Inizio Hotel: Medellín's Chic Escape (Laureles Luxury Awaits!)
Inizio Hotel: Medellín's Chic Escape (Laureles Luxury Awaits!) - A Real Review (and a Plea for a Good Espresso!)
Okay, folks, buckle up. I've just returned from a whirlwind trip to Medellín, and Inizio Hotel, nestled in the vibrant Laureles neighborhood, was my basecamp. And honestly? It’s a vibe. Let's break it down, warts and all, because that's how we roll, right?
First Impressions (and the Quest for the Perfect Coffee):
The first thing that hit me? The chicness. Seriously. The lobby is all clean lines, modern art, and a general air of "I'm better than you, but in a really polite way." (Just kidding… mostly.) The concierge was super helpful with a smile, and the check-in/out [express] was a godsend after a long flight. Quick, efficient, and I was in my room faster than you can say "arepas."
Now, the real test of any hotel, for me, is the coffee situation. And Inizio, my friend, you almost nailed it. The coffee shop looked promising, but the initial brew was… well, let's just say it needed a little work. I'm a coffee snob, I'll admit it. But the staff were incredibly accommodating, and after a friendly chat (and a few attempts!), they were brewing up something much better. They got extra points for the genuine effort. The coffee/tea in restaurant was also decent.
The Room: My Little Laureles Luxury Lair:
My room? Ah, yes. Available in all rooms, they had Air conditioning, thank the heavens. The Blackout curtains were a lifesaver for battling jet lag. Free Wi-Fi (yes, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!) was, of course, crucial. The Wi-Fi [free] was reliable and fast. I had a desk to work from, a mini-bar stocked with goodies (though I’m a cheapskate, so I mostly stuck to the free bottled water), and a ridiculously comfortable bed with extra long bed (I'm 6'2", so this is a major win). The bathrobes and slippers were a nice touch, adding to the overall feeling of pampered bliss. Non-smoking rooms are a must, and thankfully, they delivered. The bathroom was sleek and modern with a separate shower/bathtub. The towels were fluffy, and the toiletries were a cut above the usual hotel fare. The shower was fantastic.
The Spa & Relaxation Zone (Where I Lost Track of Time):
Okay, this is where Inizio really shines. The Spa is a haven. I spent a glorious afternoon bouncing between the Sauna, Steamroom, and Swimming pool. The Pool with view is absolutely stunning, especially at sunset. I indulged in a massage, and let me tell you, it was divine. I mean, I practically melted into the massage table. I'm not usually a spa person, but this place converted me. The Foot bath was a surprisingly delightful experience. They even had a Body scrub and Body wrap on offer, though I didn't get around to those. Next time, for sure.
Food, Glorious Food (and That Vegetarian Restaurant…):
The restaurants at Inizio are worth exploring. The Breakfast [buffet] was impressive, with a wide selection of options, including Asian breakfast and Western breakfast. The Buffet in restaurant was well-stocked. I also enjoyed a delicious meal at the Vegetarian restaurant, which was a pleasant surprise. There's Room service [24-hour] too. The Poolside bar was perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail. The Snack bar was handy for a quick bite. The A la carte in restaurant offered a variety of dishes, and I did have the Soup in restaurant one night, delicious. One minor grumble: the Coffee/tea in restaurant at dinner could have been better (I'm repeating myself, I know!).
Accessibility (A Few Considerations):
While Inizio is generally well-designed, I didn't personally assess the wheelchair accessible aspects. However, they do offer Facilities for disabled guests and an elevator. I’d recommend contacting the hotel directly for detailed information on accessibility features. There were definitely no issues with Accessibility in the main areas.
Safety & Cleanliness (Because, You Know, the World):
Inizio clearly takes hygiene seriously. The Anti-viral cleaning products were a reassuring touch. I saw evidence of Daily disinfection in common areas. They have Hand sanitizer readily available. The staff were all wearing masks and adhering to safety protocols. They have Safe dining setup, and I felt very comfortable. The Staff trained in safety protocol was obvious, which gave me peace of mind.
Things To Do (Beyond Lounging by the Pool):
Medellín is a city that demands exploration. Inizio is perfectly situated to take advantage of it. The Concierge can help with arranging tours and activities. The Taxi service is readily available, and there's also Car park [on-site]. The Laureles neighborhood itself is fantastic, filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops. I spent hours just wandering around, soaking up the atmosphere.
The Little Things (That Make a Big Difference):
- Cashless payment service: Super convenient.
- Daily housekeeping: My room was always spotless.
- Luggage storage: Very helpful on check-out.
- Air conditioning in public area: A lifesaver in the Medellín heat!
- Elevator: Essential for reaching the higher floors.
- Front desk [24-hour]: Always someone there to help.
- Ironing service: My clothes looked presentable.
The Nitty-Gritty (And a Few Minor Gripes):
- Internet Access: The Internet was generally good, and the Internet access – wireless was easy to connect to.
- The Elevator: The elevator could be a little slow at times, but that's a minor quibble.
- No Pets Allowed: I have no problem with this.
