Tips for Planning a Caribbean Cruise

20 May 202022 September 2024

Cruise vacations are perfect for enjoying several ports of call in a short period of time. They are also fabulous for vacationers who want activities already planned for them. From days at sea where one can enjoy the shows, shopping, gambling and bingo, there are several activities that can keep the passenger entertained, 24 hours a day. While in port, shore excursions are provided by the cruise line for an additional fee.

So why then would a passenger need to make any plans for their cruise? For one, there is the opportunity for pre- or post-trip travel. Most ports of origin are exciting and interesting in themselves and should be explored. Secondly, some passengers would rather go on their own than purchase the ship’s excursions, even if it is only to walk around the port.

I had just booked a seven day Caribbean cruise on Carnival’s Liberty that departs out of San Juan. I found a great deal through Vacations to Go but needed to find a flight that would work around the ship’s schedule. I had learned that Southwest Airlines flies to San Juan, Puerto Rico, so I booked the flight in tandem with the cruise and we were all set for our trip…..except for planning our time at the various ports on the itinerary.

The most exciting part of the vacation planning process is researching what to do in each port. There are a couple of research applications that I use so that I can select the best activities for each island I will be visiting. My objective is to explore the ports I have not yet seen, check out any activities that may interest me and then maximize the time I have on each of the islands.

First, I visit the ship’s website and review the shore excursions that I find interesting. If there are specific attractions or points of interest, I make note of them. I compare the cost of going out on my own to how much we would pay for them through the cruise line. I also determine the number of hours that I will spend on the excursion to see if it leaves room for me to explore the local town where the ship is docked.

Secondly, I check out my local library and search for various books and magazines that will give a thorough overview of the ports I will be visiting. I love the travel books that have pictures, but I found that Fodor’s Caribbean Ports of Call was one of the best resources for cruise vacation planning. For each port, this book provides the following information:

A brief overview of the island (currency and use of telephone)
Coming Ashore: This information is very helpful as it outlines how far the port is from the central town so I can determine if I need to take a taxi. Car rental information is also provided, In addition, there is a list of recommended items to purchase for each location.
Exploring [Port of ???]: In this section of the book, there is a listing of attractions as well as where one would find the locations in regards to direction (North, East, South, West) or by major city. Fodor’s ranks the attraction as recommended and also let’s the reader know which places are great for families to visit. A small synopsis of each attraction or area is detailed along with the address to the location, its contact information such as phone and website, its hours of operation as well as the estimated cost for visiting. There is also a map of the island and may be a more detailed map of the port town for each. Of course there are also sections in regards to the best beaches, shopping, restaurants, nightlife and other activities that may be of interest.

Third, I will search the internet for the country’s designated tourist information website. I make a note of the attractions or activities that are of interest and compare it with the information provided by Fodors or other resources that I have read. If I can download a visitor’s guide or order information ahead of time, I sign up for the tourist packet and wait for it to arrive.

At this point, I will also look at tour providers online and review the comments and/or recommendations that are provided by previous customers. Some of the best reviews include Cruise Critic and TripAdvisor. Since the cost is somewhat important to me, I like to compare the amount I will pay versus the number of hours spent on the tour to see if I can find a great deal. Not all tours are alike. Some operators may include a sightseeing, beach and shopping tour while others may only include limited sightseeing, etc. For example, since I prefer not to shop but rather see as much of the island as possible, I am most likely to find a tour that focuses more on attractions with as little shopping as possible. As I gather the information and begin to compare our options, I soon become aware of how overwhelming this process can be and narrow my focus to the top five things that we would like to do and then go from there. I also want to ensure that the places we want to visit will be open during the time the ship is in port.

Finally, I will do a search on maps of the ports central town to see if there are walking tours already outlined with the highlights of that port. I tend to move towards those sites that also include a map, making it easier for us to navigate my way through town and providing us with a summary of information for those attractions.

Here are some of the best walking tours that I found for our upcoming cruise:

San Juan, Puerto Rico:

Self Guided Tour of Old San Juan – Part 1 Puerto Rico Day Trips Travel Guide

Self Guided Tour of Old San Juan – part 2 Puerto Rico Day Trips Travel Guide

Hop Aboard the Free Trolley in Old San Juan

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, USVI: Historic Walking Tour

Barbados: Walking Tour of Bridgetown

St. Kitts: Basseterre Walking Tour with Map of Basseterre

St. Maarten: One Day in Philipsburg, St. Maarten

While on the ship there are additional resources that can also be very helpful for my ability to enjoy the cruise. The first is picking up a copy of the ship’s deck plan. The plan is usually posted on each floor and at each elevator, but having a copy in my back pocket can also be very convenient in deciding how to manage my way around the ship. There are also Port of Call sheets that are available at the customer service desk or in a kiosk nearby, which we find to be very helpful as well.

Once the ship has docked and cleared customs, the passengers will begin the process of disembarking the ship once it has arrived into port. Nine times out of ten, there will be a cruise ship representative handing out shopping related advertisements and a map, along with some helpful hints, when provided. I like to browse through them carefully and take in the information as there may be some recommendations for places to eat or local attractions that may be of interest. For those that enjoy shopping, these advertisements are for you! They provide a listing of all the cruise-sponsored shops and the specials that are offered at each of these shops. But, because I am not an avid shopper, I can still appreciate the map for reasons of my own. For example, the map details the downtown area to include the name of each of the streets as well as handy information such as how long it will take to arrive at the city’s center by taxi from the dock. It is also helpful in getting the passenger back to the ship in the event that they may become lost.

Finally, ask your room steward, bartender or wait staff for their recommendations and what they like to do when in port. This may lead you to the perfect restaurant or excursion that you have not experienced otherwise. Don’t be afraid to ask the wait staff on the island. While you are being served, ask them for places to eat and what to see and even where to shop. You would be surprised at the information you can gather, even at this stage of your trip!

I am never without a long list of recommendations, but I certainly appreciate someone who can lead me to an opportunity I may not have experienced otherwise. With enough pre-cruise, on board and local planning, I am always sure to find the perfect solution for enjoying our day in port! And be flexible! You never know where the day could lead you!

