You should accept the typically Carribean circumstances ( reggea, little shabby, motorbikes) and you will have a lovely stay there. Everything is within walking distance but you can rent a buggy or bike to go around. There are colourful festivals like the Emancipation Day or the August 7 Carneval in San Luis. Do not miss the Aquarium and Johnny Cay! The best beaches are in San Luis.
The airport is an utter disaster. In Colombia, I have normally come across very polite and helpful officials. San Andres is the exception. The airport officials are cold, rude and unhelpful. There is also a stupid rule where visitors go through 'immigration' despite already being in the country. The officials demand onward travel and hotel accommodation. the airport is stiflingly hot and is utterly unbearable. On our third night on the island, I thought I heard firecrackers going off so went on the balcony. They were actually gunshots and I only realised this when the place was swarming with armed police two minutes later. I would not visit the island again and would not recommend it to others.
As a civil engineer and knowing that sewage from the town is pumped into the sea I would not go in the water on this side of the island unless I could see some independent water testing results. This goes for any large city on the sea. But the pool was great and I tested the water to find it was always within tolerance. There is something for everyone on San Andres and, being quite small, a taxi can take you around it in 2 hours for 250,000 peso - about £50. I travel solo around the world and I would say that the vast majority of Colombians, like most nationslities, are very kind and helpful. As its an island with a strong police presence, I would say its a lot safer than most European cities
The island was great for my husband because he loves to scuba and the water is a wonderful place to see a variety of sea life. The island itself seemed more run down since the last time we had visited and prices had increased significantly for the same tours. Our favorite activity is to rent a mula (like a golf cart) and just drive around the island road, stopping where we want. The tour of the mangroves is really nice but it was up to 160,000 COP per person. We had already done it the last time so we didn't do it again this time. I feel the food is expensive for what you get -- we end up eating at Dominos for the best value.
San Andrés is such a bit place but the weather can be quite unpredictable. A lot of attractions will close when it's windy or rainy, so it's good to plan your trip and add one or two days just in case the weather is not the best when you go there.
We enjoyed our short stay at the island - the water was clean and bright blue color, the snorkeling trip was excellent. However, the island definitely saw some better times - there are many old buildings, worn out and trashy corners. There is no big choice of restaurants
Excellent hotel and extremely well located, 2-3 minutes from the beach. The room was excellent and we were lucky enough to have a balcony. A little overpriced, especially for not offering other services, but it makes up for it being an extremely pleasant and modern building. The team is five stars. It's worth it for the Nespresso coffee and for lending beach towels. If I ever return to San Andrés, I will have no doubts in choosing this hotel. I highly recommend it.
The location is perfect! We could walk from the Hotel to any part of the island even the airport is so close, you could walk to the Hotel yes or yes. The pool and the activities were okay, you can spend your time in the pool, and it's a good time. Also, the central beach is in front of the hotel so it's a really good experience. The night events were also good, but sometimes you felt quite repetitive.
Everything. The food at Varka, the hotel’s restaurant was exceptional, the drinks were delicious and everything reasonably priced. The staff were also very approachable and attentive. It is very well located with La Regatta minutes away, along with Spratt Bright beach and commercial areas. The hotel is also very well decorated and everything is an artwork. The rooftop has a gorgeous view of the island.
San Andrés
Apartment house in a residential neighborhood just minutes from San Andres airport. A spacious and properly equipped clean room includes a new air conditioner, refrigerator and a flat screen TV with movie channels also in English, a shower with good water pressure. The owner also helped us book a day trip to the nearby islands. The apartment house is 10 minutes walk from the beach.
Miraflores was one of the most perfect hotels we have ever stayed. The location is quiet and beautiful, and the establishment was huge, so privacy is guaranteed. The staff is kind and helpful, and determined to help you live the perfect holiday. Everything was clean and the breakfast is very good. Alex, Dorothy, Jesus, Johan, gracias por todos!
The areas of the hotel included the room are beautifully decorated. The experience is very nice and the attention from everyone is awesome. We received all the information at the reception desk to enjoy our stay in the island, and they always helped us to book transportation and other services.
San Andrés
It might be the best Airbnb on the island. The flat is very clean, the owner sets up rules to keep it in good shape. The flat has A/C, fridge, fully equipped kitchen and the view at the sea. The beach is beautiful and is right next to the flat as well as bars, restaurants and stores.
San Andrés
The property is super well decorated and designed, makes us feel luxury, and the bed itself was really good. The apartment felt safe and was isolated from noise. The owners were really nice and helped us with lots of questions about the island and the area!
San Andrés
A nice family run hotel in the city of San Andres. A 20 minutes walk to the beach. Staff very friendly and helpful. The breakfast was good and filling, although the variation from day to day little. The hotel has a nice pool, open until late evening.
It was great value for money. The hotel is new and very well located. Staff was kinder than the average islander. The fact that there weren't day pass guests made it more private / comfortable, especially at the pool zone.
My stay at El Viajero was great! The room was comfy, but the best part was the staff there! Always ready to help, and with a great and positive attitude! Specially Alejandro, Thanks for always answering all my questions!
San Andrés
The property is located on the high point of the island, and not in the very touristy part of town. This gives this property an authentic feel, and the hosts are very attentive and helpful.
Excellent location on a lovely beach. One of the nicest on the island! A few km outside the commercial centre, so quite calm. Staff were very accomodating, breakfast was excellent.
Great location for exploring the island Nice pool that was mostly quiet Good breakfast with lots of options Great sea view from the room and lovely comfortable beds
San Andrés
Best place to stay in San Andres! We stayed in few places around island throughout our stay and Blue Lizard House was our favourite for sure!
The property is well designed for tourism. Although I never used the pool and always had breakfast in different places around the island.
San Andrés
The best place I stayed at in Colombia. So friendly and clean rooms.