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Old San Juan, PR   

Hotel El Convento

User score 4.5 out of 5 See all reviews
100 Calle Cristo,Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Book this hotel
from 260 USD
/ night*

Terms and conditions

*rate found for check-in Mar 20, check-out Mar 22

Rates displayed reflect the lowest rate found over the next 30 days. This rate is subject to change. Rates may not include service charges, extra person charges, fees or incidental charges (such as room service).

Converted rates (shown in parentheses) are provided for your convenience. They are based on today's exchange rate, but the hotel will charge you in the local currency.

The amenities and/or facilities may not be located at this hotel, but within a reasonable distance and additional charges may apply for use. All information has been provided by this hotel.

Hotel policies

Check-in: 1500
Check-out: 1200
Local currency: USD

Located in the heart of Old San Juan, El Convento, a member of Historic Hotels of America and Small Luxury Hotel's of the World, has set new standards of luxury, comfort and service while preserving the unique character and mystique of the hotel.

A former Carmelite convent built three hundred years ago, El Convento was completely refurbished with special attention given to the preservation of the original structure. Each of the 58 rooms and suites recreates Spain's golden age while the entertainment system, multi-line telephones and modern bathrooms fulfill the needs of today's traveler. Relax by the pool and enjoy the magnificent view from the terrace while you sip a glass of wine. Dining is delicious at El Convento, from the casual patio restaurant, Patio Del Nispero, to the tapas bar, El Picoteo, the rum bar, Cana, and Italian fare at Il Perugino, to the regal splendor of the Jose Campeche ballroom where galas are held you will enjoy a true culinary delight.

Designated as Puerto Rico's official guesthouse for visiting heads of state and other dignitaries, the hotel contains sections dating to 1651, when a three-story Carmelite convent opened on the site across from San Juan Cathedral, the Western Hemisphere's oldest. The convent housed nuns for 252 years until closing in 1903. In 1959, the building was converted into a hotel, with two stories added to the original three. Entertainment, government, and social notables made it their San Juan destination. Pablo Casals played his cello in the courtyard.

Under a succession of operators, the hotel fell into disrepair until San Juan investors restored and reopened it in 1997 as a boutique hotel with contemporary amenities. Guests enter on a black-and-white marble floor amid Spanish antiques and tapestries and take an elevator to a third-floor, open-air reception area. Popular with guests wishing to explore Old San Juan, the hotel is also family-friendly, providing children with easy access to the Puerto Rican Children's Museum just outside the entrance. Guests lounge on a rooftop sundeck with potted flowers overlooking Old San Juan, cool off in a plunge pool, soak in a bubbling spa, and work out in an air-conditioned fitness center. After strolls through the old city, the hotel's spacious interior courtyard provides shady respite under a 350-year-old tree. Afternoon wine-and-cheese reception is offered for guests on a third-floor, open-air terrace overlooking San Juan Cathedral.

The well-appointed guest rooms at El Convento reveal their distinctive character and convey the spirit of the Old World with handcrafted furniture, mahogany beams, Andalusian tiles, elegant marble bathrooms, and vistas of Old San Juan and its bay. Other property amenities include: afternoon wine reception every evening (with an array of international wines and cheeses), complimentary Wi Fi internet access in all of our rooms as well as the hotel's air-conditioned library, unlimited complimentary beach club use at a sister hotel, 24-hour concierge service, complimentary newspaper in lobby, bar/lounge, parking (valet), shuttle vans or private vehicle services available, security personnel, complimentary fitness center use with modern equipment, variety of restaurants, conference room, porter, doorman, safe-deposit box, ATM banking, babysitting, dry cleaning service, patio bar, wheelchair accessible. FEES MAY APPLY TO SOME AMENITIES.

**Note - A Mayor Credit Card will be needed at Check-in for incidentals**

Hotel policies

Check-in: 1500
Check-out: 1200
Local currency: USD


Terms and conditions

*rate found for check-in Mar 20, check-out Mar 22

Rates displayed reflect the lowest rate found over the next 30 days. This rate is subject to change. Rates may not include service charges, extra person charges, fees or incidental charges (such as room service).

Converted rates (shown in parentheses) are provided for your convenience. They are based on today's exchange rate, but the hotel will charge you in the local currency.

The amenities and/or facilities may not be located at this hotel, but within a reasonable distance and additional charges may apply for use. All information has been provided by this hotel.

