Hilton announces the opening of the first Spark by Hilton hotel in the Caribbean and Latin America, marking a significant milestone in the global expansion of Hilton’s premium economy brand. Owned by Ponce Resorts Inc. and managed by HI Development P.R.Corp, the 120-room Spark by Hilton Ponce offers guests reliable essentials and warm, friendly service, at an accessible price point.
“We are thrilled to welcome guests to Spark by Hilton Ponce, the first Spark by Hilton in the Caribbean and Latin America,” said Maxime Verstraete, vice president, brand management, Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton. “This milestone marks an exciting chapter in the expansion of Hilton’s brands in the region, as we continue to meet the evolving needs of today’s travelers by offering more choices across our portfolio. The arrival of Spark by Hilton in Ponce introduces a fresh, affordable hospitality experience to the destination, and contributes to the local economy by creating careers opportunities and reinforcing our commitment to the tourism in Puerto Rico.”
Located in Puerto Rico’s second-largest city, Spark by Hilton Ponce showcases modern Spanish architecture and a serene courtyard that sets a welcoming tone from the moment guests arrive. The lobby features versatile seating options from communal tables to individual workspaces, offering a comfortable setting to enjoy the complimentary hot breakfast, connect with others, or stay productive throughout the day. Additional amenities include free parking, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and more than 1,600 square feet of flexible event space, accommodating up to 120 guests.
“The Spark by Hilton brand has seen incredible momentum since its launch two years ago, and now we’re excited to introduce our signature hospitality to the Caribbean and Latin American market. With over 200 hotels open, Spark continues to expand into new regions – always with the same aspiration – to offer guests a consistent, high-quality experience at an exceptional value and to empower our team members and owners to shine in every community we serve.” said Alissa Klees, global brand leader, Spark by Hilton.
Strategically located only three miles from Mercedita International Airport, off Highway 52, which connects Ponce to San Juan, Spark by Hilton Ponce's proximity to cultural attractions, the historic downtown, and shopping malls makes it the home base for guests looking to explore or those needing a peaceful retreat before their next journey.
“The members of our team are extremely excited as we open our Spark by Hilton, bringing the premium economy brand to the Ponce tourism market,” said Miguel Vega, president of HI Development P.R. Corp. “The hotel adds diversity to the southern region and confirms our commitment of over 50 years contributing to the tourism development in the city of Ponce and Puerto Rico.”
Spark, a conversion-only brand, is scaling quickly due to its appeal to both developers and guests. With its innovative design, budget-friendly rates, and guest-centric amenities, Spark delivers an exceptional stay experience that also aligns seamlessly with current travel trends. Additionally, the brand offers flexible development options and robust support from Hilton, making it an attractive choice for developers aiming to enter or expand within the dynamic hospitality sector. Hilton’s fastest announcement-to-market brand boasts more than 200 open hotels, and more than 190 hotels in the global pipeline.
Spark by Hilton Ponce joins Hilton’s portfolio of more than 10 hotels currently welcoming guests in Puerto Rico, strengthening the company’s commitment to doubling its presence on the island within the next four years. Hilton plans to continue expanding its rapidly growing portfolio in the Caribbean, where it welcomes guests at approximately 50 hotels and has 40 additional properties in development. Throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton welcomes travelers at nearly 300 hotels and resorts with over 160 hotels in various stages of design and construction.
Hilton is redefining the guest experience by continuing to introduce new ways to stay through an unmatched portfolio of award-winning brands, opening new horizons of travel and adventure for Hilton guests, especially Hilton Honors members, who can dream, book, and earn and spend Points for stays.
