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Location
San Juan is the oldest city under the jurisdiction of the United States. San Juan is in the northeast of the island of Puerto Rico, and features distinctly century-old architecture, such as Spanish military forts built from the 1540s to 1800s, an active harbor, and a very active economic area in the Hato Rey district. It features magnificent beaches, hotels, plazas, historic sites, museums, and so on.
San Juan has a land area of about 76 square miles. The city's population is approximately 395,000.
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Climate
San Juan is a tropical city with summer daytime high near 90 degrees and summer nights in the high 70s. Summer includes high humidity making the outdoors feel very hot and muggy. The months of April through November will see frequent rain and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Puerto Rico also has the possibility of being hit by hurricanes and tropical storms from July to November. Winter is quite pleasant in San Juan. Temperatures typically range in the low 80s during the day, and low 70s at night.
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Culture
San Juan is a Latin American city with Spanish-based culture mixed with African traditions, Taíno culture, and an American influence. Museums of modern art exist abroad. The citizens of San Juan are very festive, as on the rest of the island. San Juan has bars and discotheques all around the city, from Old San Juan to even the southern part of the city, that stay open to 3:00 or 4:00AM. San Juan has become very modernized as of late, with its first metro train line (called Tren Urbano) and buses. Poverty and crime remain significant issues.
San Juan is the financial capital of Puerto Rico. There are facilities for petroleum and sugar refining, and pharmaceuticals.
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[wiki=6fe0c6748c0b5be68d0ec50e0947ca69]Old San Juan[/wiki] - the historic part of the city, home to most historic attractions, galleries and museums.
* [wiki=0ee7067bc503e31aa32cd083082bfbc5]Puerta de Tierra[/wiki] - located between Old San Juan and El Condado, this largely residential area is home to a few hotels and attractions.
* [wiki=ebab8c9b1913e04a330ad1d97ad806b0]El Condado[/wiki] - this upscale residential neighborhood is also the beach resort part of the city and has many hotels and restaurants along its main thoroughfare, Ashford Ave.
* [wiki=8a5695a78a5dfafd346db826d7a2ed01]Isla Verde[/wiki] - Isla Verde is actually located in the adjacent municipality of Carolina, within the larger metro area. It is closest to the international airport and has nice beaches, hotels and parks.
* [wiki=bcdb8d4202eeb8361a67ea5aa8533145]International Convention Center District[/wiki] - now has the new Convention Center which includes a fountain that plays traditional Puerto Rican music and Occidental classical music and in the near-future will also include a hotel, restaurants and shopping centers.
* [wiki=5a8458333142e29c135cde2ed83eab01]Hato Rey[/wiki] - the business center, hosting the main banks, Hiram Bithorn Stadium, Roberto Clemente Coliseum, Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot, and Plaza las Americas, the largest shopping center in the Caribbean. Plaza las Americas has the Caribbean's only Macy's, as well as a JC Penney and the world's largest Sears store.
* [wiki=c1a270431ab53c8016c11f4a27cb6673]Rio Piedras[/wiki] - home of the main campus of the University of Puerto Rico. It is a former municipality and is now part of the city of San Juan. Has an historic center of its own that isnt really a tourist area, but a working class neighborhood, and is most notable for its marketplace.
* [wiki=5cb9d7ab4f327b3cb3779e9dc63162cb]Santurce[/wiki] - a historical part of Puerto Rico and the cultural capital, having two art museums and a performing arts center.
* [wiki=50fd478a12e4aca284171c7a5d2b38f1]Guaynabo[/wiki] - A part of San Juan home to many international companies, like Heineken, Colgate, Fedex, as well as some of San Juan's wealthier suburbs.
* [wiki=dbf47d6fea82f2bd11c6cc4a78094a39]Miramar[/wiki] - a residential area near El Condado, known for expensive and historical houses.
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By ferry
Ferries del Caribe [url=http://www.ferriesdelcaribe.com]]operates an international passenger and vehicle service from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The overnight journey requires WHTI-compliant [http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html[/url] documentation and there are strict rules regarding vehicle transportation. Fares payable in USD.
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By plane
San Juan is served by Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport , a large international hub airport about 14 km away in the city of Carolina. SJU is one of the most important hubs in the Caribbean, alongside Miami and Panama City. As with most Caribbean airports, the airport's architecture is rather run-down and dated (although you will except to see them renovated in those coming years), with the exception of the new JetBlue terminal in Concourse C.
All major U.S. airlines operate scheduled services linking SJU to various destinations on the mainland, with seasonal air charters operating additional routes.