Reviews from our customers

Overall score

4.5 out of 5

(32 reviews)

Hotel reviews: About the scores

Reviews and scores for each hotel are collected from customers who purchased a stay at that hotel.

Reviewers are asked to rate a variety of hotel attributes on a scale of 1 to 5. The highest possible score is "5," meaning the user was "very satisfied," while "1" is the lowest, meaning the user was "very dissatisfied."

The "overall score" is an average of all reviewer scores submitted for a hotel.

About the scores

1
2
3
4
5
Amenities
 
Maintenance
 
Hotel Staff
 
Room Comfort
 
Location
 
Value
 
See all reviews

Hotel address: 100 Calle Cristo, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico  00901  

 
 

Area served

Old San Juan, Condado, Hato Rey, Rio Piedras, Guaynabo, Bayamon, Isla Verde.

Area airports

Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU): Approximate driving time is 20 minutes and distance is 9 miles.

Description

The hotel's location in historic Old San Juan makes walking the best way around to the numerous shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Hopping on and off the district’s open-air trolleys is free. Nearby attractions: San Juan Cathedral - across street / San Juan Gate - 1 block / Puerto Rico Indian Museum - 1 block / La Fortaleza (governor's mansion) - 2 blocks / Casa Blanca museum & garden - 2 blocks / African Heritage Museum - 3 blocks / Pablo Casals Museum - 3 blocks / San Felipe del Morro fortress - 0.5 mile / San Cristobal Castle - 0.5 mile / Plaza Las Americas (shopping, dining) - 7 miles / Pinones forest (bicycling, hiking, surfing) - 12 miles / El Yunque Rainforest - 31 miles.

This property has a smoke-free policy

Amenities

  • Meeting/banquet facilities
  • Room service
  • Conference Facilities
  • Spa services
  • Restaurant
  • Internet Access
  • Wireless internet
  • Concierge
  • Pool
  • High Speed Internet
  • Smoke-free policy
  • Handicapped rooms/facilities
  • Health Club
  • Fitness room

Dining

Cana Restaurant

Rum lovers rejoice! Recently opened as the only rum bar in San Juan, Caña is lively at night, more relaxed at lunchtime and offers the best in local light fare cuisine. Experience rum tasting like never before, with a rum infused menu, and an in house rummalier, to guide you through samples of some of the best and oldest rums Puerto Rico has to offer.

Cafe del Nispero

Shaded by Hotel El Convento's famous 300-year old nispero fruit tree, Patio del Nispero is located on the ground floor of the stately open-air courtyard in the hotel. Open for breakfast and lunch daily, Patio del Nispero is a welcome culinary treat serving international gourmet fare in casual yet elegant surroundings. From the best banana nut pancakes,to creative and hearty sandwiches and salads, with even traditional Puerto Rican dishes, alfresco dining has never been more tasteful!

Il Perugino

El Convento's fine dining experience, Il Perugino offers the finest Northern Italian menu on the island, where guests can enjoy award winning cuisine that transforms classic dishes into a heavenly delicacy.

El Picoteo

There's something cooking in Old San Juan where the food is inventive, the service never misses a beat, and the wine list is exceptional. The atmosphere at El Picoteo is all about food and mood. Hot or cold, tapas warm you up for mas tapas de picotear. El Picoteo offers a cornucopia of choice without parallel on the island. After a sampling of delectable tapas, try the paella - voted best on the island! The gazpacho, tortillas, empanadillas, croquetas, specialty pizzas are all fantastico. The wine list fills classic bistro slots with imaginative producers and delectable desserts round out the eclectic menu. This is the place that defines the tapas and paella experience.

Meeting facilities

Hotel El Convento offers superb meeting and banquet facilities. With close proximity to the financial center in San Juan, and 7 multi-use meeting rooms of varying sizes, the hotel is the perfect venue for banquets, charity events, and high-level corporate affairs. The 2700 sq. ft. Salon Campeche is a spectacular ballroom and can accommodate from 250 - 300 people for classroom/banquet seating. For smaller gatherings and corporate functions, choose from Salon Oller which accommodates 75 people for a seated event; Salon Paoli, perfect for a group of 50; Salon Zafiro, for a group of 35, the Executive Boardroom which seats 12. Two additional rooms are available for up to 40 people. The hotel has every amenity the business traveler needs to assure a successful trip from audiovisual facilities, computer ports, dual-line data port phones in each guest and banquet room, Internet access, and valet parking. Restaurants are located within the hotel and we also provide expert catering services.

