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

St. Kitts Walking Tour

5 February 201816 September 2024

Today Dave and I will be escaping the Port Zante shopping plaza to visit the heart of Brassaterre in St. Kitts. Beautiful pastel colored structures welcomed us, just as with many other Caribbean ports, but we were eager to experience the West Indies feel of the island and could not wait to leave the crowds behind for a more relaxing day.

The security and welcome center sits at the end of the dock where cruise ship passengers must show their credentials to obtain passage to the dock. Once we crossed through the check point, we followed the signs that would take us into the island’s historical center. To our far left was a pier for the island ferry that connects St. Kitts to Nevis’ capital of Charlestown.

Before escaping the pier, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to pay $5 for a few photos with the island’s green vervet monkey. I was tempted to bring him back with me, but he wouldn’t fit into my bag. Such a fun start to my day on St. Kitts.

Immediately we arrived at the historical district starting with a visit to the National Museum. Formerly the city’s treasury building, it is quite noticeable with its large rotunda and archway entrance. When sugar cane was once the primary income for St. Kitts, this building was an important part of the island’s economic structure.

Walking deeper into town, the charming architecture mimics that of Sint Maarten with its gingerbread trim. We noticed a green cast iron clock with fountains on each side. Located in the center of a circular roundabout, it is known as “The Circus”, reminiscent of London’s Piccadilly Circus. Where several roads meet in the middle, the Berkeley Memorial Clock pays respect to the former president of St. Kitts’ Legislative Assembly, Thomas Berkeley.

Our walk takes us towards the right, away from the clock tower and approaching Independence Square. Originally named Pall Mall, this was once a slave market where enslaved Africans would congregate to sell their merchandise.

Surrounding the park were 18th century warehouses where slaves were held prior to being sold. These structures stand as a reminder of St. Kitts’ past. In 1983, it was renamed Independence Square to commemorate the independence of St. Kitts and St. Nevis from the rule of Great Britain.

Leaving the square, we found Cayon Street which led us to St. George’s Anglican Church. This beautiful, brownstone chapel was constructed in 1869 and sits on a former battle site. Built over land where soldiers had died, many believe its location is the reason for its series of catastrophes dating back to 1670 when it was first erected.

Walking towards the back of the church, we learned from an older couple that visitors could climb to the top of the bell tower. If there is one thing that I love, it is a scenic view, so I headed back inside where I noticed a small door. Although the opening was tight, there was a small winding staircase and another set of stairs that led to the top.

The stairs were steep so a few who had set out for the climb decided to return downstairs. I was glad I reached the top because the view was worth the climb. There were small cut-outs in the rock were I could capture a view from each side of the bell tower. From one location I could see the neighborhood streets of St. Kitts.

Towards the north was the cloudy peak of the mountain.

The cruise ships in port dominated the scenery at the south.

And on the east end, I caught a glimpse of the island’s football (soccer) field. I was careful not to step directly on the tin roof in fear that it may collapse. As I was taking the steep ladder and stairs down to the bottom, I was alarmed by the sound of the bells as they rang from the clocktower.

The cathedral marked the end of our walking tour and Dave suggested we stop at a local restaurant for a couple of Caribe beers. We ordered the special, 3 for $5 before making our way back to the ship.

We passed through security and continued our walk on the pier greeted by two ships in the distance. There was plenty of time between now until our departure, but we decided to board early for some time to recharge and reminisce about another beautiful day in paradise.

Do you prefer taking a ship excursion for each port or would you rather go out on your own? I would love to hear your pros and cons in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about our time in St.Kitts! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The National Museum
Bay Road
Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

Admission Fee: Adults and Children: US $3
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 9:15AM to 5PM. Open Saturday from 9:15AM to 1PM on Saturday and on Sunday from 9AM to 1PM.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The museum is within walking distance from the port.

Independence Square
Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

St. George’s Anglican Church
Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis
Telephone: 869 465 2167

Where to Stay:

Royal St. Kitts Hotel
406 Zenway Boulevard
Frigate Bay, St Kitts & Nevis
Telephone: 869 465 8651

Where to Eat:

Marshalls
Horizon Villa Resort
Fort Tyson Rise
Basseterre, St. Kitts
Telephone: 869 466 8245

The view from Marshalls is spectacular with the restaurant overlooking the gorgeous harbor. David and I decided to order several starters because their descriptions were enticing. We selected the Freshly Caught White Ceviche marinated in lime, red onions, cilantro and hot peppers, garnished with green plantain chips, the Conch Fritters spiced with bell peppers, onion, celery, served with tartar sauce, the crab cake served with remoulade sauce and escargots. For our main entree, we shared the Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass enhanced with olive tapenade served with lemon beurre blanc. The carrot cake was decadent and we could not pass up the chocolatey molten chocolate cake.

What to Eat:

Blood Pudding, a cuisine influenced by the island’s former British rule
Conch Fritters
Cook up, also known as Pelau, this dish is a local favorite with a mix of meats (usually beef, salt fish and pork), additional ingredients include rice, pigeon peas and a number of vegetables.
Goat Water – local goat stew
Johnny Cakes a sweet, flour based cake that is deep fried
Lobster
Roti – unleavened flat bread filled with a variety of meats and/or vegetables
Salt Fish and Dumplings, the island’s national dish, this meal is made of local salt fish, breadfruit, coconut dumplings and spicy plantains.
Sugar Cake – a desert made of sugar, coconut and ginger

What to Read:

The Reef, by Nora Roberts
Sweeter than Dreams, by Olga Bicos
Swords, Ships and Sugar: History of Nevis, by Vincent K. Hubbard
Returns, by Shannon Shaw

Photo Guide for St. Kitts:

Cockleshell Beach
Historic Basseterre
Mount Liamuiga
Romney Manor
Timothy Hill

Another entrance into Independence Square, St. Kitts

Inside the Church of the Immaculate Conception

Inside St. George’s Anglican Church

The beautiful Stained Glass Windows inside of St. George’s Anglican Church

Shopping in St. Kitts

Standing between two towering ships!

