A NEW
SHINING ERA
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CARIBE HILTON: AN EVERLASTING ICON IN PUERTO RICO
Pablo Torres, general manager at Caribe Hilton.
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hat started as a government project to promote the development of the island’s tourism industry in 1949, has become an iconic property that, in the 70s, was able to faithfully capture the evolution of the vibrant Puerto Rican personality. Now, showing a contemporary touch that connects with its origin and historical tradition, the Caribe Hilton is celebrating its reopening, at the same time as Hilton International is celebrating its 100th Anniversary. “Considering the number of hotels that we have around the world; this property is part of the company’s heritage. It is part of the Hilton DNA. Therefore, it is very emblematic for Hilton and for Puerto Rico,” said Pablo Torres, general manager of the hotel, while emphasizing that this property gave way to tourism in large scale,
not only in Puerto Rico, but also in the Caribbean region. “That philosophy has not changed and it continues to be our guiding light and inspiration to the way we do business with everybody,” he indicated, as he stressed the importance to continue in this direction, which has enabled them to maintain a century of history for the brand and 70 years in Puerto Rico.
ICONIC AND RELEVANT FOREVER
Since the beginning, the Caribe Hilton was a landmark hotel that welcomed celebrities from the entertainment industry and high dignitaries from around the world. Moreover, the property has always kept close ties with the community, Torres assured. Said connection was evident during the aftermaths of hurricanes Irma and Maria, which tested the values and vision of Conrad Hilton, founder of the hotel chain: “to fill the world with the light and the warmth of hospitality.” The result of the lessons learned from these experiences by the Caribe Hilton family is positive and it is celebrated with the reopening of the property and a renewed commitment based on the values of the brand: hospitality, integrity to always do what is right,
leadership, teamwork, take responsibility for things and sense of urgency which is shown by acting ‘now’,” said Torres, who was recently recognized by Chris Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton, for his leadership and for carrying the torch of hospitality that leads the Hilton chain throughout Puerto Rico, serving and giving support not only to employees, but also to colleagues in the hotel industry and the community. This is what the company proudly calls the Hilton Effect, which refers to the positive impact that Hilton has in the communities where its hotels are located throughout the world and that include, contributions to the community such as the $10,000 donation given to the Fondita de Jesus on May 31, 2019, the support provided to the Boys & Girls Club of Puerto Rico and the recognition given to the world famous Piña Colada in its 65th anniversary, which was created in the hotel by Ramon “Monchito” Torres and became Puerto Rico’s favorite drink.
A HIDDEN BLESSING THAT BECAME AN OPPORTUNITY
Despite recognizing that the experience lived since September 2017 had no precedent, the hotel’s general manager, who joined Hilton as a management trainee, assures
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that, eventually, it became an opportunity. “Crisis bring out the best in people to come closer and be more creative,” said Torres, while stressing on the importance of reevaluating our life and businesses understanding and taking into consideration how vulnerable we are. “This has given us the opportunity to reevaluate ourselves and create a new Caribe Hilton, to support Puerto Rico in being more competitive than before,” he indicated. As an example, he added that, besides the multimillion-dollar renovation, the hotel made a significant investment to optimize internet access and speed and to improve in-room entertainment options. Moreover, the property is equipped with Straight to the Room technology, which allows guests to register without having to go to the front desk using a smart phone as a key.
THE LEGACY OF A FAMILY UNITED BY ITS PASSION TO SERVE
“Now, that the hotel is open, the Team Members are back from the month- long training prior to opening the property. The feedback we are receiving from guests about the service is very positive,” Torres said proudly, while revealing that, at present, 80% of the team members have returned to their positions at the hotel, which closed its doors in Fe-
bruary 2018 to undergo an extensive renovation. The rest of the employees are expected to return to their posts during the next few weeks. “At the end, its all about the people,” Torres stated in multiple occasions regarding the legacy of Hilton to the people and the island.
A NEW CARIBE HILTON WITH THE SAME HEART
While mentioning that the investment made to remodel each and every corner of the hotel exceeded $150 million, Torres indicated that the reopening of the Caribe Hilton shows that Puerto Rico is ready to do business. “The reopening of the Caribe Hilton sends a clear message that Puerto Rico is open for business. The largest hotel in the metropolitan area and with the most meeting space is the Caribe Hilton; therefore, somehow, the city needed for it open to be able to attract larger groups that will contribute to the community,” he assured, while stating that “in Puerto Rico, there is nothing like the Hilton.” To celebrate its reopening, the Caribe Hilton has two exclusive offers: ● Another Day in Paradise: The fourth night is free IN stays from Thursday to Sunday. ● One Night On Us: The third night is free in stays from Sunday to Wednesday. Visit caribehilton.com and book your reservation before September 30, 2019 for stays up until December 20, 2019.
WE'RE BACK, AND BETTER THAN EVER! “For generations, the Caribe Hilton has been a meeting point for the people of Puerto Rico and tourists who visit this beautiful island and we know that the property has had a significantly positive impact.”
