The Holiday Inn Express, San Juan

In the heart of condado

Business View Caribbean profiles The Holiday Inn Express, San Juan, a 115-room business and leisure traveler hotel in Puerto Rico.

The Holiday Inn Express, San Juan is located in the island’s exclusive Condado area, right near many fashionable stores, such as Gucci and Cartier, and a wide variety of excellent restaurants. It’s also just a few blocks from beautiful Condado Beach, near the San Juan Cruise Port, and close to both Isla Grande and Luis Muñoz Marin International Airports, as well as the Puerto Rico Convention Center.

According to its General Manager, Reinaldo Velazquez, the hotel’s main clientele tends to be cruise ship and business travelers, as well as members of the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Rewards Club, who are loyal to the Holiday Inn brand and are able to use their accumulated points for payless stays. “They can go to any Holiday Inn and pretty much experience the same 100 percent guest satisfaction that we offer,” he says.

While the original building dates back to 1962, Velazquez reports that the San Juan hotel was recently remodeled, its exterior repainted, and extensive work done on its landscaping. Unlike regular Holiday Inns, a Holiday Express does not have a full restaurant or bar. But the 115-room facility does have an outdoor pool and whirlpool, a 24-hour Fitness Center, a Business Center, and high speed Wi-Fi, throughout. All rooms also have coffee makers and flat-screen TVs.

With approximately 100 hotels on the island to choose from, Velazquez believes that his hotel can compete effectively because of its location and rate structure. “You’re right next to the beach, you can stay for $169, and have breakfast included,” he says. “It’s a good deal.” In addition, he points to the friendliness of his staff of 50, who look after the hotel’s guests.
“Friendliness is a draw, and it’s something that people can take away with them,” he adds.

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AT A GLANCE

WHO: Holiday Inn Express, San Juan

WHAT: A 115-room business and leisure traveler hotel

WHERE: The Condado District, San Juan, Puerto Rico

WEBSITE: www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/san-juan/sjupr/hoteldetail