Royal Sonesta posts double-digit growth driven by service, location
The Royal Sonesta San Juan has achieved more than three years of consistent double-digit revenue growth, earning recognition as the top-performing hotel in its company’s portfolio in 2024.
According to Raúl Bustamante, general manager of the property, the hotel exceeded budget projections and outpaced the prior year’s earnings by double digits through April 30.
“By the end of April, we had already surpassed our budget and the previous year’s performance,” said Bustamante in an interview with News is my Business. “We’re also set to meet or exceed budget goals for June and July, despite some recent global economic uncertainty.”
The Royal Sonesta, which sits on the beach in the Isla Verde tourist sector in Carolina, has received multiple awards for its performance, including a top company honor for revenue generation earlier this year.
“We’ve had three or four major distinctions over the last three years,” Bustamante added.
He attributes this success to three core pillars: service, product quality and location.
“Our mission is to serve. You’ll see that statement in every hallway of the hotel,” Bustamante explained. “Our vision is to operate efficiently, with a personal and human touch. Humanity matters, especially in an age where technology often takes priority.”
Bustamante emphasized that while technology is a useful tool, the hotel’s philosophy is rooted in caring for people.
“We love people and use technology — not the other way around,” he said.
The Royal Sonesta offers 400 rooms and nearly two full floors of meeting and event space, which make it a strong player in the conventions market. Its proximity to the airport and direct beach access also provide competitive advantages, Bustamante said.
“How many hotels in the world are five minutes from an airport and located on one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico?” he asked.
The hotel’s identity has evolved over time, operating previously under several flags, including a nearly 20-year run as the InterContinental.
“When I arrived, the Royal Sonesta name was new to Puerto Rico. My main role was to make it a recognized brand on the island,” Bustamante said.
With more than three decades of experience in Puerto Rico’s hospitality industry, Bustamante emphasized that tourism plays a vital role in the island’s economy.
“Tourism is the most evenly distributed source of income. It supports workers across all sectors — from airport porters and taxi drivers to hotel employees,” he said. “Hotels generate employment at every level.”
While acknowledging that economic concerns may cause travelers to spend more cautiously, Bustamante believes Puerto Rico remains a top choice for U.S. visitors.
“We offer the same currency, the same legal system, and you don’t need a passport,” he said. “That’s why 92% of our guests come from the United States.”
Slow summer season gets boost from Bad Bunny
Summer, traditionally a low season for tourism in Puerto Rico, is seeing an unusual uptick this year thanks to Bad Bunny’s residency series. According to Bustamante, the concerts have generated more than 35,000 hotel nights and boosted the island’s economy with nearly $200 million in activity.
“Bad Bunny has had a huge impact. His residency came at a time when we usually see less business,” he noted. “At our hotel, almost every weekend in August is nearly sold out, and the first 15 days of September are heavily booked.”
Bustamante reported that the Royal Sonesta reached 100% occupancy for the July 4 weekend and finished June with occupancy above 85%.
“We’re also seeing strong demand from the local market in July,” he said.
He credited the artist’s visibility and timing with helping to revitalize the hospitality sector.
“What Bad Bunny has done for Puerto Rico during this low season is extraordinary,” he said. “It’s created demand, brought in tourism dollars and helped keep the industry moving during a critical period.”
With high occupancy trends expected to continue into the fall, Bustamante remains optimistic. “October and November are already showing strong bookings, and we’re working to close out the year just as strong,” he said. “Everything points to a positive finish for 2025.”
