Special Activities and Tours
Spouse/guest breakfast and program information coming soon!
EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST WALKING TOUR
Sunday, October 17
1:00pm-5:00pm
Named after the good Indian spirit, Yuquiyu, and shelter to the Carib Indians for 200 years, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Breathtaking views of feathery ferns, thick ropelike vines, white tuberoses, ginger, miniature orchids and some 240 different species of trees are in abundance throughout the area. Home to the Puerto Rican parrot, El Yunque is also a bird sanctuary and you can hear the wondrous strains of these birds harmonizing with the tiny, inch-long coqui's (frogs) prevalent to Puerto Rico. Splashing falls and cool shaded pools complement the total enhancement of the forest. Travel by bus through the rainforest's beauty with a knowledgeable guide until you reach the waterfalls. Take a relaxing 30 to 45 minute hike up to the top of the falls for the splendor of the surroundings for photo opportunities or just pure enjoyment. Please wear tennis shoes or hiking boots. Don't forget to bring along a towel and an extra T-shirt.
Tour will depart from the El Conquistador main entrance.
Cost: $55.00 per person
BIOLUMINESCENT BAY EXCURSION
Sunday, October 17
6:30pm-9:00pm
Kayak the beautiful bay at Vieques Island. Recognized by leading naturalist as one of the few of its kind in the world, this natural wonder abounds with tiny microorganisms that sparkle and glitter with the water’s slightest movement. Bathing suit and towel recommended.
Tour will depart from the El Conquistador main entrance.
This event is SOLD OUT.
OLD CITY HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR WITH SHOPPING
Monday, October 18
10:30am-5:30pm
Explore the sites and examine the past first-hand with the Old San Juan Historical Walking Tour. Not only is Old San Juan the oldest city in the United States, but it was originally built to protect the transportation of gold, silver and jewels, on its route from America to Spain. Stroll through Old Spanish cathedrals and forts such as San Cristobal, where you will see and learn how the Spanish built and defended their city. Afterwards, enjoy some shopping and have lunch on your own at one of San Juan's fine restaurants. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes and your camera!
Tour will depart from the El Conquistador main entrance. From Hotel to Old San Juan is a transfer time of around 30 minutes.
Cost: $65.00 per person
LOCAL COLOR NIGHT — PUERTO RICAN CARNIVALE!
Monday, October 18
6:30pm-9:30pm
Tonight will be reminiscent of a Carnivale in Old San Juan. Festive Carnivale characters will greet you as you enjoy cocktails by the pool. A buffet dinner featuring some Puerto Rican favorites will delight your palette. And Juan Carlos and his Rumba Flemenca will take you on a musical journey as the evening concludes with a bang! You won’t want to miss this Local Color Night!
El Conquistador Main Pool
Cost: $155.00 per person
CATAMARAN SNORKELING
Tuesday, October 19
1:00pm-4:00pm
Board a state of the art catamaran sailboat and begin a leisurely sail to one of the stunning off shore coral reefs. The coral reefs surrounding Puerto Rico are considered some of the most spectacular in the Caribbean region, with a vast display of ocean wildlife which take refuge in the reef's vegetation. After anchoring near the reef, relax in the sun or enjoy snorkeling and swimming while the crew prepares refreshing snacks. Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen, an extra t-shirt and a hat!
Tour will depart from the El Conquistador Hotel Marina.
Cost Rate: $96.00 per person
Pre Conference Optional Tour — Isla de Vieques!
The new hottest Caribbean island destination, Vieques is undeniably alluring, romantic, and magical. Isla de Vieques is a municipality of Puerto Rico and it is one of "The Spanish Virgin Islands." Vieques Island is just 6 miles off the southeast coast of Puerto Rico. You can get to Vieques in just a short ride on the ferry or a short flight.
Isla de Vieques is blessed with spectacular beaches that rival any beach on the Caribbean. Feast your eyes on clear blue waters that seem to have been painted by a master artist using coordinating shades of turquoise, aquamarine and light greens. Each beach in Vieques is unique with its own flavor and personality.
Isla de Vieques shows off lush green flora that embraces rolling hills and beautifully frame the magnificent and breathtaking coastline. Vieques offers tranquility, beauty, peace, adventure, history, bright stars, beautiful horses, playful pelicans on the water, crabs greeting you on the beach and palms dancing to the wind.
There is more to Isla de Vieques than beautiful beaches; this small island is rich in history, it houses the last Spanish fort built in the Americas.
ACEC has negotiated a special discounted hotel rate of $259/night for ACEC Fall Conference attendees at the W Retreat and Spa.
Escape to the gorgeous W Retreat & Spa, Vieques Island, and lose yourself in tranquil island life. Let the stress of the everyday recede with each tranquil wave. Voted best Caribbean island by Travel & Leisure, frolic in the secluded natural haven and discover charmed island life amid lush landscapes. Experience R&R W-style.
miX on the beach — by Alain Ducasse http://www.wvieques.com/mix.
World renowned French Chef Alain Ducasse, the first chef to own restaurants with three Michelin Stars in three cities; Paris, Monte Carlo and New York City, brings his culinary excellence to miX by exploring the colorful Latino Caribbean flavors, with a French know-how and a resolutely modern twist.
Spa Chakra http://www.wvieques.com/spa-chakra.
Where the ultimate in spa indulgence elevates your senses to sensational heights, come flourish at Spa Chakra™, where we'll pamper every flight of fancy of your whims and dreams.
With more than 700 flights daily to San Juan from major hubs in North and South America, the Caribbean and Europe, you can easily hop on any of the five airlines that fly you from city to sea paradise in 20 minutes. The most hassle-free way to fly from San Juan to Vieques, Isla Grande Airport is near the heart of the city, and has several airlines serving the route: Air Flamenco, M&N Aviation and Vieques Air Link. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) features more major airlines connecting from major and mid-sized hubs all over North and South America, the Caribbean and Europe, and several air carriers serving the San Juan-Vieques route, including Air Sunshine, Cape Air and Vieques Air Link.
On Vieques, public cabs or vans called públicos efficiently bring you all around but to truly experience the island, go behind the wheel of an off-road vehicle. Whatever/Whenever® will be thrilled to get you started on your adventure with a rental and arm you with a map directing you to beaches of your fancy. Don't be afraid of losing your bearings on rural roads and unpaved tracks-it's all part of the Vieques joie de vivre!
From the airport, our Welcome Ambassadors at the W Lounge will send you on your way to paradise in a local taxi (publicos) for the five-minute drive. Want to arrive in style? Allow Whatever/Whenever® to take care of any of your transportation and transfer details, to and from any of the airports or at any point in Vieques.