Do you like to plan for cruise vacations? What are some of the resources that you use? I would love to hear your recommendations and tips on how to make the most of your time in port! Leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

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A Tour of San Juan’s Castillo de San Felipe del Morro

21 May 201821 September 2024

San Juan’s Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is the iconic representation of a city rich with history and architecture. The fort, also known as El Morro, has lasted over 400 years, protecting the southwestern side of the island from invaders and pirates. But what was the reason that a fort was built here in the first place? It was strategically located between the continent of Europe and the New World where ships could seek shelter, water and supplies and it was determined, that occupation of this land would give wealth to the country that controlled this entrance into the Caribbean Sea.

It was in 1493 when Christopher Columbus came to the island and first claimed it for Spain. Puerto Rico would later fall to the British and Dutch, but only for very short periods of time. During the Dutch attack in 1623, hundreds of Dutch and Spanish soldiers gave their lives. It wasn’t until the 1800’s that Spain would cede ownership of the island to the United States of America, ending the Spanish-American War.

As I walked through the Greek-style entrance into the fort, I noticed the thick walls that gave an extra depth to the fortification of the city. It would take Spain over 250 years to build El Morro. The structure that stands today is similar to the how the fort would have looked in 1790.

I was so interested in the structure of the fort that I hardly noticed the large iguanas on the interior lawn of El Morro. I also noticed them climbing up the fortress wall and stopped a few times to take a closer look because they were camouflaged so well.

As I crossed the bridge into El Morro, I entered Level 5 of the six levels of the fort. Looking up from this level there were three flags representing the Spanish Army, Puerto Rico and the United States of America.

The cannons were a reminder of the importance of this fort in times when it was occupied to defend the island. Many of them used bronze 8-pound cannonballs that took eight to ten artillerymen to operate them. Their strategy was to fire the cannons every thirty seconds, reaching targets a mile away.

The kitchen was a very important part of the lives of the soldiers. Meals were prepared here using ingredients such as fish and cured meat that came from Spain. When the meat arrived, it was inedible so the soldiers soaked it with vegetables and spices creating a type of stew. It is said that this is the origin of sancocho, a stew that remains popular both in Puerto Rico as well as other Spanish-speaking countries.

After visiting many of the rooms, including the powder room, on the fifth floor, I took the ramp up to the sixth floor to see the area known as the “Land Defense”.

From the level six of the fort, it was easy to see why this floor would be considered a strong area of defense. With the evidence of cannons stationed here, there was little space between each one, guaranteed to hit their targets coming in from the sea.

It wasn’t until 1846 that the first of four lighthouses (two would be rebuilt) at El Morro were erected to provide safe passage for ships into and out of the harbor of San Juan. Prior to the restoration of the lighthouse that currently stands on El Morro, the previous house was made out of red brick and was in desperate need of repair.

I couldn’t help but notice the spectacular view from Level 6 of El Morro and imagined an invasion of ships heading toward us in the distance.

Next, I took the stairs down to the lower level. At this point, I was heading toward the Cannon Water Battery. It was here where I found the remaining cannons on display and the embrasures from which the cannons were fired.

There was a medieval watch tower in the center of the battery. Known as the Torre Antigua, some believe it may be haunted.

Looking over the wall, I could see another fort out into the horizon at the end of Isla de Cabras (Goat Island). This is El Morro’s sister fort, San Juan de la Cruz, translated as St. John of the Cross. It was strategically placed here to create crossfire in the event that ships would try to slip past El Morro on the far side of the channel. This small fort is also referred to as El Canuelo.

From this vantage point, I clearly understood the importance of this area in defense of the island and how important it was for protecting San Juan.

The view from the top of the fort emphasized the complicated structure of El Morro. The worn away, weathered stone and its height gave it the sense of strength and might. The thickness of the walls provided a sense of wonder and impenetrability.

I came across a structure that seemed more updated and out of place. I learned that this was once an Observation Post which was used during WWII. After the Second War, El Morro would no longer act as a military base.

Continuing my climb up the fort, I noticed where the cannons would have been placed and the circular patterns that they created when moved to the left or right to hit their target out in the ocean.

El Morro is unlike any fortress I have seen throughout the United States. It was built and designed to protect the city and remains an iconic figure to San Juan. There have been several forts along the American coasts, but this is one of the most fascinating and well preserved.

Have you had the opportunity to visit El Morro? What are your thoughts about this expansive structure? I would love to hear what you liked most about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about our exploration of El Morro and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Castillo de San Felipe del Morro
501 Norzagaray Street
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 729 6754

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water).

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

Cafe El Punto
105 Calle Fortaleza
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Telephone: 787 725 1306

I can’t resist ordering the local dish, mofongo where the main ingredient is fried plantains most likely served with a healthy helping of meat such as chicken, beef or seafood.

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

Where to Drink:

Marilyn’s Place
100 Calle San Francisco
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

A sentry (lookout) at El Morro

Belltower at El Morro

The Restored Lighthouse at El Morro

The Layout of El Morro which resembles a bull

Stairs and ramps at El Morro

Beautiful View from El Morro

The Chapel at the Fort

Flags at the Fort

Seaside views from El Morro Fort

Our Last Day in San Juan, Puerto Rico

14 May 201821 September 2024

Dave and I had an evening flight so we had a whole day to continue our exploration of San Juan, Puerto Rico. I had scheduled as many attractions and sights as possible and there was still so much to do. During one of our rides on the trolley, we happened to pass by the Capital District of San Juan and thought that this would be a great place to check out, so we put it on the list for our last day.

The Capitol district was a great place to take a long walk to unwind for the day. Besides the Capitol building there were additional historic buildings and monuments. We enjoyed the walk visiting the various memorials for the local police officers, victims of the Holocaust and a dedication to those Puerto Ricans who gave their lives serving in the US military. We entered the Capitol Building to admire the dome and finished off our excursion by walking among the Paseo de los Presidentes. It was a lovely morning and we worked up an appetite for a visit to Raices on Recinto Sur.

Raices was a suggestion of our hotel concierge for trying the local flavor and we were excited to try it out. The restaurant is beautifully decorated and located in the busy part of town near the cruise ship terminal. It is accessible by walking, taxi or trolley and is well worth the visit. We placed our order for skirt steak and fried plantains. We enjoyed our food as well as the delightful service staff that were very helpful with our menu questions.

NOTE: The restaurant is very popular, so there may be a wait when the cruise ships are in port, but they have a wonderful outside waiting area which is very convenient.

