Tag Archives: Puerto Rico

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Spring Break Getaways

With the winter months finally drawing to a close, it is time to turn your attention to spring, and planning an unforgettable spring break getaway. Whether you are after a week of relaxation on a balmy beach, or a few days in a city packed with history and culture, here are a few destinations that are well worth considering.

Nosara

Nosara, Costa Rica
The oldest expat town in Costa Rica, Nosara has been experiencing quite the renaissance in recent years, and has earned itself the reputation of being a chic, up and coming vacation spot. The area is most loved for its immaculate beaches, which are completely untouched due to a local law that prevents any sort of development within 550 feet of the shoreline. With everything from boutique eco-hotels to fine dining restaurants to yoga retreat centers, Nosara makes for the perfect spring break getaway for those who want some downtime on gorgeous, sunny beaches.

Barton Springs Pool, Austin

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Austin, Texas
Springtime is one of the best season’s in which to visit central Texas, as you do not have to deal with the intense heat of the summer, or the torrential rains of the winter. Downtown Austin is home to plenty of activities to keep you busy, from kayaking on Town Lake to swimming in the Barton Springs Pool to exploring the city’s many museums. Austin is also a great destination for taking day trips, especially in the Hill Country to the south and west of the city.

Central Park

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New York City, New York
New York City is a fantastic spring break destination, whether you are travelling on your own, with friends, or with your family. This is the city that never sleeps, meaning that your vacation will be packed with an endless array of activities. Whether you choose to visit the city’s most famous sights, from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, or spend your time soaking up some culture at the city’s many museums and theaters, this is a destination that will appeal to just about everyone.

Vieques

Vieques, Puerto Rico
While San Juan may be overrun with tourists during spring break, Vieques is an island off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico that promises to be a breath of fresh air. With over 12 different idyllic beaches to choose from, this is the destination to go for if you are looking for some peace and relaxation. Of course, one of the must-dos at Vieques is a night time swim in the Vieques Biobay, which is a bio-luminescent bay that glows when its microscopic organisms are disturbed, casting a mysterious light over everything around it.

St. Thomas

St. Thomas, U.S Virgin Islands
The great aspect of the U.S Virgin Islands is that it provides the ultimate Caribbean vacation, but without the need for a passport or foreign currency. The island of St. Thomas is home to everything from spectacular beaches to historic landmarks, and boasts some of the best snorkeling spots in the world. One highlight of the island is the Coral World Ocean Park, which has an underwater trail that visitors can walk through, with the help of an oxygenated helmet.

While it may sometimes feel as though winter is never going to end, it really is almost on its way out, making now the perfect time to begin planning your spring break getaway. Whether you opt for a city or a beach destination, each of these spots guarantees an unforgettable vacation.

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San Juan’s Paseos or Walkways

Old San Juan

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There are not many cities that can boast their scenic walkways as one of their top attractions, but this is what helps to set San Juan apart from many other Caribbean destinations. From what is considered to be one of the most scenic walks in the world, and takes you along San Juan Bay, to a leisurely stroll beside a historic fort, these are some of San Juan’s most revered paseos.

Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa
Considered to be one of the most scenic walks in the world, Paseo de la Princesa is a beautifully restored European-inspired walkway that dates all the way back to 1853. Lined with trees that provide plenty of shade from the intense sun, Paseo de la Princesa is home to several different vendors and street stalls that are a joy to browse as you pass by. There are a number of different highlights to this walk, from the historic Puerto Rico Tourism Company building, which was built in 1837 as a prison, to the Raices Fountain, which signifies the rich cultural diversity found throughout the island. Once you reach the fountain, you will be able to enjoy incredible views back over Paseo de la Princesa, as well as across San Juan Bay.

Paseo del Morro
Part of the San Juan National Historic Site, Paseo del Morro stretches for 1.5 miles between Old San Juan and the harbour. Established as a National Recreational Trail in 2001, Paseo del Morro runs alongside the city’s looming stone walls and garitas, offering views across San Juan Bay. One of the highlights of Paseo del Morro are the scenic sunsets that can be enjoyed from here, especially as, on a clear day, you can see all the way out to Isla de Cabras.

Calle de Cristo

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Calle del Cristo
While not an official seaside walkway, Calle del Cristo is a picturesque street in Old San Juan, and was the first paved road in the city back in the early 1500s. The best route for this walk begins at the Plaza del Totem, where you will find a 40 foot totem pole that symbolizes Puerto Rico’s ancient culture, even though the pole itself may only be 20 years old. From here, you can take a leisurely stroll down the street, stopping off at any stores or boutiques along the way that catch your interest. At the end of the road is Capilla del Cristo, which is an Old World chapel and landmark that dates back to the 18th century, and well worth exploring further.

