Gladys & Jan
Things To Do
Viejo San Juan & El Morro
Wander through the downtown Old San Juan cobblestone streets, explore the colorful colonial architecture, and visit historic sites like Castillo San Felipe del Morro, better known as El Morro, an impressive citadel and one of the largest fortifications built by the Spaniards in the Caribbean during the 16th century. Old San Juan also offers other sites like museums, shops, and restaurants where you can try traditional dishes such as pernil (slow cooked pork), arroz con gandules (rice and peas), mofongo (fried mashed plantains with garlic), and tostones (fried plantains).
El Yunque National Rainforest
Located about an hour west of San Juan, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. It is also a sacred place in Puerto Rican culture. Many believe its name comes from the Taíno word Yuke, or "white earth," a reference to the clouds that gather around the forest's mountainous peak; others believe it derives from Yúcahu, the Taíno deity of fertility. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, travel to the Yunque to bathe in natural pools beneath La Mina waterfall, have a ziplining adventure, or take in the gorgeous scenery from its many hiking trails.
Luquillo Beach
If you travel to El Yunque Rainforest and would like to visit a nearby beach, consider Luquillo Beach, (also known as La Monserrate Beach) home to one of the best beaches on the island. If you click the link below, you can consider other beautiful beaches to visit in Puerto Rico.
Vieques island & Culebra island
If you have some extra time to travel via ferry boat, consider exploring one of Puerto Rico's major neighboring islands. On Culebra island, you can visit Flamenco Beach, one of the world’s best beaches, and snorkel in the clear waters of Tamarindo Beach. On Vieques island, you can discover the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, relax on pristine beaches, and watch the wild horses roam.
Questions
If you would like other recommendations or have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask Jan or Gladys.