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 Riviera Nayarit
Pros
AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star simultaneously — one of the most decorated all-inclusive resorts in Mexico
Suites start at 1,000 sq ft with private terraces, ocean views, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry level here exceeds most competitors' premium categories
Premium spirits, wines, and 24-hour room service are fully included — not standard at most all-inclusives, even premium ones
Banderas Bay is swimmable — actual ocean swimming possible, unlike Los Cabos Pacific corridor properties
Cons
Pool lounger competition peaks by 8 AM in high season (December through March) — early rising is required for preferred positions
Some ocean view suites have partial obstructions from palm trees or the Selva del Mar restaurant building — ask at booking about specific suite positioning
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is the larger property, while Decameron Cartagena has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers more activities.