Please enter check-in and check-out dates to the right to select a room

Queen Deluxe Room

Queen Deluxe Room includes: One queen bed and City view from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed needed for a 3rd person in room ($35 extra nightly charge).

Vista Room

Vista Room includes: One Queen bed with full view of San Juan Bay from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed needed for a 3rd person in room($35 extra nightly charge).

Double Deluxe Room

Double Deluxe Room includes: Two double beds with City view from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed not allowed in room.

Superior Room

Superior Room includes: One queen bed or two twin beds (run of house)and limited view from French balcony (no step-out space). Open-air-corridor seating facing interior garden courtyard. Spanish-antique and antique-replica furniture, including desk, dining set, reading chair. Tile floor. Small marble bathroom with pedestal sink, shower/tub, bathrobes/slippers, telephone. 32-inch LCD HDTV. Bose CD player, radio. Complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Compact refrigerator with complimentary bottled water. Smoking not permitted in room. Rollaway bed needed for a 3rd person in room ($35 extra nightly charge).

Hotel policies

Check-in: 1500
Check-out: 1200
Local currency: USD


Terms and conditions

*rate found for check-in Mar 20, check-out Mar 22

Rates displayed reflect the lowest rate found over the next 30 days. This rate is subject to change. Rates may not include service charges, extra person charges, fees or incidental charges (such as room service).

Converted rates (shown in parentheses) are provided for your convenience. They are based on today's exchange rate, but the hotel will charge you in the local currency.

The amenities and/or facilities may not be located at this hotel, but within a reasonable distance and additional charges may apply for use. All information has been provided by this hotel.

Reviews from our customers

Overall score

4.5 out of 5

(32 reviews)

Hotel reviews: About the scores

Reviews and scores for each hotel are collected from customers who purchased a stay at that hotel.

Reviewers are asked to rate a variety of hotel attributes on a scale of 1 to 5. The highest possible score is "5," meaning the user was "very satisfied," while "1" is the lowest, meaning the user was "very dissatisfied."

The "overall score" is an average of all reviewer scores submitted for a hotel.

About the scores

1
2
3
4
5
Amenities
 
Maintenance
 
Hotel Staff
 
Room Comfort
 
Location
 
Value
 

What makes CheapTickets reviews unique

  • Exclusive insights and feedback: We only accept reviews from customers who have booked a stay at this hotel. This helps ensure we get the most trustworthy opinions and observations possible.
  • Quick tips: Get the most out of your stay with practical, money-saving tips on what to do, where to eat and how to get around.

How to Submit a Review

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Once complete, your review should be visible on the site within 2-3 business days.

What makes CheapTickets reviews unique

How to submit a review

Most recent reviews

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Beautiful hotel, great location!

  • Espiritolindo Verified Customer
  • Jan 30, 2010
Would recommend to a friend!

Everything was wonderful at El Convento! The room was very nice, the staff was extremely friendly and helpful, and the ... location can't be beat! It really is in the heart of Old San Juna with easy access to shops, restaurants, historical attractions, and great plazas where you can have a drink and people-watch.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
4
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Friends

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Absolutely take advantage of the hotel's partnership with La Concha hotel. There is a very nice beach and several pools that guests at El Convento can use.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

awesome

  • rb Verified Customer
  • Jan 15, 2010
Would recommend to a friend!

amazing! the only place i would consider staying at again ...

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Friends


Expand full review

Score

4 out of 5

Trip hint

Christmas in Puerto Rico

  • Gib Verified Customer
  • Dec 31, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

The staff at the El Convento were very attentive and responsive to our needs. The location is perfect in Old San Juan and ... the evening wine and cheese on the patio is a great way to rest after a day in the city and regroup before deciding where to have dinner.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
4
Room comfort:
4
Hotel check-in:
4
Maintenance:
4
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel Staff:
4
Value:
3
Dining options:
2

Traveler type: Couples

Dining hint, Short Walk

Ask the hotel staff for dinner recommendations. We took two travel books and found the restaurant suggestions to be a total hit or miss. We did better by hitting up the side streets or asking the staff for ideas. The food overall is not spicy, so if you are looking for that beware.


