Puerto Rico offers diverse activities to fulfill the interests of a wide variety of travelers. The island offers world-class golf, stylish restaurants, deluxe spas, and one-of-a-kind natural wonders by land and sea such as El Yunque and the black coral wall off the coast of La Parguera.  Visitors also enjoy the authentic Latin culture and rich history when visiting Old San Juan`s various historic sites and Ponce`s colonial architecture, but one of the island`s best-kept historic secrets is a network of small country inns called Paradores. In order to commemorate the 30th anniversary of The Paradores of Puerto Rico, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) is offering guests the option of booking a third night at a Parador for US$30, through May 2004.

“Each Parador has something different to offer - its own style, its own history. However, they all share the same mission of family ownership and pride in the service they provide. We are offering guests this special deal, as an open invitation to experience our Paradores, and extend their stay and extra night,” said José Suárez, Executive Director of PRTC.

Puerto Rico`s collection of 25 Paradores are scattered throughout the island`s mountains and coasts - either in small towns or tranquil, beautiful locations. These wonderful country inns offer the perfect opportunity to experience the island`s inner beauty. Their affordable rates, as low as US$65-110 per night, are only the beginning of their charms. For example of the earliest Paradores, Hacienda Gripiñas, is a former coffee plantation hidden away on the island`s mountainous interior, near the town of Jayuya. Over 200 years old, the Hacienda was converted to a lovely inn in 1975 and now offers guests a true Old World experience in a lush setting. Most of the properties offer this formula of unique location and historic significance.
The Paradores of Puerto Rico program was created in 1973 under the guidance of Roberto Bouret, then Executive Director of PRTC, and the support of Carlos Diago, Executive Assistant Director, who developed the systems and rules for the program. El Guajataca, the first Parador established in Puerto Rico, opened that same year. Today, 25 Paradores are part of the program, averaging 50 rooms each.
“Our Paradores represent direct employment of 550 people. Given the valuable role that these properties play in the tourism industry of Puerto Rico, it`s important to celebrate this anniversary to continue to and grow this program,” said Suárez.

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(19/09/03) First BanCorp prices largest Puerto Rico preferred stock issue

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