Monday, March 11, 2024

San Juan, Puerto Rico: 500 years worth seeing


San Juan is a Treasure Chest of Things To See & Do !


San Juan Puerto Rico Historic District

Historic San Juan, Puerto Rico


Is San Juan, Puerto Rico right for you?   

  • For those who have ever visited St. Augustine, Florida, 'Old San Juan' is like St. Augustine on steroids! '
  • Old San Juan' offers over 500 years of rich history, beautiful architecture, art and great food.  With incredible beaches, rainforests, ecotours and even an energetic night life of Night Clubs and Casino's in the new parts of San Juan, San Juan offers everything couples & singles may want in a Caribbean Getaway.   
  • Tip: Because of San Juan's population density, steep hills, difficult terrain, older uneven roads and sidewalks, traveling with strollers and smaller children may be challenging.
  

What should you know about San Juan, Puerto Rico?

  • San Juan is less than 1200 miles and just under a 3 hour flight from Orlando.  Because it is a protected territory of the U.S., U.S. Citizens departing directly from the U.S. will not need a passport to visit, making this historically rich Caribbean vacation very accessible and a easy long weekend getaway for couples
  • Tip:  Direct Flights from Orlando to Puerto Rico are plentiful, inexpensive, and with 4 Airports on the main Island of Puerto Rico, including a major airport only 15mins from Old San Juan, it is very easy to plan.
  • Tip (Getting Around): While everything within the Historic area of San Juan is close to one another, the area sits on a steep hill.  In addition, the capitol building of San Juan is also inside the historic district. This means roads are sometimes closed to permit political motorcades thru.  Being historic, some streets are still cobbled and very narrow.  All of this means that driving, parking, and walking could be challenging, especially to those with special needs.  Consider taking a shuttle or taxi for the day in Old San Juan.
  • When you think of the Puerto Rico, you probably think of Spanish Food, Salsa Music, and perhaps rich colorful architecture, but you may not think of Iguana.  Iguana can be commonly seen throughout much of the Caribbean, and you'll see them laying out in public areas.  They are aggressive so do not try touching touch them.

Iguana on the beaches of San Juan Puerto Rico


What are the best beaches in San Juan Puerto Rico? 

There are many beaches in the area of San Juan, and they are very diverse.  Here are just a few;

  • Best Romantic/Couples: Playa Pena, very scenic and near the Capitol within Old San Juan, but many rocks, so water shoes may be ideal.
  • Best for Snorkeling: Balneario El Escambron, also located near Old San Juan, clear water, and Sea Turtles make this a great place for visitors with children to snorkel.
  • Best Family-Friendly Beach: Condado is one of the most family-friendly beaches, with access to food, beverages and shopping nearby. 






What are the best things to do in Old San Juan?

  • Castillo San Filipe del Moro (photo featured below)
  • Castillo San Cristobal
  • Walking Tour of Historic San Juan & Markets
  • San Juan Cathedral



Castillo San Filipe del Moro  (Top & Below)

Castillo San Filipe del Moro National Historic


Currency and payment accepted on the island:

Puerto Rico is a territory of the U.S. and so the U.S. dollar and credit cards are accepted, however it is advisable to carry some cash as you may encounter a few merchants and restaurants who do not accept credit cards.


Should I rent a car in San Juan?

(Old San Juan is about 15 mins from the main airport)

  • Yes, however, please refer to tip above while visiting Old San Juan

Dream Vacations Adriana da Silva Full Service Travel Agent Longwood, Fl.


Language:

Spanish is the official language of Puerto Rico, though most persons in the tourism & hospitality industries do speak English.


Are you interested in my other stories?
 See (Cruise Lines)  (Tropical Places)  (Resorts)  or  (All Three)

Adriana Da Silva Travel Advisor Longwood Florida

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