Arrival/Check-in: The Condado Plaza Resort & Casino is two hotels in one. The two stand-alone buildings, connected by a second floor covered walkway, meld into one uniform property. Still, each has its distinct advantages. We pulled into the circular drive in front of the waterfront building. At the time, it was a stark and rather unwelcoming arrival setting, but management had identified it as a problem area and was quickly working to warm it up with strategically placed lighting and landscaping. The other minus (again, corrections were on the planning board at the time of my visit) was the configuration of the entry door relative to the front desk. The expansive lobby offers a straight-shot view of the ocean — but the front desk and the entry door were tucked into a corner near the elevator bank. The result was initial disappointment followed by relief when we realized the full extent of the lobby. (25/30)
Guest Quarters: The décor of our spacious suite took us by surprise. Here we were in a tropical, albeit urban, setting, but the room was done in bold tones of red (lots of red) and white highlighted by dark wood accents. It took a bit to get used to the unexpected design, but we ultimately found it refreshing. A sofa, armchair and coffee table created a conversation setting in the large sitting area which had an adjacent guest bath. A spacious work desk faced the window. French doors opened to the bedroom and bathroom/dressing room with a giant whirlpool tub, a separate shower stall, double vanity and plenty of storage space. The only drawback: We pulled the curtains to check out the view and discovered the bedroom overlooked a lower-level rooftop and its various HVAC units. The living room opened to a small balcony, but it also offered a limited view of the adjacent building. (25/30)
Services/Amenities: The hotel’s second-floor casino sees lots of action, but its presence does not intrude on the plans of guests who choose not to indulge. The Strip House, an old-world steak house, is a delightful dining venue. Myriad bars and casual eateries create a social atmosphere. The hotel’s main swimming pool is a family affair, but landscaped nooks and crannies provide privacy for guests seeking a quieter setting. And those who truly want to escape can head across the street to the adjacent building’s swimming pool. It’s small but pretty — with a great view overlooking Laguna Condado. (39/40)
The Experience: Once the punch list following the hotel’s recent $67 million renovation is complete, this will be a high-scoring property.
Total Score: (89/100)
Condado Plaza Resort & Casino
999 Ashford Ave.
San Juan, PR 00907
tel 787 721 1000
http://www.condadoplaza.com
Read This Next
Park Hyatt Washington
2008
Dec 10, 2012All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
May 6, 2021WalletHub’s 2021 Best Airlines
Now that more vaccines are being distributed, travel is starting to pick up and travelers feel more comfortable flying again. WalletHub conducted a survey to help people pick the best airline for them.
Sponsored Content
Sports Industry Awards returns to Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah for 8th Edition
The biggest names in the Middle East sporting community will gather for the Sports Industry Awards as the event returns for its eighth edition. SPIA recognizes the achievements of individuals, organizations, facilities and campaigns that contributed to the development of sport in the region.
eFlyer Reviews
May 5, 2021Crane’s Beach House Review
After driving through the arts and entertainment district of Delray Beach, I was expecting the lively and vibrant energy to follow me to my doorstep at Crane’s Beach House that evening. I was pleasantly surprised when the spirited rumble of a night downtown halted right at the front gate. As I walked the pathway to the front office for check-in, I was welcomed by a quiet rustle of the greenery and flowers that guided my walk, strung with lights and colorful, tropical décor. At check-in I was provided with a complimentary parking pass; although I would only be there for one night, I much appreciated this unexpected perk. I received my room information, including a pass code that would open my door. Keyless entry was a nice touch.
eFlyer News
May 5, 2021Introductory Benefit for Frontier Airlines World Mastercard
Barclays and Frontier Airlines announced a first-ever introductory offer for the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard: no annual fee for the first year, then $79 every year after. New cardmembers also earn 50,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases.
eFlyer News
May 5, 2021Kontiki Expeditions Reveals Cabin Design of New Yacht
Kontiki Expeditions shared a look at one of the nine luxury staterooms on its new boutique yacht M/Y Kontiki Wayra. Launching in August, each stateroom creates an inviting space of comfort and beauty. The yacht follows a biophilic design, mirroring the ambiance and look of the landscapes visited and connecting people to the environment.
Act Now: Scandinavian Airlines Sale
eFlyer Deals
May 5, 2021Heroes Honored at Queen Kapi’olani Hotel
eFlyer Deals
May 5, 2021Help Senior Citizens Fly Safe
Daily
May 5, 2021Daily
May 4, 20216 Reasons to Say #WelcomeBacktoTravel in Cleveland, Ohio
As more destinations around the globe reopen to travelers, we are ready to get back to one of our favorite activities. Join us over the next several weeks as we take you to places around the world saying #WelcomeBacktoTravel. Take a visual journey through Cleveland, Ohio, with us.
Daily
May 4, 2021Four Seasons New Orleans Introduces Chandelier Bar
Cocktail culture is an integral part of the history of New Orleans. Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans pays homage to classic cocktails with its Chandelier Bar. Opening in summer 2021, the lobby bar serves traditional and new cocktails under a stunning 15,000-crystal custom chandelier.
April/May 2021
May 3, 2021European Sophistication Meets Latin Passion in Buenos Aires
Until you visit, you may never know the extent of Buenos Aires’ cosmopolitanism. From design and architecture to technology and banking — and across all the arts — Buenos Aires truly has a global feel that rivals Paris, New York and Tokyo. While it’s on the water, Buenos Aires is not a beach destination like Rio but rather a port city — hence locals are called Porteños and have a zest for life and want to share it with all who visit.
ShareThis