The moment you step foot inside the vast lobby at Caribe Hilton, you can feel the history of this property all around you. It’s like an instant vibe check, as if you’ve been transported back in time without losing any of the joys and perks of modern amenities. And a lot of it has to do with an alluring mural past the front desk area and just beyond the entrance to Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. 

In fact, a guest might entirely miss it because of the view through the massive glass wall beyond the Caribar. This is the spot, after all, where bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero mixed rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice for the first time and became the inventor of the piña colada. Thus, the mural celebrates the man, myth, and legend and role he and a simple cocktail played in creating a lasting legacy for this popular resort.

But the history of this bar and building will only captivate a guest for so long before today’s creative mixologists steal the spotlight. I must have spent several hours on my stool, gleefully watching as one bartender after another stepped forward to make me phenomenal signature cocktails that I assume would have made Monchito proud—and probably a little jealous. If I was awarding a trophy that evening, it would probably go to the Rum Fashioned that stole my heart, and it’s becoming an increasingly common drink, sure, but these guys had twists and special tricks for days.

Caribe Hilton earned legendary status for its history, but its modern improvements and additions have made it the kind of property a family can visit and rarely leave. Multiple dining options will please even the pickiest eaters, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t visit Mojito’s Caribbean Fusion twice during my visit so I could proudly declare that I drank not only the Super Margarita but the Colossal Margarita as well. 

Still, I had to get out and explore, because if there’s one thing Puerto Ricans are extremely proud of, it’s their food. Everyone had a recommendation for places to eat in San Juan and a little beyond, so I made notes, stretched my legs (or wiggled my Uber thumbs), and set out to find some of the best. 

Marmalade

When I asked staff members at Caribe Hilton for their top pick for a restaurant they’d choose for a night out, Marmalade was the runaway winner. It is easily one of the most creative dining options in Old San Juan, as Chef/Owner Peter Schintler’s concept only offers tasting menus, so guests should keep an open mind and know they’re about to have an eclectic affair. From appetizers like organic beef tartar and “sushi esque” paella to exceptional entrees like wild Mediterranean turbot and natural, hormone-free lamb tagine, no one will be disappointed.

More than anything, this is probably the best choice for larger groups because while five or less people will enjoy five courses, six or more will have the immense pleasure of tasting 14 courses. That’s a lot of photos to take for any Instagram account, but the experience is beyond amazing.

El Jibarito

Now, when I asked for authentic local cuisine, quite a few fingers pointed in the direction of Old San Juan, where El Jibarito has some of the most in-demand tables in town. In fact, because you can’t make reservations and the wait can be as long as an hour depending on the time of day, I was encouraged to eat here by myself, as parties of one tend to get in and out much quicker than groups.

Lote 23

In terms of finding the ideal mix of authenticity and variety, there’s little wonder why the “gastronomical park” Lote 23 quickly ascended to one of the most exciting settings on the entire island. From Budare’s arepas and El Cuchifrito’s mofongo to mouth-watering mac and cheese and amazing burgers, even the pickiest eaters will become wannabe food influencers here. 

And no one should leave without grabbing one of the creative cocktails from Caneca, where brilliant mixologists Leslie Cofresí and Roberto Berdecía blend fresh juices and generous pours from the coolest Airstream trailer setup.

Santaella

Upon first glance, the menu for Chef José Santaella’s signature restaurant seems like a dream. For appetizers alone, guests won’t want to be pinched as they choose from the extensive list, and decisions won’t be much easier when it comes to seafood and meat choices. But that’s a fantastic problem to have in a destination known for spectacular food, and this charming spot has quickly become a favorite for locals and tourists alike.

Located in La Placita Marketplace, Santaella is also a dynamic choice for special group events, so be it a destination wedding or milestone anniversary, families and friends can gather with the confidence that they’re about to have a truly memorable meal.

1919 Restaurant

One of the things I love about visiting Puerto Rico resorts is how the island’s sense of national pride and camaraderie doesn’t restrict people from one property recommending dining options at other places. In fact, many of them will insist that you get out and explore, and that’s typically when they’ll lean in and whisper their best recommendations. At least that’s how I was encouraged to give the 1919 Restaurant a go.

Located at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, this world-famous establishment is run by Michelin Star-rated Executive Chef Juan José Cuevas, whose “flavor-forward” philosophy guarantees a phenomenal meal. But one of the dining concepts at the top of my Caribbean bucket list is the 1919 Cellar Experience, which is a private, bespoke event for just four guests, and features a wine and cheese pairing from the sommelier. Follow that up with the cigar and whiskey option and you’ll probably feel like the most important person on the island.

Señor Paleta

The popsicles at Señor Paleta are already the stuff of legend, so when someone recommended stopping at the brick-and-mortar location in Old San Juan, I was already halfway out the door. That spot is one of those places that everyone should visit during a Puerto Rican vacation, just because you need a selfie to prove you were there. Otherwise, there’s also a kiosk at Lote 23, which just reaffirms that it is a complete dining experience for everyone.

DISTRITO T-Mobile

Sure, this one will likely raise an eyebrow or two since massive commercial plazas don’t exactly scream culinary authenticity, but there are some phenomenal dining options here. For starters, La Central by Mario Pagán is as stylish a setting as its menu is creative. I stopped here just for the Ron y Tabaco cocktail, but the way people talked about the swordfish, dinner also became the priority. What really blew me away is how every dish includes sugarcane or rum, proving as always that the smallest touches can go a long, long way.

That wasn’t my only meal in the plaza. More people recommended Sazón Cocina Criolla than any other restaurant, so even though it meant taking the one available chair between complete strangers, I had to find out if the hype delivers. Especially since mofongo is always on my list, so I doubled up here with the octopus and skirt steak versions, and, quite frankly, I haven’t stopped thinking about both dishes.

The post An Epicurean’s Adventure in Old San Juan Begins at Caribe Hilton appeared first on Islands.

If you’ve ever traveled along Puerto Rico’s southeast coast, chances are you were just passing through. There’s never been as many places to stay along this stretch of the island as there are along the north coast around San Juan and elsewhere on the island. 

But when the Wyndham Palmas Beach and Golf Resort unveils the results of a multi-million dollar renovation in late May, there will be plenty of reason to settle in here and stay a while. 

The oceanfront boutique resort, located close to El Yunque National Park and within Palmas del Mar, is one of Puerto Rico’s most exclusive private communities and has completely overhauled its lobby, guestrooms, restaurants, and common spaces after being acquired by a leading hospitality investment firm, LionGrove. 

And the 107-room resort’s new look is all about upscale amenities and materials that play up the property’s spectacular setting. 

“The refreshed resort will have a true sense of place thanks to our incorporation of local art and a serene design to highlight the beautiful and natural surroundings of Palmas del Mar,” says Andro Nodarse-León, Founder and CEO of LionGrove.

Boho-inspired decor welcomes you into the redesigned lobby, where soaring ceilings and vast windows create an airy feeling bathed in natural light. Much attention has also been lavished on the resort’s tropical landscaping and onsite amenities, including two gorgeous swimming pools. 

The modern Costa Infinity Pool is a favorite for its swim-up bar and al fresco pizza oven. And families will gravitate to the zero-entry Family Pool in front of the restaurant terrace next to Trova Coastal Kitchen, where recipes by James Beard finalist celebrity chefs Jeff McInnis and Janine Booth are brought to life by Puerto Rican chef Julio Cartagena. 

Wondering how to keep busy away from the resort’s lovely beach and pools? A stay at Wyndham Palms Beach and Golf Resort grants guests access to many of the amenities in the Palmas del Mar community, including Gary Player and Rees Jones golf courses, the Caribbean’s largest tennis center, an equestrian center for rides along the beach, pickleball, and miles of walking and cycling trails. 

The post  Bookmark this Freshly Renovated Puerto Rico Property for Fast and Fun Summer Travel appeared first on Islands.

If you’re a mom you likely already have Sunday, May 14, 2023, circled on your calendar—and it’s not too late to plan to enjoy a coastal brunch, quick beachside escape, or even a splurge-worthy getaway to the Caribbean or Hawaii. We’ve found options that focus on pampering for Mom and family fun for everyone, so get ready to relax, unwind, and celebrate with one of these 16 Mother’s Day deals at some of our favorite island and coastal resorts.