Scheduled services within Puerto Rico include:
*Air Flamenco (from [wiki=318dcc327de945ba431b70051aab1280]Culebra[/wiki])
*Cape Air (from [wiki=2cd794ef6cbd52854b5acc413d5247ca]Ponce[/wiki], Mayaguez, and [wiki=341ad103ddf01627be953939176ea55b]Vieques[/wiki])
*Vieques Air Link (from Culebra, [wiki=fa4abf7996d0979f8df0833c257c866e]Fajardo[/wiki] and [wiki=341ad103ddf01627be953939176ea55b]Vieques[/wiki]).
Scheduled international services include:
*Air Canada (Toronto)
*Air Europa (Madrid)
*Air Sunshine (St. Croix, St. Thomas, Tortola, Virgin Gorda)
*American/American Eagle (Charlotte, Chicago-O' Hare, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Miami, New York-JFK, Philadelphia)
*Avianca (Bogotá)
*Cape Air (Tortola, St Thomas, St Croix)
*Condor (Frankfurt)
*Copa Airlines (Panama City)
*Delta (Atlanta, New York-JFK)
*JetBlue Airways (Boston, Chicago-O' Hare, Hartford, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, New York-JFK, Santo Domingo, St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. Maarten, Tampa, Washington-Reagan)
*LIAT (Antigua, Dominica, St.Vincent)
*Norwegian (Copenhagen, London-Gatwick, Stockholm-Arlanda)
*Southwest (Baltimore, Houston, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa)
*Spirit (Fort Lauderdale, Orlando)
*United Air Lines (Chicago-O' Hare, Houston-Bush, Newark, Washington-Dulles)
*Volaris (Cancun)
*Westjet (Toronto)
Seasonal international air charters include:
*Condor (Frankfurt)
*Expressjet (Punta Cana, Santo Domingo-Las Americas)
*Pace Airlines (Santiago de los Caballeros, Santo Domingo-Las Americas, Punta Cana)
*Avianca El Salvador (formerly TACA) (San José de Costa Rica)
*Skyservice (Toronto, Montreal)
*Sunwing Airlines (Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto)
*Thomson Airways (London-Gatwick, Manchester)
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There are pros and cons to the various methods of getting around San Juan.
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Rental car
Getting around various parts of the city, and the rest of the island, as well as to and from the airport, will be much more convenient with a car. Though road signs are in Spanish, the road sign shapes are going to be as familiar to you if you are used to American road signs. And when you see the word norte sitting above a numbered-road sign enough times, it won't take you long to realize that means north. However, a car may entail paying parking fees as you travel around to your destinations so you will need to budget for that. If you go to [wiki=dee86353fd7b837e0821f1b23568134b]Old San Juan[/wiki], parking may be expensive and quite difficult (see that article for how to find the few parking garages there).
Driving in San Juan is very similar to driving in Florida or the cities of the northeast U.S. like Boston or New York. People drive quickly, change lanes with little notice, and frequently tailgate, despite narrow streets. Natives of areas with more placid driving styles like the U.S. Midwest may find it frightening, though.
None of the rental car agencies are within walking distance of the terminals, and the shuttle pickup curbs are not clearly marked or signed, so don't be afraid to ask for help in finding them. Avis and Hertz have their lots located on the airport grounds less than a quarter of a mile from the terminals, and the shuttle trip to and from their facilities is quick and predictable. All other agencies, including Thrifty and Dollar, are located at least one mile away or farther out. You must budget that extra 20 minutes into your planning or you may miss your return flight.
If you are a resident of the United States, check with your auto insurer to see if it already covers you in PR--most do. However, while that means you can decline the collision insurance, you should still take the loss damage waiver (even though it's expensive) as auto collisions in Puerto Rico are common (you will see a lot of dented fenders) and parking spaces in PR are not as large or forgiving as those on the mainland.
Puerto Rico is still using simple paint to mark lanes rather than modern thermoplastic striping. Unfortunately, paint fades fast in the tropical heat and rain, so road markings are hard to see or completely worn away on many roads. In poorer neighborhoods of San Juan, look out for missing manhole covers and huge potholes.
Like much of Latin American and the Caribbean, proper street signs aren't on every corner of San Juan, which makes a good street map (with landmarks) or a GPS navigation system essential. Only Condado and Ocean Park have excellent street signage comparable to those taken for granted in mainland U.S. cities.
The closest place to refuel a rental car before returning it is the Puma gas station on the frontage road ("Calle Marginal") off eastbound PR-26 (Expreso Loiza), at the intersection with Calle Heriberto. Once you're done there, you can continue down the road to Thrifty or Dollar, or keep going to the next underpass to loop around and head west towards the airport.
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By bus
The public bus system in San Juan is inexpensive at only 75 cents a ride. Only coins are accepted on board so stock up on those quarters! (5c and 10c coins are fine too). The bus stops are marked "PARADA", and the system is currently being reworked to fit in with a new train line. If you're planning on staying in and around a general area of San Juan, you may be able to get by on public transportation. When you see your bus coming, be sure to wave/flag it down otherwise it may just pass you by!
