If your annual routine includes a vacation to Hawaii, why not shake things up and explore the tropical paradise of Puerto Rico, instead? Located a thousand miles southeast of Miami, Puerto Rico’s abundant natural wonders, impressive architecture and exotic cuisine have earned this tourism hot spot the nickname “Isle of Enchantment.” Visitors get to experience all of the exoticism and beauty of the Caribbean, while enjoying the comforts and benefits of traveling in a United States territory. No passport is required—a bathing suit, some sunscreen and a comfortable pair of shoes are all you need for the following unforgettable Puerto Rican vacation.
First Stop: Old San Juan
Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan,
is a must-see for every visitor. Founded in 1521, it is the oldest capital city under the American flag. Due in part to the cruise ships that frequently dock in San Juan Harbor—one of the biggest and best natural harbors in the world—the city hosts more tourists annually than any other spot in the Caribbean. The most well-known area of San Juan is the Historical District, known as Old San Juan or the “Walled City.” Conceived as a military stronghold, it remains partly enclosed by massive sandstone walls that look like a creation out of Hollywood. Within Old San
Juan’s seven square blocks are more than 400 carefully restored 16th- and 17th-century buildings, including many impressive examples of Spanish colonial military architecture. The most notable military structures include El Morro Fortress, a dramatic castlelike structure that was declared a World Heritage site in 1973; and San Cristobal Fortress, a massive structure spanning 27 acres that is connected to El Morro by a half-mile wall.
Other architecturally significant sites in Old San Juan, include San Juan Cathedral, which contains the marble tomb of Juan Ponce de León, Puerto Rico’s first governor; and La Fortaleza, a protective
structure built in 1533 and a World Heritage site. Today, a 19th-century façade surrounds La Fortaleza’s 16th-century core and the building is the official home of Puerto Rico’s governor (currently Aníbal Acevedo Vilá). Inside, the Hall of Mirrors, State
Dining Room, Throne Room, Antique Kitchen and Dignitaries’ Room, where five U.S. presidents have slept over the years, are among the many impressive areas
to explore. Even though Old San Juan’s many famous historical buildings draw the biggest crowds, just walking through the city is a feast
for the eyes. You can easily spend a day or longer ambling through town without an itinerary, just drinking in the blue cobblestone streets, numerous public plazas, pastel-colored tile-roofed buildings and the main shopping area, El Viejo San Juan (known as “Calle del Cristo”).
If you only have a day or two
to spend in Old San Juan, your best
bet is to join one of the area’s many walking tours; ask at your hotel for details. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the narrow, steep streets and periodically heavy traffic can be difficult to navigate. For a real sense of Old San Juan’s history, book a room at Hotel El Convento (www.elconvento.com)
or The Gallery Inn (www.thegalleryinn.com), both places are imposing 18th-century structures refurbished
as modern hotels.
Once you venture outside of Old San Juan, the best way to get around the island is by car. Renting a vehicle in Puerto Rico is similar to renting a vehicle in the U.S., both in price and in policy. The island is small enough so that you can drive almost anywhere in a few hours, and the road quality and signs are similar to those found in the States. One note: several major tourist destinations are unmarked, so it’s a good idea to pick up a road map at your car-rental company.
Behind the wheel, you will discover amazing sites any which way you turn—from large freshwater lakes and tropical rainforests to amazing caves and enormous coffee and sugar plantations. While you’re cruising the open road, be sure to pull over (or board a ferry) and check out the following attractions.
Exploring the Rest of the Island
TO THE NORTH
The Arecibo Observatory in Arecibo, operated by Cornell University and the National Science Foundation, is home to the largest single telescope ever constructed. This massive, visually distinctive telescope, made of 40,000 aluminum panels and supported by a mesh of steel cables, has been used in the filming of several movies, including the 1997 film “Contact.” Unfortunately, the telescope isn’t accessible to the general public, so don’t expect to do any stargazing. However, there is a visitor center with a variety of interactive exhibits, audiovisual displays and information panels where visitors are introduced to basic astronomy, atmospheric science and the operation of the radio telescope.
