Bocagrande location gives direct access to the beach plus a 10–15 minute taxi to the UNESCO Walled City — Cartagena itself is the strongest activity this resort offers.
Cafe San Pedro restaurant in the Historic Old Town with resort transfers included is a distinctive all-inclusive perk.
Príncipe Galeotto on the 23rd floor has a genuinely impressive view — night dinner with Cartagena Bay and the illuminated Walled City in the backdrop is a real experience.
New children's water park (2024) has meaningfully improved the family proposition.
The all-inclusive price point is appropriate for Cartagena's cost-of-travel context — reasonable value relative to independent hotel and restaurant costs.
Cons
Elevators are a consistent complaint: slow, few, and inefficient for a multi-floor property — guests with mobility issues face real friction.
The main pool is too small for peak occupancy, particularly on weekends and during Colombian holiday periods.
Buffet food quality is broadly described as mediocre — plan to eat most dinners at the à la carte restaurants.
Language barrier: many staff primarily speak Spanish, and the guest population skews heavily Colombian — Google Translate is practically useful here.
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Pros
The only all-inclusive in the world simultaneously holding Forbes Five Stars, AAA Five Diamonds, and a MICHELIN-starred restaurant — a genuine distinction, not a marketing claim
Cocina de Autor's 8-10 course tasting menu with wine pairing is fully included in the all-inclusive rate — at a standalone restaurant this would cost hundreds per person
Every suite starts at 1,081 sq ft with ocean views, private terrace jacuzzi, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry suite here exceeds most competitors' top categories
Three-tier infinity pools naturally segregate family, activity, and adult-only zones without restricting access — practical design rather than strict policy
Cons
Beach is not swimmable — Los Cabos Pacific currents make ocean swimming dangerous; the infinity pools are where guests actually swim
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Decameron Cartagena has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.
Cocina de Autor is restricted to adults and guests 18+ — families with younger children can't access the MICHELIN-starred restaurant during their stay
Rates start around $1,600/night in low season and $1,800+ in peak winter — a significant commitment that requires being genuinely invested in the Five Diamond experience to justify