Walking back to the hotel, we noticed the Punto de Vista and learned that this was the rooftop restaurant of the Hotel Milano. We had some time and were excited to see the city from a different perspective. The friendly attendant inside directed us to the elevator that took us to the top floor and we entered the restaurant requesting a seat outside. They gave us menus and asked if we wanted to try their award winning mofongo, but we were quite full from our lunch at Raices. We decided to have drinks in the outside seating taking in the salt air and warm breeze. We took advantage of their two for one special on mojitos. The views were not too exciting with the exception of the mountains in the distance. As the clouds began to roll in we learned that if you cannot see the mountains, it is time to come in because a storm is on its way. It was too bad that we were not staying late enough to see the sunset.

Our waitress provided us with the information for taking the ferry across to Catano to explore a different side of Puerto Rico. We were curious to see the island from a different perspective and to take in the skyline from the water. The ferry leaves from Pier 2 across the bay for a quick ride that lasts less than 10 minutes. We noticed that it runs every 15 to 20 minutes, so there would be plenty of opportunities to return once we decided to come back to the island. From Catano, there is a bus (or taxi) that takes tourists to the Bacardi Rum Factory for free tours and taxis that will drive visitors to the Isla de Cabras to explore the small fort on this side of the bay. The cost for the ferry is 50 cents each way and tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal. Check the ferry schedule for the hours as they are different from weekends to weekdays. It is also a less expensive opportunity to catch the sunset over the bay.

We disembarked from the ferry and started up the hill to Plaza las Armas to pick up our luggage. It was that sad time where we had to say goodbye to Old San Juan and catch a flight back to the States. I was so happy for the opportunity to stay an additional day after our cruise to finish visiting all of the sites that interested us in Old San Juan. We loved the culture, food and people of Puerto Rico and look forward to the chance to return again in the near future!

Have you visited Puerto Rico or any of the other Caribbean islands? What was your favorite attraction, restaurant or hotel that you visited? I would love to hear all about your experience and suggestions for my next Caribbean vacation, so please leave you comment below! Many thanks for following our last day in San Juan after a week’s cruise. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Punto de Vista
307 Calle Fortaleza
San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 725 4860

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas
San Jose Street 202
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: 866 599 6674

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

*Hotel was prepaid costing $150 per night. We arranged for a queen sized bed, room without a window, non-smoking and guaranteed late arrival.

Where to Eat:

Raices Restaurant
#315 Recinte Sur Street
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 289 2121

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

Strolling Through Old San Juan, Puerto Rico (Part 1)

5 March 201817 September 2024

Arriving in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the weather was absolutely perfect. I hailed a taxi into the heart of downtown to my hotel at the Plaza de las Armas.

After a great night’s sleep, I awoke excited to begin the walking tour I had downloaded online. I stopped for a coffee and sat at a table in the square, surrounded by pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets, I watched the pigeons looking for food and noticed the early risers exploring the heart of downtown San Juan. After a few moments of taking in the beauty of Puerto Rico’s capitol city, I started my walk towards the pier.

The walking tour began at La Casita ending at Castillo de San Felipe del Morro. Another option to reach the starting point is to take the trolley to stop 13 at the Plaza Darsena, Casita, San Juan Bay.

Arriving at La Casita at 9AM, I realized it was closed and found a nearby café for a second cup of coffee while taking in the views of the harbor.

While ordering my coffee at Café Colao, I was excited to see the Carnival Liberty was already in port. It reminded me of my younger days of working for the cruise lines and embarkation day. It had been awhile since I had cruised and I was looking forward to revisiting some of the amazing ports of call on this itinerary.

The self-guided tour took me through some of Old San Juan’s 400 historical sites. The town is considered the second oldest settlement founded by the Europeans in 1521.

I couldn’t help but notice the cobalt blue cobblestone streets throughout San Juan. These pavers were once used as weights to balance the trade ships on their way to Puerto Rico. Once the ships arrived, these ballasts were then removed to make room for the exported sugar cane going out from the island. The locals re-purposed the beautiful brick-like stone to develop the streets of this charming, historical wonderland and the local pigeons seemed to love them.

With my back toward the bay, I made a left and began walking towards the Paseo de la Princesa. I was excited to see the Raices Fountain during the day and the expansive ocean view during the daylight hours. The tree lined promenade led me to the Raices fountain which had been busy with local teens and lit up the night before.

Before reaching the fountain, I noticed the beautifully decorated Puerto Rico Tourism Company which was once the Carcel de la Princesa, the San Juan jail. Built in 1837, the penitentiary was in use until 1976 when it was determined that the conditions were inhumane for prisoners, both local and political. While this building is the headquarters for Puerto Rico’s tourism, visitors can explore the three prison cells and tour the small courtyard where prisoners were executed by hanging.

With the bay in the background, the beautiful Raices fountain was now ahead of me and as the temperatures continued to rise, I wished I could have jumped in. The elegant bronze sculpture, reminding me of the Roman fountains, was designed by Spanish artist Luis Sanguion. It is called “Raices” meaning roots and symbolizes the roots of Puerto Rico’s African, Spanish and Taino cultures.

The central figure of the wild horse seems to rise out of the fountain in a full gallop as a young child scans to watch the horizon from sunrise to sunset. The two dolphins jumping out of the water represent the Puerto Rican character of kindness and gentleness while a woman offers gifts of garlands and local delicacies to the island’s visitors. To the left of the fountain are sculptures of a family and the native jibaro is represented to the right. The central female figure stands for the independence of Puerto Rico as if she is attempting to reach the stars.

The tree-shaded walkway wrapped along the bay as joggers sped by me on their morning run. A strong wind picked up as I continued walking through the tunnel-like pathway, where the twisted roots of trees resembled the Banyan. Interesting spikes rose up from the ground as I continued my stroll towards the Puerta de San Juan.

I soon began to realize I was following along the fortification walls of the Paseo del Morro when I noticed the garita above. The pathway split heading towards the entrance to the fort but I took an alternate route leading to the top of the city gate, ending my walk along the Paseo de la Princesa. Standing inside the guard tower, the symbol of San Juan, I was amazed by the stunning views of the cove where Spanish ships once anchored.

Only three of the six city gates remain. One of them, the Puerta de San Juan. Spanish traders would unload their supplies, pass through the massive wooden doors under the red arch and exit through the 1630s-tunnel to enter the city. When this main gate was in use, the doors would be closed at sundown to protect the residents from potential invaders and reopened the next morning. Once the tunnel was open, sailors would walk through the passageway towards the cathedral at the top of the hill to thank God for their safe passage.

