Bóveda, San Juan Antiguo

The Boveda apartments in Old San Juan are the BEST! I had the pleasure of being one of the first guests in the Garden Suite with my girlfriend visiting from Germany. We were both impressed. We had a cool, quiet room with all the amenities, and felt like we were living in an Island Villa with our very own black and white marble patio outside our door overlooking lush tropical plants and trees, with over sized wicker furniture to sink into, and a large kitchen where we could concoct a frozen rum drink (hint - the locals prefer Don Q gold ) before trekking out to the fun and nearby night life. Not having to rent a car or struggle with parking was a huge time and money saver. We could walk the Old City, enjoying the cultural heritage, and even fly a kite on Sunday with the scores of locals at nearby El Morro, or take a bus to the beach. My girlfriend went wild in the boutique downstairs and I was even able to find a pair of inexpensive sunglasses for myself. I was able to do all of my gift shopping between Boveda, the outlet stores right on the block, and the supermarket in the plaza, where they sell excellent Puerto Rican coffee and rum at non tourist prices, and if you ask, they'll pack the bottles in those cardboard carry ons. I've returned twice - once with my present girlfriend who LOVED the room and location and again with a family reunion, where 6 of us spread out in the luxurious Gallery apartment, in the front of the building, with the balcony over Cristo St. Having our own apartment, as opposed to staying in a hotel, gave us a closer sense of history: the feeling that we were in a very special place.

I dont usually write reviews, but this one is totally worth my time. I absolutely loved the apartment, store, and the owner. It was a very warm experience and I almost felt as if I didnt pay enough. It was a bargain that far exceeded my expectations. I plan to visit Puerto Rico again and I will rent the apartment every time if available. Additionally, the store has some of the most unique fashionable items in Old San Juan. I purchased a hat for the beach and I was stopped on the street and at the airport with compliments and questions about the "designer" hat I wore. I cant give enough praise the apartment, store, and the experience in general. Staying there made my visit to Puerto Rico memorable. I highly recommend it. P.S. If you plan to stay there, buy groceries for the apartment. Dining in Old San Juan was expensive and this saved us a bundle!

Last year when we were there shopping we saw the notice about the apartments. They have 2 fabulous short term, furnished rental units, not widely advertized . We stayed in the Gallery Suite. It was great to be right in the heart of Old San Juan, in our own apartment. So much better than a hotel! We got to watch the action day and night from our own balcony! The apartment was huge yet charming. We'll definitely stay here again.

This little gem is quite a find! I loved this store!!! Not only the unique selection of jewelry and clothes, but the girls are just the nicest. We were in town for one day and spent a good amount of time looking and finally buying a few goodies. We were finished at luch time and asked the salesperson about a good place to eat, being we were vegan, we were hoping for some good tips from some good earthy girls! We had a wonderful lunch 2 blocks up and if we go back to old town san juan, be sure we will repeat our stops in Boveda and Zesty Bites.