Image: Pixabay

When is the most ideal time to visit the Caribbean? Anytime.

And there is always a reason to visit the U.S. oasis, Puerto Rico. Always.

Next time, you’ll want to stay at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. No more than 15 minutes from the San Juan Airport, the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is nestled in the definitive Puerto Rico location, the Condado beach area. Located at 309 Ashford Avenue in San Juan, the hotel serves as ground zero for all things Puerto Rico.

Fall in love all over again with Puerto Rico with help from resort staff who “get it.” If your hotel package comes with breakfast, expect to be greeted by a staff member dedicated to making your mornings exceptional. He or she will present breakfast with a smile and suggestions on where to spend the upcoming day. Should you choose to stay on the property, there’s always the in-pool bar, equipped with barstools in the water. If you’re lucky enough to stay through week’s end, enjoy the salsa band playing at the bar!

Image: Pixabay

Check in and head straight to the ocean via a corridor of sorts. The hotel has a pool entrance fit enough for any movie script. If pool chairs and cabanas could talk, they would say “come on in, the water’s perfect!” They would also have the perfect rum-infused cocktail on deck, but you’ll have to settle for a bartender preparing one for you in real time. Poor you.

I appreciated being able to go outside the front doors and walk to restaurants; it’s just a short walk, too. You can also walk a few feet to catch the local bus to Old San Juan, where authentic cooking and historic monuments await. If you need anything while staying here, the hotel staff and management are very friendly and efficient.

Got kiddos? Send them to camp to keep them busy while you give yourself permission have a little fun of your own, regardless of what that would entail: tanning, swimming or food and drink-hopping.

For those like me who must be near a Walgreens at all times, there is a store located within walking distance. Same goes for Starbucks. But eat at the hotel as there is a buffet that will fill your belly for the entire day.

The stats:

• 525 newly upgraded guest rooms and suites.
• Rated best hotel location in San Juan on Tripadvisor.com.
• Impressive ocean views with an oceanfront pool.
• Choose from a variety of gaming options at the onsite Stellaris Casino.
• Spa and restaurants (including a night club!) included, so there is no need to leave the resort.
• Something for anyone can be found here; seniors and young bridal party members alike.

If your only back-to-school plans consist of buying as many pairs of khakis as possible, preparing lunches with healthier snacks and making it to the bus stop on time, you need to find out how to score a quick getaway to Puerto Rico. Rates at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino begin at $175 a night.

Good to know: The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino accepts Marriott Rewards points to redeem. You can earn points here, too.