Instead of taking a right along the Paseo del Morro and the old city walls, I decided to continue up the hill towards the Catedral de San Juan (The San Juan Cathedral). Several feral cats were hanging around, protected by San Juan’s Parks Department. They had been neutered, spayed and vaccinated through a local program called “Save a Gato.”

At the top of the hill, I reached the San Juan Cathedral where explorer Ponce de Leon and martyr St. Pio are buried. A mass was taking place inside, but I couldn’t help but peek into the church as I continued my walk. The cathedral dates back to 1540, but updates and renovations have given this church its Gothic-Neoclassical style. I noted the inscription above the entrance, “Misericordia” which translates to “mercy”. Pope John Paul II visited the church in 1984.

Making a left on Calle del Cristo, I reached the Plaza del Quinto Centenario and its El Totem Telurico, designed by local artist Jaime Suarez. The square was designed for the 500-year celebration of Columbus’ initial voyage to the Americas, which took place in 1992 at a rumored cost of $10 million. Popular with both tourists and locals, this square offers a glamorous view of the El Morro fort and the infinite ocean.

As I walked down the stairs towards the coastline, I passed a pair of life-like sheep flanking the steps before reaching the fountain at the bottom. Children were playing around the water, splashing each other to cool off from the afternoon heat and vendors were selling water and soft drinks nearby.

With El Morro in sight, I stood for a moment to enjoy the view of the fort and the nearby cemetery. I promised myself I would return after my cruise. I enjoyed leisurely stroll through the streets of Old San Juan and enjoyed the memories of being here so many years ago.

Have you visited San Juan and walked through the historic Old San Juan? What were some of your favorite sites or stops along with way? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about our walking tour in Old San Juan and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Puerto Rico Tourism Company
500 Ochoa Building, Cll Tanca, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00902
Phone: 787 721 2400 extension 3901

Contact the local office for hours of operation and to inquire when the interim jail is open.

Bacardi Rum Factory
Carretera 165, Catano, Puerto Rico
Phone: 787 788 8400

Admission Fee: $13 for the historic tour, lasting approximately 45 minutes, includes guided tour of the Bacardi Visitor Center, Commemorative Bacardi Cup, Bacardi Welcome Cocktail for adults, Access to the Self-Fill Experience & Retail Shop, Complimentary WiFi on property. The site recommends that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour time to allow for registration and to enjoy your Welcome Drink.

$50 for the Rum Tasting Tour, lasting approximately 90 minutes, to learn how Bacardi makes their premium wines, the history of the company and taste five Bacardi rums including Legacy, exclusively available at Casa Bacardi. Visit the distillery, the “Cathedral of Rum” a Bacardi Specialist will lead you through the tasting and help you understand the five unique premium rums. This tour includes tasting of five premium rums, Commemorative Bacardi Cup, Bacardi Welcome Cocktail for adults, Access to the Self-Fill Experience & Retail Shop, Complimentary WiFi on property. (Must be over the Legal Drinking Age to participate). The site recommends that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour time to allow for registration and to enjoy your Welcome Drink.

$60 for the Mixology Experience, to last approximately 90 minutes, to include your own bar set up where you will prepare three basic Bacardi cocktails, Commemorative Bacardi Cup, Bacardi Welcome Cocktail for adults, Distillery Visit, Access to Bottle your own Bacardi, Access to the Self-Fill Experience & Retail Shop, Complimentary WiFi on property. (You must be over the Legal Drinking Age to participate). The site recommends that you arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour time to allow for registration and to enjoy your Welcome Drink. Children are not permitted.

$160 for the Bottle Your Own Bacardi Experience, includes a full-size bottle of Special Reserve rum exclusively available at Casa Bacardi, a special padded box to preserve your personalized bottle of Special Reserve, recording your name and bottle number in the Casa Bacardi registry, high resolution photo of you and your freshly filled bottle in front of the numbered barrel at Casa Bacardi. This experience takes place in the Self Fill area of our retail shop, Complimentary WiFi and Complimentary parking on site.

Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 9AM, last tour starts at 4:30PM; Saturday to Sunday from 12 noon, last tour starts at 4:30PM; Closed Mondays.
Length of Visit: Depending on the Bacardi Experience
Tips for Your Visit: Please ensure that you arrive in the required time to register and enjoy your welcome drink. Some Bacardi events require that you be of Legal Drinking Age.

San Juan Cathedral
151 Calle del Cristo, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902
Phone: 787 722 0861

Admission Fee: Free, but donations are gladly accepted.
Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9AM to 11:30AM and from 2PM to 4PM; Friday from 9AM to noon. Please visit the cathedral’s website for worship services.
Amenities: Services and Sacraments provided
Length of Visit: Less than 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Enter with reverence and remain quiet in respect of other visitors. Dress appropriately covering your shoulders and knees.

San Jose Church
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Phone: 787 918 3800

The church is currently closed for renovation and to raise fund for conservation.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Phone: 787 729 6960

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water). Don’t miss the Dungeon at Castillo San Cristobel!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas
San Jose Street 202
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: 866 599 6674

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

*Hotel was prepaid costing $150 per night. We arranged for a queen sized bed, room without a window, non-smoking and guaranteed late arrival.

Where to Eat:

Café Colao
Calle Marina, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Phone: 787 725 4139

Cute little coffee shop down by the Port of Puerto Rico

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Square located beside La Casita

Pelican gliding above the bay

Look closely at the inscription above the door “Benedictus qui venit in nomine domini”

The Spikes in San Juan

Bacardi Rum Factory

A Cat Sculpture in a San Juan Park

A Tour of San Cristobel, San Juan, Puerto Rico

26 February 201817 September 2024

I was determined to see the two forts in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico before returning back to the States. After having an afternoon siesta, it was time to tackle the tour of San Juan’s San Cristobel Fort. There are two entries into the historical site, so I approached the main entrance with its fabulous views reaching El Morro and the Cemetery of Mary Magdalene.

To my left, I could see the city wall. Three miles long, it connects the forts of El Morro to San Cristobel. After several attacks on San Juan beginning in 1625, the wall was finally completed in 1790, completely surrounding the city. This section of the fort, there are embrasures to support cannons once used to protect San Juan from invasion.

I took the ramp up to the next level where I purchased my ticket and began my self-guided tour. From a doorway nearby, I could see the Carnival Liberty docked in the harbor of San Juan.

Immediately, I noticed the beautiful contrast of the old fort against the modern city of Old San Juan as I looked through one of its windows. With such an amazing charm and rich history this beautiful port hosts nearly 4 million visitors each year.

