Los Almendros de San Lorenzo

Suchitoto is two hours away from the airport by car, and the roads are anything but pleasant. But when you're finally here, you will forget all about the drive. The town is pretty and Los Almendros de San Lorenzo is even prettier. The small hotel is located in a 19th century building, only a block from the main square of the city. The location couldn't be better. I was quickly checked in by a friendly member of staff. He did not speak much English, but others here do, so there should always be someone present to assist you in English if needed. The owner is also often present himself and is very friendly. The hotel feels almost like a museum with lots of artefacts on display and a beautiful lounge where you can sit and relax. My room faced the inner courtyard and came with a very small window only. The room was large and was furnished like I would imagine hotel rooms a hundred years ago. While it added to the atmosphere, I would still have appreciated a desk or a coffee table, for which there would have been ample room. A fridge and safe would also have been nice. The bed was okay and A/C was efficient. A jug of drinking water was provided. Wifi worked well both in the room as well as in the restaurant. It was free, fast, unlimited and easy to use. The bathroom came with a walk-in shower with an overhead shower. There was hot water, but water pressure was not good enough. Shampoo was available in single-use bottles and hand soap in small bars. I appreciate this as I don't find the wall-mounted containers that many hotels choose to put up on their bathroom walls hygienic. Breakfast was included in my room rate. It is not a buffet, instead you fill in a breakfast card the previous evening and then let them know in the morning when you would like your breakfast. However, despite the preorder, they were not well-prepared and the first morning I had to wait 25 minutes to get my meal. The second morning, it was fortunately quicker. Breakfast included a fruit salad, juice, a hot beverage and a dish from the menu, think eggs or French toast or granola. While it was nothing special, it gave a good start to the day. I had dinner at the restaurant twice. The staff were friendly, the food was okay but nothing special really. The prices were reasonable. There was also a small pool in the backyard. The water was a bit on the cold side as temperatures fall considerably at night. On departure, I asked the hotel to organize a transfer to San Salvador, which was very well taken care of. My driver David was great and took me to the capital in 1.5 hours at a cost of 55 dollars.

It felt like we were walking into history. Beautiful surroundings, primo room and close to the plaza which was delightful in the evening. Good food and lovely staff.

Honestly I have nothing bad to say about this stay. Beautiful hotel, with beautiful common space, the room was absolutely stunning, the food and service were solid. Relativity easy parking on the street out front, great pool and beautiful gardens. Loved the balcony/ living space in my room. The town is sleepy and quiet, don’t expect a “nightlife” or frankly much to do during the day either. It’s beautiful, quiet and walkable and feels very safe. If you are looking to relax, definitely book this place. Wish I had stayed another night.