Could anyone please give me advice regarding these 2 hotels for a one night stay prior to a cruise? A friend and I are bringing 2 13 year olds and I am trying to decide which would be the better hotel to stay at with them. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

The Sheraton Old San Juan is right across from the cruiseport, so that is convenient for precruise. You can walk to Old San Juan, which would be interesting. There is a lot of shopping (are they girls or boys? Thirteen year old girls might like the shopping.) Also, there is a historic fort to tour.

However, for most 13 year olds, I suspect the beach would be their focus. The Hampton Inn, in Isla Verde, is almost across the street, and just a short walk from the very lovely Ritz Carlton with a beautiful beach, and beaches are all public (though the loungchairs are not). Also, there is a very nice, reasonable casual outdoor restaurant there at the Ritz Carlton right near their pool and beach.

Another point: the Hampton provides a free breakfast, which is a nice bonus when traveling with kids. It is a very short, 5 minute cab ride from the airport, and then, as I recall, about a $20 or $25 cab ride from the cruiseport.

Hope this helps.