Exploring Puerto Rico
Post-Hurricane Resilience
Puerto Rico has demonstrated remarkable resilience and the power of tourism in fueling economic recovery following Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. The tourism sector injects money directly into the local economy, benefiting businesses, employees, and other supporting industries. The Puerto Rico Tourism Company officially declared the island open for business three months after Hurricane Maria, although rebuilding efforts are ongoing.
The influx of tourism back to Puerto Rico has significantly helped businesses on the island bounce back quickly after the hurricanes. Businesses like restaurants have seen a positive impact from the return of visitors, allowing them to provide services and support local suppliers such as fishmongers, farms, and packaging suppliers. For more on the island’s recovery and other activities, check out what to do in Puerto Rico.
Culinary Delights
Puerto Rico boasts a flourishing food scene with nearly 4,000 restaurants open, offering visitors fresh, local ingredients and award-winning cuisine experiences, even six months after the hurricane. The island’s culinary offerings are diverse and vibrant from street food to fine dining.
For those planning their visit, here is a small table displaying some culinary highlights:
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Mofongo | Mashed plantain dish with garlic and pork cracklings |
| Lechón Asado | Slow-roasted whole pig, often served during festivals |
| Pastelón | Puerto Rican lasagna made with sweet plantains and ground beef |
| Asopao | Hearty soup with rice, chicken, and sofrito |
Exploring the flavors of Puerto Rico is a must for any visitor. For more on the island’s culinary experiences, visit things to do in Puerto Rico.
Enjoy the blend of tradition and innovation that Puerto Rico’s food scene has to offer while staying at some of the finest hotels in Puerto Rico.
Hotel Options in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico offers a variety of luxurious hotel options that cater to the needs of every traveler. Among these, the El San Juan Hotel and Meliá Coco Beach stand out for their exceptional amenities and services.
El San Juan Hotel
The Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, a Puerto Rican icon since 1958, joined the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts portfolio in 2020 after a $65 million renovation (Forbes). This grand hotel offers 388 guest rooms with breathtaking city, pool, or ocean views, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to indulge in luxury.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rooms | 388 |
| Views | City, Pool, Ocean |
| Swimming Pools | 4 |
| Onsite Restaurants | 8 |
With four swimming pools and eight onsite restaurants, guests have ample options for relaxation and dining without needing to leave the hotel grounds. Whether enjoying a swim or savoring a gourmet meal, the El San Juan Hotel ensures a memorable stay. For more information on where to stay in Puerto Rico, explore our detailed guides.
Meliá Coco Beach
Meliá Coco Beach is another prime example of luxury and comfort in Puerto Rico. This stunning resort offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, providing a perfect haven for relaxation and adventure.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Coco Beach, Rio Grande |
| Facilities | Pools, Spa, Golf Course |
| Dining Options | Multiple Restaurants and Bars |
Situated in the scenic Coco Beach area of Rio Grande, the resort features multiple pools, a spa, and a world-class golf course. Meliá Coco Beach is designed to cater to every need of its guests, ensuring a delightful experience.
These distinguished hotels not only offer luxurious accommodations but also reflect the resilient spirit of Puerto Rico. For travelers planning a visit, these options are sure to provide an unforgettable stay. For more travel tips and best places to visit in Puerto Rico, visit our travel section.
All-Inclusive Experiences
For travelers seeking a hassle-free vacation, all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Rico offer a blend of relaxation, luxury, and convenience. Two standout options are the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar and the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
Located in Rio Grande, the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar offers optional all-inclusive packages, perfect for those who want to enjoy their stay without worrying about extra costs (Island Life Caribbean). This resort boasts a range of amenities:
- On-Site Casino: Test your luck at the resort’s casino.
- Golf Courses: Enjoy two championship golf courses.
- Luxury Spa: Unwind with a variety of spa treatments.
- Beach Access: Relax on the pristine beach.
- Pools: Swim in lagoon-style pools.
- Dining Options: Savor Italian cuisine at Palio and Caribbean comfort foods at Roots Coastal Kitchen.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Rio Grande |
| Amenities | Casino, 2 Golf Courses, Spa, Beach Access, Lagoon-Style Pools |
| Dining | Palio (Italian), Roots Coastal Kitchen (Caribbean) |
| Packages | Optional All-Inclusive |
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
Also in Rio Grande, the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort offers optional food-inclusive packages, making it a top choice for luxury seekers. The resort offers:
- Room Decor: Inspired by the surrounding sea and lush jungles.
- Golf Course: Perfect for golf enthusiasts.
- Spa: Indulge in a variety of spa services.
- Seaside Pool Esplanade: Relax by the pool with stunning views.
- Dining Options: Experience fine dining at St. Regis Bar and Paros Restaurant, which serves Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Rio Grande |
| Amenities | Golf Course, Spa, Seaside Pool Esplanade |
| Dining | St. Regis Bar, Paros Restaurant (Greek and Mediterranean) |
| Packages | Optional Food-Inclusive |
Both of these resorts provide the ultimate comfort and convenience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Puerto Rico. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, enjoy gourmet meals, or explore the island’s many attractions, these all-inclusive experiences have you covered.
