Escape to Paradise: Colombia's Hidden Hotel Gem in Socorro!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the swirling, vibrant, and let's be honest, sometimes a little chaotic world of Escape to Paradise: Colombia's Hidden Hotel Gem in Socorro! I'm talking a deep, honest, and maybe a little overly enthusiastic review. Forget sterile travel blogs; this is the real, messy, and utterly delightful truth.
First Impressions & Getting There (The Accessibility Tango – Or Lack Thereof) – Ouch!
Okay, before we get to the sunshine and roses, let's rip off the band-aid. Accessibility? It's…present. There is Facilities for disabled guests. BUT and this is a HUGE but, I wouldn't necessarily call this a fully accessible paradise. Getting to Socorro in the first place might be a challenge depending on what methods you prefer; it is Airport transfer accessible, but you have to pre-arrange this. Once there, I did notice an Elevator, which is a huge plus. However, navigating the grounds felt like a bit of a treasure hunt to see where you are able to access and where you can't. Wheelchair accessible? Let's just say, call beforehand and confirm specific needs. They try, bless their hearts, but it's not a level playing field at every turn.
The Tech & Convenience Rundown – WI-FI! Glorious Wi-Fi!
Alright, after the not-so-accessible intro, let's get to the good stuff. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! And it actually worked! I can't tell you how important that is when you're trying to Instagram your perfect pool-with-a-view shot (more on that later). They also have Internet access, Internet [LAN], and Internet services in case you're into a more secure line. Plus, Wi-Fi in public areas. So, connectivity is covered.
Beyond Wi-Fi, they offer a ton of conveniences. Air conditioning in public areas is a lifesaver. Air conditioning (and it works!) is also found in every room; a lifesaver. Daily housekeeping keeps things sparkling! The Concierge was friendly and helpful. Cash withdrawal is available. Contactless check-in/out – a bonus! Laundry service, dry cleaning, and ironing service? They’ve got you covered. Luggage storage is a godsend, as is the Elevator. They have Safety deposit boxes too, which is nice.
The Eating & Drinking Extravaganza – My Stomach's Best Friend
Okay, food. This is where Escape to Paradise really shines. Let's break it down.
- Restaurants: Plural, people! Actual restaurants! And they're good!
- Dining, drinking, and snacking: 24-hour Room service is a massive win after a few too many cocktails.
- Breakfast [buffet]: This is the real deal. A buffet, yes, but a good one. Fresh fruit, local pastries (oh, the pastries!), eggs cooked to order. They also do a Western breakfast, AND an Asian breakfast.
- Restaurants: A Vegetarian restaurant is a great option (I'm not vegetarian, but appreciated the thoughtfulness.)
- Coffee/tea: They have it. And it's free during breakfast!
- A la carte in restaurant: Another plus!
- Desserts in restaurant: Bring your sweet tooth!
- International cuisine in restaurant: Great!
- Coffee shop: Perfect for that afternoon pick-me-up.
- Snack bar: Always a good plan.
- Lunch & Dinner: Soup in restaurant, Salad in restaurant
The Bottle of water in every room is a small touch, but a welcome one. And speaking of drinks… the Poolside bar is a must. They have a Bar with the best cocktails I have tasted in my life. Happy hour is the time to load up, of course.
Ways to Relax (AKA: My Favorite Part)
Okay, if I'm honest, this is what I came for. And Escape to Paradise DELIVERED!
The Swimming pool [outdoor] is the star of the show. It's HUGE, clean, and the view…oh, the view. It's a true Pool with view.
The Spa! This is where I spent a significant portion of my time. Massage? Yes, please! They had a Body scrub and a Body wrap. And they were amazing. The therapists were skilled, the atmosphere was serene, and I swear I walked out feeling ten years younger. The Sauna and Steamroom were the perfect complements. I also tried the Foot bath, which was surprisingly delightful.
There's also a Gym/fitness, but let's be real, the spa was calling my name.
Cleanliness and Safety (The Very Important Stuff)
In these times, this is crucial. And Escape to Paradise takes it seriously. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Cashless payment service, Daily disinfection in common areas, First aid kit, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Staff trained in safety protocol, and Sterilizing equipment. I felt safe the whole time.
