5 Things to Do in Puerto Rico
I love Puerto Rico. It is in my top 10 places to visit whether via land travel or cruising. This month was my first visit since Puerto Rico was ravaged last year by hurricanes. The island is still in various states of disrepair but slowly things are improving mostly due to tourism. I hope that I can inspire you to visit Puerto Rico (it doesn’t require a passport) in the near future.
I am going to share with you my Top 5 Things to Do in Puerto Rico. Maybe they will motivate you to visit this amazing island for your next trip.
By Kavonda L. Rogers
Isla Verde Beach
Puerto Rico has 270 miles of amazing coastline and Isla Verde Beach is its jewel. It is the best beach on the island with its white and pink sand. Luckily, Isla Verde Beach was untouched during last year’s hurricanes even though the surrounding area was. Yet, and still it is one of the most beautiful places on the island. Extra Tip- If you plan on visiting this beach come early or come during the week. If you come late in the day or on weekends you will be fighting the crowds.
Old San Juan
Puerto Rico was previously ruled by the Spaniards and the older portion of the Puerto Rico capitol shows that history. Old San Juan is home to the castles that the Spanish used to protect and defend the island. The most popular castle is Castillo de San Cristobal; the largest Spanish fort in the new world.
Old San Juan is the home to blue cobblestone streets and wonderful architecture that dates back to the 16th century and the time of Juan Ponce De Leon. Ponce De Leon originally settled Puerto Rico and chose Old San Juan as the first settlement. This area is a history buff’s dream.
El Yunque
If you are looking to see beauty outside the beach, then El Yunque is the place for you. It is a wonderful place to hike or swim in the Damas Pools. Some of the Damas Pools were damaged during Hurricane Maria so make sure to check that the Pools are open when you visit. When I visited you could see them but not swim.
When the entire area is open there is the Angelito Trail which leads you to the Damas Pools. The trail includes a rope swing into the 8-ft natural pool. If you have a love for adventure travel then you will love El Yunque.
Street Food in Pinones
If you want some authentic Puerto Rican food then the Pinones is where you want to be. The Pinones has tons of kiosks (food vendors) right by the beach. You can try dishes from alcapurria and cacalito which are fried treats that will simply melt in your mouth.
What are these two treats exactly? Alcapurria is fried dough made from green bananas or the yucca plant and wrapped around either beef or crab. If you are a seafood lover definitely go for the crab.
Bacalito is salted cod fritter, it’s similar to a pancake with chunks of fish. It can range from mild to very spicy so order accordingly.
Casa Bacardi
For all of those who have ever enjoyed a Barcardi rum product be proud it is made in Puerto Rico. The Casa Bacardi tour allows you to take a mixology class to learn Bacardi specialty drinks as well as a bottle of Bacardi rum. When you arrive, you will be greeted with a Bacardi cocktail. If you decide to skip the mixology class you can still sample up to five Bacardi Rums of your choice during the tour.
So, are you ready to visit Puerto Rico? I promise you will not regret it. It will be amazing.