Sometimes the best travel experiences aren’t the ones you spend months planningโtheyโre the ones that start with a spontaneous Google search! While I was soaking up the vibes in Bogota, I went looking for a queer-friendly getaway and stumbled upon a hidden gem in a cute town called Melgar.

Enter: Hotel Joohn, the clothing-optional gay oasis you didn’t know you needed.
From Big City Chill to Tropical Heat โ๏ธ
Bogota is incredible, but letโs be realโit can get a bit chilly! Melgar is the ultimate “weekend escape” for locals because itโs significantly warmer. Itโs not a beach town, but itโs packed with resorts, swimming pools, and that vibrant local energy that makes you feel like youโre truly on vacation. It was the perfect “reset” after the hustle of the big city.

The Vibe at Hotel Joohn ๐ถ๏ธ
This isnโt just a place to sleep; itโs a social hub. The hotel features 21 rooms of varying sizes, but the heart of the property is definitely the pool area.
Here is why I fell in love with it:
- The Social Scene: Between the pool parties, karaoke nights, and drag shows, it is impossible not to make new friends.
- Clothing Optional: There are dedicated areas where you can feel totally comfortable and free.
- Inclusive Atmosphere: The owners go out of their way to make sure every guest feels welcome the moment they walk through the door

Practice Your Spanish! ๐ฃ๏ธ
If youโre looking to immerse yourself, this is the spot. Unlike the heavy tourist zones, Melgar gave me the chance to practice my Spanish non-stop with the locals and other guests. By the end of the weekend, my conversation skills had done wonders!
Practical Tips: Getting There ๐
Getting to Melgar is a breeze and incredibly budget-friendly:
- The Ride: Take a 3-hour bus ride from Bogota.
- The Cost: It only costs about $8 USD each way, making it an absolute steal for a weekend getaway
The Verdict: Is it Worth It?
If you want something “super gay” and completely off the beaten path, Hotel Joohn is a must-add to your Colombia itinerary. Itโs a gem that proves sometimes following a random web search leads you exactly where youโre supposed to be.
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Watch my review video below:

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