While Paseo del Morro and Paseo de la Princesa may be two of the top walkways in San Juan, there are many other enjoyable walks to be had, whether along the coastline or through the heart of the city’s colonial buildings. There are many ways in which San Juan can be explored, but those who want to experience the unique nuances that give the city its one-of-a-kind charm should definitely consider taking a few of these walks, as they will provide you with an insight into the city that you would not have otherwise experienced.

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San Juan’s Rum Tasting Tours

Rum tasting

Considered to be the rum capital of the world, rum production has been an extremely significant part of Puerto Rico’s economy since the 16th century, and still is today. From sampling some of the rums in the Bacardi portfolio to tasting the local favorite at a rum museum, a rum tasting tour is an absolute must when in San Juan.

Casa Bacardi Distillery Tour
Situated on the western side of Bahia in San Juan, the Bacardi distillery, which is the largest distillery in the world, offers three different tours, but, for those interested in doing plenty of sampling, it is the Rum Tasting Tour that you should sign up for. After your welcome cocktail, you will be taken on a tour of the distillery, as well as the Cathedral of Rum. Next up is the tasting, which will feature some of the finest rums within the Bacardi portfolio, before visitors can spend some time taking a look around the brand new Bacardi Visitor Center for themselves.

Casa Melaza Rum Boutique
Housed in the historic Casa del Cabildo, which was once the City Hall of San Juan from the 1600’s until the early 1800’s, the Casa Melaza Rum Boutique is a unique store that also has its very own tasting room. Rum tastings here are held every day, with the rums chosen based on your own personal taste. During the tasting, you will be taught more about the history of rum in Puerto Rico, as well as the families that have produced it for generations. From understanding the differences between each rum that you try to learning exactly how rum is made, this is a rum tasting that offers a truly fascinating educational angle.

Rum Tasting Tour – Castillo Tours
This Rum Tasting Tour is offered by Castillo Tours, and combines the rum with some delicious Puerto Rican cuisine. The tour begins at one of the finest restaurants in the city, where you will spend an hour with their trained bartender, tasting, and learning how to distinguish between, four of the city’s favorite rums. After learning more about the history of each rum, as well as the secrets of each brand that you taste, you will then sit down to enjoy some lip-licking local tapas.

Spirits of Puerto Rico – Legends of Puerto Rico
Held by Legends of Puerto Rico, the Spirits of Puerto Rico rum tour has been extremely popular since it first launched in 2008. The tasting is held at a boutique restaurant in Old San Juan, and, over the course of the evening, you will likely be tasting around twelve different local rums. From the Ron Del Barrilito, which is one of the oldest rum companies on the island, to the Trigo Reserva Aneja, which has to be aged for at least 12 years, to the Don Q Gran Anejo, this tasting will teach you so much about this complex spirit.

There are many different types of rum tasting tours in San Juan, from group distillery tours to private tastings, and you are likely to find whichever type you are after. Puerto Rico is home to some of the finest rums in the world, so be sure to make the most of this when you are visiting San Juan.

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The Caribbean’s Top Destinations

Dominated by turquoise waters and soft white sand, each of the Caribbean islands offers quite the different experience. From the world-renowned diving at sites all around the Cayman Islands to the historic architecture of San Juan in Puerto Rico, these are some of the top destinations in the Caribbean.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has been a popular destination for many years, not only because it is home to some of the best beaches in the world, but also due to its rich sense of history and culture. While San Juan, the island’s capital, has some of the top attractions, with its historic forts, castles, museums and architecture, an increasing number of visitors are now choosing to head to Vieques, found about 40 miles east of San Juan. The reason for this is largely due to the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, whose beaches have made it onto countless worldwide top ten lists, offering up some of the most exquisite natural beauty that many have set their eyes on.

Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are famous for their deep-sea diving, and there are hundreds of different spots to choose from. One of the most popular is the Kittiwake, which was a 251 foot submarine that belonged to the U.S navy. This rescue vessel now lies just off from Seven Mile Beach, and it because the top of it is only eight feet below the surface of the water, snorkelers can also explore parts of it. From the diving and glitzy resorts of Grand Cayman, to the deep-sea fishing opportunities of Cayman Brac, to the diverse wildlife and nature of Little Cayman, visitors to the Cayman Islands definitely never find themselves bored.