Expand full review


See all 32 user reviews

Reviews represent the opinions of CheapTickets customers, not of CheapTickets or its staff.

Trip hints from our users

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Absolutely take advantage of the hotel's partnership with La Concha hotel. There is a very nice beach and several pools that guests at El Convento can use.

--Espiritolindo, Rhinebeck, NY Jan 30, 2010

Dining hint, Short Walk

Ask the hotel staff for dinner recommendations. We took two travel books and found the restaurant suggestions to be a total hit or miss. We did better by hitting up the side streets or asking the staff for ideas. The food overall is not spicy, so if you are looking for that beware.

--Gib, San Francisco, CA Dec 31, 2009

Dining hint, Short Walk

The cities finest restaurants, which include AquaViva, Marmelade, DragonFly and the hotel's own Picoteca, are only blocks away. Jump aboard a taxi and feast at one of the most extraordinary vegan restaurants in the Caribbean, Pura Vida, in Ocean Park.

--Epicurian Peregrine, Chicago, IL Dec 25, 2009

See all trip hints

Reviews from our customers

Overall score

4.5 out of 5

(32 reviews)

Hotel reviews: About the scores

Reviews and scores for each hotel are collected from customers who purchased a stay at that hotel.

Reviewers are asked to rate a variety of hotel attributes on a scale of 1 to 5. The highest possible score is "5," meaning the user was "very satisfied," while "1" is the lowest, meaning the user was "very dissatisfied."

The "overall score" is an average of all reviewer scores submitted for a hotel.

About the scores

1
2
3
4
5
Amenities
 
Maintenance
 
Hotel Staff
 
Room Comfort
 
Location
 
Value
 

How to submit a review

Sort reviews by: most recent | highest rating | lowest rating

Expand all reviews

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Beautiful hotel, great location!

  • Espiritolindo Verified Customer
  • Jan 30, 2010
Would recommend to a friend!

Everything was wonderful at El Convento! The room was very nice, the staff was extremely friendly and helpful, and the ... location can't be beat! It really is in the heart of Old San Juna with easy access to shops, restaurants, historical attractions, and great plazas where you can have a drink and people-watch.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
4
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Friends

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Absolutely take advantage of the hotel's partnership with La Concha hotel. There is a very nice beach and several pools that guests at El Convento can use.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

awesome

  • rb Verified Customer
  • Jan 15, 2010
Would recommend to a friend!

amazing! the only place i would consider staying at again ...

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Friends


Expand full review

Score

4 out of 5

Trip hint

Christmas in Puerto Rico

  • Gib Verified Customer
  • Dec 31, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

The staff at the El Convento were very attentive and responsive to our needs. The location is perfect in Old San Juan and ... the evening wine and cheese on the patio is a great way to rest after a day in the city and regroup before deciding where to have dinner.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
4
Room comfort:
4
Hotel check-in:
4
Maintenance:
4
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel Staff:
4
Value:
3
Dining options:
2

Traveler type: Couples

Dining hint, Short Walk

Ask the hotel staff for dinner recommendations. We took two travel books and found the restaurant suggestions to be a total hit or miss. We did better by hitting up the side streets or asking the staff for ideas. The food overall is not spicy, so if you are looking for that beware.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Cosy elegance and Chic Sophistication

  • Epicurian Peregrine Verified Customer
  • Dec 25, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