Take notice; contrary to some bus schedules (even ones posted at the bus stops themselves) that state buses may arrive every 15 minutes or so, service can be infrequent and very unpredictable. You may wait anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes for a bus to arrive. Rush hour buses can be very full. Additionally, traffic gets very heavy heading into Old San Juan, so once you board the bus you still are not guaranteed a quick trip. If going into Old San Juan, some useful bus routes include A-5 (from Isla Verde via Mirimar) and B-21 (from Condado). Old San Juan, near the harbor front, has a major bus station for catching numerous routes.
Visitors may find that bus routes directly to and from places of interest around San Juan do not exist, and that a transfer with additional waiting times are involved. Plan your trips wisely as buses generally may stop running around 9:00pm. If you have little time to see/do what you'd like, you'd be better served using a taxi or renting a car.
Also, have in mind, if you are planning to get back to the airport by bus, some bus drivers may not let you board the bus with carry-on baggage. You may want to plan in advance to take a taxi back to the airport if your hotel has no shuttle. Carrying baggage on the city bus tends to be less of an issue when you initally head from the airport.
Check with AMA [url=http://sashto.dtop.gov.pr/AMA/default.htm]](Spanish only) to inquire about routes and times. The AMA does not publish a map, but an online bus route map does exist. [http://labochinchosa.com[/url]
There is a free trolley bus routes around Old San Juan - look out for the numbered signs.
As for getting around the rest of the island of Puerto Rico, there are no convenient buses connecting San Juan to the rest of the island. There are vans that are like group taxis with specific routes called "guaguas." You can inquire about trips outside of San Juan at the guagua terminal in Rio Piedras. But keep in mind, guaguas may make multiple stops to maximize revenue, and it could take ages to get you to where you are going on the island.
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By ferry
The Cataño Ferry (La Lancha de Cataño) is a public ferry serving Old San Juan and Cataño. It crosses San Juan Bay every 15-30 minutes.
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By taxi
Taxis can be found hanging around hotels and the east end of Calle de la Fortaleza in Old San Juan. In theory, they are supposed to be metered (the rates are posted on doors), except for a selection of common tourist routes with fixed fares. In practice, cabbies are well aware that tourists tend to have no idea what those fixed fares are and charge according to what they feel like. For reference, the official fares as of January 2014 are:
* Airport-Zone 1 (Luis Muñoz Marín Airport): Starting Point
* Airport-Zone 2 (Isla Verde): $10
** Isla Verde Beach
** Club Gallístico de Puerto Rico (Cockfights)
** Ritz Carlton Hotel
** El San Juan Hotel
** Intercontinental Hotel
** San Juan Water & Beach Club
** Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde
** Holiday Inn San Juan
** Embassy Suites
** Hampton Inn
** ESJ Towers
** Isla Verde Mall
* Airport-Zone 3 (Condado & Miramar): $15
** Condado Beach
** Plaza Ventana al Mar
** Ocean Park Beach
** San Juan Marriott
** Condado Plaza
** La Concha, A Renaissance Resort
** Radisson Ambassador
** Doubletree by Hilton San Juan
** Hostería del Mar
** Numero 1 on the Beach
** Tres Palmas Inn
** Cartier
** Louis Vouitton
** Chaumet
** Mont Blanc
** Ashford Presbyterian Community Hospital
* Airport-Zone 4 (Old San Juan/Piers/Puerta De Tierra & Miramar): $19
** San Felipe del Morro Fort
** Fort San Cristóbal
** Capitol Building
** San Juan Cathedral
** La Fortaleza (Governor's Mansion)
** Cuartel de Ballajá
** San Juan Museum
** Plaza de Armas
** Miguel Domenech Gallery at La Princesa
** Old San Juan to Cataño Ferry
** Sheraton Old San Juan
** San Juan Suites
** El Convento Hotel
** Chateau de Cervantes
** Howard Johnson Plaza de Armas
** Milano Hotel
** Normandie
** D'A Haus
** Caribe Hilton
** Pier 1
** Pier 2
** Pier 3
** Pier 4
** Navy Frontier Pier
** Pan-American Pier
* Airport-Zone 5 (Convention Center & Isla Grande Airport): $15
** Puerto Rico Convention Center
** Isla Grande Airport
** Sheraton Convention Center
** Courtyard by Marriott
** San Juan Miramar
** Hotel Miramar
** Hotel Olimpo Court
* Airport-Plaza Las Américas: $18
* Airport-Plaza Carolina: $14
* Airport-Coliseo José M. Agrelot: $14
* Airport-Belz Factory Outlet: $46
* Airport-Prime Outlets: $80
Authorized taxi stands at the airport and cruise ship piers often write up vouchers.
for travel between those two points that cost more than the above fare on
days cruise ships are dropping off and taking on passengers.
