If you have ever sailed the Eastern or Southern Caribbean, it is likely that you have spent a little time in beautiful, historic San Juan. The bustling capital city of the U.S. island of Puerto Rico is a common embarkation port for cruises, as well as a frequent turn-around stop. For this reason, many North American cruisers have found themselves wandering the Old Town’s cobblestone streets and enjoying the island’s unique music, cuisine, and natural beauty.
The city itself offers a lovely historical district where day-trippers can take in museums, sample excellent local food, and get in plenty of tax-free shopping. Colonial era architecture includes the lovely Cathedral of San Juan and the centuries-old fort, El Morro. Shoppers will especially appreciate the cafes and boutiques to be found along Calle San Jose and Calle Fortaleza. Souvenir hunters with an eye for the artsy might head to the galleries of Calle del Cristo, or Plaza Arturo Somohano, where local artisans sell authentic crafts.
Being a tropical paradise, Puerto Rico naturally has plenty of outdoor rest and relaxation for visitors to enjoy, too. A short taxi ride from the cruise terminal are several stretches of luxurious sand in the hotel districts of Condado and Isla Verde. For a more remote—but no less civilized—beach experience, consider renting a car to drive to Bahia Beach or Luquillo Beach for a quieter day in the sun.
About an hour inland, Bosque El Yunque, a U.S. National Forest, is a fine destination for hikers with an interest in exploring Puerto Rico’s distinctive wildlife, secluded waterfalls, and lush vegetation. For those with the time to take an evening boat tour, an unusual nighttime excursion awaits in nearby Fajardo. Guests here can kayak through one of the world’s only bioluminescent lagoons, and see the surface of the lake light up mysteriously as their boats glide through the water.
Of course, no visit to Puerto Rico would be complete without trying the local fare. Cruisers can start the day with a hearty “mallorca,” a ham and egg sandwich on a sweet roll. Those with time for dinner will also find a full spectrum of fine dining establishments catering to the island’s blossoming gourmet scene. And certainly not to be overlooked is a tour of the Bacardi Rum factory, for a little sampling of some of the best rums around.
