I've been reading up on various hotels in San Juan and regardless of how many stars they're rated, they all seem to have such mixed reviews. They all seem to have complaints about spotty service, rude staff and cleanliness. Many complaints about rooms not being ready until several hours AFTER check-in time, etc.

I've yet to read about any hotel that doesn't have a wide variety of mixed reviews and complaints. Is this just the way it is in San Juan?? I've traveled through out the world and have never seen such discrepencies.

I'm looking for a decent hotel, 2 rooms for a night...probably 4 star or the likes for to stay in the night before a cruise. Any help? I want a close-in, center of the action, restaurants etc. location.

Old San Juan - El Convento, Wyndham Old San Juan
Condado - Marriott, Condado Plaza
Isla Verde - Wyndham El San Juan, Ritz Carlton.
The Wyndham Old San Juan is minutes away from the ship docks

I've been to San Juan many times and have never had a problem with cleanliness or rude staff (although service has on occasion been spotty - except at the Ritz-Carlton where it has always been excellent).
I agree with Rob's suggestions and would add the Intercontinentaln to the Isla Verde list.

Like any hotel in the world, sometimes you will find yourself dealing with things such as a rude staff or waiting a couple of hours to finally check-in.
I would not pay attention to those bad reviews and just hope that none of that happens at your stay.

The hotels mentioned on the previous posts sound good to me.

Enjoy San Juan!

Thanks so much for the suggestions. I'm going to stick with just those choices and stop reading reviews. Thanks!

Reading reviews is good but you have to beware if you don't know the person who is reviewing a hotel or restaurant. We all have different perspectives of what is good and what is bad, we have different budgets and expectations, etc. Also, people tend to complain more than compliment so if there's something really bad they will make sure the world knows about it...if it was great they are not as likely to go on and on about it, for whatever reasons. So figure out what's important to you in a hotel stay in San Juan and then try to match the property that feels like a fit. You are only going for one night so location is extremely important. San Juan has some wonderful hotels with absolutely great service. I was at the Marriott Condado and the experience was fantastic from the moment our cab pulled in and was told "let me help you with your bags, you are our guest" to the final day when they escorted us to our departing car. The Isla Verde section is probably better if you're only there one night and want action. You can't go wrong there at the Ritz, Intercontinental, or El San Juan. I love the energy and scene at the El San Juan lobby area, especially if the orchestra or band is playing. Although the Wyndam Old San Juan is closer to the cruise ships, the others aren't much further so stay where the action is in Isla Verde and have fun!

I'd highly recommend the Wyndham Old San Juan - it is across the street from the cruise ship piers and you can easily walk into Old San Juan to restaurants and clubs. We've always had great service and a great room.

We booked a room at the Wyndham Condado Plaza. For one night, I'm sure it will be fine. Thanks again!