* Piers-Old San Juan: $6
* Piers-Puerta de Tierra: $6
* Piers-Condado/Miramar: $10
* Piers-Isla Verde: $16
Metered rates apply for areas between and beyond tourist zones.
Additional Fees
* Fuel Surcharge: $2 per trip
* Luggage: $1 per piece
* Extra Passenger (6th and 7th): $2 per person
* Late Night Charge (10PM - 6AM): $1 extra
* Tolls are to be paid by the passenger.
* A 10-15% tip is expected but not required.
For any issues with cabs, contact the Tourist Transportation Department at 787-999-2100 ext. 4502 between 7:30AM to 4:30PM Monday through Friday.
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By train
San Juan is now served by a rapid transit rail line called "Tren Urbano" (Urban Train) [url=http://www.ati.gobierno.pr/].]The line connects San Juan to the towns of [[Guaynabo, Puerto Rico|Guaynabo[/url]] and [wiki=1d68a4e14bc11c173042d08981f2ccab]Bayamón[/wiki], but it avoids points of interest like Old San Juan, Condado, Isla Verde, and the airport, and is thus in practice useless for most tourists. But if you want to give it a spin anyway:
- Take the Acua Expreso ferry from Old San Juan to the financial district, where you'll find the "Hato Rey" station right next to the ferry dock. The actual ferry is temporarily discontinued for maintenance, but there is a replacement shuttle that will take your $1 ferry ticket and drop you off at Hato Rey.
- Take a city bus to a station, e.g., M3 from the Old San Juan bus terminal to Sagrado Corazon.
- Explore the town of Rio Piedras by getting off at Universidad or Rio Piedras stations and making your way down the colorful Avenida Juan Ponce de León. Explore the side streets and alleys to discover some wonderful street art.
Tickets are $0.75 per ride irrespective of distance. There are ticket machines accepting cash and credit cards at all stations. The magnetic tickets they issue are rechargeable and also usable to pay your fare on the bus. There are discounted fares for students, children and elderly people on both the buses and the train.
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Spanish is the dominant language in San Juan and throughout Puerto Rico. English is also widely spoken and understood (approximately one-third of the population speaks English "Very Well" or better according to the U.S. Census). Most businesses within the tourist areas of the city are fully fluent in English and those businesses tend to hire employees who are bilingual, thus speaking English very well. In addition, English is widely taught in high schools, with most students understanding some basic English. As a visitor, be prepared to use some high school level Spanish to drivers to communicate about luggage, restaurants, or anything not a normal tourist spot.
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El Castillo San Felipe del Morro "El Morro" : is a sixteenth-century citadel that lies on the northwestern-most point of the islet of San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is part of San Juan National Historic Site and was declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations in 1983.
*El Castillo de San Cristóbal, (787) 729-6960. A Spanish fort in San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was built by the Spaniards to protect against land based attacks on the city of San Juan. It is part of San Juan National Historic Site. It covers 27 acres of land and is 150 ft tall. Open every day from 9AM to 6PM.
*Palacio de Santa Catalina "La Fortaleza" (or The Fortress in English) is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico, who is Puerto Rico's head of Government. It was built between 1533 and 1540 to defend the harbor of San Juan. The structure is also known as El Palacio de Santa Catalina (or Palace of Santa Catalina). It is the oldest executive mansion in the New World. La Fortaleza was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
*El Catedral de San Juan Bautista: contains the tomb of the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León. It was built in the 1520's, soon to be wrecked by a hurricane, and then rebuilt in 1540. After being rebuilt, it was robbed in the late 1500's, and then, in 1615, it was damaged by a hurricane. In 1917, a lot of changes were made to restore the building. Tours are given daily from 8:30AM-4PM.
*Castillo de San Jerónimo is a small fort located in the entrance to what is known today as Condado, Puerto Rico lagoon in San Juan. The fort defended San Juan from attacks by Sir Francis Drake in 1595, Sir George Clifford "Earl of Cumberland" in 1598 and Sir Ralph Abercromby.
* Iglesia de San Jose dates back to 1523. This building was originally called the Church and Monastery of Saint Thomas Aquinas. Before Ponce de Leon was moved to the San Juan Catedral, his body was buried here for 300 years.
*Ayuntamiento or Alcaldia or City Hall.
*The municipal cemetery of Santa María Madgalena de Pazzis, located just outside the city walls.
*Fuerte San Geronimo is a fort that was built to tighten defense within the city. There is a small museum inside.
*Centro de Bellas Artes is the largest fine arts center in the Caribbean. Concerts, Plays, and Operas are hosted here. This fine arts center opened in 1981.