Fifth Night Free

The Place: Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia

Is a back-to-nature escape what you need this Mother’s Day? Anse Chastanet, an architectural delight offering a retreat in the heart of lush St. Lucia, has just 50 rooms, all scattered throughout the verdant hillside and palm-tree lined beachfront and featuring open-air fourth walls that make guests feel connected with land and sea. You can relax in hammocks, lounge beds, private beach huts, and beachside restaurants and enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving and sunset sailing. 

The 600-acre estate that Anse Chastanet occupies is also home to an extraordinary farm and a tasty chocolate lab, where you can take truffle-making classes. Enjoy a fifth night free of charge if you book four or more nights in a Hillside Deluxe or Premium Suite (rates start at $990/night with the promo). 

One Happy Mother’s Day

The Place: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

Located on Aruba’s spectacular Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba offers a Mother’s Day escape blending natural beauty with luxury amenities. The resort’s 320 guestrooms and suites all have private balconies with sweeping sea views and newly refreshed decor that blends the island’s relaxed aesthetic with Ritz-Carlton’s renowned luxury. 

The Ritz-Carlton Spa is offering a “Mom and Me” experience—a 25-minute facial and 50-minute massage for mothers to enjoy with a guest of their choosing—and a “Mom Escape,” a personalized 50-minute custom facial. Guests can also enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch and endless mimosas at BLT Steak, a specially curated blackboard menu of delectable offerings at BLT Steak for dinner, or the Ti Amo Mamma menu at Casa Nonna. 

A Mother’s Day Bingo event is also planned at The Casino and moms will enjoy a 15 percent discount at The Boutique and Sun Boutique. With the Stay Longer, Experience More offer, book four nights or more and save 25 percent (rates start at $583/night with the promo). 

One Suite Deal

The Place: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Maui, Hawaii

To splurge on an amazing experience for the entire family, consider this “suite” offer by the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. Located on legendary Ka’anapali Beach, the property delivers the quintessential Hawaiian experience through an award-winning luau and dining, expert-led stargazing, wildlife tours, and cultural classes—and this Mother’s Day, it has an offer with every extra imaginable: 

• Three nights in Presidential Suite or the Palace Suite (accommodating four or six guests, respectively)
• Pampering at Kamaha’o, a Marilyn Monroe Spa, which includes a massage, facial, and pedicure Mother’s Day breakfast at Swan Court
• VIP table at award-winning Drums of the Pacific Luau tickets to Tour of the Stars
• A family photoshoot throughout the property by Grins 2 Go
• A private social media mermaid class
• A full-day Ohana Tent rental
• Private penguin feeding and wildlife tour
• Private family virtual golf and games in Hyatt Golf Studio by Yo! Maui hosted by resident PGA golf professional Sutee Nitakorn
• Access to Regency Club 

Prices for this offer begin at $23,000. Call (808) 667-4932 for reservations.

Mother’s Day Brunch

The Place: The Condado Vanderbilt, San Juan, Puerto Rico

It’s easy to jet off to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a long weekend of sun and fun, and the perfect spot to celebrate amid elegant surroundings is the Condado Vanderbilt. Opened in 1919, the legendary hotel retains the opulence and grandeur of that bygone era at every turn—captivating architecture, grand pianos, a cozy cocktail bar, speakeasy-style cigar lounge, and postcard-worthy pool areas overlooking the sea—and its 317 rooms and suites are ideal for both couples and families. 

Get 10 percent off (with rates starting at $377/night) when you book three or more nights and be sure to reserve the spectacular Mother’s Day Brunch at the hotel’s award-winning 1919 restaurant.

Mom’s Getaway 

The Place: Andaz San Diego

Looking to have it all—a suite that epitomizes California cool, a candlelit rooftop dinner, a romantic turn down, a sunset cruise, and a private photo shoot? You can at Andaz San Diego, located in the city’s lively Gaslamp Quarter. 

Splurge on the “Mom’s Getaway” offer to enjoy a one-night stay in the 1,275-square-foot Andaz Star Suite, champagne and your favorite candy/snacks upon arrival, a rose-petal turn down, a wine-paired dinner at The Rooftop by STK, two complimentary poolside cocktails, a $100 spa certificate to Saffron + Sage, a private sunset boat charter with car service to and from the hotel, and a photo shoot on property and throughout the beautiful beachside city of San Diego. 

The offer starts at $7,499 for a one-night stay with a $2,000 charge for each additional night. Contact the hotel at (619) 849-1234 directly to book.

Family Beach Escape 

The Place: Henderson Beach Resort, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL

Looking for a convenient escape with your kids for Mother’s Day? A peaceful yet fun getaway awaits at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL, where the entire family can enjoy access to the picturesque private beach, a lazy river, and an array of services. While you relax, young ones can grab lunch and then participate in crafts and themed activities at Poppy’s Kids Club. 

For some alone time, book a rejuvenating treatment at The Henderson Spa and experience the Himalayan salt suite overlooking lush Henderson Beach State Park. With the Good Day Sunshine offer, book a minimum 3-night stay and save up to 20 percent off your rate (starting at $339/night with the promo), and get a $100 food and beverage credit per stay. 

Buy 4, Stay 5 

The Place: Quintessence Hotel, Anguilla

Perched above the pristine coast of Long Bay on Anguilla, Quintessence Hotel offers a private, villa-like ambience with all the amenities of a world-class resort. The exclusive, nine-suite property is affectionately nicknamed “The Tropical Grand Mansion” and features a captivating avant-garde design and beautiful Haitian artwork throughout its interiors. 

Guests enjoy a first-class selection of amenities and activities, including an exceptional spa, 24-hour butler service, and French-Caribbean gourmet fine dining—all complemented by jaw-dropping ocean views and private beach access. This May for a Mother’s Day getaway, you can book Quintessence’s limited time “Buy 4 Stay 5” package with rates starting at $650/night. Call 800-234-7468 to book the offer.

Summer Nights

The Place: Elite Island Resorts on Antigua and Barbados

Mother’s Day 2023 falls into the date range for Elite Island Resorts’ “Summer Nights” offer, featuring a first night free on a minimum three-night stay. Order a piña colada, put on a tropical sundress, and indulge in the ultimate resort getaway at three of the company’s beachfront all-inclusive properties in Antigua, including Pineapple Beach Club, St. James’s Club & Villas and The Verandah Resort & Spa, as well as The Club in Barbados. All-inclusive rates vary by resort. To reserve call (800) 858-4618.

A Boozy Brunch

The Place: The National Hotel in South Beach, Miami

To literally forget all your real-life cares and worries, spend Mother’s Day enjoying a boozy brunch at Mareva 1939 at The National Hotel. From 11 am to 3 pm, guests will take in stunning views of the iconic Art Deco property as they enjoy a brunch menu ($75/person) that includes dynamic favorites such as huevos rotos and lobster and seafood paella for two made with scallops, mussels, shrimp, and clams—plus have the option of making their brunch cocktails bottomless, including mimosas and Bloody Marys, for just $35. Rates start at $308/night. Reservations for brunch can be made via OpenTable. 

An All-Inclusive Wellness Retreat

The Place: Carlisle Bay, Antigua 

Book it yourself or ask for it as a gift, because Carlisle Bay’s three-night all-inclusive Wellness Retreat from May 19-22, 2023, is equal parts relaxation and fitness motivator. Participants will enjoy daily mindful meditation, gentle yoga classes to suit all levels and abilities, and daily activities, including reef snorkeling at Cades Bay, guided rainforest hike to Signal Hill, and a local cooking demonstration. 

This all-inclusive package (from $2,850 per room/double occupancy for three nights or from $1,884 per room/single occupancy for three nights) is designed to bring a sense of well-being via a holistic wellness experience. 

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

The Place: Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Jamaica

If a spa-centric respite in Jamaica sounds like the perfect way to relax over Mother’s Day weekend, Round Hill Hotel and Villas , a historic resort set on a 110-acre peninsula in Montego Bay, is offering specially curated spa packages for mom at The Round Hill Spa. The limited time spa menu, available from May 12-14, 2023, offers the All About You! treatment, which is a personalized massage, facial and foot treatment; the Mama Mia! treatment, featuring a Frangipani body polish, custom massage, and hand and foot treatment; and the To Mom, With Love! treatment, which includes a signature coconut rub and milk ritual wrap, custom massage, and exotic hand ritual and custom manicure. 