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For Chris Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton, the reopening of the Caribe Hilton has a special meaning, not only because it was the first hotel in the chain to operate outside of the United States mainland, but also because it had critical role in the development of the tourism industry in the Caribbean region as it introduced travelers to new destinations and experiences. “We are proud to celebrate this reopening during the 100 Anniversary of the Hilton brand,” said the executive, while adding that this is a special moment, especially for those who have been in the property for many years. “It is appropriate that we celebrate the reopening of this property with its 70th birthday and with Hilton’s most dynamic year,” Nassetta emphasized. He recalled that, when the iconic hotel first opened in 1949, it became the heart of expansion of the tourism industry in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. Nassetta assured that, for 70 years the Caribe Hilton has been a model of hospitality in San Juan and home to thousands of Team Members and guests. “For generations, the hotel has been a meeting point for the people of Puerto Rico and tourists who visit this beautiful island, and we know that-through what we know as the Hilton Effect- it has had a significantly positive impact in the community,” he explained. Moreover, in 100 years the Hilton hotel chain has served more than 3 billion guests, employed 10 million Team Members and contributed billions of dollars to economies around the world. “This couldn’t have been possible without the generous legacy of properties such as the Caribe Hilton,” stated the CEO, while assuring that all Team Members, owners and partners have put their heart and soul into this renovation. “The Caribe Hilton is back, and is better than ever,” he exclaimed. “I think I speak for all of us, when I say that we are excited about the reopening of the Caribe Hilton, of returning to the local community and to serving guests around the world. Puerto Rico is a world-class destination and San Juan is more vibrant than ever. There has never been a better time to visit and experience our distinct hospitality and everything the island has to offer,” the executive said to conclude.
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Far right, the iconic Caribar, birthplace of Piña Colada 65 years ago, and which now features a new look. Next to these lines, Mojito’s Caribbean Fusion, one of the restaurants within the property. The hotel also has 4 ballrooms, an auditorium and 24 flexible spaces that can be adjusted to fit any event.
Above, from the terrace, located next to the Caribar, guests can enjoy a magnificent view of the Atlantic Ocean and the pool. Right, the gym, which features high-tech equipment and panoramic ocean views.
THE PLEASURES OF
PARADISE T
he Caribe Hilton is reopening its doors with an offer that completely defines its hospitality and that recaptures the simple pleasures of life in a place that represents the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico from a modern perspective that is drizzled with a traditional touch that captures the senses. After a renovation worth over $150 million, distributed throughout the property’s 65,000 square-foot, the new Caribe Hilton hotel takes into account the needs of its guests and seeks to fulfill all of their expectations with a concept that is perfectly complemented with excellence in service.
Above these lines, the pool area, where you are required to do nothing but relax. Next, the entrance to Zen Spa Ocean, with 8,500 square feet. Below and to the right, the tennis courts were completely remodeled and named after Monica Puig.
To the right, Néctar del Caribe, a restaurant with a modern open kitchen that serves an attractive breakfast buffet and cocktails. To the left, one of the 652 rooms that were completely remodeled. Guests can choose to use the Straight to the Room technology, which allows them to go directly to the room using a smart phone as key.
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BELOVED
THE MOST AWAITED MOMENT FOR HILTON HAS ARRIVED “We are incredibly proud of this hotel and we know it is the beginning of a new era. We can’t wait to see the great things that the future will bring for the Caribe Hilton!”
Hilton International acquired the property for $80 million.
1999
1949
The hotel closed for remodeling, and, after an investment of more than $65 million investment, on December 25, it reopened showing a fresh image and featuring a beautiful pool and spectacular gardens.
In a glamorous celebration with magnificent guests, the doors to paradise opened as “the crown jewel of the Caribbean”: the Caribe Hilton, a transcendental step in the modernization of Puerto Rico.
Former United States President, Barack Obama, is among the hotel’s distinguished guests.
2004
One of the world’s most favorite beverage, the Piña Colada, turned 50. Ramón “Monchito” Marrero.
2005
With Paseo Caribe, the hotel expanded its entertainment offer and room capacity, featuring stores, restaurants and 264 villas, marketed under the name of Condado Lagoon Villas.
1954
Cream of coconut, pineapple juice and rum … with these three simple ingredients, bartender Ramón “Monchito” Ruiz showed the world authentic tropical flavors with his Piña Colada.
1957
With the inauguration of the Garden Wing, the hotel expanded its room capacity to 400.
1974
Important local and international celebrities celebrated the success of the hotel’s first 25 years in a gala event. Room capacity increased to 650 with the construction of The Towers. Former governor, Rafael Hernandez Colon, with his first wife, Lila Mayoral, and Roberto Lugo, the first Puerto Rican general manager of the hotel.
