Puerto Rico – Travel

Where2Stay

Caribe Hilton – one of the first hotels, one of the best. Situated on the only private beach on the island, comprising 18 acres, 910 rooms and villas, extensive kids program, game room, Morton’s Steak House Restaurant. Something for everyone.

Ritz Carlton – No surprise – most deluxe & hottest hotel, prime beachfront location, chandeliers, kids program, 12,000 sq. ft. spa, Il Mulino & BLT Steak Restaurants from NY. 24 hour casino, gamble while the kids are in camp. Everyone is happy!

El Convento – Member of Small Luxury Hotel Group, small, romantic boutique hotel located in Old San Juan, walking distance to town’s pulsating nite life.Value

El Conquistador Resort in Fajardo, on the northeast side of the island, perched on a 300 ft cliff. A 100 acre private island, catamaran ride 8 minutes away, water park, golf course, Golden Door Spa, horseback riding, casino & multiple restaurants. Why leave?

Horned Dorset Primavera Hotel – most romantic & exclusive on the Southern Coast. No t.v.’s, telephones, adults only. Kids can’t reach you, you can’t reach them. Ideal for all. Spanish Villa with 55 rooms perfect for honeymooners or a very private escape. Mmm – wonder what there is to do???

W Retreat & Spa Vieques Island – Once a private Navy base, this island with fishing village & secluded beaches is no longer a best kept secret! Some of the most gorgeous beaches located on this island. W Retreat can be described as “Wow.” Smallest room ( 620 sq feet! ) named Tropical Oasis says it all. With Mix on the Beach Restaurant from Alain ducasse, ocean front infinity pool, & Zen Spa. Already relaxed?

Where2Eat

What’s better than seafood, tropical fruits, exotic spices & rum? Some local places to dine: Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar, Vaca Brava (be sure to sample mofongo, a fried green plantain), Bodega Compostara for tapas, bakery and local diner La Bombonera, Dragonfly (where NY village meets Asian Fusion) & Tantra, all the local chefs hang out post cooking. Stroll “South of Fortaleza Street,” (SOFO) known for its vibrant restaurants, shopping, and lounges for locals & tourists.

Where2Play

PR is all about salsa dancing & late nite partying. Drinking age is 18! Hard to locate Nuyorican Cafe for great local salsa bands. Bar Gitano & sister El Barril has tapas w/ flamingo dancing. Major nite spots are: Club Brava, Club Lazer and Club Flow (prepare for flashy, scantily dressed women/men & very close dancing)! Oh Yea. Don’t miss Plaza del Mercado, a market square by day transforming Thursday/Friday nites into an open air block party! Not to be forgotten is Wet, rooftop open air lounge & sushi venue in the boutique hotel, Water & Beach. All night long… No curfew!

Need a tropical fix? Close your eyes & pretend. Head to San Rafael to Sol Food serving Puerto Rican food.