Round Hill’s culinary team has also curated a special prix fixe menu for an unforgettable Mother’s Day Brunch with holiday themed cocktails and dishes. With Round Hill’s Summer Reconnect offer, your 4^th night is free and rates start at $571/night for a 4-night stay.

A Mindful Getaway

The Place: Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Miami, FL

Get several girlfriends to convince their spouses to watch the kids for a few days and head together to the largest spa on the Eastern seaboard (it’s 70,000 square feet) at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. There, you can enjoy an impressive array of retreat programs, specialized circuits and cutting-edge therapies designed to make you feel rejuvenated inside and out. 

Moms seeking some intense R and R can also partake in a Sleep Well Circuit to achieve the ultimate night’s sleep. With the resort’s 4^th Night Free offer, book three nights and get an extra night on a complimentary basis (from $477/night with the offer). 

More is Less

The Place: The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa

If a white-sand beach and aquamarine water just steps from a newly renovated pool (the largest on the island) is your idea of heaven, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is the ideal spot for a classic Caribbean escape this Mother’s Day. 

Occupying the most expansive stretch of world-famous Seven Mile Beach, the resort features 343 rooms, a spa, and an array of on-site watersports such as paddleboarding, parasailing, and jet-skiing. Dining-wise, you can indulge at seven restaurants, including Woto, a new sushi, ceviche and poke restaurant, and Beach House for fresh seafood and small-plate specialties. Stay at least four nights with the “More is Less” promotional offer and rates start at $656/night.

A Foodie Indulgence

The Place: Calabash, Grenada

If your top indulgence is enjoying culinary experiences, Grenada’s Calabash resort might be the perfect Mother’s Day couple’s escape for you and your spouse. This five-star Relais & Chateaux boutique hotel is nestled seaside and is home to the elegant fine-dining Rhodes Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy the freshest local ingredients in Caribbean specialties created with European flair. 

Let your taste buds savor the fresh catch of the day and sophisticated, creative dishes that showcase Grenada’s legendary spices. And with Calabash’s Upgraded Meal Plan Offers, stay at least four nights and receive a complimentary upgrade from Bed and Breakfast to Half Board (from $696/night) or from Half Board to All-Inclusive (from $845/ night).

Make My Stay

The Place: Caribe Hilton, San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you only have time for a quick Caribbean getaway, what’s more convenient than Puerto Rico? With the “Make My Stay” offer at the iconic Caribe Hilton, stay three nights and get a resort credit of $150 for use at the spa or restaurants. The resort features a secluded beach, ocean-front swimming pools, beachside hammocks, and a relaxing Zen Spa. You can also reserve a table for the property’s annual Mother’s Day brunch to indulge in a delectable spread. 

Old San Juan is a quick taxi ride away and you can enjoy local food and rum tours and other activities that showcase the island’s rich culture. PS: Don’t leave without trying the classic Piña Colada— it was invented at the Caribe Hilton! Rates start at $483/night. 

Stay Longer and Save More

The Place: Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West, FL 

Dreaming of kicking back in Key West? Southernmost Beach Resort, situated along the quieter southern limit of famed Duval Street where ocean views abound, mixes sleek modern design with classic coastal charm. It’s a quick walk to all the fun happenings in Old Town Key West when you’re not lounging by three palm-fringed pools, getting pampered in the full-service spa, or enjoying a private beach with lounge chairs and cabanas along with a signature restaurant and three bars. 
This Mother’s Day, the resort will also host two special three-course brunches with decadent island-infused cuisine. With Stay More, Save More, book a five-night stay and get the fifth night free (rates start at $594/night for the five nights) along with a $100 food and beverage credit.

The post The Island and Coastal Resorts Offering the Best Mother’s Day Deals appeared first on Islands.

With the cultural explosion of all things superheroes and the eternal love that science fiction fans have for their favorite titles and characters, there’s no wonder there’s a Comic Con taking place every weekend in cities across the U.S. Everyone from the most casual followers to the downright obsessed stand in lines for hours to pick up new variants of their favorite books and have myriad collectibles signed by their favorite actors and artists. But factor in tropical vibes, spectacular food, and one of the coolest hotels in San Juan, and Puerto Rico Comic Con 2023 might just be the event of the year.

That’s especially the case if traveling fans book a room at Caribe Hilton, the birthplace of the piña colada and a property that simply oozes history. For this year’s big showcase, which takes place from April 7-9 at the Puerto Rico Convention Center, the hotel has teamed up with Brooklyn-based philanthropist and Somos Arte creative director Edgardo Miranda-Rodriguez to not only promote his celebrated graphic novel series, La Borinqueña, but to also hopefully inspire guests to tap into their own creative strengths.

In addition to receiving a special welcome amenity with products related to La Borinqueña, visitors who take advantage of this Caribe Hilton experience that runs from April 6-11 can enjoy a poolside reading, meet and greet with Miranda-Rodriguez, and even score some autographs. Aspiring artists will be especially keen on the Make Your Own Superhero and Create Your Own Comic Book Cover classes. The cherry on top is a $10 donation to the La Borinqueña Grant Awards.

La Borinqueña tells the story of Marisol Rios De La Luz, a Columbia University student living with her parents in Brooklyn. While spending a semester studying abroad in Puerto Rico, her life changes for the extraordinary when she explores some caves and discovers five crystals that, when combined, summon the Taino mother goddess Atabex and her sons, Yúcahu (spirt of the seas and mountains) and Juracan (spirit of the hurricanes). The trio gives Marisol the power of flight and ability to control storms.

Puerto Rico Comic Con 2023 is headlined by Christina Ricci, Gabriel Luna, and Tom Sturridge, among others.

The post Caribe Hilton Wants Guests to Get the Most of Puerto Rico Comic Con 2023 appeared first on Islands.

Are a few sun-filled days at the beach on your bachelorette getaway short list? If so, get ready to enjoy mojitos and margaritas, spa treatments and catamaran sails, and rooftop lounges and poolside cabanas. We’ve rounded up 21 terrific resort options in seven island and coastal locales that are ideal playgrounds for you and your closest friends to enjoy as you celebrate your upcoming “I do’s.” 

Prepare to pack your favorite bikinis, sunglasses, rompers, and sundresses and decide where to get the party started. 

Aruba 

Known as “One Happy Island,” Aruba offers superb white-sand beaches, turquoise waters ideal for myriad activities, and exciting nightlife. The best place to enjoy it all? Along legendary Palm Beach, which is lined with leading resorts, restaurants, nightclubs, and casinos. This is an island that guarantees sun and fun and even has brightly painted Kukoo Kunuku party buses for a raucous bar-hopping excursion. If relaxation is more your style, spa treatments infused with local ingredients are a specialty. 

Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino offers rooms featuring beachy white-and-blue décor, multiple lagoon-style pools lined with chaises and swaying palm trees, and the oceanfront Eforea Spa for massages in a thatched palapa as ocean waves provide the soundtrack. 

Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino features newly refreshed, contemporary-style rooms, chic poolside cabanas, several al fresco restaurants and bars, special aloe-vera treatments at the ZoiA Spa, and even Full Moon Yoga.

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino boasts spacious rooms overlooking the ocean or the gardens, an adults-only H2O Pool with private cabanas, eight restaurants and bars serving up everything from fresh seafood to delicious fruit smoothies, and the Mandara Spa featuring Balinese rituals and botanicals.

Puerto Rico 

There’s no need to worry if your friends’ passports are up to date when you plan a bachelorette getaway to Puerto Rico, where golden-sand beaches are just minutes away from historic Old San Juan with its photogenic cobblestone streets and lively bars and restaurants. Explore the island’s flavors during an Old San Juan Walk & Taste Tour with Spoon, sip piña coladas and mojitos in a poolside cabana, or enjoy relaxing spa treatments. 

Condado Ocean Club, an adults-only boutique hotel, has a chic modern décor (and amazing water views), a cabana-lined infinity pool that’s relaxing midweek, and a DJ-fueled party scene on weekends, an onsite restaurant named Social, and an al fresco bar called Sandbox that serves tropical cocktails and shareable local tapas.

La Concha Resort, a sister property to Condado Ocean Club (as part of The Condado Collection) features a mid-century-modern vibe (it opened in 1958) and a cool pool-bar scene at its three pools (the Main Pool is the most social), onsite gaming at Casino Del Mar, and seven restaurants.