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1998
SETTING The reopening of the Caribe Hilton hotel has been one of the most awaited moments in Puerto Rico’s tourism industry, because, as told by Danny Hughes, executive vice president of Hilton Americas, this hotel has always and will continue to be an icon for Hilton and the community. “Since 1949, the Caribe Hilton has always been an integral part of the island, as a result we had the responsibility of reopening it and making it better than ever,” the executive indicated. He assured that this reopening will always be remembered as the sign that indicated that Puerto Rico is back in business. “We rebuilt this property with the services and elements to meet the varied needs of our guests and we complement them with our employees, who bring the real passion and warmth of Puerto Ricans,” he explained, while expressing that, throughout the years, the Caribe Hilton has always been a special place, because it shows the positive impact it has had in the island’s community, people, and economy. This multidimensional impact is known as the Hilton Effect. “We are incredibly proud of this hotel and we know it is the beginning of a new era. We can’t wait to see the great things that the future will bring for the Caribe Hilton!” Hughes emphasized with emotion, while mentioning some of the features that put this historic property in a privilege place in the Caribbean tourism market. “The hotel has 652 rooms, distributed in three buildings: Beach, Wave, and Garden. During their visit, guests will be able to find a wide array of amenities and extraordinary experiences within a memorable property,” he indicated, while taking about the quiet pools, full service spa, tennis courts, beach cabanas, and the fantastic dining options that are available at the hotel. Also, the property is an ideal location for business meetings, conferences and weddings. “We are very excited to open our doors to the community and guests and to show them the fully remodeled Caribe Hilton!” said Hughes, who is pleased with the outcome and who recognized the island as magnificent destination. “Puerto Rico is an exceptional island, known for its culture, brightness and beauty. It is one of my favorite places to travel!” he assured. In his opinion, Puerto Rico stands out, not only for its diverse culinary offer, unique tourism experiences and an incredible arts and entertainment scene, but also for the warmth and spirit of its people, which brighten the island.
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1978
The Piña Colada was named Puerto Rico’s National Beverage.
Since the beginning, it became the favorite spot of renowned personalities, such as Puerto Rico’s first Miss Universe, Marisol Malaret, accompanied by the hotel’s executive, Alfaro Sera Zaldivar.
2015
For its historical value, the Caribe Hilton became a member of Historic Hotels of America.
2019
2017
After the devastation caused by hurricane Maria the hotel closed its doors.
With the legacy of 70 years of great history, and confidence in Puerto Rico -on May 15- it reopened its doors to continue being the most faithful ally of Puerto Ricans.
THE FOUNDATION FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS
The Park Hotel and Resorts family defines the reopening of the Caribe Hilton as the first stone of long-term success for the property, which this year celebrates its 70th anniversary. “We are excited to welcome the Caribe Hilton back to our portfolio of outstanding hotels and resorts. Since it firsts opened 70 years ago, this hotel has been one of Hilton’s signature properties, and we are honored to have it back in our portfolio,” said Thomas J. Baltimore, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of the real estate trust that focuses on hotels and was established in 2017. “There is no doubt that our portfolio benefits from having this iconic property back in business,” he indicated, while stressing that this is one of Puerto Rico’s most distinctive hotels, therefore it has an important place in the regional expansion strategy of Park Hotel and Resorts. “One of our principal strategies to increase temporary demand is to promote groups,” Baltimore, Jr. said as he spoke of the hotel’s capacity to attract new businesses that benefit the island’s economy. “With 65,000 square-feet of renewed space for meetings and events located in a world class resort, we are very excited for the potential that the hotel has to attract groups, corporate travelers and leisure guests. With so many attractive amenities available, we believe that the Caribe Hilton will attract a diversity of guests, both local and visiting.” For Baltimore, Jr. it is evident that the new version of the Caribe Hilton is more solid than ever. “Based on its well established identity on the island, we are excited about this new stage, which emphasizes Puerto Rico’s unique style and its cultural richness, which are found just behind the resort’s doors,” said the executive as he stressed that the ample renovation and restoration set the foundation for the property’s success in the long run.
“Since it first opened, this hotel has been one of Hilton’s signature properties, and we are honored to have it back in our portfolio.”
Provided
2019 is a transcendental year for the Hilton family, as it celebrates its 100 years of history, while in Puerto Rico the Caribe Hilton Hotel celebrates its 70th anniversary. The reopening of the iconic property represents a new milestone in the hotel’s trajectory, which has been part of the island’s evolution and that today it reemerges with new strength and commitment to take-on the challenges of this new stage.
Thank you! PLATINUM
GOLD
SILVER
BRONZE
General Director: Jorge Cabezas ● Subdirector: Cristina Fernández Barreto Graphic and Visual Production Director: Orlando Campero Coronado ● Editor: Jannette Hernández ● Reporters: Lucía A. Lozada and Francisco J. Díaz Design Editor: Jonathan Rodriguez Osorio ● Graphic Designer: Angel Díaz Specialized Publications Coordinator: Sharian Maldonado Photos: Provided and Rosario Fernández
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