SANTA MARTA
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is your best choice. The attraction is spread out over an estate that houses an art
museum, botanical gardens, walking paths, statues, and colonial architecture.
The Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino is a beautifully maintained historical
property that is well worth the visit. The Liberator's remains are now in
Venezuela, but there are numerous exhibits to visit. Check out their website in
Spanish. (www.museobolivariano.org.co). Grab a small bus (ten minutes) to
Mamatoco and tell the driver to let you off at the Quinta, the cost is around
1,200 COP.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Santa Marta has excellent choices for hostels and hotels for foreigners. The first
three listed and the Aluna are Santa Marta's newer and most appealing (2011).
The hostels and hotels listed afterwards are time honored backpacker locations.
There is also the Miramar, for ultra-thrifty travelers, which can't be overlooked.
Budget
Hostal El Noctambulo, Calle 20 No 6-55 Centro Historico (035-431-7643, WiFi,
[email protected]). Noctambulo opened in 2010 and the hostel is
one of the best options for chill backpackers. It's owned and operated by a
young French couple who have quickly grasped the concept of how to run an
excellent hostel. The couple, who provide outstanding customer service, have a
great understanding of the general Santa Marta area and go out of their way to
make your stay special. The house that they converted into a hostel is perfect for
the concept they are selling. El Noctambulo is an excellent place to meet other
travelers who are looking for a low-key but entertaining place to stay. El
Noctambulo has a beautiful back area that has a small pool to cool down in,
tables, and a hammock. It's a very social hostel where the owners have created a
more chill atmosphere where you can lightly party. El Noctambulo also serves a
very simple economical breakfast and has a huge washing machine to help you
catch up on your laundry for a great price. Hostal El Noctambulo is highly
recommended for backpackers and other travelers looking for this type of