suites…Are They Just Overpriced Rooms?
Tell Me *Everything* About the Jungle Oasis Suite. I'm Seriously Considering It.
What About the Food? Is It Worth the Price Tag?
Is the Staff Actually Helpful, or Just… Polished and Remote?
What's the Best Thing About Novelty Suites, Actually?
Is It Kid-Friendly?
Any Hidden Fees I Should Know About?
