5 minute read
Cruise - Port of Call
San Juan
PUERTO RICO
Add a few days pre- or post-cruise to explore one of North America’s oldest cities, where culture, history and delicious local treats await.
By Sarah Steinberg
Puerto Rico’s pulsating capital city has a rich and complex history: Indigenous, Spanish and African influences show up in both its architecture and its fusionforward dining scene. Don’t miss energetic neighborhoods like Santurce, with a plethora of galleries and public art, and the city’s many beckoning warm-water beaches, such as the swimming-friendly Playita del Condado.
FAST FACTS
Currency
United States dollar
Languages
Spanish, English
Tipping
Some restaurants add a gratuity as a matter of course. Otherwise, tip 15%–20% for good service.
Temperature
Average daily high of 86°F
HISTORY
Circa 1000 C.E.
The Taíno people of the Caribbean settle in Puerto Rico.
1493
Christopher Columbus arrives on the island and Spanish colonization begins.
1539
Construction starts on the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a.k.a. El Morro, one of two fortifications built in San Juan to protect the gold-rich island.
1873
Slavery is abolished.
1952
Puerto Rico becomes a U.S. Commonwealth territory.
THE SOUVENIR
A Piece from Lau Pottery Studio
Artist Laura Serrano saw a need for tableware as unique as the dishes created by Puerto Rican chefs. In 2020, she opened Lau Pottery Studio, where she leads workshops and hand-makes speckled clay stoneware with a wabi-sabi influence.
EAT THIS
Mallorca
This sweet, fluffy pastry, named after the Spanish island of the same name, has achieved icon status in San Juan. Enjoy it as the bun in a ham and cheese sandwich or simply dusted with confectioners’ sugar, as purists do.
DAY AND NIGHT
La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce
The streets surrounding La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce, known locally as La Placita, are packed with restaurants and bars. By day, it’s the perfect place to get a feel for a San Juan neighborhood, browse the fresh market produce and seek out a leisurely lunch or libation. Come night, the streets fill up with locals and visitors arriving to take part in a rollicking open-air fiesta.
IF YOU’RE UP FOR A DAY TRIP…
Visit El Yunque
The only tropical rainforest in the U.S., El Yunque National Forest is a 45-minute drive from town and features 24 miles of recreational trails, jaw-dropping biodiversity (including one of Earth’s most endangered birds, the Puerto Rican parrot) as well as spectacular waterfalls and natural pools for bathing.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Noche de San Juan
Every June 23, on the eve of the feast day of St. John the Baptist, the unofficial start to the summer season, locals head to the beach to party. Tradition dictates that, come midnight, revelers must throw themselves backward into the water at least three times to bring good luck for the year ahead.
IF YOU WANT TO CHILL OUT…
BEACH
Balneario del Escambrón
Golden sand and typically calm waters await at this beach conveniently located near Luis Muñoz Rivera Park.
FLOAT
Laguna del Condado
Take in the view from the Condado Lagoon on a floating deck replete with a gourmet picnic and a bottle of bubbly.
CAN’T MISS
Old San Juan
Vibrant hues, ornate balconies, striking architecture — some buildings in Old San Juan trace their roots to the 16th century. Start exploring at the Catedral de San Juan Bautista and then meander through the cobblestoned calles lined with charming bars and criolla restaurants. Feeling snacky? Pop into Café El Punto for a plate of tostones (twice fried green plantains, an island specialty).
DRINK LIKE A LOCAL
Piña colada
Practically the international symbol for “vacation vibes,” this fruity libation was reportedly invented in San Juan. If pineapple doesn’t appeal, try one of the many rums made on the island, like Don Q.
WHERE TO STAY
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
Iconic since the 1950s (when stars Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. crooned for a sophisticated clientele), this recently modernized hotel is a resort-loving vacationer’s dream. Enjoy four gorgeous pools, a huge stretch of beachfront, a casino and countless restaurants and bars, including the upscale Chandelier Bar (check out its stunning Czechoslovakian crystal chandelier) and Chico Cabaret, with live music seven days a week.