We've stayed at El Portal twice, Feb & Apr 07, both 1 nite stays. Price with tax is around $95. Both times we've been in an end-of-aisle room - comfortable, clean, no plumbing problems but definitely in need for some updating. Staff have always been helpful and pleasant. Yes, continental breakfast is fair but that's what it is - a continental, not a buffet breakfast. Location is excellent - easy walk to Ashford Avenue and many dining choices. Taxi from airport runs around $20US, includes the tip. Would stay here again. Did stay at Coral Princess - much nicer, near El Portal but about $40-$50more - better breakfast and has a pool.

We read so many negative reviews about this hotel we were afraid to stay here. Because we would have lost our deposit we went. All the negative reviews were wrong. The room was clean, it did not smell. There was no problems with the plumbing, no slow draining shower, no odor when flushing the toilet. All the staff were friendly and very helpful. Breakfast on the terrace, a continental breakfast, assorted pastries, cereal, coffee and juice, was a good beginning to our day. In fact, when our flight was canceled we called them and went right back for another night. I would not hesitate to go back again. Close to the beach and a variety of good restaurants. We found it to be a convenient location.

My wife and I stayed here for four nights in February. We reserved the hotel through Expedia for $85/night. We expected a decent room as Expedia rated this hotel with three stars. It was far from three stars. The hotel smelled moldy, was constantly cold (60ish), had filthy beds and was extremely damp. My wife and I got sick after the second night. We suspect the moldy, damp room played a role. The moisture in our room made the pages of a magazine so damp after three nights that they ripped when turned.

Despite the previously mentioned flaws, the hotel was close to the beach and within walking distance to several bus lines.

It seems the hotel has not changed anything since the late 70's. The carpet, the tile, the sheets, the tub, the glass, etc. It is very dirty. The rooftop continental breakfast is a joke. I was booked here for 3 nights, but left after 1. That young man behind the desk was as lazy an employee I have ever seen. He never answered the phone. When I would go to the desk to ask the question, I saw him messing around on-line with video games. Just don't do it. Don't say I didn't warn you.