- The Soundproofing: The Soundproofing in my room was excellent, I never heard a peep.
- The View: I did have a High floor room, which was great.
- The Lighting: The Reading light was perfect in bed.
- The Phone: The Bathroom phone was a nice touch.
The Verdict: Should You Book? YES! (With a Few Cautions):
Inizio Hotel is a fantastic choice for a chic and relaxing stay in Medellín. It's stylish, comfortable, well-located, and the spa is a true highlight. The staff are friendly and helpful.
My only (minor) caveats:
- Coffee could be better (I'm a broken record, I know!).
- Double-check accessibility details if that's a priority.
Overall, Inizio gets a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. I'd definitely stay there again.
But here's the REAL scoop. I'm going to channel my inner travel blogger and create a catchy offer to persuade you to book now:
Tired of the Ordinary? Escape to Laureles Luxury at Inizio Hotel!
Are you craving a Medellín getaway that's both stylish and rejuvenating? Do you dream of soaking up the sun by a stunning pool, indulging in a world-class spa experience, and exploring the vibrant heart of Laureles?
Then look no further than Inizio Hotel!
Here's what awaits you:
- Chic & Modern Rooms: Escape into your own private sanctuary, complete with blackout curtains, free Wi-Fi, and all the amenities you need for ultimate comfort.
- Spa Bliss: Melt your stress away with a massage, unwind in the sauna, or take a dip in the stunning pool with a view.
- Culinary Delights: Savor delicious meals at our restaurants, enjoy a cocktail at the poolside bar, and fuel your adventures with our delicious breakfast buffet.
- Prime Location: Explore the vibrant Laureles neighborhood, known for its cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Impeccable Service: Our friendly staff is dedicated to making your stay unforgettable.
Book your stay at Inizio Hotel today and receive:
- A complimentary welcome drink upon arrival.
- A special discount on spa treatments.
- Free upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability).
Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the ultimate Medellín escape!
Click here to book your stay at Inizio Hotel NOW and start planning your Laureles luxury adventure!
(Pro Tip: Ask for a room with a good coffee machine!)
Escape to Paradise: Rama Kutumb Homestay Awaits in Faizabad, India
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your sterile, perfectly-planned itinerary. This is a Medellín adventure, Inizio Hotel Boutique style, with all the glorious, messy, and potentially disastrous bits left in. Consider this a travel diary, a therapy session, and a comedy show, all rolled into one.
Medellín, Colombia: A Week of Trying to Be Cool (and Probably Failing Spectacularly)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Luggage Debacle (aka "I'm Already Screwed")
Morning (or what feels like morning after a red-eye flight): Landed at José María Córdova International Airport. Jet lag is a beast. Customs was a blur of tired smiles and frantic passport searches. Found the shuttle to Inizio Hotel Boutique in Laureles. The drive? Breathtaking, even through my bleary eyes. Hills, vibrant green everywhere. Already feeling that "Medellín Magic" everyone raves about.
Afternoon: Arrived at Inizio. Oh. My. God. This place is gorgeous. Like, seriously. The courtyard, the little pool… Instagram heaven. Check-in was smooth, the staff is ridiculously friendly (which, let's be honest, is probably a calculated move to win over weary travelers like me). But then… the luggage. My suitcase, the one packed with all my "I’m-a-travel-blogger-and-need-to-look-chic" outfits, is MIA. Gone. Vanished. The airline's response? "We'll look into it." My response? A silent scream. I'm rocking the same travel outfit for the foreseeable future. Ugh.
Evening: Forced myself out of the existential dread that is lost luggage and explored Laureles. Found a charming little tienda (shop) and bought some arepas and a bottle of local beer. The arepas were… alright. The beer? Perfect. Sat on a bench, listening to the chatter of the locals, and started to feel a little less like a disaster zone. The air smelled like flowers and something indescribably delicious… maybe coffee? Maybe magic?
Day 2: Coffee, Graffiti, and the Existential Dread of Trying to Speak Spanish
Morning: Coffee! Found a coffee shop near the hotel, and finally, finally, got my caffeine fix. The coffee in Medellín is legendary, and for good reason. This stuff was liquid gold. I attempted to order in Spanish. The barista gave me a look that could curdle milk. I mumbled something about “agua caliente” (hot water… I think?) and ended up with a confused stare and a cup of something vaguely brown. Sigh.
Afternoon: Graffiti Tour in Comuna 13. This was the real deal. Heartbreaking, inspiring, and just plain amazing. The history of this neighborhood is heavy, but the art is pure defiance. The colors, the stories… it’s impossible not to be moved. Our guide, a local artist, was incredible. He spoke with such passion and grit. Made me realize how little I know about the world, and how much I want to learn.
Evening: Dinner at a restaurant in Laureles. I tried, really tried, to order in Spanish. I think I accidentally ordered a side of existential angst. The waiter, bless his heart, just smiled and brought me something delicious. The food was incredible. The company (myself) was… a work in progress. After dinner, I went back to the hotel and tried to call the airline about my luggage again. They still didn’t have it. Cue the silent scream.
