O:LV Fifty Five

The original O:live Boutique Hotel was a smash hit, a funky, atmospheric, but nevertheless high-end boutique hotel in Condado, an emerging, upscale quarter of the Puerto Rican capital, San Juan. For a second effort, however, they’ve resisted the temptation to stick too closely to the original template. O:LV Fifty Five is a sleek, ultra-modern tower, and its interiors trade O:live’s bohemian vibe for a glossy gold-and-white color scheme, made even richer by gemstone-colored accents and marble floors and bathrooms. It’s a relentlessly high-end experience, and the confidence with which it’s executed is a sight to behold.

It’s an all-suite hotel, and spaces are generous, which explains why it weighs in at a mere 26 suites, most of which have impressive views of the Condado Lagoon. The best view, however, might be the one from the rooftop, where you’ll find the hotel’s bar, restaurant, and swimming pool — or, perhaps, the elevated lounge still one floor higher. All in all, it’s a sophisticated package, but one that’s not afraid to have fun — by the poolside you’ll find a Seventies Rolls-Royce that’s been converted into a combination champagne bar and DJ booth. Safe to say there’s nothing quite like it anywhere else in town.