Caribe Hilton, where the piña colada was invented in 1954, offers 652 rooms amid a sprawling landscape of palm trees and multiple pools (there’s a swim-up bar and a waterfall), a private beach with cabanas, and an 8,500-sq. ft. Zen Spa Oceano featuring aloe-, coconut-, and mango-infused treatments.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

From the West Coast or Southwest, it’s an easy flight to Cabo San Lucas, where the desert-meets-sea scenery of the Baja Peninsula, ample sunshine, a lively downtown bar scene, and world-class resorts make this an ideal destination for a chic bachelorette getaway—especially for tequila lovers. While Cabo’s beaches aren’t always ideal for swimming, its lavish pools and indulgent spas are pampering oases and a catamaran sail to the landmark Arch and Lovers Beach is a must. 

Corazon Cabo, the area’s newest luxury resort, has a prime location on Medano Beach (one of Cabo’s most swimmable) with spectacular views from its 305 rooms and suites, two oceanfront infinity pools, a sky-high rooftop bar, and Cabo’s only microbrewery.

ME Cabo, also located on Medano Beach close to downtown Cabo, has a lively ambience infused with Mexican culture and features four restaurants and bars, a pool with palapa-topped cabanas and a swim-up bar, and a Korpo Spa for well-being and pampering.

Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, the first Nobu hotel in Mexico, features Zen-inspired contemporary décor and 200 rooms and suites with ocean or desert views as well as world-famous Nobu cuisine and a tranquil spa with an outdoor hydrotherapy circuit that’s perfect for a bachelorette getaway away from the crowds.

Jamaica

The words Jamaica and party are synonymous, right? And because the island, known for its upbeat reggae rhythms, is home to dozens of all-inclusive resorts set on some of the Caribbean’s best beaches, it’s guaranteed to be a memorable setting for a bachelorette getaway. Montego Bay, home to the international airport, offers watersports, pool parties, spa experiences, and plenty of rum-cocktail revelry. 

Breathless Montego Bay, a party-centric adults-only all-inclusive, features 150 luxury suites, a rooftop pool and bar, 11 restaurants and bars, and endless activities such as pool parties, watersports, and live music—plus there are discounts and VIP amenities for groups of 10 or more.

S Hotel Jamaica, a chic newcomer to Montego Bay, is an all-inclusive boutique hotel located adjacent to photogenic Doctor’s Cave Beach and featuring locally inspired décor and amenities, multiple restaurants, and bars serving artisanal Jamaican and international cuisine, a sleek pool deck and a spa focused on holistic wellness.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas, also located in Montego Bay, is a property steeped in history and glamour (designer Ralph Lauren owns a villa here and luminaries from JFK and Jackie to Paul Newman and Grace Kelly once stayed here), and while it’s not right for bridal parties intent on 24/7 partying, its lush grounds and four- and five-bedroom villas with private pools sleep eight to 10 guests, providing an idyllic private enclave for sunning and relaxation.

Bahamas

Nassau/Paradise Island, the top resort destination in the Bahamas, is a quick flight away if you live on the East Coast or Midwest and offers a range of accommodations ideal for a bachelorette weekend. The beaches here are sublime, the water is a vibrant shade of blue, there are lively casinos and indulgent duty-free shops, and the conch fritters are addictive. 

Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau features cheerful beach-inspired décor in its rooms and public spaces, 10 restaurants and bars, multiple pools with daybeds, a St. Somewhere Spa, and a relaxed ambience inspired by the music and lifestyle of legendary singer and songwriter Jimmy Buffett.

SLS Baha Mar, part of the sprawling Baha Mar complex on gorgeous Cable Beach, is a design-centric resort with 299 rooms that features two dedicated pools and offers access to multiple restaurants and bars, an ESPA spa, and the Baha Mar Casino.

Atlantis Bahamas has a hotel tower for every budget, from wallet-friendly The Coral to centrally located The Royal to splurge-worthy The Cove with its adults-only pool, plus incredible white-sand beaches, 21 restaurants, 19 bars and lounges, a Mandara Spa, and the world-class Atlantis Casino.

Cancun and Riviera Maya, Mexico

Whether you opt for the nonstop energy of Cancun or the more laidback vibe along Riviera Maya to the south, Mexico’s Caribbean coast is a convenient destination lined with golden-sand beaches and imbued with rich Mayan heritage, which is reflected in its cuisine and spas. On a bachelorette getaway here, you can enjoy all-inclusive ease at expansive resorts with Instagram-worthy pools—where you can worship the sun or dance all night at a DJ-helmed party. 

Secrets The Vine Cancun combines the look and feel of Miami with wine selections you’d expect in Napa and access to the incredible beach and water of Cancun in a chic, city-meets-sand high-rise all-inclusive (adults only) with five a la carte restaurants (plus a buffet, grill, and café), a wine-centric piano bar and tropical poolside bars, and a sublime spa.

Thompson Playa Del Carmen offers an affordable, adults-only urban-oasis experience in the heart of the lively town of Playa Del Carmen, home to bar-hopping and lots of shopping, and features a rooftop Alessia Day Club with panoramic views and a block-long infinity pool that transforms at night into a party scene with live DJs. 

Excellence Riviera Cancun is an adults-only all-inclusive near Puerto Morelos known for its spacious swim-up suites and two-story terrace suites with a rooftop lunge pool, 12 dining venues, five bars, six freeform pools, and Miilé Spa with a focus on botanical ingredients.

Dominican Republic

For an easy getaway—and access to some of the best beaches and most inviting water in the Caribbean—it’s hard to beat the Punta Cana resort area in the Dominican Republic, known for  value-priced all-inclusive resorts with lively pool scenes by day and casino action at night, active watersports, and soothing onsite spas. 

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, a sprawling property with 13 pools (four with swim-up bars), offers a rock ‘n roll vibe set against the photogenic beaches of Punta Cana and features nine restaurants, 23 bars and lounges, a lively casino, and an array of room and suite configurations that can accommodate 4-to-8 people.

Sanctuary Cap Cana, A Luxury Collection Adult All-inclusive Resort is set on sublime Playa Juanillo within the upscale Cap Cana resort enclave and features glamorous beach-inspired suites, six pools, five restaurants, a beach bar, and swim-up pool bar, and a relaxing Sanctuary Spa.

Barcelo Bavaro Beach–Adults Only is a super-affordable, adults-only all-inclusive located on one of Punta Cana’s most photogenic white-sand beaches and guests can enjoy the amenities—including multiple pools and restaurants—both here and at neighboring Barcelo Bavaro Palace, plus up to four people can stay in one room for added savings.

The post 7 Ideal Island and Coastal Destinations for a Bachelorette Getaway appeared first on Islands.

When the cast and crew of No Time to Die, the 25th James Bond film, gathered at Ian Fleming’s villa at GoldenEye resort in Oracabessa, it signaled the start of something exciting for Jamaica. For the first time since 1973’s Live and Let Die, James Bond returned to the island, not just for a ceremonial announcement, but as a setting.

As Jamaica Film Commissioner Renée Robinson explained at the time: “Jamaica is the home of James Bond. This is where it started. All the books were written here. We’re ready to bring Bond back home. This is a big deal.”

For the latest film, the spotlight was on Port Antonio, where “a significant portion” was filmed. Whereas Port Antonio was once known as “Jamaica’s best kept secret,” Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett said 007 put an end to that.

“That secret is out… and out in a big way. You don’t get much bigger than James Bond—one of the greatest movie franchises ever—and we all know the love affair its founder, Ian Fleming, had with Jamaica over the years.”

Among the most exciting aspects of Bond movies are the exotic filming locations, as fans travel with 007 on the big screen and watch as he saves the world. But why stop there? Devoted fans can visit these filming locations from the entire franchise, from Bond’s “home” to the beautiful beaches of Sardinia.

Dr. No — Jamaica

Before you schedule a boat excursion, you should know the titular villain’s exclusive private island, Crab Key, doesn’t exist. Some of Bond’s debut adventures took place in Kingston, but Dr. No’s secret lair was a composite of several scenic locations, including Dunn’s River Falls near Ocho Rios.

The beach at Laughing Waters was the setting for arguably the most famous scene in Bond history, when Honey Ryder (Ursula Andress) emerged from the ocean. That’s why it’s now also known as Crab Key Beach.