Day 3: Parque Arví, Cable Cars, and Altitude Sickness (or, "I Think I'm Dying")
Morning: Okay, this was ambitious. Planned a trip to Parque Arví, a nature reserve accessible by cable car. The cable car ride itself was a freaking experience. The views were insane. The air was crisp and clean. I was convinced I was going to fall out of the cable car. My stomach did a flip, I think it was just from the height.
Afternoon: Arrived at Parque Arví. The hiking was… challenging. The altitude was kicking my butt. I started feeling lightheaded, nauseous, and convinced I was about to pass out. Managed a short walk, then spent the rest of the time sprawled on a bench, gasping for air and feeling sorry for myself. Seriously, altitude sickness is no joke. It's like being drunk and seasick at the same time.
Evening: Back at the hotel, feeling a little better. Ate a light dinner, drank a ton of water, and collapsed into bed. This whole "being adventurous" thing is tiring.
Day 4: Tango Lessons (or, "I Look Like a Drunken Elephant on a Dance Floor")
Morning: Slept in. Needed it. The altitude sickness was still lingering, and my body was screaming for rest.
Afternoon: Tango lesson! I'd always wanted to learn, thinking I would be graceful and elegant. Reality? I am a clumsy, two-left-footed disaster. My partner, a patient and incredibly attractive Colombian man, spent the entire lesson trying to keep me from tripping over my own feet. We probably spent more time laughing than dancing. I'm pretty sure I stepped on his toes at least a dozen times. But, hey, at least I tried.
Evening: Went to a local milonga (tango dance hall) to watch the pros. The dancing was incredible. The atmosphere was electric. I felt like I was watching a completely different world. After watching the dancers, I was reminded of my own terrible tango skill. I retreated to the hotel and had a glass of wine. The wine was the most graceful thing I did all day.
Day 5: Guatapé, El Peñol, and the Great Climb (or, "I'm Stronger Than I Thought")
Morning: Early start for a day trip to Guatapé and El Peñol. The drive was long, but the scenery was stunning. Rolling hills, colorful houses… it was like a postcard.
Afternoon: El Peñol! This giant rock is a sight to behold. The climb to the top was… brutal. 740 steps. I almost died. Seriously. Every muscle in my body was screaming. But the view from the top? Unbelievable. A patchwork of lakes and islands, stretching as far as the eye could see. It was worth every agonizing step. I felt a surge of accomplishment… and the need for a nap.
Evening: Explored Guatapé, the colorful town at the base of El Peñol. The houses are painted in vibrant colors, and the streets are filled with shops and restaurants. I bought a souvenir and had some delicious food and a beer to celebrate my victory over El Peñol.
Day 6: Relaxation and the Quest for the Perfect Arepa (aka, "I'm Officially Obsessed")
Morning: Slept in! Finally, some well-deserved rest. Wandered around the hotel, enjoying the courtyard, and just generally chilling out.
Afternoon: The great arepa quest. I am officially obsessed with arepas. I spent the afternoon trying to find the perfect one. I tried them from street vendors, small cafes, and even tried to make my own (disaster). The search continues.
Evening: Back at the hotel, reflecting on the trip. I have laughed, I have cried (mostly from frustration with my Spanish and the lost luggage), I have climbed mountains, and I have learned a lot about myself. Medellín is a city that gets under your skin. It's vibrant, chaotic, beautiful, and challenging. And, despite the luggage situation, I'm completely in love.
Day 7: Departure and the Hopeful Reunion (or, "Maybe, Just Maybe, My Suitcase Will Show Up")
Morning: Packing (what little I have). Checking out of Inizio. Saying goodbye to the incredible staff. Saying a silent prayer that my luggage will, miraculously, appear at the airport.
Afternoon: Airport. Security. One last glance at the Medellín skyline. The plane is delayed. I’m sitting here, hoping the airline didn’t lose my luggage again.
Evening: On the plane. Headed home. Tired, happy, and already planning my return. Medellín, you were a wild ride. And I wouldn't have it any other way.
Postscript:
The luggage? Still missing. But, hey, at least I have some amazing memories. And a newfound appreciation for the perfect arepa.
Would I recommend Inizio Hotel Boutique? Absolutely. Beautiful hotel, great location, and the staff are the best.
Would I recommend Medellín? In a heartbeat. Just be prepared for the unexpected. And learn some basic Spanish. And maybe, just maybe, pack some spare clothes.
And that, my friends, is my Medellín story. It's messy. It's imperfect. It's real. And I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Escape to Paradise: Friday's Guesthouse & Cafe Awaits in Prachuap Khiri Khan!
Inizio Hotel: Medellín's Chic Escape – Let's Get Real, Folks!
Okay, spill the beans. Is Inizio *really* as luxurious as it looks in the photos? Because, let's be honest, Instagram lies.
Laureles – is it *really* the best location? I hear Medellín has a lot of options.
What's the deal with the pool? Is it worth the hype?
The breakfast – is it worth getting up for? I'm not a morning person.
What's the vibe? Is it a party hotel, or more chill?
Any downsides? Be honest.
Would you recommend Inizio? And if so, to *who*?