El Convento offers a rare combination of homey comfort, historical elegance, and modern sophistication. Perched upon on a ... downward-sloping hill in the Northwest corner of historic old San Juan, the boutique hotel was bordered on all sides by pastel-colored, crisply restored row houses and blue-cobble stone alleys. The 58 guest rooms occupied the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors of this former Carmelite convent and were accessed and protected by locked iron gates and key-access elevators. Inside, the guest rooms were luxuriously appointed with classical furniture and finishings, advanced sound-proofing (to block out the amplified mambo, bolero, and merengue beats of the wedding bands in the first floor chapel-ballroom), wi-fi and wired Internet hookups, and a sophisticated audio-visual entertainment system from LG and Bose. The guest hallways were outfitted with a symmetry of classical fixtures, potted tropical ferns, and an generous collection of metal patio tables and chairs, one set per two guest rooms. These hallways in turn flanked a multi-level, open-air courtyard which was filled with an abundance of tropical foliage that included a 350-year old, 50-ft tree whose tropical fruit attracted swarms of local fruit bats since the convent opened. These frugivores have been since been reduced to a trickle through ingenious repellent methods. The outdoor guest lounge on the third floor offers an operatic, box-seat view of San Juan Cathedral and the quaint Cathedral plaza to the West. On the adjacent 4th floor sky terrace, we mingled with other hotel guests in the cozy 6-person jacuzzi and 6-stroke swimming pool while enjoying photogenic panoramas of San Juan Bay and its busy cruise liner thoroughfare. Perhaps the most impressive and unforgettable amenity of El Convento was its happy hour: From 6-7 PM every evening, we assembled in the 3rd floor lounge to partake in a gratis, all-you-can-eat and drink sunset bacchanalia. The hotel prepared an exquisite assortment of premium-quality wines, liquors, beers, make-it-yourself mixed drinks, teas, coffees, grapes, cheeses and crackers which might have cost upwards of $30 per head--I myself consumed 3 glasses of wine and two cheese plates on average. This free amenity in addition to its stellar location, historical charm and pampering service added up to an incomparable, fair-priced (but not cheap) vacation package that trumped its more luxurious, name-brand resort rivals up the street in Condado or Isle Verde. I recommend this hotel without reservation.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
4
Dining options:
4

Traveler type: Couples

Dining hint, Short Walk

The cities finest restaurants, which include AquaViva, Marmelade, DragonFly and the hotel's own Picoteca, are only blocks away. Jump aboard a taxi and feast at one of the most extraordinary vegan restaurants in the Caribbean, Pura Vida, in Ocean Park.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Old San Juan and Hotel El Convento

  • Richard Verified Customer
  • Dec 25, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

Excellent hotel in the heart of Old San Juan with a very helpful staff. Wine and cheese reception at 6 pm each evening we ... were there with very good wines and cheeses. Excellent location and good restaurant in the hotel.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
1
Room comfort:
1
Hotel check-in:
1
Maintenance:
2
Location:
1
Room cleanliness:
1
Hotel Staff:
1
Value:
2
Dining options:
2

Traveler type: Couples

Dining hint, Short Walk

many close by restaurants. Carribean food is not Mexican, nor is it Cuban --it is different and good.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Great Price and love the text messages!

  • Texas Tom Verified Customer
  • Dec 9, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

It is a beautiful old hotel that has been magnificently updated and maintained. Very friendly and helpful staff. We ate ... dinner at the hotel also and it was very delicious! The hotel has a great location in Old San Juan and we went to the Fort San Felipe del Morro which is a couple of blocks away and did some shopping. It was a terrific stay. The only mark against was the very long wait for a room to be ready. We arrived at 11:20am and did not get a room until 4:20pm and that was only because we kept checking over and over. I suspect it was because we purchased the room at a discount. But for whatever reason it was a long wait!

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
3
Maintenance:
4
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
4
Value:
4
Dining options:
4

Traveler type: Couples


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

great hotel

  • director Verified Customer
  • Dec 2, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

excellent. The only negative surprise was that we were not informed of the parking fee in advance; we only learned about it ... at checkout.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Couples


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Unique and worth the cost!

  • Phil Verified Customer
  • Nov 10, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

The room was unbelievable. Marble floors, antique furniture, chandeliers, built-in wooden closets, close to el Morro and in ... the heart of the ambiance of Old San Juan. It was worth the cost. The staff was quite helpful at recommending places to go, things to see and do. Staff fluent in Spanish and English. I will stay there again when travelling to San Juan. The hot tub and pool on the fourth floor overlook Old San Juan, refreshing at the end of the day. Complimentary wine and cheese reception in the evening, with quality wine and cheese. Great experience.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
4
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Couples

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Walk

close to el Morro fort, Fortalezze street (main shopping area), and other Old San Juan landmarks