The casemate, with a vaulted chamber in a fortress, was the kitchen used to feed the soldiers of the garrison. It was believed that the kitchen had eventually moved to another area of the fort and the original location converted into a storage room.

There was evidence that the Casemate Chamber No. 3 had several uses over the years. From cannon emplacement to sleeping quarters and dining room, it was believed that during WWII, it may have even been used as an officer’s quarters.

The designated Catholic place of worship was set aside in one of the casemates of the fort. Soldiers could attend weekly mass and it was also a place of daily prayer.

One of the compartments of the hall was set up to show the sleeping quarters of the soldiers that were stationed at the fort.

To ensure a healthy supply of water, the cisterns were built to capture rainwater for drinking. There were a total of 5 cylinders that measured 57 feet long, 24 feet high and 17 feet wide, holding a total of about 870,000 gallons of water.

From the fort there were several views of the busy streets of Old San Juan. The lively mix of pastel left a colorful impression on the horizon.

Passing several openings throughout the fort, I managed to see the cruise ship, Carnival Liberty docked in the San Juan harbor. We had just returned today but I could have easily jumped back on for another week in the Caribbean.

There was a set of stairs that led to the second floor where the troop quarters were located.

I could see where the placement of the cannons were located and the tracks for which they could maneuver them from left to right to reach the target out in the open sea.

The Fire Control Station was built for use in WWII as an observation post to detect enemy ships and submarines. The information collected here was transmitted to assist in the coordination of artillery fire.

As the sun began to set, the light poured in from the arched doorways. In the distance I could see the entrance to the long tunnel that led to the dungeon and I was so excited to explore this area of the fort.

Thinking that the pathway leading to the dungeon would be dark and dreary, I was pleasantly surprised that it was quite well lit. Standing outside of the entrance, the room was unusually small which was not what I had expected, but then I entered.

On the wall are extraordinary carvings of galleons, sailing ships from the 15th to 17th centuries. Absolutely breathtaking, these works of art are assumed to be the drawings of a ship’s captain held captive here, awaiting execution for the crime of mutiny.

Before leaving the fort, I stopped by the gift shop and the small museum that included an exhibit about the life and times of the soldiers living at El Morro and San Cristobel. After picking up some souvenirs and having my national parks passport stamped, it was time for lunch and this would be my last chance to enjoy my favorite local dish, mofongo.

Would you consider visiting El Morro or San Cristobel forts during a visit to San Juan? I would love to hear your thoughts on attractions that are most important to you when vacationing. If you would kindly leave your thoughts in the comments section, that would be great! Many thanks for touring the Castillo San Cristobel through my blog post! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Castillo San Cristobel
San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 449 4049

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water). Don’t miss the Dungeon at Castillo San Cristobel!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

Cafe El Punto
105 Calle Fortaleza
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Telephone: 787 725 1306

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

Where to Drink:

Marilyn’s Place
100 Calle San Francisco
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico:

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Approaching the entrance to Castillo San Cristobel

Plaque designating this site as a National Historic Site

The Contrast between old and modern in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Looking out from the Fire Control Station

Spectacular view from San Cristobel to El Morro

Inside of the Dungeon, San Juan, PR

Well lit tunnel leading to the dungeon

Scenic Coastal View from San Cristobel to El Morro

Raices Restaurant, San Juan, Puerto Rico

19 February 201817 September 2024

While riding the trolley throughout the town of San Juan, Puerto Rico, I noticed the restaurant Raices, which had been recommended by the hotel concierge. I decided to stop here after my walk along Constitution Avenue, hoping it would be open for lunch. I was looking forward to trying more delicious, traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.

As I approached the restaurant, the door was open, so I walked in, not realizing that I was interrupting a staff meeting. They kindly informed me that they would be open in a few minutes, so I took a place at the bench outside to wait.

Soon after, I was greeted by a lovely young lady wearing a white dress and a white head wrapping, a traditional Puerto Rican costume. I had worked up an appetite with a few hours of walking the Old Town, so she promptly seated me and took my drink order. I was so excited to order the pina colada and even more so when it had arrived in a tin cup, helping the drink to stay frozen.

Looking around the restaurant, I enjoyed the beautiful artwork of traditional island color and local scenes. The picturesque paintings were framed with window shutters to look as though I was looking into Puerto Rican homes or looking outdoors onto pastures and fields.

I asked my server for a recommendation and he reviewed the restaurant’s house specialties. There were too many fabulous options such as a mahi mahi, creole style stuffed with shrimp in garlic sauce or muslitos campstres which is pork country-style drumsticks in fricassee sauce. There was also a surf and turf option listed on the menu, which looked absolutely delicious.

I decided to order the skirt steak with a chimichurri sauce, which came with a side of mashed green plantains enough to feed two people. The steak was so tender it melted in my mouth and had a buttery flavor while the chimichurri sauce gave it a wonderful flavor of garlic and oregano. I asked if they had any hot sauce and the server brought me over a small dish. With all of the amazing spices, this has to be one of the best hot sauces I had ever eaten. It had a nice kick but not too hot that I could not enjoy my food. I asked if there was any way that I could order it from their store in the back, but it was a new recipe of the chef and was not yet available. I learned that I would be able to order it on their website soon, but until then I would have to call them to request it.

The history of Raices (roots) is quite an interesting one. The restaurant and store is based on the root principles of the Puerto Rican cooking and its flagship restaurant first opened in the town of Caguas in 2002. It became so popular that it now has three locations throughout the island…Caguas, Old San Juan and Hato Rey.

The owners take great pride in the history and culture of Puerto Rico. I loved the unique atmosphere of the restaurant and the period costumes. The 1940’s style wardrobe of the servers and their impeccable service are just as much a delight as the extraordinary food prepared here. A visit to Raices is guaranteed to have you leaving the restaurant satisfied and wanting to come back for more.

When you travel do you like to try new foods at the location you are visiting? What has been your most memorable dining experience? I would love to hear your story, so kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about our afternoon lunch at Raices! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Eat:

Raices Restaurant
#315 Recinte Sur Street
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 289 2121

A Day of Castillos in San Juan, Puerto Rico

12 February 201817 September 2024

I climbed up to the higher decks of the Carnival Liberty to take in the scenic view of San Juan. It was a sad morning as our cruise journey had come to an end, but Dave and I had a couple of days to explore the port and recoup from our vacation before traveling home to Ohio.

