PR San Juan InterContinental

[LoneStar]

I liked this hotel more than I expected to. It's on the beach at Isla Verde, which distinctly reminded me of Collins Ave. on Miami Beach north of 20th street. It's in an urban setting but an easy walk to restaurants and shops. So you're not captive to resort prices at the hotel. The hotel is only a couple miles from the airport so you don't need to rent a car if you're only going to San Juan (I'm not sure how high the cab fare is into Old San Juan, however, about 15 minutes away). They charged $12 for parking, which seemed a bit high. No other real choice, however, unless you arrive after 3 pm and park overnight on the street in front of the hotel.

The hotel itself is old, but has been kept up to date. Very nice pool, and the beach is right out back. Security is heavy, which you may find annoying but also may appreciate. FWIW, I found the area to feel safe -- no troubles walking to restaurants at night, for instance. Rooms are relatively small (and no ocean view for me on my $100 priceline stay), but well maintained and comfy. Staff was uniformly professional and friendly. All in all, a more than pleasant place to stay.

That said, I'd classify this more as a 4-star hotel than a true "resort." If you want a real resort experience, consider something like the Westin Rio Mar 20 miles further east (which cost me $20 less per night). Unless you crave the nightlife of San Juan (which, obviously, the Westin doesn't have), this is probably a better base to see the sights like Old San Juan and then move on. BTW, if you're heading for a full day of sightseeing in Old San Juan, skip the hotel breakfast and eat at the La Bombonera cafe for a great, cheap and atmospheric breakfast.

[thereuare]

The pool was closed for renovations, which was a BIG disappointment for this property, as it is what they are known for as well as the highlight of the property. Our stay was for the beginning of November and when we made the reservation, renovations were due to be completed by 10/15 which should have been enough of a cushion, but 10/15 turned into 10/31 and upon check-in 11/4 they were FAR from complete. Even worse is that the website still shows a completion date of 10/31 (yes, it is now past this date) so this has left a sour taste in my mouth regarding this property as well as the affiliated hotels within the chain. The hotel did accommodate guests by shuttling them to the nearby Holiday Inn (easily walkable if you