I recently stayed at the Condado Plaza for a business training.  Although part of the hotel is currently under remodeling and fixing up, I had a very pleasant stay.  The staff there is very friendly and courteous.  Checking in was very quick as so was check out.  The lobby is very colorful and inviting.  I loved the enormous sea water fish tank by the check in counter.  The décor is just my style, contemporary with vibrant colors.  I specially loved the unique designs of every single lamp and/or chandelier in the hotel.

The room was perfect. The beds are oh so comfortable, enough reason for me to stay an extra night.  I had fun looking out from my balcony at the bay and watching movies until late at night on the flat screen TV.

I found that there are many things to during the day and evening in the hotel.  If you like gambling the hotel offers a very inviting casino right in the center with a cute bar nearby and staff coming here and there with drinks and taking your requests.  The hotel’s tourist shop in the lobby has everything you might need, from sun block to beautiful tropical dresses to lovely souvenirs.

I personally liked relaxing by the pool in the hammocks.  You can sway yourself asleep and forget your troubles on these very comfortable “hamacas”.  Hearing the ocean a few feet away helps soothe your cares away.  I love the ocean.

If you want to stretch your legs, go walking down main street. (Take your running shoes and you can go jogging, as many as the locals do.) The first place you will find is a Starbucks coffee shop right next door to the hotel entrance.  There are numerous restaurants nearby and souvenir shops by the dozens.  If you do visit, you must dine out at Ajili-mójili.  I had a succulent sea food paella. It was the best Paella I’ve had in my life.  The ambience is very romantic and the service is excellent.  Right next door is a Chili’s restaurant. But if you want to try something not so familiar you can visit any of the local Puerto Rican style food restaurants. There is even a fancy Chinese restaurant nearby where the chef actually cooks your food at your own table.

Afterwards, you can visit the hotel’s gym and try burning all the calories from eating out.

All in all, if you are visiting San Juan, I would recommend staying at the San Juan Condado Plaza.