although some resorts, like the famous La Concha, have existed in Condado for several decades, the area has just recently experienced a rapid evolution spurred by fresh tourist interest and financial investment. it is a place in transition, with vacant buildings and empty lots punctuating the shining new developments.
i seriously lucked out when i bumped into a fellow traveler named Rubi while touring the Bacardi Factory one day. Rubi circulates the globe for the Cheesecake factory (spending three months in San Juan then to San Diego then to Lima, Peru) helping to train employees and assemble new stores. the factory helps it's temporary employees find housing and subsidizes the costs a bit. then I benefit because Rubi is just a lovely, sharing person who further 'subsidized' a short stay for me for two weeks! :D