One of T+L Readers' Favorite Hotels in Puerto Rico Just Launched a $50,000 Package, and It's the Most Over-the-top Stay I've Ever Experienced

Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, named one of the top resorts in Puerto Rico by Travel + Leisure readers in 2023, recently launched a $50,000 "Best in Class, Epicurean Retreat Package," offering the most over-the-top stay I've ever experienced.

It starts on the tarmac at Puerto Rico's Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport. The new package offers private car service to the hotel. (I exchanged texts with their driver, who found me after I deplaned — it was seamless.) The package includes a seven-night stay in one of Fairmont El San Juan's Ocean Villa Rooms or Presidential Suites. Both rooms have incredible ocean views and soaking tubs. I stayed in an Ocean Villa and enjoyed watching the waves while working on the balcony at sunrise. At night, whistle calls of coqui frogs lulled me to sleep.

A personal concierge reached out to me (and all Epicurean Retreat Package travelers) before arrival, so each time I sat down to dine, the menu had already taken into account my dietary restrictions and preferences. The new package allows guests to access the island’s best culinary offerings as well as high-end experiences like a private yacht tour to Icacos Island. I arrived at the marina for the yacht tour in a sprinter van and was then ushered to the yacht by golf cart. An executive chef and other Fairmont staffers awaited. We rode to the stunning Icacos Island to sip the resort's signature cocktails on the isolated beach. The staff erected a luxurious miniature beach club, complete with wicker fans, coolers of Veuve Clicquot, and comfy cushions sitting in the white sand. For lunch, I waded into the turquoise waters for a feast of massive shrimp, caviar galore, steak, and lobster tails.

On a walking tour of Old San Juan — another package offering — I stopped by the walk of fame and admired the churches and enduring sea walls. The mist of the ocean kissed my face before I moved on to a mixology class at Ron del Barrilito distillery. Founded in 1880, the home of the oldest Puerto Rican rum was a charming detour. The scents rising through their sherry casks were divine. The package wrapped up with an exquisite meal at on-site restaurant Caña, where I tucked into elevated takes on classics like roast pork and mofongo.

For more information about Fairmont El San Juan Hotel's Best in Class Epicurean Package, visit fairmont.com. The package launched in November and is available through 2025.

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