Jamaica

Jamaica
Jamaica attracts a wide variety of travelers, and this is because it offers such a diverse experience. Nature-lovers travel from all over the world to experience Jamaica’s lush rainforests, exotic wildlife and sandy beaches, while music buffs are always excited to visit the birthplace of reggae music, and the home of the Bob Marley Museum. Those who want to stay active and play some sports make full use of the diving, snorkeling and other water sports opportunities available, and always pay at least one visit to Montega Bay, which is known for having some of the best golf courses in all of the Caribbean.

Haiti
When you take into consideration all that Haiti has to offer, it would seem as though this island is usually quite underrated. However, with gleaming white sand, sparkling clear waters and rows of swaying palm trees, it offers the same tropical experience as the other Caribbean islands. In addition to its natural beauty, Haiti also has a strong Afro-Caribbean music and arts scene that you will not find on other islands, making this ideal for those who want to soak up some culture. There have been a number of high-end boutique hotels opening up around Haiti in recent years, so while the majority of tourists may still be flocking to other Caribbean islands, it would seem as though Haiti is set for quite the comeback.

The Caribbean makes frequent appearances on many bucket lists, and this is because, with over 700 islands to choose from, there really is a destination that everybody will enjoy. From the rainforests and reggae beats of Jamaica to the historic forts of Puerto Rico, there is so much to see and do in the Caribbean that it is easy to see why travellers return here time and time again.

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Puerto Rican Beach Resorts

San Juan waterfront

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With an intoxicating mixture of sandy beaches, emerald rainforests and an abundance of luxury, the island of Puerto Rico is always tempting when seeking a beach vacation. Whether you pick a small but glamorous boutique resort, or a mega-resort perched high up on a cliff, immersing yourself in island life for a few days will leave you feeling totally rejuvenated.

El San Juan Hotel & Casino
Another beach resort that overlooks Isla Verda Beach, the El San Juan Hotel and Casino stands out from its competition for a few different reasons. Firstly, the resort places a huge focus on gourmet cuisine, and offers nine distinct gourmet restaurants serving up everything from the highest quality Japanese teppenyaki to delectable Southern barbecue bites. The resort’s Encanto Pool Complex has also contributed to its popularity, with swim-up bars, private cabanas, waterfalls, and even a poolside concierge.

Caribe Hilton
Situated between Old San Juan and Condado, the Caribe Hilton offers over 900 rooms and suites, as well as some of the best restaurants and bars in the area. The resort’s Oasis Bar is where the pina colada was invented back in 1954, so it is definitely worth stopping off for a drink and trying the original pina colada. When it comes to spending time out in the sun, guests can choose from the three-level swimming pool or the only private beach in San Juan, guaranteeing privacy and seclusion.

El Conquistador, San Juan.

El Conquistador Resort & Golden Door Spa
When it comes to mega beach resorts, this is the most mega of them all in Puerto Rico. A sprawling compound of Mediterranean-style low rise buildings set across 500 acres, 300 feet above the sea on a towering cliff, El Conquistador Resort and Golden Door Spa is, in a way, like a small city, but this is exactly what their regular guests love about it. With seven swimming pools, 21 restaurants, tennis courts, a golf course, the Golden Door Spa and a water sports marina, a vacation at this destination resort will ensure that all your needs and comforts are fully taken care of.

InterContinental San Juan Resort & Casino
Situated on a two-mile stretch of Isla Verda’s gorgeous white sandy beach, the InterContinental San Juan Resort and Casino is designed to dramatically complement the beauty of the Caribbean. The resort has a few different dining options, each of them equally delicious, from the Mediterranean café to the classic steakhouse to the Japanese restaurant. The pristine beach is easily accessible, but, when guests want some time away from the sand, the resort’s lagoon-style pools, complete with waterfalls and in-pool bars, are the ideal place to chill out.

 

Each of Puerto Rico’s beach resorts offers something slightly different, whether it be gourmet dining, swim-up bars or unbeatable views. The island attracts a wide range of travellers, and the great thing about Puerto Rico’s beach resorts is that they offer a wide variety of rooms, from a standard single to a luxury suite with your own private butler, ensuring that everybody’s needs can be taken care of.

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Top Attractions in Puerto Rico

With white sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, a lush tropical rainforest and towering green mountains, it is easy to see why Puerto Rico is a popular destination for every type of traveller. To help you to make the most of your trip, OROGOLD has put together a list of some of the top attractions in Puerto Rico.

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest
The El Yunque National Forest is where you will find the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System, making it an extremely popular attraction. With hundreds of different species of trees and plants, including fifty different orchid varieties alone, those who appreciate nature will feel right at home here. The forest is spread out over 43 square miles, and there are plenty of walking trails that you can take to explore the area. OROGOLD recommends following the trail to the La Coca Falls, an 85-foot waterfall that cascades onto boulder formations. OROGOLD reminds you that the weather in the forest is noticeably cooler and wetter than along the coast, so be sure to dress appropriately.

