I'm really not a fussy traveler. All I require in a hotel is that it is safe and clean. Unfortunately, since our last stay at the Sandy Beach Hotel in San Juan, something has changed. Our family of 4 stayed there for a couple of nights in 2001. We found it very small (almost cramped) but efficient and clean. At that time it was called "El Canario by the Sea". Perhaps due to new ownership or management it is not the hotel it once was. This time our sheets were threadbare, towels scarce, and the shower curtain was covered with mildew. I know that's hard to control in a tropical climate but I found it disgusting. The housekeeping service definitely leaves something to be desired. I don't mind making my own bed, but when, after a couple of days, I would like clean towels, I prefer not to have to wait until 5:00 p.m. to get them. There was no hair dryer so I asked for one at the reception desk. They had ONE for the entire hotel. I was asked to bring it back immediately after using it as it was in high demand! Unfortunately, there was no outlet in the bathroom so I had to make do with an outlet far from a mirror. I know this sounds minor but it was just the icing on the cake! The location of the hotel and the price are what lured us back. It is just steps from the beach and very close to many restaurants/shops. However, we won't be returning any time soon. It's unfortunate as the reception area staff was VERY helpful and cooperative. I don't know how much control they have over the details of the hotel. Breakfast, by the way, was pastries, juice and coffee. It was plenty for me but others may require more. So sorry to write such a negative review. I just wish I had paid more attention to the reviews I read ahead of time and less to my previous positive experience here.
- El Canario By The Sea