Leaving the port of St. Kitts!

Pearl Harbor, A Sacred Memorial

15 September 201431 August 2024

There are certain events in history that leave such an impact on mankind, that if they occur during your lifetime, you will never forget where you were when you heard the news. The invasion of Pearl Harbor is one of the those events.

I had been anticipating our visit to Pearl Harbor from the moment I learned I was going to Hawaii. Realizing that this would be an emotional experience, I prepared myself mentally and packed an extra package of tissues as we arrived at the entrance to the Pearl Harbor National Monument.

Pearl Harbor is the most visited memorial on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. We learned that, while the tickets are free, the park recommends that visitors reserve their tickets at least two months in advance or arrive early as there is a limited number distributed in the morning.

We woke up early that day and arrived in plenty of time to pick up our reserved tickets and browse the gift shop. About 20 minutes later, we were boarding the shuttle bound for the USS Arizona.

While the tour provides a historical overview of the Japanese attack that occurred on December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor is first and foremost a memorial…a remembrance of the 1,177 American soldiers that gave their lives defending the United States during World War II.

The monument was built in 1962 and is visited by approximately two million people annually.

There were some rules and suggestions that we learned before visiting the monument. For example, purses and camera bags are not permitted on the boat trip, so we rented a locker to store our personal items. In addition, we opted to pay the minimal fee for the audio tour which provides a thorough overview of the site and details regarding the attack on Pearl Harbor.

As the boat made its way towards the memorial, we could see the modern, rectangular-like structure which was designed by Hawaiian architect Alfred Preis. Straddling the hull of the sunken battleship, the USS Arizona Memorial accommodates approximately 200 visitors at one time.

Our tour included a boat trip out to the memorial as well as a documentary video that took approximately 25 minutes to view. The combined activities took approximately 75 minutes in total. Complimentary brochures, available in over 30 languages are provided at the Pearl Harbor’s Visitor Center.

From the memorial we could look down into the water to see the USS Arizona just below the waterline. It is sad to imagine that over 1,100 crew went down with the battleship and their bodies have never been recovered. For this reason, we were standing over hallowed ground, a burial site, deserving of our respect and honor.

Each day, over nine quarts of oil continues to surface from the tank below which held 1.5 million gallons. A recent study was conducted in the mid-1990s to determine the effects of the ongoing leakage. Scientists are concerned that an eruption could cause “catastrophic” damage, so the site is under continuous surveillance.

Visiting the Pearl Harbor memorial was one of the highlights of my visit to Hawaii, not only to better understand the events of the Japanese attack on the military base, but to respectfully honor the soldiers who gave their lives to protect the United States of America.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Pearl Harbor? I would love to hear your thoughts on your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the Comments Section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Pearl Harbor and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Pearl Harbor National Memorial
National Park Service
WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument
1845 Wasp Blvd. Bldg. 176
Honolulu, HI 96818
Telephone: 808 422 3399

Admission Fee: USS Arizona Memorial is Free which includes a short documentary about the Invasion of Pearl Harbor and a boat ride over to the memorial. The Deluxe Tour: $12.50 adult and $12.50 for children ages 4 – 12; USS Bowfin Submarine Park: $15 adult and $7 for children ages 4 – 12; Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor: $25 adult and $12 for children ages 4 – 12; USS Battleship Missouri: $29 adult and $13 for children ages 4 – 12. Reservations are available in 15 minute increments by contacting recreation.gov and are highly recommended. In addition there are 1300 tickets available each day on a first come, first served basis.
Hours: Open daily from 7:30AM to 3PM. The last shuttle returns back to the Visitor’s Center at 5PM. The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Baggage storage area ($5), Gift Shop and Restrooms
Length of Visit: 6 hours to explore all four historical sites.
Tips for Your Visit: Reservations are highly recommended. Please note that the memorial is a sacred location and visitors are asked to be respectful of the site.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites, Oahu/Kapolei
91-5431 Kapolei Parkway #900
Kapolei, HI 96707
Telephone: 808 628 4900

Where to Eat:

Restaurant 604
57 Arizona Memorial Drive, #108
Honolulu, HI 96818
Telephone: 808 888 7616

I was hoping to try some of the local Hawaiian cuisine but I was distracted by the PBLTA sandwich with Pork Belly topped with lettuce, tomato and avocado and it was outstanding.

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Day of Infamy by Walter Lord
At Dawn We Slept: The Untold Story of Pearl Harbor by Gordan W. Prange
From Infamy to Greatness by Craig Nelson
Pearl Harbor Ghosts: The Legacy of December 7, 1941 by Thurston Clarke

Photo Guide for Oahu:

Diamond Head Crater Hike: 360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
Hanauma Bay: underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
The Pineapple Plantations: Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
Sunset Beach and Pipeline: the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
Turtle Bay: surfers and sunsets
Waikiki Wall and Beach: palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

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