Hotel Colonial

The small, budget hotel -- housed in a former convent and with many of the original architectural details -- captures much of the city’s historic charm. There's almost no communal space here, and as such, the overall vibe is often quiet and relaxed. The tiny breakfast area sees modest traffic in the morning, but is vacant throughout the remainder of the day. The open-air patio likewise provides additional communal space, however, it went largely unused during our stay. It seems most travelers simply use the property as a place to lay their heads at night, while exploring the city by day. With a wide range of rooms that can accommodate up to six, guests are just as likely to find traveling singles and large, vacationing families.

Located in the heart of downtown Mayaguez, the hotel is a few short blocks to many restaurants, shops, and the city’s famous Plaza Colon. The neighborhood can be moderately noisy at night. A rental car will be handy for those looking to explore western Puerto Rico. Dozens of retail stores and chain restaurants on Route 2 are less than 10 minutes away by car. Zoologico de Mayaguez and the waterfront Litoral Park can be reached in eight minutes by car. It's about 20 to 40 minutes by car to some of Cabo Rojo's better beaches, including Buye Beach. Most travelers will likely arrive via Eugenio Maria De Hostos (MAZ) -- 15 minutes north by car. Rafael Hernandez Airport (BQN) in Aguadilla provides far more international flights, however, it's a 45-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms are clean and bright, if simple. The mostly white-on-white look is accented by architectural details from the property’s former life as a convent-turned-church. Upgraded rooms feature original stone columns, wide, domed ceilings, and ornate, cathedral-style trim. Furniture includes details like wrought-iron bed frames and heavy wooden pieces, adding a bit of colonial charm to the otherwise spartan spaces.

All rooms offer similar amenities but differ mainly in size and bed configuration. Entry-level Petite Rooms are tiny and are best for solo travelers. Mid-range Standard Rooms offer slightly more floor space -- still substantially smaller than a typical budget hotel room -- with enough room for two. Queen, Double, and Triple rooms offer one, two, or three beds respectively and square footage that increases accordingly. Technology amenities include flat-screen TVs and fast, free Wi-Fi. Air-conditioning is standard in all rooms and some upgraded categories also offer mini-fridges.

Bathrooms are clean but similarly stripped down. Stark white covers every surface. Walk-in shower stalls and generic, pump-style bath amenities are standard.

The tiny property offers few common amenities. In lieu of an on-site restaurant, free continental breakfast is available every morning in a small room adjacent to the lobby. Offerings are limited to dry cereal, toast, and coffee.

Tucked into a second floor landing sits a small, open-air patio with a handful of chairs and tables. The space is primarily for the use of the three adjacent rooms. However, it is technically available for all guests to use.

Free off-street parking is available in a secure, gated lot.