Spending a week at the JW Marriott Hotel in Bogotá, Colombia, was a delightful experience that truly lived up to its reputation. Located between the vibrant T Zone (tourist) and the G Zone (gourmet), this hotel provides easy access to some of Bogotá’s best restaurants and bars, all within walking distance. Here’s a detailed account of my stay, highlighting the exceptional amenities and services that make this hotel a top-rated choice on TripAdvisor.
Arrival and Check-In
Upon arriving in Bogotá, I was provided with transportation to the hotel, located about a 30-minute drive from the airport. The taxi fare for the trip runs around $10. Check-in at the JW Marriott was swift and hassle-free, setting the tone for a pleasant stay. The hotel’s impressive five-star ranking listed on TripAdvisor is well deserved. The hotel is currently listed as #17 out of 322 hotels.
The Room
My accommodation was on the sixth floor of the ten-story hotel, with my Platinum Premiere membership granting me access to the exclusive Executive Lounge on the ninth floor. The elevators require a room key for operation, ensuring a secure environment.
My king room was nothing short of opulent. Upon entering, I found the spacious bathroom to the left and the minibar and coffee service to the right. The bathroom was particularly impressive, divided into sections with a private room for the toilet, a large, deep shower stall, and a separate bathtub. It was stocked with complimentary toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, bath salts, and various grooming items.
The room itself featured a large flat-screen television, a work desk with ample charging options, and a luxurious king-sized bed that provided excellent sleep. The exterior wall was mostly window, offering a view of the outdoor bar area below. I didn’t have an opportunity to watch television, but availed myself of the other amenities.
Dining and Entertainment
The hotel’s dining options were impressive. I enjoyed breakfast at the indoor restaurant and had lunch at the outdoor bar, which featured live music. The bar offered a variety of local and international dishes, and the prices were quite reasonable. For instance, beers were priced around $3 each, a pleasant surprise compared to other Marriott locations.
Executive Lounge
Access to the Executive Lounge was one of the highlights of my stay. The lounge was among the nicest I’ve visited, offering a constant supply of snacks and sweets, as well as full meals at breakfast and dinner. The coffee machine was particularly notable for making excellent mochas, albeit small in size. The staff in the lounge were attentive and accommodating, enhancing the overall experience.
Additional Amenities
While I didn’t have time to visit the fitness center or pool, I heard positive feedback from other guests. One of my peers enjoyed a sixty minute massage at the spa. While there is a full menu of options at the spa, a typical massage will set you back 376,000 Colombian Pesos (around $90). Not an outrageous price for an hour-long session.
Surrounding Area
The hotel’s location in a pleasant area of Bogotá made exploring easy and enjoyable. The T Zone and G Zone are known for their lively atmosphere and excellent dining options, offering a perfect mix of local and international cuisine.
Historical and Cultural Insights
Bogotá, the capital city of Colombia, sits at an elevation of 8,660 feet, giving it a unique climate and character. The city’s rich history is reflected in its architecture and cultural sites, such as the Gold Museum and the historic district of La Candelaria. The JW Marriott’s proximity to these attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s heritage. A trip to nearby Monserrate is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts
The JW Marriott Hotel in Bogotá stands out to me not just for its luxurious accommodations but also for its exceptional service and strategic location. Whether you’re in Bogotá for business or leisure, this hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style.
For those planning a visit to Bogotá, I highly recommend staying at the JW Marriott. The combination of top-tier amenities, attentive staff, and a prime location makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a memorable and comfortable stay in Colombia’s vibrant capital.
