TITLE: RESORT OF IMAGINATION

Start with one of the most beautiful sites on the planet, nestled in the lush landscape of Los Corobas, Puerto Rico. Add to that a private tropical island minutes offshore, and enough first-class restaurants to keep a small city satisfied, and you have some idea of what Puerto Rico's El Conquistador is all about

I experienced this state-of-the-art resort when I was invited to a gala chaine dinner sponsored by the famous California winemaker Mondavi. The event was to present not only Mondavi's new vintages, but also the high level of culinary art found in Puerto Rico, and the El Conquistador in general

This $250 million facility encompasses every conceivable activity, amenity, and accommodation within a 500 acre paradise. Let me also state up front that the variety of accommodations -- from a single hotel room to a private villa with butler service makes this dream word accessible to just about everyone

El Conquistador is several resorts in one. I stayed in the Grand Hotel overlooking the spectacular surrounding waters

But I had little time to enjoy the view. A quick change and it was time to start exploring the world of good eating. The resort houses ten restaurants, two snack bars, and four lounges and nightclubs that range in style from Argentinean, Mexican, to Caribbean, Chinese, Continental, Japanese. There is also plenty of alfresco dining

We headed over to Drake's Library, a place that's perfect for cocktails or a game of pool before dinner. You might even peruse one of the classic books that line the walls and give the place the cozy look of an old English den

Following Drake's We headed toward the Otello Ristorante Italiano, a trendy Bice restaurant. Its popularity was evident by the throng of diners who were sharing the casually elegant atmosphere and authentic Milanese food. A meal of lightly fried calamari, fettuccine with shrimp, porcini mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce couldn't have been better

The next day we explored the resort's acreage, beginning with La Marina Village. This cobblestone hamlet is reached via two glass- walled funiculars that transverse the cliff and offer breathtaking views. From the village a water taxi whisks you to El Conquistador's private island, La Palomino, 100 acres of Eden with a modern flair. It's perfect for those who want to relax on a secluded beach, hike on one of the many trails leading to ocean lookout points, or arrange for a dive at the water sports center.

For the ultimate vacation experience, Las Casitas village is the place for visitors who desire the utmost in privacy and service. When you walk through the bell tower which serves as the village's private entrance, you are greeted with a scene out of Spanish history -- a perfectly recreated colonial town with cobblestone streets, softly stirring fountains, and a public plaza bedecked with all manner of flowers and surrounded by gleaming white archways. We next journeyed to Piones and Bienvenidos, a local restaurant on the water just outside San Juan, open to the cooling seaside breezes. Great conch here, tender and delicious, especially when paired with the freshly fried plantains.

Of course, any resort offers recreation, but here it is lavished with abundance. I've already mentioned the tennis courts, golf course, swimming pools, and casino. That would probably satisfy a goodly number of people right there. You might also be tempted to go horseback riding, take to some of the water sports, visit the fitness center, hike, go boating, or try your hand at deep sea fishing. There is also a business center, 22 luxury retail shops, and a salon for a change of pace. But it was time for us to go home.

A word to families. The size and variety of accommodations at El Conquistador allow it to claim it is both an adult's and family resort. While children are not allowed in the main pool, there are a total of six pools available, and a fully equipped children's camp on Palomino Island, supervised by child care professionals. Kids are segregated by age, and activities designed just for them are planned to keep them entertained all day. There is a good balance between sports, education, and just plain down time. Adults, however, can play in the manner they see fit -- blackjack, water sports, even a secluded clothing-optional beach

And that's the key to enjoying El Conquistador. It is not a matter of offering something for everyone, but one of providing individuals exactly what they want.