*Bacardi Rum Factory, (787)788-8400, [http://www.casabacardi.org]. M-Sa 9AM-4:30PM, Sunday from 10AM-3:30PM. Also called the "Cathedral of Rum" and covers 127 acres. Free tour, including a trolley ride around the premises.
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Check out the beaches in Condado and Isla Verde.
A popular point of interest is Old San Juan, a 7-block area that has become popular for tourists as well as residents. The narrow streets of old San Juan are packed with people so it is recommended to experience Old San Juan by foot in order to avoid too much traffic. You can take a taxi for less than $20 from most hotels but for .75 you can also take the B21 bus which picks up from many locations near the hotels and is very easy to use.
Check out the parks in San Juan.
*Central Park is the park to visit if you're looking for traditional activities such as jogging, tennis, baseball, etc.
*La Marquesa Canopy Tour - Located about 30 minutes outside of San Juan in [wiki=d4de6fe8ac4892a1540924e10d139819]Guaynabo[/wiki] you can tour the La Marquesa Forest Reserve via zip line. It is a low impact experience suitable for people of all ages. Those who are up for extreme adventure travel may find this a little too easy.
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*Munoz Rivera Park, Av. Ponce de León. Tu-Su 9AM-5PM. Located by the ocean and has beautiful trees and landscaping. A great place to tour by foot.
*Parque de las Palomas overlooks La Princesa Jail. From this park you are able to see a great view of the mountains, harbor and the city.
* The Casino of Puerto Rico is a large building with a 12 foot chandelier and an open ballroom, built right before World War I.
* The Teatro Tapia, (787) 721-0169 or (787) 721-0180. Built in 1832, this is one of the oldest theaters in the Western Hemisphere. This building, which was named after Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, has been remodeled twice, once in 1949 and once in 1987. Plays, ballets, and other concerts and events are held here.
*Local tour operator running daily foodie walking tours, as well as cooking classes and rum tastings. Flavors of San Juan gives an exclusive taste of [url=http://www.sanjuanfoodtours.com/old-san-juan-food-tour/]local food[/url], rum, and coffee in the most memorable restaurants and streets of San Juan. They take you away from the tourist traps to discover the history, the sweet secrets, and the savory enclaves that San Juaneros call home.
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Ateneo de Puerto Rico (museum) Founded in 1876, it is the largest cultural institution in Puerto Rico. Art contests and classes are held here as well. Hours are M-F 9AM to 4:30PM. (787) 722-4839.
*Casa del Libro, (787) 723-0354. Tu-Sa 11AM-4:30PM. A museum holding nearly 5,000 early works of manuscripts and books, some as from as old as the 15th century. This museum is most known for having two royal mandates signed by Ferdinand and Isabella concerning arranging Columbus' fleet for his second voyage.
*Cuartel de Ballaja, (787) 724-5052. M-F 10AM-4PM, Sa,Su 11AM-5PM. Guided tours M-F 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 12:30PM and 2PM. Completed in 1863, and in 1881 a chapel was added. This building originally housed military personnel and is now a museum containing Caribbean and European American arts and artifacts. Free admission.
*Felisa Rincón de Gautier Museum :At Calle Clara Lair. Open M-F 9AM-4PM. Felisa Rincón served as the mayor of the city of San Juan for 22 years, between 1946 and 1968. The museum that commemorates her memory is in a 300-year-old building. Free.
*La Princesa (former municipal jail, now a history museum) Overlooks San Juan Bay. La Princesa was built in 1837. A beautiful structure that has beautiful landscaping. It is surrounded by a wall and contains many trees, as well as a fountain and a sculpture. Open M-F from 9AM to 4PM. (787) 721-2400.
*Museo del Niño (Children's Museum) at Calle del Cristo 150. Open: Tu-Th 9AM-3:30PM; F 9AM-5PM; Sa-Su 12:30PM-5PM. Through interactive exhibits, children learn simple lessons, such as the benefits of brushing teeth or recycling aluminum cans, or the value of caring properly for pets. Admission $5; $4 children 14 and younger.
*Museo Nuestras Raíces Africanas( Our African Roots Museum), Plaza San José, Calle San Sebastián. Open Tu-Sa 8:30AM-8:30PM. This museum documents the African contribution to the sociology of Puerto Rico. Admission is $2 for adults; $1 for seniors, children, and students; free for ages 10 and under.
*Museo de Arte ( Museum of Art), 299 Av. José de Diego, Santurce. Open Tu and Th-Sa 10AM-5PM; W 10AM-8PM; Su 11AM-6PM. Puerto Rico's most important gallery, which opened in 2000 and was constructed at a cost of $55 million, is a state-of-the-art showcase for the island nation's rich cultural heritage. Admission is $6 for adults, $2.50 for seniors, $3 for children under age 12.