Expand full review

Score

2 out of 5

Beautiful hotel, inexperienced staff

  • Tea Olive Verified Customer
  • Nov 2, 2009

El Convento is a beautiful little hotel. It's quiet and elegant, and located in the older part of San Juan. There are many ... nice shops and restaurants (and also the historic fort) within walking distance.Unfortunately, the experience level of the staff doesn't match the elegance of the hotel. We checked in at noon on a busy Sunday, when a large group of guests were checking out to leave on cruise ships. Although we waited for the rush to subside, the staff was still flustered and it took around 30-40 minutes to get our bags tagged and into a storage area (check-in time wasn't until 3PM). They took my cell phone number and said they'd call when the room was ready. No one called, so we returned at 2:45 and rooms were ready for check-in.The room was beautifully furnished. Unfortunately, there was no running water. When I called the front desk at 3:30, I was told it would be restored "soon". We spent the afternoon out in the heat and returned at 6 PM. Still no water. No way to flush the toilet or wash our hands. Again, the front desk said "soon". Housekeeping came to each room with a bucket of water to force-flush toilets. It turns out that the water problem extended throughout that section of the city. But it was clear that the general manager wasn't on duty and the desk manager wasn't able to handle unhappy guests by herself. Three other staff members at the front desk just stood and watched. At 7 PM I finally asked them to find us another hotel. We re-packed, they agreed to refund our fees through [...], and they booked several of us into the Marriott Courtyard Isle Verde (with running water). When the taxi finally dropped us off at 8:30 PM, we discovered El Convento had paid for my fare but not the others. Very awkward situation. The water problem was out of their control. But some basic customer service moves (quickly and proactively informing guests, keeping them updated, even meeting them in the lobby with bottled water) might have kept tempers under control. During a major situation like that, there also needs to be a manager on duty with decision-making authority. I didn't like having to come up with my own resolution at 7 PM. Not good for an expensive hotel that bills itself as a "small luxury hotel of the world".

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
2
Hotel check-in:
1
Maintenance:
5
Location:
4
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
1
Value:
1
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Couples


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

(Close) to Absolute Perfection ...

  • clb331 Verified Customer
  • Oct 26, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

We've stayed in many locations: resorts, cities, off the beaten path .. El Convento is the top of our list! Quiet luxury, ... not pretentious, great service .. not an ostentatious lobby - but what a room. Not the largest, not the newest - just simply the most comfortable, elegant. Everything in order. Wine and cheese at 6 is very civilized - and very good selection. Love the honor bar. Beautiful view ( Room 408 ). WILL return again!

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
3

Traveler type: Couples

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Go out to the beaches to the East of San Juan - stunning, and where the locals go. Hotel will arrange a car rental and pick up ( $32 a day !) WELL worht the drive - away from the crowds at Condado or Isle Verde. FOOD: St. Germain, hands down.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Stay at El Convento

  • visitor Verified Customer
  • Oct 26, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

very friendly staff; would definitely stay there again ...

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Family

Shopping hint, Short Walk

Fortaleza--great bargain deals; but even better if you have time to take bus to Rio Piedras (market take bus number A9 or M1)


Expand full review

Score

4 out of 5

Trip hint

Nice Historic Stay

  • TrevMo Verified Customer
  • Oct 11, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

Very nice hotel in Old San Juan. If you are looking for a historic place to stay and want to stay away from the "resort" ... area, this is the place to go.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
4
Room comfort:
4
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
3
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
3
Dining options:
4

Traveler type: Couples

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Walk

You can spend hours walking the streets and staying busy exploring the area.


Expand full review

Score

4 out of 5

Trip hint

Hotel El Convento Reivew

  • Blonde_Scholar Verified Customer
  • Oct 3, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

The hotel is lovely and historic. I was able to use my GPS to find it. Old San Juan is a great part of the city boasting ... lots of culture -- great food, people, location. Be prepared to drive down a couple cobble streets on your way to the hotel -- they are a tight squeeze. If you get flustered easily, you may not want to be the one behind the wheel. I would definately stay at this hotel again. It's beautiful!

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
4
Room comfort:
4
Hotel check-in:
4
Maintenance:
4
Location:
3
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel Staff:
4
Value:
3
Dining options:
3

Traveler type: Business

Time savers hint, Short Drive

If using your American GPS hand-held unit (I used the one in my Sprint Blackberry; although my rental car hand one in it as well), you may want to put "Street" into the address versus "Calle" as you would in the US mainland. I almost got lost trying to type it in as one would write the address in Puerto Rico.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Great Hotel, Worth the Money

  • Music man Verified Customer
  • Aug 4, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

The hotel is in a great location. You can walk around Old San Juan and feel safe and comfortable. The fort is easy to get ... too. Wine and chees hour was fantastic. The service staff was great. I would highly recommend this hotel.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
4

Traveler type: Couples


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Fantastic Hotel in Old San Juan

  • L&K from NYC Verified Customer
  • Jul 27, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