Thunderball — Paradise Island, Bahamas

Long before Nassau was a tourist destination, and even before the island had a bridge, a Bond villain named Largo called Hog Island home. As the story goes, the owner of Hog Island changed its name to Paradise Island and eventually allowed Bond producers Albert Broccoli and Harry Saltzman to film Thunderball on his section of the island, which is now home to The Atlantis Paradise Island. His wife just so happened to land a small role in the film, including a quick dance with Sean Connery.

Fans can visit Clifton Pier in Nassau Harbour or hire a tour guide, like Cheryl’s Bahamas Taxi and Tours, to swing by the Rock Point villa that served as Largo’s Palmyra lair. But diehard Bond fans will want to take a dip in Thunderball Grotto and then schedule the “James Bond Wrecks” dive package with Stuart Cove to check out the remains of Thunderball‘s Avro Vulcan bomber.

Live and Let Die — Jamaica

Just as Dr. No‘s Crab Key was made up of various spots in Jamaica, so was Live and Let Die‘s imaginary setting of San Monique. To experience the home of Baron Samedi, fans can stay at Couples San Souci in Ocho Rios, which served as a hotel and nightclub in the 1973 film. Then, head to Jamaica’s north coast and take a tour of the Green Grotto Caves, where Roger Moore’s Bond took out the evil Doctor Kananga.

The film’s Louisiana crocodile farm was actually located in Falmouth, Jamaica, and is known today as the Jamaica Swamp Safari Village. Guests can visit this wildlife preserve and see more than 150 American crocodiles, and even hear the story of how the first owner, Ross Kananga, ran across his crocs for the film’s unforgettable stunt.

The Spy Who Loved Me — Sardinia, Italy

Located on Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, Hotel Cala di Volpe served briefly as Bond’s accommodations, before he took on Karl Stromberg in Atlantis. Bond fans looking to stay in the spy’s spacious suite will be disappointed to know it can’t be reserved, because his room was actually the hotel bar.

Set out from this hotel to recreate the route of the film’s legendary car chase scene (at safe speeds, of course). Good luck finding a Lotus Esprit, though. A better idea is simply relaxing on nearby Romazzina Beach, where Bond’s car came ashore.

For Your Eyes Only — Corfu, Greece

Greece’s Corfu Island was featured prominently in this 1981 film, from Corfu Harbour to the Achilleion’s casino. The small village of Pagoi won’t offer much adventure and excitement, but Bond fans will want to stop by the appropriately-named Spyros Bond 007 Cafe Bar, where the walls are adorned with autographed photos of Roger Moore and his For Your Eyes Only co-star, Carole Bouquet, as well as other Bond actors.

Fans can also grab some loungers and umbrellas at Issos Beach, where the film’s dune buggy chase was filmed.

License to Kill — Key West and Isla Mujeres

Famed Mexican diver and filmmaker Ramon Bravo directed the underwater scenes for this 1989 Timothy Dalton entry, filmed in Isla Mujeres. Dive companies like Carey Dive Center and Poc Na Dive Center offer trips to Manchones National Park, where the Cross of the Bay statue serves as an underwater tribute to the late Bravo.

Bond fans can stay dry in Key West by visiting Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea, where Felix Leiter’s wedding took place. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is already a must-see for tourists, but it is also the place where Bond’s license to kill was revoked.

GoldenEye — Arecibo, Puerto Rico

In this 1995 film, the Arecibo Observatory was portrayed as an antenna hidden underwater in Cuba, but in reality it is located in the Puerto Rican municipality of the same name. While the radio telescope collapsed in 2020, fans can still check out the visitor center to learn about the site’s history. But don’t get your hopes up for a view like 006 and 007 had in the film’s climactic fight.

Instead, leave the center and head to one of the local beaches, like Los Morillos or Las Tunas, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Casino Royale — Nassau, Bahamas

Sean Connery reportedly loved filming Thunderball in the Bahamas so much that he bought a home in Lyford Cay, and became a lunchtime regular at One&Only Ocean Club. When Daniel Craig took over as 007 with 2006’s Casino Royale, it was only fitting that the franchise returned to its Caribbean roots and paid tribute to its first star by filming the poker scenes at this resort, where Craig’s Bond made Villa 1085 a popular accommodation.

The resort became a Four Seasons property in 2017 and was renamed, simply, The Ocean Club, which recently unveiled an extensive renovation. The villas are still available at quite the price, but visitors can make reservations for lunch or dinner at Dune and check out the resort’s Versailles Gardens that were also featured in the film.

The post James Bond Filming Locations You Can Visit appeared first on Islands.

Condado, the pedestrian-friendly neighborhood just west of Old San Juan, is popular for several reasons: It offers scenic ocean views, easy access to top restaurants and nightlife, and a variety of vintage-chic accommodations—including a trio of hotels, The Condado Collection, where the owner is the same, but the vibes are entirely different. They are La Concha Resort, Condado Vanderbilt, and Condado Ocean Club.

Which is right for you? It depends on whether your idea of vintage is 1919 or 1958, your vacation mantra is “pool party” or “serenity now,” and your budget is extravagant or modest. 

Condado is best for sun-seekers who prefer to cool off in a pool since the area’s beaches are more scenic than swimmer-friendly and the water here is known for dangerous undertows. But with its location just 10 minutes by car from Old San Juan, Condado is a lively and convenient locale from which to enjoy day-time excursions. Don’t miss the Old San Juan Walk and Taste foodie adventure ($130 per person, bookable at all three hotels) led by an expert guide from Spoon who’ll mix tempting libations, tasty local specialties, and fascinating city history into one delicious three-hour experience.

Here’s a look at what all three properties, which are located just steps from each other along Ashford Avenue, have to offer.

La Concha Resort

The 478-room La Concha Resort is hands-down the most versatile of the three properties and will appeal to the widest array of travelers: families, couples of all ages, and groups of friends (including for a bachelor or bachelorette weekend) who are seeking a resort with a vibrant ambience and multiple dining options. The hotel dates to 1958, as retro architectural details such as the glass-enclosed lobby and namesake ocean-facing clamshell-shaped restaurant reveal, but it has undergone $220 million in renovations, including the addition of the 235-suite Suite Tower in 2010. It is also the only property of the three with on-site gaming at Casino Del Mar, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Vibe: Mid-century modern meets cocktail-centric pool party. There’s definitely a youthful feel to the retro-inspired décor and multiple bars keep the ambience lively. At the same time, there’s enough outdoor relaxation space, including a beach with a small tidal pool area that safe for wading and splashing, that families and older couples won’t feel overwhelmed by music and social banter.

Rooms: The updated décor in all La Concha rooms and suites is beachy and inviting, featuring light wood flooring, modern furnishings, and artwork in white and blue hues. Accommodations are in multiple buildings: the original 1958 Ocean Tower, the circa-2010 Suite Tower, and a low-rise building housing 300 sq. ft. Resort View Rooms overlooking the popular main pool. 

Ocean Tower room categories include the 300 sq. ft. City King with a large balcony and 400 sq. ft. Deluxe Oceanfront with a smaller balcony overlooking the turquoise Caribbean, while suites include 570 sq. ft. Ocean Tower Suites and one-bedroom Executive Corner Suites measuring 970 sq. ft. as well as the expansive Presidential Suite with its 1,175 sq. ft. terrace featuring a whirlpool and city views. 

The Suite Tower is home to studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom suites, many of which overlook the quieter adults-only pool. All offer European-style kitchens, and some have a balcony with a whirlpool. 

Pools: La Concha’s three pools are set far enough apart that each has a distinct personality. The Main Pool features multiple levels, waterfalls, and foliage-lined lounge-style seating and has an energetic, social vibe, with two hot tubs and access to the al fresco Solera restaurant. The ocean-facing Sereno Pool overlooks the beach, is family-friendly, and is adjacent to the Sereno Beach Bar and Grill, while the Ocean Terrace infinity pool is adults-only and is serviced by the more relaxed Marena Bar. Daybeds and cabanas are available for daily rental ($150-$200 for two people and $250 for four people). 

Restaurants: Nibbles and multicourse meals are available at seven on-property eateries, many offering al fresco seating. Brunch is served Friday through Sunday at The Loft Beachfront (piña colada pancakes, anyone?), while Aroma Café just off the lobby serves locally sourced coffee and yummy grab-and-go pastries and smoothies daily from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. 