Flamenco Beach

Culebra Island
While Vieques may be the beach resort that caters to tourists, with high-end hotels, restaurants and other amenities, Culebra Island is where OROGOLD recommends you go if you want to experience Puerto Rico’s beautiful beaches without the crowds. This is a smaller island than Vieques, and the atmosphere is much more laid back and relaxed, with ecotourism being a focal point of many of the establishments here. With some of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean, this is a great spot for some snorkelling or diving, while those who want to relax on the beach have the gorgeous Playa Flamenco, with its white sand and swaying palm trees.

Rio Camuy Caves
These impressive caves, which cover an area of 268 acres, are located in the Rio Camuy Cave Park, and they are considered to be the third largest cave system in the world. Visitors access the caves via a trolley bus, which takes you down into the 200-meter sinkhole. From here, a guided tour will take you through the various cave ‘rooms’, each of which has unique features, from stalagmites and stalactites, to rivers gushing through them, to unbelievably high ceilings.

Old San Juan

Old San Juan
With its colorful colonial architecture and towering historic forts, Old San Juan almost manages to whisk you back in time. This city is over 500 years old, making it the oldest city in the Americas, and the whole area is UNESCO World Heritage Site, giving you an idea of the beauty of the place. There is plenty to do in Old San Juan, from simply exploring the streets, shops and restaurants, to visiting some of the impressive forts around the city. If you’re stuck for time, OROGOLD suggests making El Morro Fort your top priority, as its location, high up on a peninsula that juts out over the ocean, definitely makes it worth visiting.

Puerto Rico has a fantastic mix of attractions, both man-made and natural. Whether you want to explore a tropical rainforest, relax on a beach, or soak up some history and culture, you won’t be disappointed, as you will find all of this and more in Puerto Rico.

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Where to Eat in San Juan

San Juan Restaurant

Being Puerto Rico’s capital, as well as its largest city, it is no surprise that San Juan has a fantastic array of dining options. From traditional and authentic Puerto Rican cuisine to innovative dishes with international flavors, you will be spoilt for choice when deciding where to eat in the city. To help make your decision slightly easier, OROGOLD has rounded up some of the best places to eat in San Juan.

Sage Steak Loft
Located in the Olive Boutique Hotel, the Sage Steak Loft is one of the hottest new restaurants in San Juan, serving up classic steakhouse dishes with playful twists. Meats are given a local flavor with the use of native fruits, from papaya to mango, and even the ketchup is given a makeover, resulting in a tangy guava ketchup. OROGOLD recommends trying the Wagyu Tomahawk for your main dish – a 30 oz. Australian Wagyu served with the bone in, alongside brussels sprouts that have been roasted in a pomegranate syrup.

Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar
With a head chef that has trained with Raymond Blanc and Gordon Ramsay, you know that the standard of the food served at Marmalade will always be the highest possible. The menu focuses on fresh, raw and veggie-heavy dishes, and while this may not be what immediately comes to mind when you think of Puerto Rican cuisine, this is the restaurant that will change the way that you think about food. Native produce is paired with global inspiration, resulting in dishes such as the ceviche served with tostones, and the vegan poblanos rellenos served on spicy black beans and a flavorful mole.

Pikayo
Located in the Condado Plaza Hilton, Pikayo provides luxurious fine dining that features traditional Puerto Rican cooking techniques and ingredients alongside international influences and hot culinary trends, such as molecular gastronomy. OROGOLD loves how Puerto Rican staples are paired with bites of pure indulgence, such as the seared foie served up with the humble plantain, before being topped with a black truffle honey, as well as some micro cilantro. While this may not be somewhere that you would eat at on a regular basis, it is perfectly suited for a special occasion and will not disappoint.

Oceano
Oceano is a modern mansion situated right by the beach, providing unforgettable ocean views as you enjoy your meal. The chefs make full use of locally sourced ingredients, pairing their Caribbean flair with unexpected flavors. The mahi mahi chicharrones, served with a sweet papaya salsa, make a great starter, while the fresh scallops, served with oven-baked prosciutto de parma and a sweet potato puree, simply melt in your mouth. OROGOLD recommends ordering one of their signature cocktails, as these just make the dining experience even more heavenly.

Puerto Rican cuisine has made quite a name for itself in the culinary world in recent years, with fresh, native ingredients being used to create bold and vibrant flavors. There is no doubt that San Juan has some of the best restaurants in the country, and these will continue to open up around the city as more and more chefs discover Puerto Rico‘s culinary delights.