Elegant hotel within walking distance of everything in Old San Juan. Great service without being stuffy. Quiet rooms. ... Romantic too as we saw 3 weddings in our 5 day stay! We really enjoyed the wine and cheese reception every night at 6 and our beach privileges at La Concha, a modern resort in Condado.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Couples

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Resort privilege at La Concha in Condado.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

A perfect hotel

  • I survived Puerto Rico Verified Customer
  • Jul 14, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

A wonderful hotel. It has real ambience and provided helpful service. Great coffee in the morning, fantastic happy hour from ... 6 to 7 and helpful staff who would even hail a taxi for me. Very charming with bats flying around the courtyard tree at night. Great views, great pool, great location. Worth every penny.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
4
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
4
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
4

Traveler type: Couples

Dining hint, In Hotel

Enjoy the fantastic cheese plate during happy hour at the hotel. Better than any restaurant we ate in in San Juan


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Excellent location; outstanding staff!

  • Staples913 Verified Customer
  • Jul 12, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

Enjoyed the phenomenal beauty and grandeur of this elegant hotel. Good restaurants and amenities. Fantastic location. ... Hotel staff was very helpful, especially with arranging activities and adventures for us.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
4
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Couples

Money savers hint, Short Walk

Room had a frig so by walking a short distance to the SuperMax food store, it was easy to get cold cuts, bread, beer, wine, and lots more to help cut down on restaurant spending. (Note: Restaurants and bars were lots of fun -- don't cut them out altogether)


Expand full review

Score

4 out of 5

Great hotel, excellent service

  • fletc001 Verified Customer
  • Jun 3, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

Near lots of shopping! ...

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
3
Room comfort:
4
Hotel check-in:
3
Maintenance:
4
Location:
4
Room cleanliness:
4
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
3
Dining options:
4

Traveler type: Friends


Expand full review

Score

4 out of 5

Trip hint

Beautiful Hotel, Great Location.

  • happy couple Verified Customer
  • May 19, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

Lovely hotel in a great location. Good, clean room with a nice view of San Juan streets. Reserved a queen sized bed through ... Orbitz for our honeymoon, ended up with two doubles and were told that the hotel was full and nothing could be changed. Also, power flickered off several times, but seemed ok at the shops next door. Hotel restaurant had limited menu... much better options within walking distance.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
4
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
4
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
4
Value:
3
Dining options:
2

Traveler type: Couples

Dining hint, Long Walk

Parrot Club had the best Mofongo around.


Expand full review

Score

5 out of 5

Trip hint

Fantastic!

  • Sue Verified Customer
  • Apr 22, 2009
Would recommend to a friend!

From the minute we arrived at the valet parking station to the time we left we were treated with exceptional service. One of ... the hotel porters, James, happened to be talking to the valet when we arrived and he took our names, introduced himself, took our luggage and provided recommendations for shopping and restaurants. The front desk manager provided us with exceptional rooms that were absolutely beautiful. It was our daughter and son-in-law's first visit to Puerto Rico and she made sure they were given top notch accommodations. The hotel also has a complimentary wine and cheese party each evening. The wines were wonderful and the cheese assortment was delicious and beautifully displayed. My husband and I have stayed at the El Convento 4 times and we have loved each experience. We always recommend the hotel to any of our friends or family traveling to the island. It is right in the heart of Old San Juan and within walking distance to great shops, attractions and fabulous restaurants.

Hotel features (5=best, 1=worst)
Amenities:
5
Room comfort:
5
Hotel check-in:
5
Maintenance:
5
Location:
5
Room cleanliness:
5
Hotel Staff:
5
Value:
5
Dining options:
5

Traveler type: Couples

Shopping hint, Short Walk

On Calle Forteleza there is a shop with authentic Puerto Rican items. Wonderful store with helpful staff and items made in Puerto Rico, not China.


Expand full review


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Reviews represent the opinions of CheapTickets customers, not of CheapTickets or its staff.

Sort hints by: most recent | distance from hotel

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Absolutely take advantage of the hotel's partnership with La Concha hotel. There is a very nice beach and several pools that guests at El Convento can use.

--Espiritolindo, Rhinebeck, NY Jan 30, 2010

Dining hint, Short Walk

Ask the hotel staff for dinner recommendations. We took two travel books and found the restaurant suggestions to be a total hit or miss. We did better by hitting up the side streets or asking the staff for ideas. The food overall is not spicy, so if you are looking for that beware.

