Hotel El Convento – Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? Hotel El Convento's bright yellow Spanish Colonial structure is a true landmark in Old San Juan, right up there with the 16th-century cathedral that faces it and the forts and battlements that first established the city. Dating back to the 17th century, the former convent offers a real sense of hushed reverence, with a towering, arched doorway, black-and-white floors, mahogany beamed ceilings, and conquistador-era furnishings and art. It's blessed reminder that there's much more to San Juan than piña coladas on the beach. Tell us more about the story behind El Convento. Originally constructed in 1651, this building served as a Carmelite convent until 1903; it became a flophouse and a garbage truck garage before being abandoned. But it was resurrected into a hotel in 1962 by department store scion Robert Woolworth. In its early days, the hotel attracted everyone from Truman Capote to Ernest Hemingway to Gloria Vanderbilt, the hotel’s very first guest, honored today with a namesake suite. What are the rooms like? El Convento's 58 rooms either have views of the Old City or the San Juan Bay; those overlooking the San Juan Cathedral, among the oldest in the Western hemisphere, are especially transportive. Andalusian tile floors, modern marble bathrooms, and Juliet balconies or private terraces grace each room; mahogany furniture, louvered doors, beams, and ceiling fans nod to the hotel’s history. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi is complimentary, but it can be spotty in some areas of the hotel. Any good food and drink options on-site? In the courtyard, El Patio del Nispero serves Puerto Rican dishes such as fried pork with mofongo (mashed plantains). What stands out about the service? A daily Manager’s Reception, where guests are treated to wine and hors d’oeuvres on the La Veranda terrace, is an especially welcoming touch. Who tends to stay here? Travelers with a romanticized idea of adventure. The hotel is especially convenient to the Port of San Juan, and cruisers can take advantage of packages to extend their stay. What else is in the surrounding area? Walking the cobbled streets of Old San Juan never gets old—there’s a piece of history, striking viewpoint, work of art, restaurant, shop, or bar around every corner. Cruise ships dock at the foot of the city and sailboats offers tours that showcase the best views. The Cataño ferry shuttles rum lovers across the bay to Casa Bacardi ( that Bacardi). Anything perks if we stay here? If you're craving the beach the hotel provides access (and transport) to La Concha Resort in Condado and Courtyard by Marriott's blue flag beach in Isla Verde. So why would you recommend this hotel, and who for? There's nowhere else in the United States where one can stay in a nearly 400-year-old building in a 500 year-old city. El Convento is perfect for those who crave an alternative to the island's beach resorts." - Kathleen Squires