Where Not to Stay When Visiting Puerto Rico

[TipoConSuerte]

Last year, I had lunch at Parador Guajataca in Quebradillas. The restaurant was clean and the attendants were well mannered and attentive. The view from most any part of the parador was excellent. As a result, I decided to stay there next time I'd visit Puerto Rico.

I made reservations two weeks prior to my arrival on June 16, 2009. Checking in alone was dissatisfying. I was asked to wait outside the clerk's office while he attended another guest. So long was the wait that I went for a walk and returned 20 minutes later figuring this was more than enough time. No such luck! After waiting yet another 10 minutes, I went for a second walk. Upon returning the clerk greeted me courteously but rendered no apology for my wait.

I checked into room 202. As soon as I entered, I heard voices from the room next door. Not that the next-door guests were loud. But, the rooms were connected by a common door which was too thin, making it possible for me to hear their conversation.

I requested another room. I was sent to room 208. As I made my way to 208, I observed several pieces of litter and an outdoor lamp dangling from exposed wiring. Although this room was not connected to another, I was appalled by what I experienced upon entering. Flies and mosquitoes buzzed around as I took a wiff of a foul odor. The bathroom window had no screen and could not be closed allowing insects to enter. The room's brown floor tiles and decor was dark, drab, and depressing. Given that I was hungry, I left my luggage and proceeded to the restaurant. But...it was closed that day!!!

I left disappointed in search of a nearby place to eat. Having found a nearby place, I mentioned my experience to the waitress. She told me how she'd heard similar complaints. She then recommended a place across the road from Guajataca called Parador Vistamar. As soon as I finished my early dinner, I drove to Vistamar and was amazed by what I saw. Not only was the place modern, clean, and with a better view but, the room fees were lower!!!

I raced back to Guajataca and told them I needed to check out. They would not reimburse me. I explained the odor and fly issue in room 208. I was handed a bottle of odorizing spray and was told that someone would be there soon with insecticide. "No thanks" I said. And with that proceeded to leave minus 118 dollars.

I have no regrets for the decision I made. I enjoyed two beautiful days at Vistamar. This is one place I will definitely return to. BUT NOT GUAJATACA!!!

[Suki]

Well TCS, I will make note of that horror of places Parador Guajataca. It sucked. Won't be staying there ever. Thanks for the tip.

[PunkMaister]

Is Vistamar even still around? It has been ages since I've visited Quebradillas...

[TipoConSuerte]

Suki, to date this has been the worst place I've been close to lodging in while in Puerto Rico. Guajataca was a well known place years back. It's a shame what this place has become. It is run down, with trash all around. It feels like a place that has lingered behind the times.

I filed a formal complaint with the "Compañia de Turismo de Puerto Rico, Departamento de Calidad Turistica." This place gravely underserves Puerto Rico's tourism industry.

I lost $118 in the process, but ended up staying in a really nice clean place with an awesome view. Vistamar is a total different story. I highly recommend it.