Where to Stay

Puerto Rico's accommodation options range from quaint paradors, or country inns to all-inclusive resorts and upscale urban hotels geared towards business clientele. An often overlooked option is the charming down-to-earth guest home alternative. San Juan's primary hotel districts are Condado and Isla Verde, while both Old San Juan and Miramar serve travelers as well.

Puerto Rico is a commercial mecca, which tends to separate it from other Caribbean destinations. The trade and shipping industries are much more sophisticated here. Puerto Rico is an airline hub where there is ample access to quality goods, brands, and foods. Consequently, the needs of the traveler or visitor are easily met in Puerto Rico.

Old San Juan/Puerta de Tierra

This old city has some intriguing hotels for those who like to overnight in historic surroundings. Here you experience a city-within-a-city. Visitors like the eclectic grouping of hotels that are located here. The most popular is the Hotel El Convento, in the center of Old San Juan. It's been highly publicized and repeatedly featured in prestigious travel and trace publications. The Hotel Milano is well positioned in the heart of the restaurant district on Fortaleza Street. Book early at the delightful guesthouses like La Caleta and La Galería. These, and the Hotel Plaza de Armas, provide budget accommodations within the city limits.

Puerta de Tierra has two major hotels. The legendary Caribe Hilton, which underwent an extensive renovation, is a favorite amongst the locals. In close proximity is the Normandie Hotel which architecturally has the appearance of cruise ship.

Condado

El Condado is San Juan's hotel district par excellence. It features over 25 different lodging options from budget guest houses to the exquisite Condado Plaza Hotel & Casino and the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. For those on a budget, try the Alelí by the Sea, a charming little guesthouse with good rates. If you are looking for a pleasant, small boutique hotel, El Canario by the Sea is a fine choice. In this district the guest room rates usually run higher than elsewhere.

Isla Verde

The Isla Verde district in Carolina has a wide variety of hotels. Some of the island's best are located here. The El San Juan, the InterContinental San Juan and the exclusive Ritz-Carlton are just a few of the more prestigious hotels. If you are looking for limited service accommodations, there are several alternatives including the Hampton Inn and several other private guest houses.

Miramar

The urban Miramar district has some limited, but acceptable accommodations such as the Olimpo Court Hotel and the Courtyard San Juan Marriott. Both cater to business travelers and have excellent restaurants (Chayote and Augusto's, respectively).