San Juan for History Buffs

The history of San Juan dates back to 1521, when it was settled by Spanish Colonists. San Juan’s original name was actually Puerto Rico, but the city and island’s names got accidentally reversed. Remnants of the Spanish colonial times can be explored in the Old San Juan section of the city, located on a small island connected to New San Juan by a bridge and causeway.

A stroll through Old San Juan’s narrow streets is reminiscent of visiting Europe. Lively cafes, restaurants and shops line the streets, and hidden alcoves with refreshing fountains lend a feel of old-world charm. The city’s many plazas and parks provide a meeting place for groups or a leisurely afternoon shaded by the fierce Caribbean sun. See Toppuertorico.org for more details.

Perhaps the most visited historical site of San Juan is the magnificent El Morro Fort with its sweeping view of the Atlantic and San Juan Bay. The impressive fort was begun in the 1500’s and augmented in the 1780’s and rises 140 feet above the sea. This 74-acre National Historical Site is the largest fortification in the Caribbean. Nearby is the San Cristobal fort, named for the island’s discoverer, none other than Christopher Columbus.

Beach Bumming in San Juan

Crossing the causeway into the newer part of San Juan, high rise condos and hotels dominate the city coastline of this somewhat-Americanized section of the city. If you are expecting the calm lapping of the sea against a private Caribbean cove, you’ll likely not find it here. The Atlantic is a bit rougher, yet the main, public beach areas of Condado, Ocean Park and Isla Verde are safe for swimming and are sure to entertain. The vibe is social, as this is a place to see and be seen, especially at Ocean Park.

Ocean Park Condato Beach

Puerto Rico’s Culinary Capital

A taste of Puerto Rico is as varied as its people. Generally speaking, Puerto Rican cuisine is a mixture of American, Spanish, Taino, Arawak Amerindians and other Hispanic cuisines, but the island’s food has a flavor of its own. Though dishes are too numerous to list individually, many have as their base the sofrito, a sauté of freshly ground garlic, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, red peppers, cachucha and cubanelle peppers. Cooking with plantains is also popular.

Travelers departing the Port of San Juan on a cruise vacation would not regret the decision to stay an extra day or two to take in the sights, flavors and history of San Juan. Better yet, American travelers might consider a San Juan vacation unto itself. No passport needed.