Hoteliers in Puerto Rico continue to expand and improve offerings of top brands, services and amenities by pouring an estimated $2.1 billion into new developments over the next several years and $350 million into renovation and expansion projects throughout the island, according to Ana Maria Viscasillas, president and CEO of the Puerto Rico Convention Bureau.
An overview of some of the largest hotel developments in San Juan proves her point:
- The 184-room Doubletree by Hilton San Juan opened in January following a two-year renovation of the property, the former Best Western Hotel Pierre.
- In March, the 570-room Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza debuted following a $70 million redesign of all rooms, public areas, lobby and 40,000-square feet of meeting space.
- In April, the 382-room El San Juan Hotel & Casino joined the Waldorf Astoria Collection following a $52 million redo that included 35,000 square feet of event space, a business center, rooftop fitness center, La Galeria shopping arcade and a pool and beachfront complex.
- The 402-room InterContinental San Juan Resort & Casino recently completed a $40 million remodeling program of its guest rooms, meeting space and casino.
- The 58-room El Convento spent $80,000 on upgrades to its guest rooms and public areas.
- A $106 million restoration project continues at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, which will open in November 2010 with 305 guest rooms housed within two 11-story adjacent towers.
- Following a $40 million renovation project to its Tower and Garden wings, the Caribe Hilton is pouring an additional $12 million into its meeting rooms, Expo Center and outdoor bar and beach areas. In addition, the property has begun the second phase of its Laguna Villas project. When completed in 2010, the Hilton will offer 910 guest rooms.
- Within the Convention Center District, the 500-room Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel & Casino opens this month as the anchor property for the