Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel opened December 18, 2014, to restake its claim as the ultimate destination for seaside opulence and elegance in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Built by Frederick William Vanderbilt in 1919 for the princely sum of $1 million, it served as the first luxury hotel on the island. The early Spanish Revival building and decor enchanted the world’s elite for almost half a century, before eventually shutting its doors in the 1990s.

Today, fresh from a $200-million rebirth, the grande dame welcomes guests with 316 state-of-the-art accommodations in two 12-story towers, a fitness center and elaborate spa (with the island’s only hammam), four pools, a restaurant and bistro headed by a Michelin-starred chef, a trendy nightspot with three world-class lounges—and butlers tending every guest room floor as well as the pools and beach.

In the historic landmark building, groups find 30,000 square feet of space for meetings and events of all kinds. While a 5,000-square-foot terrace entertains with open-air views of the Atlantic, the six indoor venues blend authentic Old World style with the latest technology—and similar views. The oceanfront locale places attendees not only steps from the beach and the Condado District’s finest shops and restaurants, but also just over the bridge from the equally incentive-worthy charm of Old San Juan.