I am suprised to read mediocre reveiws of El Convento in this forum. On another forum (T.A.) it is ranked the #1 hotel in San Juan. I also see it is a "Fodors Choice". Has anybody stayed there recently and comment?

I stayed there last May and loved it. If you look back far enough you'll see my own glowing review of it right here. When I returned to old San Juan this May I was disappointed to see that rates were significantly higher and could not justify the cost to stay there. However, during my time in OSJ this May I did go by there for lunch one day and found the atmosphere just as charming, the service just as good, and the food even better than I remembered.

We've stayed at El Convento twice, both times at a much lower rate than one normally sees. I don't know how we got that rate ($169), just luck I guess. Anyway, I think the amount you spend a night colors your expectations. We enjoyed our stays there, especially the complimentary wine and cheese hour on the top floor overlooking the city at sunset. The rooms have plasma TV's now which pleased my husband and the hotel is in a perfect location for walking around old town and proximity to restaurants and bars. The service is prompt, friendly and efficient. If someone gives it less than a great review, they might be used to a new and modern building with contemporary, which this is not. If you enjoy staying in accomodations which reflect the atmosphere and culture of the country you are visiting, you should love it.

Lucien, I meant to say "contemporary furnishings", sorry. Also, I just checked my records and we actually paid just $150 (not including taxes) this last August. Are you planning a visit to Puerto Rico soon?

Hi.
Not stayed there recently, it is not a modern hotel (that's its charm). The hotel is a historic building located in the heart of Old San Juan (close to the cathedral). Rooms are not the largest (at least the one I have stayed in). But the decor and architecture of the hotel are superb.

I have a blog on Puerto Rico that has info on Old san Juan etc..

http://www.visit-the-coqui.com

Coqui, nice site - wish I had seen it before our trip!

We love El Convento. Have stayed many times, going back in a few weeks. I think this will make our 4th stay this year. Its not perfect and it has its flaws, mostly due to being an old building, but its a great location. We love it. The rooftop pool is really nice considering you are in the middle of a city.

I hit post before I was done... the only real issue we have had there is with some of the staff. There are a few which can be really difficult and non-responsive. However,we have been able to overlook it!

Maggi, Yes, we are arriving 10/19 for 3 nights. We are paying 215/night for a package that includes some extras like champagne. These replys make me feel much better about it. We stopped by and looked at it about 5 yrs ago and thought it looked nice. Looking forward to our trip and would appreciate any restaurant recs too. We like upscale and good service. Thanks.

Lucien, I think that sounds like a good price, especiually considering that you're getting the "extras" like the champagne. Like Maggi, I also really appreciated the complimentary wine & cheese reception on the roof. Very nice way to start the evening off, and with quite a good selection of wines and nibbles.

It would be my #1 in San Juan...