TO THE NORTHWEST
Rio Camuy Cave Park, the third largest network of caves in the world, is an incredible (if slightly spooky) natural phenomenon to behold. A magnificent array of the caverns has been securely adapted for tourists to explore. Visitors board a trolley that descends into a sinkhole lined with tropical vegetation. Take a guided tour across ramps and bridges through the 170-foot-high Cuerva Clara and then take another trolley to a platform overlooking the 400-foot-deep Pueblos Sinkhole. The Rio Camuy, which runs through the cavern’s interior, is one of the most spectacular underground rivers in the world. The park’s 268-acre grounds include a cafeteria, picnic area, gift shop, walking trails, exhibition hall and theater.
TO THE EAST
The El Yungue Rainforest is a lush, semitropical rainforest that is home to a number of unique plant and animal species, such as the endangered Puerto Rican parrot and the tiny coquis (tree frog). It is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, which maintains an extensive network of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, as well as picnic facilities, paved trails, an exhibit hall and lookout towers. Camping is allowed with a free permit, which is available at the visitor center before 3 p.m. (Campers: plan ahead for wet conditions). To avoid crowds, head to the south side of the forest, which is much quieter than the north side.
There are several one-hour Forest Adventure Tours given by Forest
Service guides seven days a week on a first-come, first-served basis.
For tickets, stop by the visitor center.
OFF THE COAST
Puerto Rico has many lovely beaches, including Ballenas Beach on the Caribbean side and Shacks Beach on the Atlantic side. But for those looking to log some serious beach time on secluded shores counted among the most beautiful
in the world, consider boarding a ferry in Fajardo (about 40 miles east of San Juan) or hopping a puddle
jumper from the San Juan Airport and venturing a short distance off the coast to the islands of Culebra
or Vieques.
Located approximately 17 miles from Puerto Rico, Culebra is the smallest inhabited Spanish Virgin Island, spanning just seven by four miles. It is known for its world-class beaches, exceptional snorkeling and friendly, casual atmosphere. Observant beachgoers might spot two endangered species of turtles, the hawksbill and the leatherback, on the shore or in the shallow water. For lodging, consider Villa Arynar (www.arynar.com), which is reasonably priced and highly recommended by the Travel Channel.
Vieques, located about 19 miles from Puerto Rico, is a fantasyland
of crystal-clear water, white sandy beaches and secluded bays. Twenty-one miles long and three miles wide, it was an infamous haven for pirates during the 17th century. The island is home to the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, Puerto Mosquito, which makes for memorable swimming. The snorkeling is excellent, especially at Blue Beach. For lodging, consider the upscale Bravo Beach Hotel (www.bravobeachhotel.com), which was given a rave review by Travel and Leisure magazine.
Puerto Rican Cuisine
The food in Puerto Rico is an exotic blend of indigenous Indian, Spanish, African and American cultures. Be sure to sample some of these local specialties during your visit.
Empanadillas Crescent-shaped turnovers filled with lobster, crab, conch or beef.
Frijoles Negros A savory black-bean soup.
Asopao A hearty gumbo made with either chicken or shellfish.
Adobo A blend of peppercorns, oregano, garlic, salt, olive oil, lime juice and vinegar used to flavor meats.
Pastelón de Carne A meat pie usually filled with salt pork and ham.
Lechón Asado Barbecue pig basted with sour orange juice.
Mojo Isleño Fried fish with a tomato-based sauce.
Tostones Fried green breadfruit slices (breadfruit is a local vegetable reminiscent of the sweet potato).
Nisperos de Batata Sweet-potato balls filled with coconut, cloves and cinnamon.
Piraguas A shaved-ice cone
covered with fruity syrup.
Puerto Rican Coffee Strong, black and aromatic coffee has been produced on the island for more than 300 years.
Rum Puerto Rican rum is world famous. For a free sample, visit the Bacardi Distillery in Cataño, just a short ferry ride across the San Juan Harbor.
What to Know Before You Go
WEATHER Puerto Rico enjoys year-round summer temperatures, with an average annual temperature of 82 degrees F.
TIME Atlantic Standard Time (one hour later than Eastern Standard Time). Puerto Rico does not observe daylight saving time.
LANGUAGE Spanish and English, with Spanish being the dominant language. English is spoken in all major tourist areas.
MEDICAL FACILITIES Puerto Rico’s medical facilities are among the finest in the Caribbean. Health standards are generally comparable with those of the United States.
WATER Puerto Rico’s water quality is subject to the same regulated EPA standards that apply on the U.S. mainland.
Tap water is considered safe to drink.