For lunch and afternoon snacks guests have three options, Sereno, Marena, and Solera (all serve burger, fries, salads, fish tacos, etc.) and for dinner Solera has a more extensive menu. Guests can also opt for dinner at Komakai Sushi Bar in the lobby or Serafina (an outpost of the New York original), known for its Italian specialties and pizza.

Bars: There are five, including the spacious and popular Lobby Bar with its polished marble floor, sleek white columns, mid-century-inspired seating, and mood-enhancing up-lighting. Other places to socialize or chill are the mellow Marena Bar, the Sereno Beach Bar, the poolside Solera lounge, and the high-energy nightclub Fifty-Eight (open Thursday through Saturday). 

What else to know: The hotel is dog-friendly and there’s free Wi-Fi; there are multiple levels to many of the public spaces, with stairs and some ramps; there’s an on-site fitness Center offering cardio and resistance equipment, weights and fitness class, and spa treatments can be booked at the Spa at Condado Vanderbilt; the Lobby Bar, Casino Del Mar, and Solera Lounge attract a lively crowd, especially on weekends. Rates start at $309/night for rooms and $359/night for suites.

Condado Vanderbilt

The stately 319-room Condado Vanderbilt couldn’t possibly be more different than its trendy mid-century next-door neighbor. This is a hotel for lovers of historic architecture, five-star dining, fine wines and spirts, and days spent sipping champagne in a poolside cabana or being pampered in the spa. It was built in 1919 by Frederick William Vanderbilt, the grandson of 19^th century railroad magnate Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt and the great uncle of designer Gloria Vanderbilt, whose photo hangs on the second-floor mezzanine. 

Two Suite Towers were added about a decade ago as part of a $200 million revitalization, but aside from the transition hallways and elevators the décor in these new wings matches the vintage character of the original grand-dame hotel, creating an atmosphere that transports guests back in time. Travelers who love the Royal Hawaiian on Oahu or The Biltmore in Coral Gables, FL, will feel right at home here. 

Vibe: Roaring ‘20s opulence on the beach. The Condado Vanderbilt features a lavish Spanish Revival façade, dramatically curved twin lobby staircases, a deep salmon pink color on its interior walls and symmetrical archways, and a sunken and spacious VC Lounge with upscale speakeasy décor (cinnamon-hued velvet, polished brash, and luxe brown leather). It’s popular with couples and business travelers, and although families stay here too, it’s not a property where kids can run wild. 

Rooms: Décor blends traditional and contemporary elements using plush fabrics in taupe, gray and blue with sea-inspired area rugs atop marble floors and 300-thread-count linens.

Options range from Heritage Guestrooms in the original 1919 building, which are 295 to 350 sq. ft. and come with a queen, king, or two queen beds, but do not have a balcony, to more spacious accommodations with larger bathrooms and balconies in the Suite Towers. 

Tower categories include 650 sq. ft. Biltmore Ocean View one-bedroom suites, 800 sq. ft. Commodore City View one-bedroom suites, and 815 sq. ft. Commodore Oceanfront One-Bedroom Suites (some with generous terraces). Commodore Suites are also available in two-bedroom configurations, ranging from 875 to 1,275 sq. ft. 

The ultimate splurge: one of the two 2,590 sq. ft. Vanderbilt Presidential Suites perched atop the towers and offering three bedrooms (all with terraces), three bathrooms, and butler service.

Pools: The West Tower Pool features luxury cabanas, photogenic striped umbrellas, and large infinity-edge hot tub that sets the scene for a day of indulgence. The adjacent Ola Oceanfront restaurant and bar can supply food and beverages and the ocean view is sublime. The other option is the quieter and more secluded adults-only East Tower Pool, which features three smaller pools, including a shallow one with sunbeds; it also offers access to a small beach. 

Restaurants: The Vanderbilt boasts four restaurants, including two splurge-worthy dinner options. Foodies should reserve at 1919 Restaurant, an atmospheric fine-dining venue offering “flavor-forward” dishes available a la carte or in exquisitely crafted tasting menus (from $125 per person) with paired wines (from $110 per person). Michelin-starred Executive Chef Juan Jose Cuevas’ cuisine takes inspiration from ingredients sourced from local farmers and artisan producers (closed on Sunday and Monday). Steak-lovers can opt for STK Restaurant & Lounge, a modern steakhouse with an emphasis on fine-dining. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a view are served daily in Ola Oceanfront, while Tacos and Tequila offers upscale Mexican favorites for lunch and dinner (open Thursday to Monday).

Bars: Craft cocktails (and champagne) are the stars here and it’s hard not to be drawn into the grandly retro VC Lounge, which spans from the lobby to an oceanfront terrace, to sip a classic cocktail and enjoy tapas and other small-plate bites along with live jazz. Explore a bit further to sample the offerings at the Veritas Wine and Cognac Bar or the Marabar Martini Bar and Lounge. And cigar aficionados can sip whiskey and smoke a top-brand cigar in the clubby Avo Lounge.

What else to know: Condado Vanderbilt is dog-friendly and there’s free-Wi-Fi; the spacious Spa at Condado features seven treatment rooms (plus an outdoor treatment area) and Puerto Rico’s only hammam; there are accessible ramps to all restaurants, the spa, pools, and other areas. Rates start at $425/night for rooms and $650/night for suites.

Condado Ocean Club

If grand spaces aren’t your thing, this third property scales things down quite stylishly. With just 96 rooms and suites, the adults-only (21+), boutique-style Condado Ocean Club is a compact and inviting setting for a San Juan getaway. Open since 2020 and located in the former Serafina Beach Hotel, the property underwent an ocean-inspired renovation that created modern interiors with a topical minimalist look along with fun outdoor hangout spots.

Vibe: Design-centric setting for adults seeking a chic hideaway. Just be aware that while it’s perfect for a quiet weekday couple’s escape, on weekends a poolside DJ turns things into an al fresco party scene popular with groups of single friends and younger couples looking for sun, fun and a raucous good time.

Rooms: The majority are Premium Oceanfront Rooms and Ocean Club Rooms (325 sq. ft.) with a massive floor-to-ceiling window facing the water and modern sea-meets-sky décor that’s so light and soothing you’ll go “wow” when you see it—and you won’t miss having a balcony. 

On the third floor, there are limited Atlantic Ocean Terrace rooms with a 282 sq. ft. furnished terrace as well as Condado Ocean Balcony Rooms with a 160 sq. ft. terrace. Premium Laguna and Laguna Club Rooms overlook the lagoon and the San Juan skyline. All are spacious and decorated in the same airy white-and-blue décor with modern bathrooms featuring stone-clad walk-in showers.

Pools: There’s just one and it’s small but stunning. Located on The Deck and designed with a comfortable heated infinity edge pool that lets guests ponder the surf below, it’s a quiet spot to read or meditate in the morning, a relaxing place to hang out in one of the nine cabanas with your BFFs all day (from $250 for up to six people), or party during evening and weekend DJ events. Sun-lovers will need to stake out chaises that will stay in the sun all day.

Restaurants: This intimate hotel has two exciting restaurants: Social, with cuisine by Chef Ramon Cruz, features dinner menus with locally sourced/globally inspired dishes in generous portions (many of the starters are great to share), as well as a casual lunch menu (sliders, nachos, ceviche, etc.) and full breakfast daily (with brunch on Sunday). 

Sandbox is a fun, lounge-style al fresco bar open Wednesday through Saturday from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. It serves shareable local tapas (mini empanadas, fish tacos, malanga croquettes) along with a thirst-quenching selection of tropical cocktails.

Bars: In addition to the chic indoor bar at Social and the casual outdoor one at Sandbox, The Deck features a lunch menu and full bar service; while the ambience here can be mellow on weekday afternoons, evenings are livelier, and weekends are a full-blown DJ-hosted party.

What else to know: Like its sister properties, Condado Ocean Club is dog-friendly; there’s also complimentary Wi-Fi, a small fitness center, and a cute boutique. Rates start at $259/night.

The post The Condado Collection Offers Three Ways to Enjoy a San Juan Stay appeared first on Islands.

Sometimes we don’t have enough time to see as much of an island as we hope, but one of the best ways to fix that is by renting a bicycle or electric bike. Island tours and professional guides offer travelers roads, trails, and off-the-beaten-paths from which they can explore the Caribbean in ways they haven’t previously imagined.

Serious cyclists can also find new challenges on their favorite islands, as biking legends have designed some of these trails to test the limits of experienced riders. But no matter your skill level, there are myriad bicycle paths and tours in the Caribbean.