*The Pablo Casals Museum, Calle San Sebastián 101, (787) 723-9185. Tu-Sa 9:30AM-5:30PM. Casals came to Puerto Rico in the 1950s and was the conductor for the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra. The museum contains footage of his concerts as well as other pictures and manuscripts.
*Spanish barracks (now museum de Ballaja)
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Employment opportunities in Puerto Rico are to be found in the varying sectors of the territory's economy; key among these are education, financial services, government (municipal, territorial & federal), pharmaceutical and tourism. Proficiency in both Spanish and English are among the key skills required by local employers.
Employers in Puerto Rico are required to verify the eligibility of prospective workers to accept employment in the United States[http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-9.pdf].
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The Butterfly People, 257 Calle de la Cruz, Old San Juan, Phone: 787-723-2432, [http://www.butterflypeople.com]. Real butterflies encased in acrylic. Stunning. Go to see it, even if you don't buy.
*Plaza las Américas, "The Center of it All", biggest mall in the Caribbean, containing more than 300 stores anchored by the world's largest JC Penney, plus Macy's, Lacoste, American Eagle, A|X, Sports Authority and Sears. It has a movie theater and restaurants such as Chili's, Macaroni Grill, Margarita's and Tierra del Fuego. If you need or want to visit a good example of a modern, enclosed mall from the U.S. mainland, this won't disappoint.
*Old San Juan, Shopping in Old San Juan is diverse, with retailers scattered among many narrow streets. Stores include many fine jewelers, arts, crafts and mercantil shops, at least one drug store, and a few branded "outlets". You'll also find numerous cafes and a few fine restaurants. For walkers, the humidity and tropical sun may make the mid-late afternoon temperatures a bit oppressive. Alternatives include going early as stores open (typically 10AM on weekdays) or catching a free trolley winding throughout the area, with opportunities to get off at marked stops wherever desired. The trolley tends to stay very full on afternoons when cruise ships are in.
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Al Dente, Calle Recinto Sur 309, Old San Juan, Phone: 787-723-7303. M-F 12PM-3PM; M-Sa 6PM-11PM; Sun 12:30PM-4PM and 6PM-10PM. The oldest continuously operated Italian restaurant in Puerto Rico.
* Creole cuisine. On the Plaza de Colón, enjoy the view along with a great meal. Great spot to stop for a drink, snack & conversation too. Live music weekends & some weekdays. Recently expanded to the second floor. Best meal: stuffed snapper (fillet + lobster, crab, shellfish in a flavorful broth) + rice & beans + sweet plantains.
*El Alcázar, 1013 Ave. Roosevelt. New Spanish restaurant which serves a variety of "Tapas", seafood and several meats. Also has a variety of Wines. The ambience is romantic and live music is offered several times a month.
*El Asador, The Grill Old San Juan 350 San Francisco St. (Old San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902), ☎ 787-289-9966, [6]. 10AM - 4AM 7 Days a Week. El Asador Bar Restaurant The Best Meats Cuts & Puertorrican Cuisine located at the entrance of Old San Juan, the heart of nightlife in the Old City. It is the most stylish and exclusive Bar Restaurant in San Juan, a two level Restaurant with an exterior patio the perfect environment for an exciting experience. Delight with an early lunch or a romantic dinner in one of the most beautiful interior patios of the Old City, or why not enjoy the best music and liveliest party in San Juan until sunrise. El Asador is a cozy and sophisticated Bar Restaurant, patronized by upscale, trendy, local and tourist.
*Luigi's Restaurant, 104 Diez de Andino, Condado, 787-722-2672. M-Sa 11:30AM-3PM and 6PM-10PM; Su 12PM-5pPM. Serves Italian and Genovese cuisine.
*Margarita's, Several locations including 3rd level at Plaza las Américas and 1013 Ave. Roosevelt, 787-792-0283. One of the traditional Mexican food restaurants that exists in the island.
*Milagros y Sean's, Isla Verde. Delicious traditional home cooked Spanish food and half-edible Irish cuisine if you're not in the mood for good tasting things. Bartender makes great cocktails and pours a terrible Guiness. Lounge area with 90's hip-hop, R&B classics, and semi-tolerable fiddle.
*Ostra Cosa, Calle del Cristo 154, Old San Juan, 787-722-2672. Daily 12PM-10PM. Reservations recommended. The ambience here is one of the most sensual and romantic in Old San Juan.
* Pamela’s Caribbean Cuisine is an award-winning San Juan restaurant popular for special occasions. Adjacent to Numero Uno Pamela’s is known not only for its exquisite Caribbean-fusion menu, but also for its one-of-a-kind beachside location.
*Parrot Club, Calle Fortaleza 363, Old San Juan, 787-725-7370. Daily 12PM-3PM; 6PM-11PM. Live music, either Brazilian, salsa, or Latino jazz, is offered nightly as well as during the popular Sunday brunches.
