life destinations When it’s time to turn in for the evening, the resort’s 483 rooms are pampering retreats, decorated in soothing whites, blues, greens and oranges to reflect the seaside locale, with plush bedding, spalike bathrooms and large flat-panel TVs. And of course, stunning views.
restaurants, stroll the grounds, sink into a comfy beachfront chair or take a dip in one of four pools (temperatures are kept at a balmy 85 degrees). Guests seeking a lively vibe should check out the Main Pool, a high-energy, multilevel infinity-edge pool with connecting waterfalls. For a more se-
surfing and other watersports are available along the Condado shoreline, while indoor exercise enthusiasts will appreciate the oceanfront fitness center. And while it’s tempting to remain immersed in the resort’s amenities, the treasures of San Juan are not to be missed,
While exploring you’ll likely encounter the unofficial mascot of the island, a tiny tree frog called ‘coqui,’ known for its powerful melodic voice and high-pitched, chirpy song.
For the ultimate stay, book a room in the new Suite Tower, where 235 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom and studio suites feature balconies with ocean views and European-style kitchens (for an extra treat, book a Spa Suite featuring a terrace shower and hot tub). All Suite Tower guests have access to the Ocean Lounge, a full-service club with an adults-only pool, dedicated concierge and valet parking. After breakfast at one of the resort’s five 56
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cluded experience, visit the Sereno Pool, an infinity-edge pool that faces the beach. For an outdoor workout, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, surfing, wind-
contact La Concha Resort is located at 1077 Ashford Avenue, San Juan, Puerto Rico. For more information call 787-7217500 or visit laconcharesort.com.
with 500-year-old Spanish forts and colonial cities, the third-largest river cavern system in the world, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Parks system, superb scuba diving and oceanfront championship golf courses. Located just 15 minutes from the resort, Old San Juan offers a showcase of Puerto Rico’s cultural influences— all in a seven-square-block area. Here, cobblestone streets lead to parks, plazas and fruit-colored colonial architectural wonders housing museums, art galleries, bars, restaurants and boutiques. Two National Historic sites, the fortresses of El Morro and San Cristóbal, are here as well, along with Paseo La Princesa, a 19th-century walkway lined with statues and royal palms. While exploring you’ll likely encounter the unofficial mascot of the island, a tiny tree frog called ‘coqui,’ known for its powerful melodic voice and high-pitched, chirpy song. History, sunshine, the beach, San Juan seems to have it all—and because it’s a Commonwealth of the United States, you won’t need a passport or visa. Although the locals call a dollar a peso, no currency exchanges are needed. So it’s convenient, too. Time to brush up on your Spanish — and prepare for a memorable trip. O