ALOFT San Juan — Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Why book? Convenience and novelty are the driving forces here: cruisers will appreciate the proximity to the Pan American Pier for bookending their stays and conventioneers are steps away from the Centro de Convenciones Gobernador Pedro Roselló. And those who enjoy shiny new things come to experience abutting Distrito T-mobile, San Juan’s splashy family-friendly entertainment venue. Set the scene It’s a slice of Times Square in San Juan, an intention confirmed on New Year’s Eve 2021 when the complex was featured on Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, ushering in 2022 with a countdown en Español, a live concert from Daddy Yankee and fireworks that lit up the city for miles. With its bright colors, modern design, and techy amenities, newly-opened Aloft fits right in with the neon playground theme. It radiates high energy, which is why it attracts families, adrenaline junkies and anyone looking for constant stimulation. The backstory The well-known Marriott sub brand is the first to open in the Caribbean. The rooms 177 rooms follow the brand’s design ethic: minimal “lofty” cool with pops of color, accented with art that mimics the neon jungle of Distrito. If not for some bay views, guests could easily think they were in Vegas or Miami or LA. Food and drink A grab-and-go pantry, Re:fuel, is available 24 hours and the WXYZ Bar offers cocktails, snacks and appetizers. Most guests defer to Distrito for meals, with a multitude of dining options including celeb chef Mario Pagan’s La Central and the multi-faceted Barullo, which serves cuisine inspired by Spain. The spa No spa The neighborhood/area The hotel is in the center of Distrito T-Mobile, a glitzy new entertainment complex that includes Toro Verde Urban Park, complete with zipline; a dozen eating establishments ranging from cocina Criolla to tacos and Asian fusion; a multiplex cinema with the first Screen X technology in the Caribbean; a concert hall; and a central plaza with an eye-catching mega-screen. The hotel is a 10-minute cab ride to Old San Juan , Condado and Miramar. The convention center lies steps away and the Pan American Pier and Isla Grande Airport are a 3 minute cab ride away. The service Chain-trained, outgoing and eager to assist. For families In addition to all of the amusements featured within Distrito T-mobile, the Aloft San Juan displays its family-friendliness with board and card games strewn throughout the lobby, plus a welcoming pool table.  Accessibility Hotel entrance, elevators and 8 rooms are ADA compliant. Anything left to mention? There’s a fitness center and outdoor pool on the third level. The hotel embraces touchless technology with mobile keys, amenities upon chat request, and complimentary Wifi. The hotel welcomes pets, too." - Kathleen Squires