For the Kids (And Those Who Are Still Kids at Heart)
They have Babysitting service to give parents some alone time. They're Family/child friendly. They have Kids facilities and a Kids meal.
The Rooms – Where the Magic Happens (Or at Least, Where You Sleep)
The rooms…are lovely! They're clean, comfortable, and well-appointed. Here is what you'd find:
- Air conditioning (Again!)
- Alarm clock
- Bathrobes
- Bathroom phone
- Bathtub
- Blackout curtains (Needed!)
- Carpeting
- Coffee/tea maker
- Daily housekeeping
- Desk
- Extra long bed
- Free bottled water
- Hair dryer
- In-room safe box
- Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless
- Ironing facilities
- Laptop workspace
- Mini bar
- Mirror
- Non-smoking
- Private bathroom
- Refrigerator
- Satellite/cable channels
- Seating area
- Separate shower/bathtub
- Shower
- Slippers
- Smoke detector
- Sofa
- Soundproofing
- Telephone
- Toiletries
- Towels
- Wake-up service
- Wi-Fi [free]
- Window that opens
Getting Around (And Into & Out of the Hotel – The Details)
They offer Airport transfer and Taxi service. There's also Car park [free of charge] and Valet parking. Bicycle parking is available.
The Little Extras (That Make a Big Difference)
- Complimentary tea
- Essential condiments
- Food delivery (amazing!)
- Gift/souvenir shop
- Invoice provided (if you need it)
- Luggage storage
- Meeting/banquet facilities
- On-site event hosting
- Room decorations
- Shrine
- Smoking area
The Downsides (Because Nothing's Perfect)
- Accessibility: I've said it before, I'll say it again. It could be better.
- The occasional glitch: The Wi-Fi dropped out once or twice, and the coffee machine in my room wasn't working. Minor things, but still…
- Pets allowed unavailable
The Verdict: Book It! (With a Few Caveats)
Escape to Paradise is a gem. Seriously. The food, the spa, the views…it's pure bliss. Yes, there are a few minor flaws, particularly regarding full accessibility. But if you can navigate those, you're in for an unforgettable experience. This is a place to relax, recharge, and forget about the real world.
My Recommendation: Book Now! (Seriously, Before I Do)
Here’s my pitch!
Escape to Paradise: Your Colombian Oasis Awaits!
Tired of the same old vacation routine? Craving an escape? Then escape to Paradise! This hidden gem is your key to unlocking pure bliss in the heart of Colombia's Socorro.
**Here's why you should book and why you'll
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Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to descend (and maybe stumble a bit) into my whirlwind adventure at Hotel Boutique Simacota in Socorro, Colombia. Prepare for a travel diary that’s less "perfectly curated Instagram grid" and more "slightly disheveled, coffee-stained memoir."
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Disorientation (aka, "Where the Heck Am I?")
- 8:00 AM: Flight from Bogotá. Honestly, getting through El Dorado Airport is an Olympic sport in itself. I swear, the security line moves slower than a sloth in a molasses factory. Managed to secure a window seat (bliss!), but spent the entire flight battling a hyperactive toddler behind me who seemed determined to kick my seat into submission.
- 9:30 AM: Landed in Bucaramanga. The air is already thick with a Colombian heat I hadn't quite prepared for. Finding a taxi becomes a negotiation sport. I ended up overpaying by a few pesos, but what's a few pesos when you're already buzzing with excitement?
- 11:00 AM: Arrival at Hotel Boutique Simacota! Okay, cue the actual swoon. This place…it's like stepping into a lost-world movie. Cobblestone streets! Bougainvillea cascading everywhere! The hotel itself is a rustic, historic building that's been lovingly restored; a real character. The reception, though… well, let's just say the charming young woman at the desk was clearly having an “off” day. My Spanish is… functional, and hers seemed to be on holiday. It took, shall we say, a while to check in. (Mostly because I kept getting distracted by the hotel cat, a fluffy ginger named “Sombra,” who was sprawled majestically on a chair.)
- 12:30 PM: Room reveal! I'd booked a room with a balcony, and glorious it is. Seriously, the view! Rolling hills, vibrant green, the town spread out below… I could live here. And then I noticed the tiny, tiny ants marching across the bathroom counter. Okay, so maybe not perfect. But hey, they're just trying to survive, right?
