We head to San Juan to check out the best corporate event venues in this exciting destination. From convention spaces to beach clubs and great hotels, we think Puerto Rico is well worth considering for your next event!

Some of the Huddle Team recently had the opportunity to attend Cvent’s Connect Spring Marketplace. We love learning about amazing new destinations and event venue opportunities we can share with our clients, and we found plenty to get excited about just a short flight away in San Juan, Puerto Rico!

Day 1

We arrived early to check out some of the attractions that might be a bit off the usual corporate event track. 

We found quiet, serene beaches that felt a world away from the usual hustle and bustle of the meetings and event industry. 

We found amazing local eateries, like these on the Ruta de Lechon where we had some of the best pork ribs we have tasted anywhere. 

And we enjoyed an early dinner at the kind of Harborfront restaurants that Caribbean Island fantasies are made of. 

Finally, we headed to the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel and Casino to check in with our cvent events hosts.

The hotel sits between the convention center and the harbor, which meant we could enjoy a pina colada by the pool and take in the scenery while our rooms were prepared. Then it was an easy walk across to restaurants, shops and the convention center.

The first night ended with a party at the 3 Mobile District. Versatility is something event planners really appreciate during venue selection, and we loved this multi-use space. The whole area was sectioned off and provided ample floor space for local food and beverage vendors as well as attendees. 

All while dazzling projections of Puerto Rico and its unique culture and environment appeared on the roof above.

And a DJ and floor show with audience engagement unfolded below. We thought it was a great start to the conference.

Day 2

The first full day of Cvent Connect Spring Marketplace found the whole Huddle team meeting with suppliers from all over. People from across the industry, software developers to venue and transportation operators, were all there. It was great to see a lot of familiar faces, but equally exciting to find out about all the amazing new offerings entering the market. 

After making some great connections during our morning and afternoon sessions, we took a break to relax and unwind before the second party of the conference.

While the first evening showcased Puerto Rico’s great meeting spaces and modern entertainment precincts, the second night was designed to throw a spotlight on the unique local culture of this Caribbean Island. 

We got the bus to Old San Juan, with its vibrant nightlife and spectacular and colorful architecture. 

The party began as we were ushered into the cordoned-off boulevard by local performers in amazing costumes.

Past stalls with local vendors and artisans showing their wares, everything from intricate jewelry and handicrafts to unique food and beauty products. 

Sampling local delicacies offered by food and beverage services all along the way to the ocean-side DJ and performance stage at the end. 

Having vibrant entertainment and cultural options is such an important part of event travel management, and we felt so lucky to be able to enjoy this side of Puerto Rico.

Day 3

During our final sessions we met with local tourism and transportation professionals, entertainment providers and a host of others. We heard about amazing opportunities for our clients in Las Vegas, Tucson, Nashville, Reno, Miami, as well as several local Puerto Rican offerings. Then it was time to pack up once again and rest before the evening’s festivities. 

The final night was designed to highlight Puerto Rico’s stunning natural beaches and luxurious resort scene. Clients who choose a Caribbean destination want to get some sun on their face and some sand between their toes, so it was great to see this aspect of the island up close.

On our final night, we were bussed to the beautiful Vivo Beach Club to enjoy cocktails, live music, and the island paradise atmosphere unique to this part of the world. We had a fabulous time seeing so many industry professionals let their hair down. 

Finding the right venue for our clients is especially important to us, and we love staying up to date with the latest the marketplace has to offer. Many venues have taken the opportunity to update, renovate or expand their facilities covid. That makes this an exciting time for event planning, with lots of perfect venues our clients can view with fresh eyes. 

Need help with location and venue sourcing? Our team of experts are here to make event planning easy for you! Let’s chat about your upcoming events and how we can help.