Hyatt Place San Juan/City Center

Set next to a high traffic street that runs along San Juan Bay, and right opposite Hyatt House, the Hyatt Place dominates an otherwise fairly undeveloped streetscape with its manicured tropical gardens, and mid-rise, modern horizontal structure that glows with pretty lights at night. The breakfast restaurant, Gallery Market, and the lobby share the ground floor, and while public areas reflect a contemporary look throughout, each space has its own style, channeling a fresh, somewhat boutique vibe. A geometric feature wall sits behind an angled trio of front desks in a chic palette of soft grays, while library-inspired nooks with dark timber panelling add a moody contrast. Off the lobby, velvet lounges with marble-effect cocktail tables and futuristic wall lamps observe green garden views. It’s a logical hotel for convention center visitors, and the place is particularly popular with families -- young kids flock to the aquatic playground that sits up one end of the pool, while adults generally linger up the other end. During our visit, the pool was a sea of loud activity totally unsuited to peace-seeking guests, but everyone seemed to be having a ball. Another issue worth noting: The late check-in time proved problematic -- the lobby was packed with early arrivals. However, it was peak season. 

The property sits next to a busy main thoroughfare that leads to beaches and Old San Juan, so it’s relatively easy to get anywhere. However, not much is within walking distance, aside from the Puerto Rico Convention Center (eight minutes), the Sheraton casino (six minutes), San Juan Bay Marina (four minutes), plus a shopping mall and some family-friendly restaurants, such as Olive Garden. It’s around 15 minutes to Luis Munoz International Airport; and six or seven minutes to Old San Juan, Balneario El Escambron, and Condado where a beach, cafes, and boutiques are on offer. 

Available in King, Queen, or Double configurations, rooms are huge with open plan layouts divvying up slumber and living areas by partial room dividers. Decor here shifts from the boutique look of public spaces to something a bit more generic, but furnishings remain modern and comfortable. A deep, neutral palette blends matching wood furniture with taupe-like tones, in contrast to crisp white bedding and dashes of color in artworks and cushions. Suites upsize layouts even more with full kitchens and dining areas, and some rooms enjoy lovely elevated views of San Juan Bay. All rooms are equipped with work desks, corner sleeper sofas, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, free bottles of water, safes, irons, and ironing boards. Bathrooms feature walk-in showers and good-sized vanities with a small selection of Barney Kenet toiletries, plus hairdryers. 

Hyatt Place delivers on the well-rounded features travelers expect of the brand. The pool is a highlight, especially for families thanks to its aquatic playground that acts as a kid magnet. (Expect a boisterous scene.) Plenty of alfresco seating includes modern umbrella-shaded deck chairs, and there’s a poolside bar. In terms of dining, the hotel provides a free hot breakfast daily, and Coffee to Cocktails is a casual venue serving espresso and drinks (including alcoholic beverages). The Gallery Market sells snacks 24 hours, and the Terrace offers furnished outdoor seating as a pleasant spot for having a drink or reading a book away from other guests. For active guests looking to keep up their gym routine, the 24-hour fitness center offers a selection of modern equipment. A business center is set up in the lobby along with plenty of charger outlets, plus an ATM. A selection of meeting and event spaces is also on offer. The hotel is pet-friendly and parking is available, but daily charges can add up.