PUERTO RICO'S LUXURY RENAISSANCE: NEW FIVE-STAR ESCAPES & UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES
Puerto Rico, the island of enchantment, is stepping into a new era of luxury travel. |
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PUERTO RICO'S LUXURY RENAISSANCE: NEW FIVE-STAR ESCAPES & UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES
Puerto Rico, the island of enchantment, is stepping into a new era of luxury travel. |
Category: North America & West Indies / Carribean islands - Puerto Rico - Industry economy
- Tourism
Article written by Asia Abadie on 2025-03-10
 Puerto Rico, the island of enchantment, is stepping into a new era of luxury travel
Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
Derived from Boriquén, the original Taíno name for the island, Boricua is a word that carries deep cultural pride. Today, Puerto Ricans call themselves Boricua, which encompasses their connection to the island’s rich heritage, blending African, Spanish, and Taíno influences. From the vibrant sounds of Bomba to the flavours of traditional cuisine, experiencing Puerto Rico means embracing the spirit of Boricua culture. More than just a paradise of sun-kissed beaches and historic charm, Puerto Rico is now a playground for travellers seeking unparalleled hospitality, exclusive adventures, and a taste of its vibrant soul.
A new era of hospitality
Puerto Rico is undergoing a remarkable luxury transformation, with a surge of new hotel openings, major renovations, and a renewed commitment to five-star hospitality. The much-anticipated reopening of the Ritz-Carlton San Juan in 2025 marks a major milestone in the island's hospitality landscape. Spearheading this revival is Sam Basu, an industry veteran who previously led the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort and Spa, in Florida, before his return to Puerto Rico. His leadership is expected to restore the Ritz-Carlton San Juan as a pinnacle of refined elegance and world-class service.
Further elevating the island’s luxury offerings, Nayara Resorts will break ground in 2025 in Orocovis, introducing an ultra-luxury retreat to Puerto Rico. Previously announced projects like the Hard Rock Hotel San Juan will bring a dynamic and high-energy hospitality experience to the capital. Meanwhile, The Moncayo in Fajardo, in which Auberge Resorts Collection will open a property, will offer a tranquil, upscale escape on the island’s east coast. Additional boutique luxury properties, such as The VERANÓ San Juan in Santurce, opening this spring, will add to the evolving metropolitan landscape.
Hilton has also made a strong commitment to expanding its footprint in Puerto Rico, recently announcing plans to double its presence across the island. This ambitious expansion includes new Hilton-branded properties in San Juan, Ponce, and Dorado, catering to both leisure and business travellers. A major milestone in this initiative is the construction of a dual-branded Hilton project in the Convention Centre District with both Hampton and Homewood Suites within the same building, adding 267 new rooms to support the island’s thriving meetings and conventions sector. Marriott’s One Distrito, expected to open by mid-2027, will feature 109 apartment-style units available through the Bonvoy Rental Program. Combined, the Hilton Duo project and One Distrito will contribute an additional 366 rooms to the area, meeting the growing demand for accommodations driven by increased conference and business travel.
Beyond new developments, Puerto Rico’s most celebrated luxury hotels are making major investments to enhance their offerings. La Concha Resort is undergoing a $45 million transformation as it transitions into the Marriott Autograph Collection, elevating its prestige with a full renovation of its 258 oceanfront rooms. This transformation includes the debut of El Amara Spa, a haven of wellness that blends world-class treatments with Puerto Rican influences, and Levant by Michelin-starred chef Michael White, a Mediterranean dining destination.
Other legendary properties are also elevating their guest experiences. The Hotel El Convento, the first Small Luxury Hotel of the World member in the country, a historic gem in Old San Juan, has completed a $3.5 million renovation, modernizing its design while preserving its storied charm. Next door, the Palacio Provincial, Curio Collection by Hilton, an adults-only boutique hotel, has recently opened, offering an intimate and sophisticated retreat in the heart of Old San Juan. Meanwhile, the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach & Golf Resort is also undergoing a $50 million renovation, solidifying its reputation as one of the island’s premier beachfront and golf destinations. Nestled between the ocean and El Yunque Rainforest, this resort continues to attract prestigious events, including Destinations International’s Advocacy Summit at the end of last year.
Bespoke experiences
There are no all-inclusive hotels on the island. Instead, visitors are encouraged to explore beyond the resorts and immerse themselves in the island’s vibrant culture and diverse landscapes.
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean gem, located near the Dominican Republic and Cuba, and is more than just a single island—it is an archipelago. Many travellers are unaware that Puerto Rico consists of 78 municipalities, including the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra, both renowned for their breathtaking beaches and unspoiled nature. The island is divided into six distinct regions: the north, the metropolitan area, the east, the south, the west, and the central mountainous region, each offering its own unique experiences. While Puerto Rico has long been celebrated for its stunning beaches, its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a destination with so much more to explore.
Through the Live Boricua campaign, travellers are invited to experience everything Puerto Rico has to offer—from the historic streets of Old San Juan, where over 500 years of history come to life, to the bustling nightlife and world-class restaurants in the metropolitan region. Visitors can embark on rum distillery tours in Cataño and Bayamón, experiencing the craftsmanship behind iconic brands like Bacardí.