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at the hotel restaurant. Delicious arepas and a bocadillo (guava paste) that was so good I almost cried. The waiter, a sweet older man, seemed genuinely amused by my attempts at Spanish. He kept nodding and smiling, even when I'm pretty sure I ordered "chicken" as "cow."
- 3:00 PM: Attempt at exploring Socorro. Got completely lost within 10 minutes. The streets are a maze, and my sense of direction is… let's just say, "aspirational." Ended up wandering into a local market, where I was immediately overwhelmed by the sights, smells, and the sheer volume of people. Ended up buying some strange fruit from a vendor who insisted on shaking my hand with extreme enthusiasm (and a very, very strong grip.)
- 6:00 PM: Back at the balcony, sipping a strong coffee and watching the sunset. This is the life. Forget the ants, forget the language barriers, forget the accidental purchase of mystery fruit. This… this is what travel is all about. (Except my phone died just when I was about to take a photo of the sunset. Story of my life, honestly.)
- 8:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel. More amazing food (this time, I think I ordered chicken without being entirely wrong). The hotel is quiet now, the air filled with the sound of cicadas and the faint murmur of conversations from the courtyard. A perfect end to a slightly chaotic, utterly charming day.
Day 2: Socorro's Soul and a Leap of Faith (Literally!)
- 7:00 AM: Woke up to the most beautiful light streaming into my room. The ants were still there, but I made peace with them. Coffee on the balcony again – this time, I remembered to charge my phone!
- 8:00 AM: Quick breakfast. The hotel had incredible arepas, I said before? Well, every morning, I'd swear I was eating the absolute best ones in the world. And the fresh fruit juice? Forget about it.
- 9:00 AM: Exploration! Decided to visit the Cathedral of Santa Bárbara. The architecture is incredible. I love the details, and I'm usually not a cathedral person! But the interior of the church was so stunning. And I felt a true connection to the place, to the people.
- 11:00 AM: Time for an adventure! Got some information about a waterfall. I decided to visit "Cascada Las Gachas" - a waterfall with natural circular formations in the rock. I was nervous about this one, but felt like I needed to push myself.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch on the way back to the hotel. I tried to find a restaurant where the locals were. I ate in a small place where the main dish was a stew with chicken. The food was simple but truly delicious.
- 3:00 PM: Back at the hotel.
- 5:00 PM: More time to relax. I found a nice spot to read in the hotel gardens.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner and plan for the next day.
Day 3: Farewell, but Really a "See You Later"
The hotel, the people, the food. I'm going to miss this place! But I'll be back! I just know it.
So there you have it – my initial impressions of Socorro and Hotel Boutique Simacota. It's been a beautiful blur of gorgeous scenery, slightly clumsy Spanish, and a healthy dose of unexpected adventures. It's not always perfect, but it is always real. And that, my friends, is what makes travel truly unforgettable. Now, where's that "mystery fruit"? I'm suddenly craving a challenge.
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Escape to Paradise: Colombia's Hidden Hotel Gem in Socorro! (The Unfiltered FAQ)
Okay, So "Paradise" is a Bold Claim. What's the *Real* Deal with Escape to Paradise?
Alright, alright, let's ditch the marketing fluff for a sec. "Paradise"? Look, it's not the Garden of Eden. It's not going to magically solve your existential dread. But... hear me out. It's *damn* beautiful. Lush green hills, the air smells like pure, unadulterated *life*, and the vibe? Chill. Like, legitimately chill. They've got this pool that's strategically placed to catch the sunset. I'm not even a sunset person, usually think they're overrated, but THIS one... I almost shed a tear. It was that good.
And the downsides. Look, it's not perfect. WiFi was spotty sometimes. My room had a tiny, tiny spider in the corner. (I named him Bartholomew. He was cute.) And the drive there from Bogota? Hoo boy. Let's just say my stomach tried to stage a coup. But the *people*! The staff are amazing. So kind, so patient with my terrible Spanish (mostly consisting of "cerveza por favor" and "gracias"). It really felt like a genuine escape. So, not Eden, but definitely a serious contender for "Happy Place" for a few days. Maybe even a week, if you're really lucky!
So, the Vibe is "Chill." But *How* Chill? Like, Do They Have Actual Things to *Do*? Because I Get Bored Easily.
