Our idea of a great vacation isn't lying on a beach at a resort being pampered, but exploring in our RV, camping on Kauai or a budget trip to Europe. Other preconceptions that put us off cruising were my aversion to cigarette smoke (not an issue), and the bar scene (avoidable), So when I saw this itinerary: 5 ports plus San Juan in 7 days...only one day at sea... for less than $100 per day (booked last minute), I did my homework and found the best ship. I really did.

Hotels:

We arrived in San Juan the night before our cruise and stayed at the Atlantic Beach Hotel in Condado. The first impressions of the neighborhood are not an indication of the quality of this place. Our room was spotlessly clean, with scrubbed marble tile and white duvet bedding. No questionable bedspread or carpeting to hold odors and germs, and the ocean view room on the 4th floor was quiet and comfortable. Staff at the front desk was helpful and friendly, and the location is convenient for picking up a rental car. Sadly many of the hotels and businesses in this stretch of beautiful beach seem to be closed down. Read more