The Eden Apartments sits high on the side of a mountain, with spectacular views, especially from the rooftop solarium, a quiet, narrow deck with comfortable sunbeds, an outdoor shower, and a 360-degree panorama. Downstairs by the pool, the atmosphere is chaotic, with sunbeds close together and competition for space so fierce that, apparently, hardcore guests rise in the wee hours and sleep on them to stake their claims. Space is limited because the Eden restaurant borders the pool along one side. Restaurant and pool offer lovely views of the Bay of Amadores. The restaurant is bright, with colorful chairs and tablecloths on the tables, but the space is long, narrow, and feels cramped. The lobby lacks atmosphere and feels touristy, with racks of sightseeing brochures, older furniture, computer stations, an ATM and a lending library with books and magazines flung everywhere. The front desk is a monolith of gray-and-white marble that matches the marble floor. In one corner, however, there is a swath of cool modern wallpaper, a large flat-screen TV, and a striking sculptural wood mirror, which is, it's hoped, a harbinger of design to come, once the Eden is renovated.

The Eden Apartments is located high on the side of a mountain, with great sea views, in an area surrounded by hotels. The Europa shopping center is a short walk away, but the tourist section of Puerto Rico requires a short drive. A local bus service runs from the hotel down to the beach and to the major shopping areas. The area is very hilly, and walking can be a problem on the narrow mountain roads. A rental car is a must unless guests want to stick close to the grounds.

Rooms at the Eden Apartments are plain, with little decor or color, except for blue sofas and curtains in every unit. Some rooms are more up to date than others. Kitchens are roomy, with breakfast bars, but the two-burner cooktops and old microwaves make extensive cooking a challenge. Apartments are not air-conditioned, but guests can rent portable cooling units from the hotel. TVs are coin-operated, and have English channels, but the large sticker across the top of the screen reading "Call reception to activate" is tacky. Bathroom fixtures are clean, but need a serious update. The furnished balconies or patios are a good size.

The Eden Apartments offers live entertainment nightly in the restaurant. Cash Bingo in the pool area is very popular with guests. Once a week, the hotel schedules barbecue night, but visitors should note that there is a surcharge to attend; it is not part of the all-inclusive package. There is a supermarket in the lobby for guests who want to stock their kitchens. The pool is large and deep, but the shallow end is not shallow enough for small children to play in safely.