Beach bums on a budget, this one is for you. If hotels are not your thing and you are looking for an amazing and budget friendly Airbnb option then keep on reading my review for the best area to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico!
ABOUT
My Airbnb was located in Ocean Park roughly 15 minutes from the San Juan International Airport. Ocean Park is an upscale beachfront neighborhood located between Condado and Isla Verde beaches (both are popular tourist spots). A cab ride from the airport cost be about $20. Ocean Park beach is less than 1 block away and there are several cafes and restaurants within walking distance. Old San Juan and the 2 famous forts of Puerto Rico are 20 minutes away in a car, Uber rides were under $15 per trip.
The room is hosted by Sylvia, hands down the best Airbnb host I have had. Upon arrival, I was greeted by her (which was at 3:00 AM btw thanks to delayed baggage at the airport). There is a communal kitchen where you can cook your own meals, breakfast is served every morning from 8:00 AM till noon. The host lives on site but the room is separated from the main house. Animal lovers, she also has 2 very friendly dogs named Maga and Malda
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THE ROOM
The room is an extravagant boho themed. It has a queen bed and a sofa bed which comfortably sleeps 3 people (maybe 4 with 2 younger kids on the sofa bed). There is a also an attached bathroom with a walk in shower and closer space to hang your clothes. Bath towels, beach towels, hair dryer, etc. are some of the essentials provided. Toiletries can be used from the communal area but may not have everything stocked. I was not able to find shampoo so I would recommend bringing your own in a travel friendly size.
I was extremely satisfied with my stay and experience. The pictures on the website are very accurate, you get what you see. She also has a hand-drawn map which gives you over 100 restaurant options and things to do in San Juan. How thoughtful! She also a nearby hotel called Dreamcatcher, as a guest at Sylvia’s I was welcomed to enjoy any of the amenities offered at the hotel.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Pros:
-Sylvia’s Airbnb is conveniently located near a local beach, the airport, and restaurants. Uber was the best way to get around the city, inexpensive and reliable.
-Breakfast is provided daily from 8:00 AM till noon, a great option to eat healthy and save some $$$.
-The host is super friendly and welcoming. She has gone above and beyond to make her place comfortable including the pillows!
Cons:
-There are 2 things that I always look for when staying away from home, 1. iron, 2. full length mirror. These are mostly available in hotels but not always at an Airbnb. Sylvia’s place had an iron (yay!) but was missing a full length mirror. This is a personal must have which I unfortunately can’t travel with. Points deducted 🙁
Where do you prefer to stay while on vacation? Hotel, AIrbnb, or a hostel? I would love to hear your thoughts and what are some must haves when looking for lodging on a vacation.
SAVE ME FOR LATER- BEST AREA TO STAY IN SAN JUAN
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More on Puerto Rico
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That seems like a very relaxing place to stay, I loved the boho theme. When I travel I prefer to stay in apartments, it feels different and I like my privacy. Like you, there are a few things I appreciate to have in the apartment I book, must haves are wifi and wash machine, but I also like a hairdryer and iron (I don’t like to carry those in my luggage).
Thank you for this, this is totally for me. Airbnb is the best invention in a long time.
That’s so interesting, I never realized how much I would miss my full length mirror until I didnt have one. Also, that is awesome that breakfast is included in this Airbnb
I love airbnb’s. This one certainly looks particularly luxurious! The boho theme in the room is super cute and the breakfast sounds great.