When traveling to a new place, it's important to take into account all the things you will experience. Will there be a lot of people? Is the weather warm? Is the culture interesting? These are popular questions we often ask ourselves before planning our next vacation. If you answered "yes" to all of those questions, Puerto Rico is the perfect place for your next adventure!
1. The incredible culture
When I traveled to PR for the first time I was baffled by how culturally diverse San Juan was. The streets were crowded with so many different people from all types of backgrounds, the music was upbeat and constantly playing in the background, and the food was DELICIOUS! (Emphasis on delicious)
2. The people
The moment I stepped off the plane I was greeted with huge smiles and friendly people. They were helpful when my family and I tried to find places to eat and shop. They were also engaging during conversation and made sure the language barrier was not a problem. (You casually pick up on some of the Spanish while conversing. How cool is that?!)
3. There's gorgeous beaches everywhere you look
A picture is worth a thousand words. Enough said.
4. Drinking age is 18
It's so weird ordering alcohol by yourself at a restaurant or drinking in public, but also so cool. You get a chance of feeling like a true, responsible adult. (If you can't tell from the picture, Medalla is THE best Puerto Rican beer.)
5. The food and drinks
Tacos, Cuban food, Creole, chicken, beef, fresh fish, rum, rice, and so much more. Any of these sound good to you? Trust me, they were delicious. Portions are light so you can eat more during the day and not feel guilty. There's also restaurants everywhere you look with different cuisines and tastes. Plus there's no cheap looking McDonald's or Taco Bell's. Everything is fresh and authentic.
6. The weather
If you're okay with consistent temperatures of eighty-five degrees and slight humidity with a nice breeze from the ocean, San Juan is perfect for you. Just make sure you bring lots of sunscreen unless you plan on getting a gnarly sun burn. Every once and then occasional pop up thunderstorms show up, but they're a nice break from the powerful rays of the sun.
7. Art is everywhere
Puerto Ricans are incredibly talented when it comes to art. Besides painting, they also create music, mosaics, sculptures, and more. Ricky Martin, Rafael Ferrer, Luis Fonsi, and Don Omar are just a few popular names you've probably heard of. The music is festive and the colors encapsulate everything you see.
8. Wildlife surrounds you
Puerto Rico is nicknamed "Island of Enchantment" for a reason. Iguanas, birds, frogs (Coqui), manatees, sharks, wild dogs, and jellyfish can be found in or around San Juan. There's palm trees everywhere and the colors of flowers are vibrant. Everything seems alive and thriving just like you'll feel if you go to Puerto Rico.
9. The history
If you're a big history buff, there's a lot to see and do while in San Juan, Puerto Rico. San Juan was founded in 1521 by Juan Ponce de Leon (pictured above is his tomb) and was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. Many of the ruins and ports are the originals. There are still fortifications/forts surrounding Old San Juan! It's a perfect place for learning while site seeing!
10. The memories you make will last a lifetime
From sitting on the beach drinking Coronas, walking around the city, experiencing new foods, or shopping, San Juan will leave you with so many memories. The sights will leave you speechless and the atmosphere will give you a sense of peace.
San Juan, Puerto Rico has a special place in my heart and it will continue to inspire me. I can't wait to go back and fall in love with the island even more than I did the first time.
