San Juan - Puerto Rico - page 125

( 787-722-7000; www.marriott.com ; 1309 Av Ashford; r $265-325; )
The infamous Hotel Dupont Plaza once stood on this site before an arson attack burnt it
to the ground, claiming 97 lives, in 1986. Rising in its place a decade later, Marriott has
turned a den of notoriety into a pretty beachfront property, with two pools (one with a wa-
ter slide!) and 525 units. A lot more personable than other resorts in its class, the Marriott
boasts enviably modern rooms, a gym, a lavish breakfast buffet and salsa lessons in the
lobby lounge.
Atlantic Beach Hotel HOTEL $$
( 787-721-6900; www.atlanticbeachhotel.net ; 1 Vendig; r $79-119; )
Formerly the gay nexus of San Juan, this oceanfront hotel now has a more mixed budget-
oriented clientele (a strict no-visitors policy has iced out vacation cruising), even if the
beach scene remains boys aplenty. After years of the hotel's decline, new management is
rounding out an extensive remodel, and rooms now exude a crisp black-and-white minim-
alism. Overall, the great oceanside location trumps tired common areas and slapdash staff
enthusiasm.
Le Consulat Hotel HOTEL $$
( 787-289-9191; www.leconsulathotel.com ; 1149 Magdelena; r $115-135;
) A mere two blocks from the beach, this new offering has comfortable smallish rooms
and a dynamite location within walking distance of Condado's restaurants and nightlife.
Incredibly, a flat $5 parking fee covers your entire stay.
Alelí by the Sea GUESTHOUSE $$
( 787-725-5313; [e-mail]; 1125 Sea View; r $80-119; )
A gift to budget-conscious travelers, this modest nine-room guesthouse is the final bastion
of inexpensive seaside accommodations in Condado. There's a handy full kitchen, and a
spacious view deck fronts the beach.