The only thing left to do is pack your cycling gear—especially a good helmet.

Tinker’s Trail — St. Lucia

St. Lucia is full of bike trails for riders of all experience levels, and one of the most famous is Tinker’s Trail. Designed by three-time U.S. National Champion and Mountain Bike Hall of Fame inductee Tinker Juarez, this trail was meant to be a “heart thumper” for the most experienced riders, offering a tough uphill run to test a rider’s “conditioning and aerobic capacity.”

But Tinker’s Trail is hardly for everyone, so beginners can hit the easier paths and enjoy a ride at their comfort level while experiencing the beauty and history of St. Lucia.

Cayman Cave Trek — Cayman Island

ECO Rides Cayman offers this four-hour bike tour that takes riders through some of East End’s most scenic areas before arriving at the Crystal Caves. The ride begins near the resort area six miles from the caves, so guests have the chance to see the sights along Queen’s Highway Road. The ride is easy and ECO provides a bike and a helmet.

Guided Bike Tours — Anguilla

What makes Anguilla ideal for cycling is its size. At just 17 miles long and 3 miles wide, the island is easy to navigate and explore, with trails like Katouche and Brimegin providing an intimate, up-close look at the natural beauty. Many resorts—like Zemi Beach House Hotel and Malliouhana—offer guided tours of the island, but it’s just as easy to grab a map and visit everywhere from Sandy Ground to the East End on your own.

Nevis Adventure Tours — Nevis

Nevis’ main road is basically a 20-mile circle, so riding around the entire island is always an option. Nevis Adventure Tours offers more detailed outings that allow riders to learn about the island’s history from their bikes.

The Windwardside Discovery Bike Tour invites riders of all skill levels on a three-hour journey of St. James parish, which boasts the last operating sugar plantation on the island, as well as a haunted estate. For more experienced cyclists, Nevis Adventure Tours offers the Nevis Challenge: Peak of Biking, which covers the entire island, beginning and ending in Newcastle.

Guanica State Forest Trails — Puerto Rico

While Toro Verde is known for its zip-lines, mountain bikers will want to visit the island’s forests and parks for the best trails. The Guanica Biospehere Reserve and State Forest features 12 trails for hikers and bikers, and the park’s guides will help guests determine which are best for their skill levels.

Blue Mountain National Park — Jamaica

There is no shortage of companies and resorts offering bike tours of Blue Mountain National Park, and many of them are perfect for families looking for a casual adventure or even a picnic. Blue Mountain Bicycle Tour offers a straightforward, all-inclusive day ride that is easy on the legs and features plenty of perks, like brunch with real Blue Mountain coffee and a visit to a secluded waterfall. Bikes and gear are also included.

Singletrack Jamaica takes it a step further with custom packages for serious riders who want to spend several days on the trails. This company technically offers rental bikes, but they belong to the employees, so you’d better know what you’re doing out there.

Punta Cana Mountain Bike Tour — Dominican Republic

Outback Adventures in the Dominican Republic provides an eco-friendly mountain bike tour of Punta Cana’s countryside and Macao Beach, and the use of electric bikes makes it perfect for all riders. The tour takes guests on off-road trails and paved roads to share the region’s rich history, while also allowing everyone to stop for shopping and dining. Bikes and gear are included in the rental fees.

Jan Thiel Lagoon — Curaçao

Featuring a trail that was created for the 2006 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, Curaçao’s Jan Thiel Lagoon is a nature reserve with longer pathways fit for beginner and advanced bikers alike.

WannaBike offers guided tours of the lagoon’s trails, as well as rides through Caracas Bay Peninsula, Koraal Tabak, and Boca St. Michiel/Malpais, which is a great option for more experienced cyclists.

La Desirade Island — Guadeloupe Islands

Like Anguilla, La Desirade‘s small size is what makes it an ideal spot for a bike tour. One main road runs the length of the island, making it so easy for guests to experience everything this small national natural reserve has to offer. Rentals bikes are available on the island, as beaches like Petite-Rivière and Beauséjour await.

Bermuda Railway Trail — Bermuda

While it’s not the Caribbean, this special adventure deserves to be included. Following an abandoned railbed, the Bermuda Railway Trail is a bike trail that runs approximately 18 miles and is split into nine sections, allowing riders to start and end wherever they’d like. The trail offers challenges like bridges and steeper slopes, but it’s also fit for beginners who simply want to see the island’s pink-sand beaches and historic landmarks at a leisurely pace.

The post These Caribbean Islands Offer Some of the Best Bike Trails Anywhere appeared first on Islands.

As I recently prepared to visit San Juan for several days to attend the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s annual convention, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Puerto Rico had just been hit by Hurricane Fiona and even though Hurricane Maria occurred five years prior to this trip, it still feels like it was only yesterday to so many people. As such, there was a lot of speculation as to what was happening in the island’s bigger cities leading up to this event, and so I was extremely eager to see it all for myself.

What I discovered shortly after landing, and in the 15 minutes it took my taxi to bring me to the lobby at Caribe Hilton, was that Puerto Rico was simply as beautiful as I remembered it from my last visit more than a decade ago. And it was no shock that the people were warm and welcoming, as I think I left with a longer list of restaurants to visit than I had when I arrived. If anything was a disappointment, it was that my work schedule was so packed.

With beaches and some recreational areas of El Yunque reopened and airfare especially affordable right now, the only thing left to discuss is where to stay. Fortunately, these hotels and resorts have made that part a breeze.

Tour Like a Local

The Place: Caribe Hilton

The Deal: This hotel is already a must-stay for anyone looking to mix Puerto Rico’s rich culture with modern style—oh, and don’t forget that it’s the place where the first piña colada was poured in 1954. But you can’t visit this island without experiencing the local elements, which is why Caribe Hilton offers guests the best of the best with the “Tour Like a Local” concept. 

Choose from one of three tours—Old San Juan, the nearby beach, or El Yunque Rainforest—and while there’s not a wrong decision, we should point out that foodies will never want to leave Old San Juan. Book by November 30, 2022, for visits through March 31, 2023, and tours must be reserved seven days in advance.

Suite Autumn

The Place: Condado Vanderbilt

The Deal: One aspect that makes Condado Vanderbilt such a great choice for travelers is the range of suite options. Couples looking for a quick, passport-free weekend escape can book a Commodore Oceanfront one-bedroom terrace suite, while a small family or group can rest comfortably in a two-bedroom suite in between piña colada walking tours and sunset catamaran cruises. There’s even a three-bedroom Presidential Suite for anyone who wants to vacation like royalty.

No matter which accommodations guests choose, they’ll also be happy to take advantage of the “Suite Autumn” deal, which includes two full breakfasts and a $75 resort credit. Not that people need their arms twisted too much, since this property is already alluring enough with its special events like cigar and whiskey pairings and specialty cocktails and meals at STK Restaurant.

Bed and Breakfast in Paradise

The Place: Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico

The Deal: When it comes to the complete resort experience, visitors will be hard-pressed to find a resort that does a little bit of everything as well as Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico. A trip to this island should always focus on exploring and enjoying the best of the natural beauty, but guests might find that difficult given the bevy of outstanding amenities featured here, including an 18-hole Tom Kite-designed golf course, spa, five dining options, and three pools, one of which is the largest lagoon-style concept in Puerto Rico.

Of course, everyone will want to explore, especially since El Yunque isn’t far from the property, so every guest’s day must begin on the right foot. That’s why the centerpiece of the “Bed and Breakfast in Paradise” experience is daily breakfast for two at Water’s Edge. An ideal choice for anyone, whether heading deep into the rainforest or simply soaking up the sun on the spectacular beach.

Suite Experience

The Place: Fairmont El San Juan

The Deal: Ask anyone familiar with the Island of Enchantment for a beach recommendation and we’re certain Isla Verde will top most lists. If golden sand and gorgeous blue water is at the heart of a Puerto Rican quest, then all signs point to Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, which is already a great choice for authenticity and style—not to mention the four pools and Well and Being Spa. The beach is just the cherry on top.

With the Fairmont Suite Experience, guests will enjoy a discount of 15 percent off best available rates and breakfast for two each day. That means extra cash in the budget for when it’s time to plan thrilling off-property adventures like ziplining at Toro Verde Adventure Park.

