3 Puerto Rico hotels named finalists in 2025 excellence awards
Puerto Rico will be represented at the 2025 Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence, with three landmark properties named finalists for national recognition.
The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel in San Juan, which opened in 1919, is competing in the “Best Historic Hotel (Over 400 Guestrooms)” category. The nomination notes both the hotel’s century-old architecture and the modern updates made to its facilities.
Hotel El Convento, located in Old San Juan, is a finalist in the “Best Historic Hotel (201-400 Guestrooms)” category. Originally built as a Carmelite convent in 1646, it was later restored and now operates as a boutique hotel that combines colonial-era design with contemporary amenities.
El Conquistador Resort in Fajardo was also named a finalist, representing Puerto Rico in the “Best Historic Resort” category. The property, situated on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, was recognized for its historic character and its role in expanding the island’s tourism industry.
“These nominee finalists represent the pinnacle of historic hospitality, showcasing properties that have preserved their architectural integrity while continuing to provide service to guests,” the organization stated.
Winners will be announced Oct. 30 during the Historic Hotels Annual Conference in Seattle. The awards highlight hotels, hoteliers and partners for their leadership, stewardship and commitment to preserving historic properties.
