Recovery and Resurgence Ritz-Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach

Hollywood turned up en vigor to celebrate the post-hurricane recovery of Puerto Rico and the return of Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, earlier this winter. Martha Stewart, Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka, Uma Thurman, Mariska Hargitay, and Benjamin Bratt were just a few of the stars on-hand alongside philanthropists and key players who were instrumental in the resurgence of Puerto Rico.
Once a plantation, the meticulously restored Dorado Beach is one of the most exclusive luxury resorts in the Caribbean. Dorado is known for its remoteness, discreet individualized service, and deep respect for the environment.

Over the course of the event, guests enjoyed performances by Questlove, Leslie Odom Jr., the Puerto Rico Philharmonic Orchestra, and Tony Okungbowa.

“We are reopening Dorado Beach this weekend with the Puerto Rico Philharmonic Orchestra and I am very excited to be performing with them,” said Odom Jr. “This was a great chance for me to do something that I love and help people in the process.”

A memorable “Chefs of Puerto Rico” event was hosted by humanitarian chef José Andrés, author of the New York Times bestseller We Fed an Island, in collaboration with the island’s most elite culinary talent.
Perhaps the most moving moment of the weekend-long event occurred when Tony Okungbowa invited guests to join him in a ceremonial blessing of the island. Inspired by Puerto Rican tradition, hundreds of well-wishers tossed herb satchels into the flames of a beach bonfire, symbolizing their hopes for the stunning island’s bright future.

Meanwhile, Martha Stewart visited a World Central Kitchen farm with Chef Andrés and shared her thoughts on the island’s inspiring transformation, made in just one year.

And everyone enjoyed the jewel of Dorado Beach: the restorative Spa Botanico, set within a fragrant pineapple garden and on acres of lush natural landscaping, achieved via the planting of thousands of new trees. Inspired by nature to impart a holistic sense of wellbeing, this sanctuary pairs local ingredients with indigenous soothing traditions. The treatments are performed in soaring tree houses and open-air haciendas.

The best news is that Dorado Beach Resort has returned to provide its special brand of barefoot resort elegance. From the dedicated butler who curated my experience, to the private plunge pool overlooking the ocean just steps from my bed, to the indulgent spa, to the five-star restaurants where you can dine with your feet in the sand, Dorado Beach is the ultimate luxury sanctuary.