Okay, fellow restless souls, I get it. "Chill" can translate to "bored out of your skull" real fast. But here, there's a good balance. You've got the lazy-day-by-the-pool option, obviously. Which, yes, I fully embraced. (Sunscreen is your friend, people! Learn from my lobster-red mistakes!)
But also: Hiking! They can arrange guided hikes to waterfalls. (Pro-tip: wear good shoes. I did NOT, and let's just say my ankles are still complaining.) You can go paragliding! (I chickened out. The heights, man! The heights!) You can learn to make arepas (amazing!). And, if you're feeling adventurous, they can organise trips to explore the surrounding towns.
There are even board games. (A crucial touch! I found myself utterly engrossed in a game of Scrabble with a friendly local and almost forgot my worries!) It’s a balance, really. You can be active or do absolutely nothing. Which, honestly, is a massive win.
The Food. Tell Me *Everything* About the Food! Is it Touristy or Authentic? My Stomach Dictates My Happiness, Basically.
Alright, foodie friends, this is where Escape to Paradise *really* shines. The food. Oh, the food! It's not just "good," it's *life-affirming*. They do a mix of local Colombian dishes with some international options, so even the pickiest eaters won't starve.
The breakfast? Forget your sad continental hotel breakfasts. Fresh fruits, arepas (again! I'm obsessed!), eggs cooked to perfection, and strong, delicious coffee. (I may or may not have had a double espresso every morning. Don’t judge.) Lunch and dinner change daily, but expect fresh ingredients, flavorful sauces, and generous portions. Be prepared to loosen your belt, because you *will* overeat.
And the desserts! Oh, the desserts. One night they served this incredible flan... I think I might dream about it still. And the service! The staff is so incredibly patient if you're like me with my awful Spanish. (I'll reiterate, "Gracias" went a long way, though!) The authenticity factor is high - I felt like I was genuinely experiencing Colombian cuisine, not just some watered-down tourist version. My stomach, and my soul, were very, very happy.
Okay, But Real Talk: The Rooms? What are They Like? Cozy? Sleek? Does it have a comfy bed? Because I'm a Princess (or a Prince, I guess).
The rooms are... comfortable. Let's go with comfortable. They're not minimalist chic. They're not going to make you gasp with aesthetic perfection. They're *clean*, well-maintained, and most importantly, the beds… oh, the beds. Heavenly. I'm talking sink-into-the-mattress, 'I never want to leave' kind of comfort.
The decor is rustic-ish, fitting the location. Don’t expect super modern. Expect local charm. There's usually some kind of view, be it to the hills or the pool. (Pro tip: try to get a room overlooking the pool — sunset views are amazing from those.) The bathroom was simple, but functional, and had hot water, which is a *luxury* in some of these remote locations.
Oh, and the balconies! Seriously. Get a balcony. Even if it’s tiny. It’s the perfect place to sip your coffee (or cerveza, no judgement!) and soak in the atmosphere. It might not be a five-star resort. It's better. It's real.
Is it Expensive? Be Honest! My Bank Account is Currently Weeping.
It's not cheap-cheap, but it's also not going to break the bank, especially if you're comparing it to similar places in other locations. It's a very solid value for what you get. The quality of the food, the service, the whole experience… it's definitely worth it.
I’d say it’s a splurge-worthy place. If you're on a serious budget, maybe save up a bit. But trust me, it won't be something you’ll regret. It’s a good investment in your happiness, your sanity and your Instagram feed, of course!
Seriously though, the price point is right. You get a lot of bang for your buck.
Okay, You Mentioned the Drive. Is Socorro Easy to Get To? Because I Hate Long Journeys.
Alright, the drive. Yep, there's no sugar-coating it. It's not the easiest. The roads are, let's just say, "characterful." Meaning, they're windy. And bumpy. And sometimes, you might momentarily question your life choices. The drive from Bogota is long. I’m talking, a solid 6-7 hours.
But, it's worth it! Seriously! The scenery is breathtaking, especially as you get closer. Rolling hills, vibrant colours, little villages… it's like a postcard come to life. The drive could be broken up with one-hour plane flight to Bucaramanga, and from there, Socorro is a two-hour bus ride.
My advice? Bring travel sickness pills. Listen toSnooze And Stay
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