Hilton proudly announces the appointment of Ruben Gabino as general manager of the highly anticipated Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, set to open in late 2024 as Waldorf Astoria’s first hotel in Costa Rica. The 188-room resort located in one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2024, creating a new benchmark for sustainable, barefoot luxury.
A seasoned hospitality executive with more than 20 years of experience, Gabino joins the new property from the award-winning Conrad Koh Samui, where he served as general manager since 2019.
In his new position, Gabino will play a pivotal role in redefining the luxury hospitality experience in Costa Rica, harnessing the Waldorf Astoria’s iconic brand heritage to position the property as one of the world’s most alluring new resort experiences. In addition to running point on the upcoming opening, Gabino will oversee all resort operations and ensure that his team delivers on the brand’s longstanding commitment to elegant service, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and sophisticated accommodations in the most sought-out destinations around the world.
Relocating from Southeast Asia to the Caribbean and Latin America, Gabino brings 20 years of international experience in the luxury segment to the role. Most recently, Gabino was general manager of Conrad Koh Samui and under his leadership, the hotel flourished as one of Hilton’s premier luxury resorts in the Asia Pacific region, receiving numerous awards and accolades throughout his tenure. In his five years at Conrad Koh Samui, Gabino introduced several innovative enhancements such as the addition of a wedding chapel, pier and art studio in addition to “Project Iris”—a three-acre farm generating 80 percent of the hotel’s fruits and vegetables. He first joined Hilton in 2015 as hotel manager of Conrad Seoul.
Throughout his professional career, Gabino has held prestigious roles at major hospitality establishments across the globe, including St. Regis Hotels, Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