Retrieving our luggage, we stood at the edge of the dock. Realizing realized our walk was an uphill climb over rugged ballasts, we decided to call a taxi. For an economical fare of $10, we were provided door-to-door service to the Hotel Plaza Las Armas within minutes arriving with our luggage by 11.

After checking into the hotel, we were excited to board the free shuttle to Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, known as El Morro. We noticed that there were two separate shuttles and took a chance by boarding the green one. Although it was a lovely ride through town, we agreed it was the white trolley we should have taken, that drops off passengers to El Morro.

It took us a couple of hours to tour the fort and by the time we had finished we were both hungry and tired. By now it was close to 2 in the afternoon so we finished checking into the hotel and strolled over to Barrachina’s for mofongo. With full stomachs and heavy eyes, we agreed that a well deserved nap would be best before continuing our adventure.

I was surprised to find a burst of energy as we approached the hotel and decided to go it alone. According to the front desk, San Cristobel wasn’t a far walk and the attendant pointed me towards Columbus Square. I spent some time admiring the statue of Columbus and the lovely fountain at the entrance, celebrating the life of the explorer.

Columbus claimed Puerto Rico for Spain in 1493. The island measures 100 miles long and 32 miles wide and is a tropical paradise boasting gorgeous beaches, an intriguing rain forest and rugged mountains. I climbed the stairs to admire the commemorative statue of the Columbus and look out into the horizon for stunning views before continuing my way towards the fort.

I passed through Columbus Square and within minutes, found myself climbing a very steep hill to the entrance. Before me was the Castillo San Cristobal where a ramp deposited me at the admissions desk. I purchased my ticket and began exploring the second level of the fort, one of my favorite locations. I admired the scenic views before descending to the lower levels where I found an interesting network of tunnels. I spent a couple of hours here, learning about the soldier’s life on the fort before heading back towards the hotel. For more details about my adventure, you can read about my tour by reading my blog post, “Castillo San Cristobal”.

Retracing my steps, I once again reached Columbus Square. Crossing the street, I could hear the faint sound of sirens and police cars. Soon, a group of cyclists rounded the corner with a swish and I could feel the burst of air that followed after them. Impressed with the number of participants in the race, I sat on the stairs to wait for the crowd to dissipate.

When I arrived back to the hotel, Dave and I agreed that could put off eating for a couple of hours. In the spirit of visiting the Caribbean, we headed back to Marilyn’s Place for a couple of drinks before cashing out a searching for a restaurant. .

Taking our time, we wanted to find a cozy table with a view, most preferably of the coast. About ten minutes into the walk, we found a set of tables and chairs along the wall of the fort with spectacular views. Not yet ready for food, we ordered a couple of pina coladas. It was our last evening to walk along the promenade and the port before returning to our room. Blessed with perfect island temperatures and breathtaking views, it was just another gorgeous day in paradise!

How do you like to wind down your vacation? Do you plan an extra day to take it easy? I would love to hear your advice on the best way to recuperate from your holiday, so please leave a comment below! Many thanks for reading about our last day in San Juan! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Castillo de San Felipe del Morro
501 Calle Norzagaray
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 729 6960

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water).

Castillo San Cristobel
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 449 4049

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water). Don’t miss the Dungeon at Castillo San Cristobel!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas
San Jose Street 202
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: 866 599 6674

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

*Hotel was prepaid costing $150 per night. We arranged for a queen sized bed, room without a window, non-smoking and guaranteed late arrival.

Where to Eat:

Restaurant Barrachina
Fortaleza Street 104
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: 787 721 5852

*Order the pina colada (birthplace of the drink) and the chicken mofongo! The restaurant displays a copy of the Discovery Map of Puerto Rico which is what we used to get around. There are detailed maps of Old San Juan, the Condado as well as Isla Verde.

Marilyn’s Place
100 Calle San Francisco
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 724 0444

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

A Stroll Along Constitution Avenue, San Juan, PR

29 January 201816 September 2024

Riding the shuttle towards El Morro, I noticed a street of beautiful Spanish mansions and monuments that seemed like a great morning walk.

The next morning, I grabbed my workout clothes and shoes and headed out to a sunny day with mild temperatures. Starting at Plaza Colon (Columbus Square), I began my run heading towards the ocean until I reached San Juan’s Antiguo Casino. This statuesque Spanish and French-style marvel was built to entertain the Old San Juan’s socialites. Designed by architect Carlos del Valle, this gorgeous palace was completed in 1917 on the site of one of the original city gates, la Puerta de Santiago.

Later, the casino was converted into the Free School of Music and by 1955, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture. With its majestic staircase and magnificent twelve-foot chandelier and stunning gardens are the property of the Government Reception Center. The location hosts corporate functions, formal weddings and festive galas.

Within minutes I start my approach towards the Ateneo Puertorriqueno, Puerto Rico’s Athenaeum. While the structure was beautiful and elegant, the architecture appeared more Middle Eastern with its tile and beautiful white stucco. Built as an educational center, its primary endeavor was to provide high learning for the Puerto Rican people. Built in 1876, it now has many uses serving as a museum, performance hall, library and school.

Beautiful palm trees accentuate the facade of the exquisite Casa de Espana. Looking regal with its Moorish architecture, the House of Spain was once a meeting place for Spanish Puerto Rican citizens. Inside, the two stories are decorated with multiple arches and splendid views from the upper level. Outside the plaza and its fountain are optimal for capturing photos. Bringing a bit of Spain to the island, the venue’s gorgeous interior is perfect for weddings and special occasions.

With so much to see along my run, I eventually came upon a section of monuments beginning with the Police Monument of San Juan and slowed down to check them out. The large obelisk, carved with a listing of names, honors the policemen and policewomen who have died in the line of duty while serving the island of Puerto Rico.

I was fascinated with the Plaza de los Leones and the regal lions that guarded the square. Not much is written about this beautiful plaza with the exception of a letter dated 1938. The note states that the “plazoleta”, having undergone restoration, had been damaged by vandals soon after the completion of the renovations. Because of the vandalism, the square was not properly inaugurated and even to this day, the site remains “under construction.”

Approaching the bronze statue of the girl and the globe, I knew this beautiful sculpture somehow represented the children of the island. Dedicated to the teachers of Puerto Rico, it goes without saying that the people here are appreciative of the educators who give back to their community daily. A list of some of the most notable teachers are inscribed on this additional monument and dedication.

