The moment I walked into the El San Juan Hotel & Casino I realized that I have done something right. I take travel planning quite seriously and this time I was not kicking myself. My experience during the following few days at this great resort has only confirmed my initial impression. The hotel gets a 5-star rating for its great atmosphere and facilities which will make your stay a memorable one.

You may have heard how magnificent the hotel lobby is. Well, it is. Beautiful carved wood ceilings, an imposing gigantic chandelier made of Czech crystal, lots of couches and it's big enough to house three bars, including a cigar bar. Our room was a bit larger than an average-sized double. A balcony and Caribbean-style wooden shades were also a big plus. The noise from the airport (a mere mile away) got some time getting used to but I did not find it particularly annoying (perhaps I am immune to this kind of thing having lived in Manhattan for a few years). In fact, I am sure that the neighboring Ritz-Carlton and the Inter-Continental Hotel, the other two fine hotels in San Juan, are just as affected by the airport noise. Also, the hotel's location in Isla Verde means that the attractions of Old San Juan are a good 20 minute ride away.

The pool area is very large (two pools) with a swim-up bar which unfortunately closes shop at 5 p.m. Those staying in beachfront suites have another pool of their own. There are also waterfalls and three jacuzzis which add to the fun and provide a nice backdrop for great pictures. When we stayed there in June 2001 there were very few people around the pools which made it so much better. The hotel has a nice private beach although beaches in San Juan are nothing special. Right at the beach you can sign up for paragliding or rent a jetski.

If nothing else, the reason why you will want to stay at El San Juan is it NIGHTLIFE. When we checked it on Wednesday, the hotel was dormant. Everything has changed by Friday night. Locals, hotel guests and tourists staying elsewhere have filled in the huge hotel lobby by the hundreds. The people were all dressed up and looking or trying hard to look beautiful. My opinion about Puerto Rican women has risen to new heights as my girlfriend, perhaps sensing my agitation, was on high alert. Most of these people are there to sneak into the premier night club on the island, the Babylon, which is also located right in the hotel. As a hotel guest, you are given some priority when it comes to admission although everyone on the VIP list gets in first. The Babylon nightclub itself is rather small, has two levels with one bar on each and was playing 70-s disco music that night. But it gets high marks for eyecandy and it's a great place to meet people.

The El San Juan hotel has great food options. The Palm, of course, is a decent steakhouse. My NY strip was a fine juicy piece of meat. Go there when you are hungry as we did having just arrived from the airport on our first day. The service was great and the desert was on the house (just tell them that it's your first "Palm experience" to get this freebie). Lying is no sin when your tab is already $130 for two steaks, some sides and appetizers (no wine). If you prefer steaks from the Ruth's Chris franchise, head to the Inter-Continental Hotel next door. If you are looking for a romantic dinner and don't want to go far, the Back Street Hong Kong restaurant would be your best bet. It's a fine upscale Chinese joint right next to the hotel casino on the lobby level. As you walk in, you will be crossing a small bridge and will see some red lanterns so you may start feeling like you are actually in Hong Kong. You will also be seated in a cozy, semi-private booth. Although I am usually skeptical about "upscale" Chinese restaurants, this one was not disappointing (good food) if not as satisfying as a great *authentic* Chinese joint in Chinatown. The cost at $80 for two was also reasonable. The Ranch bar on the top floor is a good place to watch sunsets or wrap up your evening although I did not care for its "western style" food. There is an open area dining area next to the pools (I believe it's called the Veranda). Go there for a quick lunch; their burgers were quite good. I would not recommend Yamoto (a Japanese restaurant): their sushi were pricy but subpar plus I always distrust Japanese joints largely run by Chinese staff. Outside of the hotel, my vote goes to La Casona -- an expensive Spanish restaurant located in a mansion about 15 minutes away by taxi, complete with gardens and romantic ambience. She will melt, you will savor some fine paella but expect to leave at least $150-200 on the table.

For reservation at the the El San Juan, contact:

Wyndham El San Juan Hotel & Casino
6063 East Isla Verde Avenue
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902
Phone: 787-791-1000

You can also make a reservation through Wyndham's website at http://www.wyndham.com/ELSanJuanResort/default.cfm







Recommended: Yes