Stellaris vs Ritz

[bcakes]

I tentatively booked the Marriott Stellaris for our upcoming 2 night pre-cruise stay because it is highly recommended here. The room was pricier than I would like -- so much so that I can get a room at the Ritz for $25 more per night.

 

In my position, would you keep the Stellaris reservation or "upgrade" to the Ritz. I admit that being able to say I am staying at the Ritz is a big motivator here because the price premium is normally such that I wouldn't even consider spending the extra money for the Ritz. But I am also weighing Isla Verde vs. Condado. I have read that Condado has a bit more going on restaurant-wise, but that Isla Verde is a calmer swimming beach. (I have a 4 year old who will probably want to play on the beach, but who won't be doing more than wading).

 

Per the internet, the Ritz pool is getting renovated this fall, so that may be another thing to take into account. I would have a city view room in either hotel.

 

Thanks in advance everyone.

[frawls]

I have not stayed at either hotel but I would agree that the beach is calmer at Isla Verde although if you stay in Condado you can walk to the end of the strip and there is a very calm lagoon by the Hilton. As for restaurants, I think you will find a good amount in either area. Although, I think Isla Verde's restaurants are more geared for tourists (Ruth's Chris, BLT Steak, Chili's and fast food) although you do have Metropol and Platos for more local flavor.

 

I like Condado for the proximity to Old San Juan to go out at night but we stayed at the InterContinental in Isla Verde this past February and would not hesitate staying in Isla Verde.

 

So basically, I am of no help at all....lol

[bcakes]

Thank you. The Isla Verde, Condado comparison is actually very helpful. (I'm still undecided though. It seems like there are pros and cons to both).

[Cruisingwithoutthekids]

The Ritz at Isla Verde is very nice. There is also a Courtyard next door that shares the same beach basically. We stayed on Marriott points last year. We really enjoyed it. Next year for the same points we plan on booking two nights at the Courtyard instead.

 

 

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[Bringonthesun01]

I cannot comment on the Ritz, but this will be our second time staying at Stellaris in two years. Agree with the price, it is rather expensive. However, the hotel is very nice. They have a large pool and a nice beach that your 4 year old would enjoy just as much as the Ritz's. I would personally go with make my decision based off the distance from the port. Stellaris is a quick trip to the port, but the Ritz would be closer to the airport for when you would fly in. I do not think you can go wrong with either.

[sail7seas]

My DH and I stayed at San Juan Ritz hottel and enjoyed our stay a great deal. My only ddisappointment is that this beautiful hotel,ted right on the beach did not have balconies on most guest rooms to enable full enjoyment of g gthe views and sweather.. What a waste with thoesr inccredib l views. Service was the usual high standard one expects in any of the Ritz hotels. Only large suites have balcony.

There's a large casino, bereuatiful pool area.

 

Isla Verde beahc at The Ritz is wonderful. Your c hild should love it .)

Edited September 16, 2016 by sail7seas

[mafig]

I would personally go with make my decision based off the distance from the port. Stellaris is a quick trip to the port,

 

Anyone know what the taxi fare is from Stellaris to the port?

[Hotel CA]

Anyone know what the taxi fare is from Stellaris to the port?

 

As I recall, we paid 10-15.00 2 years ago from Stellaris to Port

[Ms411]

I think the Marriott is a better location. There's a park just a few blocks away in one direction and another exercise station down the street. There's also a small Whole Foods like grocery store that sells healthy meals and sandwiches at affordable prices.

 

There is also a tide pool a few blocks from the Marriott. It's easier to get to if you walk along the street instead of the beach. It's very shallow when tide is out and a few local families had their little ones there.

 

The lagoon is also very nice. They show movies there on some nights.