Up a set of stairs sits a granite wall surrounding a tall statue. The El Monumento de la Recordacion, or the Monument of Remembrance, recognizes the Puerto Ricans who had given their life in combat under the armed forces of the United States. The memorial was unveiled in 1996 and contains over 2,000 names.

Before reaching the Paseo de los Presidentes, I approached a stunning mural with an arbor as its backdrop. Demonstrating the history and culture of the Puerto Ricans it was one of the most ornate sculptures I had ever seen. A bronze statue, know as The altar de la Patria, took center stage.

Moving towards the coast, there were several bronze busts of past Puerto Rican governors as the grassy park extended towards the roadway. Crossing back up towards the Capitol building I eventually entered the Paseo de los Presidentes.

Located directly across the street from San Juan’s Capitol was a line of life-sized bronze statues. Taking a closer look, I soon realized they represented six of the US Presidents who have visited the island since the late 19th century. Bronze plaques provide a short summary of each leader’s purpose for their visit and what they had accomplished during their stay.

Before finishing my morning of exercise, I wanted to make one last stop. Heading back away from the coast and towards Columbus Square, I reached the Capitol building and decided to go inside for a quick visit.

The Capitol building, more formerly known as El Capitolio de Puerto Rico is located across from the El Monumento de la Recordacion and the Paseo de los Presidentes.

I felt so small standing at the bottom of the steps looking up towards the Capitol building. I could see the security checkpoint and was a bit nervous as I climbed my way to the top.

As I approached the columned facade, I approached the opened door where two men in uniform were waiting at the entrance. While concerned that I was not dressed properly, they escorted me to the metal detector and mentioned the forum was open for visitors.

A short walk away from the security checkpoint, I was standing beneath an exquisite dome painted with local scenes. A true masterpiece of art, I could not take my eyes off of the intricate details of the stunning murals. At each corner, colorful depictions tell the story of Puerto Rico’s important historical events. One represents Columbus’ arrival to Puerto Rico, while another, the end of slavey and the end of the Spanish American War.

Before exiting the building, I happened to notice a wooden table with a glass cover at the other side of the room. Approaching the furniture piece, I could see the placard that identified the document as the Constitution of Puerto Rico.

Standing at the top of the steps, I looked out onto a more quieter San Juan, there were a few additional monuments to explore.

Reaching the San Juan Holocaust, I was reminded of the horrific treatment of Jews during the Second World War. Various plaques in both Spanish and English provided some of the historical facts of this atrocity. Nearby, the Path of the Righteous memorialized those who assisted the Jews and others that fell victim in the pursuit of trying to protect their Jewish friends and neighbors. Risking their lives they were true heroes and are duly honored here.

Within a few steps, I approached one of the most recent monuments dating to the late 1970s. It was here that I learned about the Lod Airport massacre where three Japanese terrorists attacked the terminal in 1972. Seventeen pilgrims from Puerto Rico lost their lives during the assault which resulted in 26 deaths and 80 injuries.

As I completed run and exploration along Constitution Avenue, I learned so much about the people and history of Puerto Rico. The highlight of my visit was the Capitol building and as I completed my morning run, I had certainly worked up an appetite. I think it’s time to continue my education of the culture of Puerto Rico and try some authentic Puerto Rican food. Next stop…..Raices!

During your travels, do you immerse yourself in the history and culture of the place you were visiting? Where was that place and what did you learn? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave your comments below! Many thanks for reading about our walk along the Constitution Avenue. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

San Juan’s Antiguo Casino
Ponce de Leon Ave and Norzagaray
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 641 7722 (Open by appointment only)

Ateneo Puertorriqueño
Telephone: 787 721 3877 (Open by appointment only)

Casa de Espana
Ave. Constitución #9,
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 939 272 4054, 787 724 1044 or 787 722 3611
(Open by appointment only)

El Capitolio de Puerto Rico
Ponce de Leon and Munoz Riviera Aves.
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 721 5200 extension 301

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM.
Amenities: Tours are given in Spanish and English
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours, depending on if you take the tour
Tips for Your Visit: You will be required to pass through security to enter.

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

Raices Restaurant
#315 Recinte Sur Street
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 289 2121

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico:

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

The American Red Cross of San Juan

Walkway of the Presidents

The Capitol Building in San Juan

Ending the Spanish-American War

The End of Slavery in Puerto Rico

First Encounter with the Tainos

Christopher Columbus Arriving in Puerto Rico

The Holocaust Memorial, San Juan

Welcome to Sunny San Juan, Puerto Rico!

22 January 201816 September 2024

It was a snowy winter in Ohio and I was determined to find an escape from the cold and dreary. Looking for the perfect vacation, I realized that a cruise out of Puerto Rico would be the perfect, affordable option without much planning. Asking a friend to join, within days we were boarding an early morning flight scheduled to arrive in San Juan at 4PM Atlantic Time. Leaving a foot of snow behind, we were on our way to the Caribbean islands for a sun-drenched, relaxing getaway. Located about 1000 miles off of the coast of Florida, Americans are not required a passport as the island is an unincorporated territory of the United States.

Booking an early morning flight ensured that if there are any delays, there would be additional flights following. And of course, leaving early in the morning would give us an additional full day to explore San Juan.

Celebrating with a couple of Bloody Marys and a short nap, we landed a few minutes ahead of schedule and collected our luggage.

The smell of the salty air and humidity greeted us as we exited the airport. A short taxi ride took twenty minutes to the Hotel Plaza de las Armas, located in the heart of Old San Juan. Securing a reservation with accommodations in the center of the city allowed us to walk to all of the top attractions. We were not only close to all of the action in the historical city but in close proximity to the cruise ship port as well.

After unloading our luggage, and having only had a couple of Bloody Marys from the flight, finding a restaurant was our top priority. Checking in with the front desk, the young attendant suggested that we try La Barrachina for the Comida criolla (local Puerto Rican faire) and added that it was the home of the Pina Colada. Not a bad way to kick off our sunny escape.

Reaching the restaurant within minutes, we noticed the placard boasting La Barrachina’s claim to fame for inventing the Pina Colada as we gave our name to the hostess. We became spellbound by the smell of the Caribbean spices coming from the kitchen and looked over the menu to browse the local cuisine.

After a few squawks from the parrot in the back of the restaurant, we were seated in an enclosed, air-conditioned space which was starting to fill up on a Saturday night. Our server arrived quickly, took our drink order and provided a list of house specialties and recommendations.