Picture yourself indulging in a private rum-tasting experience at Casa Bacardí, where aged reserves are paired with gourmet chocolates, or boarding a luxury yacht to explore the bioluminescent waters of Mosquito Bay in Vieques under a starry sky.
For adventure enthusiasts, guided hiking tours through El Yunque National Rainforest offer an exclusive way to discover hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Helicopter tours provide a bird’s-eye view of Puerto Rico’s coastline, revealing secluded beaches and untouched natural wonders. Golf aficionados can tee off at championship courses designed by legends like Robert Trent Jones Jr., such as the Bahia Beach Golf Club or Dorado Beach East Golf Course, surrounded by stunning ocean views.
One of Puerto Rico’s greatest advantages is its accessibility. In just a few hours, visitors can traverse from San Juan’s cultural landmarks to the west coast’s laid-back beaches or the lush rainforests of the central region. Adventure-seekers can soar through the treetops at Toro Verde Adventure Park in Orocovis, home to the second-longest zipline in the Americas. Alternatively, a short trip to the East Coast offers pristine beaches and island-hopping adventures to Vieques and Culebra, perfect for those seeking seclusion and natural beauty. Food lovers can indulge in authentic Puerto Rican cuisine in Caguas, known for its rich culinary traditions, or explore the farm-to-table movement in the northern town of Manatí, with Frutos del Guacabo.
Puerto Rico’s African heritage is beautifully preserved through the rhythms of Bomba, a traditional music and dance genre with deep historical roots. Originating from enslaved Africans on the island, Bomba was a form of communication, resistance, and celebration. What makes it particularly captivating is its unique structure—the drummers follow the dancer’s lead, not the other way around. Every movement dictates the beat, creating a powerful dialogue between the performer and the musicians. Visitors can immerse themselves in this cultural experience in places like Loíza and Old San Juan, where Bomba dance classes offer an engaging way to connect with Puerto Rican history and traditions. In Loíza, this experience is made even more special by its stunning beachfront setting, where the sounds of the ocean blend with the rhythmic beats of the drums. Whether watching a live performance or joining in a dance session, visitors are invited to take part in a centuries-old tradition that remains a vibrant expression of Puerto Rican identity today.
For travellers seeking cultural immersion, the southern city of Ponce is a must-visit destination. Known for its vibrant arts scene, visitors can explore historic architecture, world-class museums, and the rich heritage of Puerto Rican salsa music. The city's downtown district offers guided tours that highlight its stunning neoclassical buildings and storied past, while its many museums provide insight into Puerto Rico’s artistic and cultural evolution. Ponce is also the birthplace of many renowned salsa singers and dancers, making it a dynamic hub for those looking to experience the island’s musical heartbeat firsthand.
A feast for the senses
Puerto Rico’s gastronomic scene is undergoing a luxury transformation, blending traditional flavours with innovative techniques. Picture dining under the stars in a lush courtyard, savouring freshly caught seafood expertly prepared with local flavours, and paired with an exquisite selection of Puerto Rican rums and wines. The island’s burgeoning farm-to-table movement also allows visitors to experience organic, sustainable dining at its finest, with immersive food and wine pairings that showcase Puerto Rico’s agricultural riches. From artisanal cheese-making workshops to exclusive tastings at boutique coffee plantations, culinary enthusiasts can explore the island’s rich flavours while supporting local farmers and producers.
Seamless travel to Puerto Rico
Getting to Puerto Rico has never been easier, with a vast network of direct flights connecting the island to major cities worldwide. Travellers from the U.S. enjoy extensive access, with direct flights from key hubs like New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Atlanta (ATL), and Dallas (DFW), making Puerto Rico a convenient getaway just a few hours from the mainland, ensuring seamless travel for both leisure and business visitors.
Beyond the U.S., Puerto Rico is expanding its international reach. The island boasts a direct Iberia flight to Madrid, operating regularly and offering a key gateway to Europe. Efforts are also underway to grow international arrivals from the UK, Germany, and Canada, with ongoing partnerships and promotional campaigns in these markets. The government and tourism board are actively working to develop new routes, ensuring Puerto Rico remains an accessible and enticing destination for travellers across the globe.
For international travellers, Puerto Rico offers a seamless and enticing gateway to the Caribbean, blending tropical beauty with world-class hospitality. With direct flights from Europe, Latin America, and Canada expanding, reaching the island has never been more convenient. Whether seeking a luxury escape, an immersive cultural experience, or an unforgettable culinary journey, Puerto Rico welcomes discerning travellers with open arms. From its pristine beaches and historic landmarks to its vibrant nightlife and exquisite dining scene, the island promises an indulgent yet accessible adventure in the heart of the Caribbean.
 Explore the bioluminescent waters of Mosquito Bay in Vieques under a starry sky
Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
 What makes Bomba dance unique is its structure—the drummers follow the dancer’s lead
Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
 Experience the craftsmanship behind iconic brands like Bacardí
Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
 Indulge in a private rum-tasting experience at Casa Bacardí
Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
 Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
 Travellers are invited to discover the historic streets of Old San Juan where over 500 years of history come to life
Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
 Photo credit © Discover Puerto Rico
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