Midway through my adventure in Puerto Rico, we checked into Condado Vanderbilt Hotel. We arrived earlier than the check-in time as our day was planned early. We hoped the front desk would store our bags until 4 p.m., but they already had our room ready and were happy to check us in early. This made our day less stressful and we were grateful. For COVID safety, we were given a wristband after having our vaccination cards checked. Masks were required while in common areas of the hotel.

Photo by Audrey Lee

The lobby was stunning with floor-to-ceiling windows that drew our eyes to the back of the lobby and to the ocean view. The lounge area was warm and inviting with a grand lobby bar. With our bags in hand, we headed to our room. Again, our eyes were met with sweeping views of the ocean from not one balcony, but two. The room was large with a kitchen, dining area, living room, separate bedroom and a large bathroom that connected the bedroom to the door. The décor felt grand and upscale, making it the perfect hotel for a romantic getaway or honeymoon.

Upon returning from our day of exploring Old San Juan, we were warmly greeted by the hotel staff and given a cold bottle of water we desperately needed from the Caribbean heat. We headed back to our room where I took advantage of the comfortable seating in the living room to get some work done on my laptop before retiring for the night. The bed was comfortable, in addition to the sound of crashing waves right outside of the window. The next morning, we felt refreshed and ready to enjoy the hotel’s pools.

Photo by Audrey Lee

Stepping outside, we were greeted by a friendly attendant who set up two chairs in front of the infinity pool. To our right, the pool bartenders were mixing together mojitos and serving lunch to guests; all could be served at the bar or at our lounge chairs. We opted for the bar to escape the sun for a few minutes. I ordered a coconut mojito and the avocado salad, while my boyfriend opted for chicken tenders and fries. He claims they were the best chicken tenders he has ever had. My dish was refreshing with tropical flavors.

After lunch, we went to check out the adults-only pool on the opposite side of the hotel. An outdoor walkway connects the two for easy access. The adults-only section was lush with palm trees, a hot tub, small pool and a private entrance to the beach. This section was much quieter than the main pool. We decided we liked the main pool vibe better and headed back to our chairs. We spent the day swimming, relaxing and nodding off while sunbathing.

Photo by Audrey Lee

Our visit to Condado Vanderbilt Hotel was comfortable, upscale and relaxing. I recommend visitors book a room here or plan a getaway solely to this hotel.

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

1055 Ashford Ave.

San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907

Tel 787 721 5500