For those who are seeking a Caribbean destination, and desire a little more than just sun and surf, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is just the ticket. Not only is San Juan a stunning location, which boast crystal waters and an amazing tropical feel, it is also, rich in Spanish culture and history. Originally settled by Juan Ponce de Len, in 1508. Was initially called Caparra and was moved to the then Puerto Rico. The newly moved settlement was given it’s name in 1521, San Juan Bautista de Puerto Rico, which is honor of John the Baptist. The ruins of Juan Ponce de Len’s home can still be viewed.
San Juan is a compliment of Spanish and American culture, just as its antiquity and modern flares. Old San Juan, is the heart of the city, which abundantly states the Spanish culture. The Calle del Cristo is a beautiful chapel, built in 1753, to honor a young man killed, during a horse race, on the very street the chapel stands. The chapel is open on Tuesdays, and boasts an amazing gold and silver altar.
Centered amidst the mangrove swamps, the final Spanish stronghold during the Spanish-American war, El Arsenal, is a must see. The history of El Arsenal is presented through several galleries and a museum, this is even a free visit to the public. El Castillo San Felipe del Morro, normally shortened to El Morro, began as a small turret tower in 1539. This fort now consists of six floors of many rooms. El Morro, has seen many battles and two World Wars, an amazing must see piece of history.
The Cementerio de Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis, maybe a little macabre for some, but i
s one of the most stunning cemeteries you will find. Situated by the sea, and surrounded by walls, the cemetery is the burial spot for many of Puerto Rico’s elite and notable. Be sure to drag yourself away from the beaches of Puerto Rico, to visit the tropical rainforest. There are several tour options that include multi-day adventure tours and single half day tours, either you choose will be a delight. This is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. Home to beautiful trails that stop at breathtaking vistas and refreshingly beautiful waterfalls.
La Princesa, the old prison, is another on the long list of must sees in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The prison was originally built in 1837, and housed around two hundred prisoners at it’s height. Now it is the headquarters of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, and has been completely converted, with the exception of three cells that were maintained. An amount of small exhibits are scattered about the building, point
ing to the days when prisoners were the only visitors.
Before you pack up and head home be sure to visit bio-luminescent bay of Fajardo. This is one of only six left in the world. This is a beautiful natural phenomenon, micro-organisms will glow in the water, when it is disturbed, this can be seen during a night kayak tour. The actual kayaking down the mangrove river is almost as grand an experience as the actual bio bay. It is completely dark, only your trusty glow sticks leading the way, no worries though, the water is only around three feet deep.
Visit San Juan, Puerto Rico, you are sure to be impressed.
