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San Juan is an inescapable obsession for me, and a place I have visited many times for various reasons.  The first time I visited Puerto Rico, I felt an immense amount of happiness, perhaps there was something in the air, or perhaps it was the fact that I was on vacation with my 2 greatest friends.  That first trip to Puerto Rico was a feeling of liberation and one of the most joyful moments of my life, it’s almost as though I had finally LEARNED how I wanted to live my life, that is to live in the moment and relish in it.  As a person, my spirit changed, I became a much happier person with a strong sense of self and independence.  For these reasons and many more, Puerto Rico will always hold a special place in my heart.

Often referred to as “La Isla del Encanto,” Puerto Rico is also known as the island of enchantment.  The island boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, in particular, Flamenco Beach in Culebra.  In terms of food, everything from the flaky and buttery mallorca to the local spices of the mofongo are beyond delicious.  The sangria here is simply out of this world.  The vibrant culture of Puerto Rico is contagious, and the warmth of the locals leave you with a feeling of nostalgia.  The sounds of reggaeton and salsa beats will have you attempting to dance as the locals do here, and with some practice, you’ll feel like you fit right in.  For these reasons and so many more, Puerto Rico will always feel like home to me.  And as long as I shall exist, I know I’ll be back to this island of enchantment many, many times!


RECOMMENDED STAY
at least 3 to 4 nights

 

narrow cobblestone streets of Old San Juan


a statue of Christopher Columbus in Plaza de Colón


puerto rico 428restaurants near Plaza de Colón


 
cobblestone streets of Old San Juan
 
 
San Cristobal Fort


colorful architecture

 

Pigeon’s Park 
puerto rico 452vibrant colors of the buildings

 

 

 

San Juan cathedral, the second oldest church in the Americas


 

puerto rico 470

walking along the water on Norzagaray street 

 
puerto rico 510El Convento Hotel – one of the nicest hotels in Old San Juan that has a very European feel to it

 


sun setting on the El Morro Fort

Other Attractions to consider:
spend a day at the beach in Condado/Isla Verde
visit Bacardi Factory
visit El Yunque Rainforest
visit Bioluminescent Bay
if you have extra time, visit Flamenco beach in the island of Culebra

TELL ME: Have you been to San Juan?  What are some of your favorite attractions?  What did I miss?

Hi, I'm Nisha!

A foodie passionate about bringing authentic Indian recipes and global flavors to your kitchen. I create dishes using simple, real ingredients, and seasonal produce. Join me on this soul-searching journey as I share "what's cooking" through my love for good food. I hope to inspire you to cook more at home, explore new flavors, and enjoy the process along the way.


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20 Comments

  1. *___* San Juan is soooo pretty!
    I have to admit I don't know much about it but looking at your photos makes me wish to go visit it soon!

  2. @Jen – they have reasonable fares right now, you should really plan a trip.. You'll love it.

  3. @Collections – I'd have to agree, it has a mix of everything. Beautiful place to visit.

  4. San Juan is actually a very convenient/ quite close destination for me, so now I'm wondering why I've never planned a trip! Gorgeous photos!

  5. This is bringing back such wonderful memories. I was in San Juan a couple of years ago for spring break and it was gorgeous. Definitely an amazing place to visit.