I spent two and half days in San Juan this past week. The experience was interesting since I had never been there before. One always envisions San Juan as this exotic locale...but you must overcome that mindset as the exotic locale is simply an urban environment with enclaves of beach resorts.
I flew from my home in Dallas to Houston Hobby (HOU) and then on to Atlanta (ATL) via Southwest.com Airlines (my employer). I then connected to AirTran.com and flew from ATL to San Juan, PR (SJU).
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| Sunrise at Houston Hobby (HOU) |
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| Overflying the Bahamas |
I arrived in SJU around 1600 local. The "C" airport terminal has a dated feel with the hope that it could be revitalized. I transited from the plane through the terminal to ground transportation. It wasn't readily apparent on how to get to baggage claim, but being a "seasoned" traveler I was able to make my way without getting lost.
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| Inside the "C" gate area |
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| Gate 29 after my arrival |
Since I elected to not rent a car, my chosen method of travel to my hotel was cab. The resort where I was staying was the CaribeHilton.com The cost of traveling from the airport to the hotel was approximately $21.00 without tip. It is worth noting that I traveled this route several more times and each cab driver charged about the same amount. Also, on one of the trips there were 5 of us in a mini-van and the rate was still $21.00.
My hotel was chosen as a part of my trip to San Juan. The property could be considered a "resort."
There is an open air lobby that adds to the air of a resort. One can find a cage with parrots and cockatiels. In addition, there is Starbucks and a few gift shops in the immediate lobby area.
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| View from 5th floor balcony |
I was very satisfied with the accommodations. The beds were very comfortable. The lounge chair in the corner was a nice touch for stretching out. I also enjoyed the patio with small table and chairs. The environment was such that you could have a quiet, intimate moment with yourself or someone close.
The restaurants are what you should expect of "resort" complexes. I considered the food to be pricey for the quality. I purchased a $10.00 Caesar salad in the bar area and received a bowl of lettuce, some grated cheese and a side of Caesar dressing. The breakfast buffet in the "XXXX" restaurant cost approximately $22.00 per person. There are a variety of choices and fresh fruit options. Alcoholic beverages ranged in prices from $8 for a beer and upwards depending on your tastes.
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| Hotel grounds with hammocks |
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| Lagoon beach area |
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| Hotel pool view |
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| Freeloading visitor to the beach |
The beach area was easily accessible from the main hotel complex. There are a variety of interests that may appeal to everyone. Lounge chairs, double sized loungers, and hammocks can be found throughout the grounds. It is worth noting that I visited in the middle of the week and was able to get a beach chair with no problem in the early afternoon. During peak periods, I suspect that securing a chair may be a little more challenging.