Happy hour prices for the Pina Colada included two for the price of one. What’s not to love about a frothy, fruity drink with a double shot of rum? No doubt the rum comes from a local distillery, most likely from the local Bacardi factory, the largest producer of this sugar cane based libation. Cheers to Don Ramon and his tropical invention.

Deciding what to order was becoming more of a challenge than we had thought with so many options. Our waiter was eager to explain some of the items on the menu starting with the mofongo, which is cooked meat or vegetables poured over a plantain based mash seasoned with garlic, spices and broth. Dave decided on the chicken mofongo while I ordered the grilled grouper, adding a beer and another Pina colada to our bill.

Just finishing our drinks, we could smell the delicious garlic and spices from our meals before they reached the table. My grouper was perfectly prepared, but one taste of the mofongo and I was addicted. My obsession with this Puerto Rican dish would continue over the next couple of days. Is it possible that they serve this at breakfast, lunch and dinner?

The sun had already set as we left the restaurant and we ended the evening with a romantic stroll down the Paseo de la Princesa, the esplanade outside of the city walls. Known for its food stands and artisans, this beautiful 19^th century walkway is lined with stately trees, antique streetlamps, ending at the Atlantic Ocean. We stood by the Raices Fountain while watching the moonlight’s glow reflecting on the sea. Retracing our steps along the promenade, we decided to stop for one more drink at the nearby beach bar before turning in for the night. It was a beautiful, relaxing start to our first day of vacation and we had tired ourselves enough to guarantee a great night’s sleep.

Have you had the pleasure of visiting Old San Juan in Puerto Rico? Do you have a favorite dining location or local food you would like to recommend? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my first day in Old San Juan and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Preparing for Puerto Rico:

Contact and Pre-Vacation Information: For more information about Puerto Rico, contact their website at www.seepuertorico.com. I would suggest that you request some information prior to your visit, such as the Que Pasa magazine. I found my walking tour on www.puertoricodaytrips.com.

When to Go: Dave and I booked our trip for the end of January and found a great price for our flight on Southwest! The cruise rate was reasonable and so were our hotel expenses, highly unusual for this time of the year. Off-season is considered September – November and mid-March to June.

Airlines:

Southwest Airlines
Phone: 1 800 435 9792
Southwest now flies to the Caribbean!!

Flights were $400 per person from Columbus, Ohio to San Juan, Puerto Rico with a small stop in Orlando

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas
San Jose Street 202
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: 866 599 6674

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

*Hotel was prepaid costing $150 per night. We arranged for a queen sized bed, room without a window, non-smoking and guaranteed late arrival.

Where to Eat:

Restaurant Barrachina
Fortaleza Street 104
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Phone: 787 721 5852
*Order the pina colada (birthplace of the drink) and the chicken mofongo! The restaurant displays a copy of the Discovery Map of Puerto Rico which is what we used to get around. There are detailed maps of Old San Juan, the Condado as well as Isla Verde.

The view from our inside table at Restaurant Barrachina. It would have been fantastic to eat outside, but there was no breeze in the courtyard and we decided upon air conditioning. The walls were painted in bright tropical colors with abstract artwork adding more culture. The tables were simply decorated with paper table covers over white linen cloths. To add to the ambiance, there were candles lit in the center.

Puerto Rico’s Premium Light Beer, Medalla, not to be confused with Mexico’s Modelo

Enjoying our first night in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is known for its rum!

How Southwest Airlines Saved Our Vacation….Twice

19 January 201817 September 2024

There is nothing better than finding that dream vacation that fits into your budget and offers an itinerary that crosses off a few items of your bucket list. I was looking to book a cruise to the Caribbean where I would begin the cruise in San Juan. I wanted to visit as many of the islands as possible without a full day at sea. I found that amazing vacation, now all I needed to do was to book the flight. As I began my search, I immediately noticed that fares were anywhere from $600 to $800 per person, so much more than the actual price of the cruise. I continued my search over the next couple of months, but the rates did not seem to budge. I was waiting for flights to come down in price, but I was also concerned that I would not be able to book the cruise at such a spectacular rate. I was becoming a bit discouraged.

One Sunday, watching a football game, I happened to see a commercial that Southwest Airlines was offering flights to the Caribbean. I immediately hopped online and found exactly the flight that met my criteria. Two airline tickets for $400 per person round trip from Columbus, Ohio to San Juan, Puerto Rico. I immediately booked the flight, followed by booking the cruise. Thank you Southwest Airlines!!

Fast forward to the date of my departure….

I knew it was going to be a long day of travel, but what I did NOT know was that the date of my departure would go down in history as one of the worst snowstorms in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. With flights cancelling three plus days in advance in preparation of the storm, it was a bleak future for some travelers with connecting flights in Boston, New York, Washington DC and even as far south as Atlanta.

Weather stations were calling for unbelievable snow falls of anywhere from 3 to 6 inches in Ohio to over two feet of snow in Washington DC. My heart sank, but I was hopeful that I would make it on the flight, until I realized that I did not have a direct flight, and I had a stopover before my last leg to San Juan! Was the connection in Baltimore? I immediately pulled up the itinerary and YEAH! I was scheduled to fly to Orlando! YESSS!!! I would not be affected by the cancellations and I couldn’t be happier. I wasn’t out of the woods yet….there could be snow in the morning causing flights to cancel.

Early morning and the first thing I did was check outside…NO SNOW. This was really happening. I was on my way to San Juan, Puerto Rico! I left in plenty of time and arrived a couple of hours before takeoff feeling relaxed and overjoyed. I watched the news learning about the horrific weather hitting the east coast. I was saddened by the people stranded over 12 hours on highways that came to a stop because of the weather.

I had a great flight to Orlando, was provided a couple of free drinks and made it to the airport ahead of schedule. Much to my surprise, the final flight to San Juan was just a couple of gates down from our arrival gate, again, another plus for flying Southwest!

It wasn’t until I prepared to take off from Orlando that I learned close to 20 passengers did not make it out of their originating city. Again, I was reminded of the devastating weather in the mid-Atlantic. I was also happy that I had booked my trip one day before the cruise so that I would be certain not to miss the ship. It was time to just sit back and enjoy the ride to San Juan! Thanks Southwest! I will definitely fly you in the near future. Thanks for saving my vacation.

If you are interested in booking your flight through Southwest Airlines, visit their website at www.southwest.com or call them at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA!!

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