--Gib, San Francisco, CA Dec 31, 2009

Dining hint, Short Walk

The cities finest restaurants, which include AquaViva, Marmelade, DragonFly and the hotel's own Picoteca, are only blocks away. Jump aboard a taxi and feast at one of the most extraordinary vegan restaurants in the Caribbean, Pura Vida, in Ocean Park.

--Epicurian Peregrine, Chicago, IL Dec 25, 2009

Dining hint, Short Walk

many close by restaurants. Carribean food is not Mexican, nor is it Cuban --it is different and good.

--Richard, Atlanta, ga Dec 25, 2009

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Walk

close to el Morro fort, Fortalezze street (main shopping area), and other Old San Juan landmarks

--Phil, Lima, OH Nov 10, 2009

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Go out to the beaches to the East of San Juan - stunning, and where the locals go. Hotel will arrange a car rental and pick up ( $32 a day !) WELL worht the drive - away from the crowds at Condado or Isle Verde. FOOD: St. Germain, hands down.

--clb331, Buffalo, NY Oct 26, 2009

Shopping hint, Short Walk

Fortaleza--great bargain deals; but even better if you have time to take bus to Rio Piedras (market take bus number A9 or M1)

--visitor, Oakland, CA Oct 26, 2009

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Walk

You can spend hours walking the streets and staying busy exploring the area.

--TrevMo, Chicago, IL Oct 11, 2009

Time savers hint, Short Drive

If using your American GPS hand-held unit (I used the one in my Sprint Blackberry; although my rental car hand one in it as well), you may want to put "Street" into the address versus "Calle" as you would in the US mainland. I almost got lost trying to type it in as one would write the address in Puerto Rico.

--Blonde_Scholar, Lexington, KY Oct 3, 2009

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Drive

Resort privilege at La Concha in Condado.

--L&K from NYC, NYC Jul 27, 2009

Dining hint, In Hotel

Enjoy the fantastic cheese plate during happy hour at the hotel. Better than any restaurant we ate in in San Juan

--I survived Puerto Rico, Santa Cruz, CA Jul 14, 2009

Money savers hint, Short Walk

Room had a frig so by walking a short distance to the SuperMax food store, it was easy to get cold cuts, bread, beer, wine, and lots more to help cut down on restaurant spending. (Note: Restaurants and bars were lots of fun -- don't cut them out altogether)

--Staples913, King of Prussia, PA Jul 12, 2009

Dining hint, Long Walk

Parrot Club had the best Mofongo around.

--happy couple, Tampa, FL May 19, 2009

Shopping hint, Short Walk

On Calle Forteleza there is a shop with authentic Puerto Rican items. Wonderful store with helpful staff and items made in Puerto Rico, not China.

--Sue, Rocky River, OH Apr 22, 2009

Dining hint, Short Walk

Parrot Club

--Maritza, Brentwood Oct 24, 2008

Dining hint, Short Walk

Dining around every corner

--Breena, Burlington Oct 21, 2008

Dining hint, Short Walk

Cafe El Punto. 105 Fortaleza St. This is at the end of the hallway with some shopping inside. Excellent PR food. I think it's only open for lunch. Not fancy or romantic but if you want a taste of the local food it's good for that.

--Paul, Philadelphia Oct 16, 2008

Shopping hint, Short Walk

great shopping and dining in the area

--Tom, Bryan, TX Aug 5, 2008

Recreation/Attractions hint, Short Walk

All the museums, shopping and dining in Old San Juan were within a short walking distance.

--Benjamin, altha May 20, 2008

Dining hint, Short Walk

Excellent restaurants on Calle Fortaleza and San Francisco. Go to local restaurants for best food values. El Jibarito, La Bonbonera, and Mallorca have good coffee, breakfasts, and lunch.

--Guillermo, Charlotte, NC Sep 26, 2007

Previous | 1 2 | Next

Reviews represent the opinions of CheapTickets customers, not of CheapTickets or its staff.

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A promotion code is your key to redeeming discounts, special CheapTickets offers and rewards. To redeem, enter your promotion code below, then look for hotels marked with the icon. We'll apply the discount to the total cost when you pay. Promotion codes can only be used once with each booking, and they're good only up to the total amount of your booking (including service fee and taxes) or promotion code amount, whichever is less.

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I have a promotion code.

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