Fortaleza Suites

It’s got lovely architecture, a fantastic location, and a warm, cozy feel. But the shower was either burning hot or very cold, and we spent our whole showers trying to get the temperature right. We were in room #1 by the front desk, where voices from the common areas carried so loudly that people chatting woke us at 6:30 AM.

This is a converted house in the old city, so it doesn’t have every convenience you might expect from a hotel. Once I understood that, I could enjoy what it did offer. It’s hard to beat the location, with everything in old San Juan within walking distance. There’s a coffee station and a place to sit, and they supplied beach towels and lotion, which meant less to pack. We also used the local parking they recommended, a short walk from our rental car. Our room was probably smaller than my room at home, but I’d requested AC and was glad to have it. They texted each day to ask whether we wanted housekeeping, and they came three of the four times. Staff sent reminders about quiet hours, which was nice. Still, we could hear people on the stairs, and since we were near the entrance, we heard suitcases rolling by. A room facing the street might be noisy at night, too, given how busy the city is. This works for a short stay if you mostly need a place to sleep. If you need absolute quiet, room service, or fresh towels every day, it probably won’t suit you.

We enjoyed our three-night stay and would come back. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the location in Old San Juan is ideal, especially if you’re arriving from or heading to a cruise since the ship is an easy walk away.

The team are fantastic, and the place has a beautiful, living-style decor with great amenities. Right in the heart of Viejo San Juan, it puts art galleries, restaurants, theatre, historic landmarks, and plenty more within reach. There’s so much to explore that you may be planning another trip before this one is over.