Fall Escape

The Place: La Concha Resort

The Deal: There’s very little that travelers love more than covering the basics, because it makes it easier to focus on the finer details of a vacation experience. La Concha Resort checks all the boxes when it comes to an idyllic Puerto Rican escape, as it sits on a beautiful stretch of sand, boasts one of the coolest pools on the island, and even has a casino for guests who like to test their luck before dancing the night away at Fifty Eight. 

This property makes it even easier to enjoy it all by offering the Fall Escape package, which includes daily continental breakfast for two at Aroma Café, a $25 daily hotel credit, and double casino match play vouchers. And guests looking to get away for the spookiest time of year are in for an extra special treat with the Upside Down Halloween Weekend. The holiday might fall on Monday this year, but weekend visitors can enjoy access to a special event with a pair of specialty cocktails included.

The post Five Fall Travel Deals that Showcase the Best of Puerto Rico Right Now appeared first on Islands.

When it comes to the subject of clapping on an airplane, there are two camps. There are the clappers: those who clap the moment the plane goes wheels down on the tarmac. And there are the non-clappers, who sit in silent judgement of those clapping around them. 

Whatever camp you’re in, you can pretty much guarantee that people will be clapping upon touchdown at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.

“It’s just a Puerto Rican thing I guess,” my driver (and long-time San Juan expat by way of Chicago) Benny said as we made our way from the airport to the Fairmont El San Juan. “But when you get to paradise, why wouldn’t you clap?” 

He makes a fair point.

Nicknamed The Island of Enchantment thanks to the array of beautiful white sand beaches, bioluminescent bays, mountainous jungles, and tropical El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico and locals like Benny have always seemed to embrace the best that life has to offer. 

Sandwiched between the Dominican Republic and the British and U.S Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico has seen its fair share of adversity over recent years as a result of Hurricane Maria in 2017, followed by the crippling effects the pandemic has had on tourism and local businesses.

Fortunately, the tides finally appear to be turning here, and between the convenience of dozens of direct flights from major US and international hubs, getting to paradise has never been easier.

This year marks the 500th anniversary since San Juan’s founding (technically making it the oldest U.S city), and on a recent visit it was a delight to find the beach clubs bumping, hotels, cafés, and bars bustling, and the general joie de vivre that makes Puerto Rico such a singularly wonderful destination the perfect place for a post-pandemic holiday.

Here’s where to stay, eat and play on your next visit to paradise. Just don’t be afraid to clap when you get there. 

Where to Stay

Long considered one of San Juan’s most iconic hotels, the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel is shining brighter and better than ever thanks to recent addition of 13 reimagined oceanfront Banyan Villas. 

Set directly on Isla Verde Beach about a five-minute drive away from the airport, the El San Juan blends all of the old-world charm with modern amenities you could hope for and, today, this beloved locale’s legacy as an entertainment hub and hotspot continues to serve an allegiance of locals and visitors. In addition to a Foxwoods Casino on property, at the center of it all, the hotel’s Chandelier Bar still is the perfect place to post up and people water, especially on a Friday or Saturday night when the party is in full swing here. Do yourself a solid and book a cabana by the pool where you can gorge on freshly grilled langoustines and passionfruit mojitos from the El San Juan Beach Club and Bar.

Home to a stretch of some of the San Juan’s top beach resorts, restaurants, and nightlife, life over in Condado has always been teeming with activity, starting with the adults-only Condado Ocean Club and La Concha Resort, both of which offer coastal-chic luxury and beachfront access. Condado Vanderbilt Hotel is another reputable five-star stay with one of the island’s best fine dining experiences at 1919 Restaurant.

For those who want to soak in some local history, Old San Juan boasts a contingent of charming hotels and inns, starting with the recently opened Palacio Provincial. Offering 43 sumptuous rooms and suites and a signature restaurant, Consular, the spacious rooftop and bar serves up some of the best pink mojitos and infinity pool views over the old city.

Originally built in the 16^th century as the country’s first convent run by Carmelite nuns, Hotel El Convento’s reputation for being one of San Juan’s most elegant boutique hotels still stands. This summer, the hotel is offering guests a History & Gastro experience, which includes a tasting tour of Old San Juan for two adults, as well as a pitcher or sangria or mojito and full American breakfast for two during their stay.

For something truly extraordinary, The Gallery Inn holds a special place in this travel writer’s heart and is a memorable experience you won’t soon forget. No two rooms are the same in this quirky 27 key boutique, and from the eclectic art-filled rooms and public spaces, every nook and cranny of the former 19^th century mansion has been accounted for. Don’t be surprised if you hear opera singers or piano music bellowing out from one of the rooms here. The balcony views directly overlooking the Atlantic, walled in pool lined with giant busts and patios are perfect for drinking in this little slice of paradise.

Where to Eat

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Before we dig in here, a disclaimer: Dinner reservations should be made in advance of traveling to San Juan, especially on the weekends if you plan on going to Old San Juan. 

Wherever you’re staying, there’s no better way to start your morning than with some freshly baked quesitos and coffee. Quesitos are a delightful Puerto Rican pastry and whether you find them on the menu at your hotel or in one of the local panadería (bakeries) they are delightful local delicacy.

Kaffe Haus in Old San Juan lays claim to being “the best brunch in town” and while that’s certainly a bold statement, this quaint coffee house has the croquetas, chocolate, and coconut coffee, along with tapas and cocktails to back it up. Stroll a bit further along Calle de Tetuán and you’ll find Spiga, whose menu includes breakfast sandwiches and freshly baked sourdough along with an assortment of coffee.

There’s no shortage of charming restaurants, cafés, and bars starting with Barrachina which has long maintained themselves as the birthplace of the piña colada. While the jury’s still out on that, it’s a charming place to sit in the courtyard and sip delicious frozen bebidas nonetheless.

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La Fortaleza is the main artery of Old San Juan, and when it comes to fine dining in the old city, it doesn’t get much better than Marmalade where chef/owner Peter Schintler continues to turn out the best five-course tasting menu and wine pairing in town.

If you happen to be visiting on a Saturday and can manage to tear yourself away from the beach, Mercado Agrícola de Viejo San Juan is the local farmers market and a great place to poke around and support local growers.

Ranked on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, La Factoría and La Cubanita reign supreme when it comes to their signature lavender mule and boozy rum punch. A block over, El Batey Bar is a cool local dive with a long list of mezcals and mixed drinks. Right next door, Pira Rum is a fun tapas bar to keep the cocktails, piraguas (shaved ice), and food flowing.

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Over in Condado, Mario Pagán serves up some of the city’s most inventive Puerto Rican inspired dishes. Just next door, The Oyster Shack is shucking up some of the area’s best crudo, crabs, and cold plates in a convivial setting. 

For traditional Puerto Rican home cooking with an elevated twist, José Enrique in Condado, CAÑA by Juliana Gonzalez at The Fairmont El San Juan, and Café El Punto for some mofongo (plantains) and tostones in Old San Juan are all excellent spots to check out on your next visit.

What to Do

Whether or not you’re staying in Old San Juan, you’ll want to carve out plenty of time to just amble around here. The blend of Spanish and African influence can be found everywhere you look, just be sure to take extra care on those cobblestone streets. 

If you really want to dig in to the local history, there are plenty of excellent walking tours in the old city, and a beautiful sunset sail around the bay. El Castillo San Cristóbal and San Felipe El Morro are two fortresses that date back to the 16^th century and are great for walking around and snapping some pics.

Of course, shopping is a requisite activity in San Juan and there’s no shortage of charming local boutique and galleries. Stop at Ole Puerto Rico to get fitted for a handmade Panama hat and spend some time chatting with the shop owners who will get you fitted for a one-of-a-kind souvenir that will last for years to come. 

Once you’re donning your new hat, head outside and take a short stroll over to the “Umbrella Path” at the end of La Forteleza just in front of the Governor’s Mansion is a popular spot for snapping a few San Juan selfies.

Finally, it’s worth paying a visit to San Juan Cathedral. The second oldest cathedral in the Americas is the final resting place of the country’s first governor and seeker of the fountain of youth, Ponce de León. From the cathedral, walk down the leafy and oh so pretty Caleta de San Juan. If you time it right, there’s no better place to catch the sunset than Puerta de San Juan. 

No matter what camp you’re in, don’t be surprised if you find yourself clapping by the time the sun goes down in this beautiful piece of Puerto Rican paradise.

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