Selina (Bogota, Colombia)

At Selina properties, marketed as nomad-focused hostels and co-working spaces, it is all about the experience. It may start when you look at the building or at soon as you walk through the door. For example, in Cuenca, Ecuador (one of the 18 countries with at least one Selina property), the building is painted Pepto-Bismol pink and splashed with vibrant graffiti that beckons you inside. In Chapinero, Bogotá, the experience does not start when you look at the building; in fact, the building looks like any other commercial building. But when you walk through the door, it all makes sense. First, you see a modern wooden chair with bright yellow velvet cushions. You take a few more steps, turn to the right and see a dimly lit lounge with a leather couch, a mural, and strategically placed lights.

The place looks upscale! The prices, on the other hand, are not luxury accommodation prices.

You can choose from a shared room, a mini-private room with a shared bathroom, a private room with a full bathroom, a suite, or a suite +.

Photos: Selina

Selina boldly makes the statement that great hotel experiences do not have to be expensive. I stayed at the Selina located in Chapinero, Bogota, for two nights in a suite in March 2020. I paid USD 68 per night. If I had chosen a bed in a community room or a micro room, it would have cost me, respectively, USD 11 and USD 21. The bed was comfortable, the decoration chic, and the service courteous and professional.

Selina is not considered a small business. It is arguably on par with global hotel chains.

I include Selina on Edna Explores because of the company's commitment to supporting the local community and the incorporation of art made by local artists. In essence, the company consciously supports local small businesses. Also, regardless of the Selina destination, you find yourself in, you will be in an environment that is fun and creative and pays homage to the local culture.

FYI, in Colombia there is also a Selina in Cartagena, Medellín, Palomino, Quindio and Villa de Leyva.

#Colombia

#Bogota