*Ramiro's, Av. Magdalena 1106, Condado, 787-721-9049. M-Sa 12PM-3PM & 6PM-11PM; Su 12PM-3PM & 6PM-10PM. Creole" style cooking pioneered by owner and chef Jesús Ramiro.
* San Juan Hard Rock Café, Old San Juan.
*Tantra is located at 356 Calle Fortaleza and serves international cuisine. Great creative and nightlife atmosphere. A warm, candlelit environment with great food and great martinis. Moderately priced, entrees run from around $13-$17. (787)977-8141.
*Tierra del Fuego, 3rd Level at Plaza las Américas, 787-294-7019. One of the best Argentinean restaurants where you will be able to savor a tender, juicy cut of meat prepared by chefs and cooks who, together with the warm staff of waiters and hostesses, are without representation of a trade union that can defend their rights of having fair wages and benefits.
*UVVA Restaurant, (787) 727-3302, 1 Calle Tapia, Ocean Park. International creative cuisine by Chef Jose Vicente is served from 8AM until 11PM. The ambiance is elegant and casual.
*Great burgers with high quality beef. Over 40 beers, some on tap.
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Brava, At Wyndham El San Juan Hotel & Casino, Isla Verde. Cover $15, free for residents of El San Juan Hotel. Open Th-Sa from 10PM until 4AM.
*Cigar Bar, At Wyndham El San Juan Hotel & Casino, Isla Verde. Daily 6PM to 3AM.
*Club Laser, Calle del Cruz 251, near the corner of Calle Fortaleza.Cover $8-$12 (free cover for women before midnight on Sat) The club is usually open Th-Su from 10PM until 4AM.
*Dákiti, Calle San Sebastián, Pub with two floors. Idilic for the San Sebastián Festivities.
*Dragonfly, Restaurant and bar on Forteleza Street in Old San Juan.
*El Patio de Sam, Calle San Sebastián, Old San Juan. One of the most popular late-night joints with a good selection of beers. Live entertainment is presented here M-Sa.Open daily noon to 1AM.
*Logan's Irish Pub, Calle Bori 496, Río Piedras. Daily 11:30AM to 1AM (closes at 2:30AM F-Sa). A sports bar with TV monitors and high-energy rock 'n' roll.
*Rumba, Calle San Sebastián 152. The site for the filming of many of the crowd scenes within Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights. Cover $15.
*Shannon's Irish Pub, Marginal Martínez Nadal, Guaynabo. Daily 11:30AM to 1AM (closes at 2:30AM F-Sa). A sports bar with TV monitors and high-energy rock 'n' roll.
*Nuyorican Cafe[http://www.nuyoricancafepr.com], Calle San Francisco #312. 787-977-1276. Good live music venue in Old San Juan. Salsa, Latin jazz, folkloric music.
*This is one of the finest Italian restaurants in Puerto Rico. The menu is very creative with new dishes added based on the fresh ingredients available on any given day. This is a cloth napkin establishment.
*Great burger place with over 40 beers. High quality beef is their priority.
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San Juan has a wide range of accommodation, from luxury resorts to European-style youth hostels. Colonial-style city hotels are clustered in [wiki=6fe0c6748c0b5be68d0ec50e0947ca69]Old San Juan[/wiki], while the big beachfront resorts are mostly out in [wiki=8d2bcb68bebbdd4f393847c47a9c9a39]Condado[/wiki] and [wiki=8a5695a78a5dfafd346db826d7a2ed01]Isla Verde[/wiki].
You'll be looking at $90 per night for a basic hotel room, and well north of $300 per night for a five-star resort. However, discounts are available in summer (low) season.
-
Budget
There are a number of vacation apartments which are walking distance to the beach, comfortable with fully equipped kitchen for saving money on meals. You can find these individually-owned apartments in either condos in front of the beach in Isla verde or in areas in Ocean Park and Condado walking distance to beach.
You might not have the daily housekeeping service but this option is good to receive a more authentic stay rather than in the sterile unchanging hotel. These accommodations can vary from $50-$80
Posada Colonial apartments ( ocean park/ Condado) area minutes from the beach has very high reviews ( range $70 night complete and private apartment)
There are other areas of San Juan as:
[wiki=68e81434de073517606f751ce73f2a4e]Santurce[/wiki] ( in low income neighborhood):
where Other hostels can be found for much less.
The Palace Hostel #720-432-0712
San Juan International Hostel
-
Mid Range
Alasol at 318 Calle del Sol, Viejo San Juan. Fully furnished one bedroom apartments with parking space in Old San Juan. Phone: (787)724-4456 , Phone: (787)564-3683
*At Wind Chimes Inn, 1750 McLeary Ave, Condado, Phone: 800-946-3244 [http://www.atwindchimesinn.com].
*Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde, 7012 Boca de Cangrejos ave., Phone: (787)791-0404. [url=http://www.sjcourtyard.com].]A beautiful hotel located on the gorgeous beach of Isla Verde just minutes from the international airport in San Juan, with several restaurants and a casino.
*Doubletree by Hilton San Juan, 105 De Diego, Phone: (787)721-1200. [url=http://www.sanjuandoubletree.com[/url].]Centrally located to the Airport, the beach, and Old San Juan. Free Wi-fi and a warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival.
* Embassy Suites, Isla Verde. Use their national web site.
* Hampton Inn, Isla Verde. Use their national web site.
* Hosteria del Mar, 1 Calle Tapia, (Ocean Park), Phone: 727-3302 or Phone: 800-742-4276.
* Le Consulat, 1149 Magdalena Ave Condado, Phone: 787-289-9191, fax: 787-723-8665, [url=http://www.ascendcollection.com/hotel-san_juan-puerto_rico-PR019[/url].] The boutique-style hotel, is ideally located in the El Condado section of San Juan.
* Palm View Realty, 5970 Isla Verde Avenue, Phone: 888-268-5281, fax: 727-1415, [url=http://www.palmviewrealty.com[/url].] Palm View Realty Specializes in short term rentals as well as condo, apartment and house sales in Puerto Rico. Affordable rentals are Beach Front and fully furnished.
*San Miguel Plaza Hotel [http://www.sanmiguelplazahotel.com[/url] Lodging accommodations include free continental breakfast, parking, Internet, business center and gym, all for a low rate per room and the lowest tax rate, with no additional or hidden charges.
* Tu Casa Boutique Hotel, 2071 Calle Cacique, (Ocean Park), Phone: 727-5100.
-
Splurge
Caribe Hilton, Phone: (787)-721-0303, [http://www.hiltoncaribbean.com/sanjuan].
*La Concha a Renaissance Resort, 1077 Ashford Ave., Phone: (787)721-7500. [url=http://www.laconcharesort.com].]A modern chic luxury resort in the Condado area of San Juan. Amazing views, restaurants, casino, and nightlife.
*The only luxury property overlooking both the Atlantic Ocean and Condado Lagoon.
*Located on the northeastern tip of Puerto Rico, near El Yunque Rain Forest and just four miles from the stores and attractions of downtown Fajardo and Las Croabas.
*Hotel El Convento, 100 Cristo St., Phone: (787)723-9020. [url=http://www.elconvento.com[/url].]Located in the heart of Old San Juan, this Small Luxury Hotel was a Convent until the late 19th century. It has a 4 story courtyard with a pool on the roof and spectacular views of Old San Juan.
*The only hotel in Old San Juan with Atlantic Ocean views. Spectacular, 300-year-old boutique hotel, art gallery and museum in one. 26 gorgeously unique accommodations, owned by artist / sculptor Jan D'Esopo. Fascinating Old World charm.
*Beachfront location in the Isla Verde district of San Juan and 15 minutes from the shopping, entertainment, and history of charming Old San Juan.
* InterContinental San Juan Resort & Casino, 5961 Isla Verde Avenue, Phone: (787) 791-6100, Toll-free: (800) 443-2009, [http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ic/1/en/hd/sjuha[/url].
*Normandie Hotel , 499 Munoz Rivera Ave. Old San Juan (787) 729-2929, Toll Free 1-877-987-2929, [http://www.normandiepr.com]
* Numero Uno Guest House offers stunning ocean views, luxurious accommodations and the finest cuisine.
* San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, 1309 Ashford Avenue, Phone: (787) 722-7000, [url=http://www.marriott.com/SJUPR]]
* SJ Suites, 253 Fortazela, Phone: (787)725-1351. [http://www.sjsuites.com[/url].
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Use common sense when going around.
Most tourist areas, like the Old City, Condado, and Isla Verde tend to be very safe. There is a visible 24-hour police presence in the Old City. However, the La Perla slum next to the Old City is dangerous and should be avoided.
Use caution when riding a bicycle around the city as roads are often crowded and some are unpaved. Be sure to pay attention to the roadway on which you are riding and the traffic.
Pedestrians need to use similar caution in Old San Juan. While traffic usually is slower, the streets are narrow, and sidewalks very narrow, sometimes crowded, with occasional trip hazards.
Walking around San Juan at night is strongly discouraged due to the city's high crime rate. This applies to the beaches as well; tourists have been robbed and even killed while walking at night on the beaches in Condado and Isla Verde.
If you plan to partake in San Juan's nightlife, consider taking a cab, or be alert for potential carjackers. Red light running (after slowing to look for cross-traffic) is tolerated late at night in San Juan, like in the rest of Puerto Rico, due to the high rate of carjackings.
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[wiki=8dde2ef0cf52c8a3537284a43cd3e96e]Arecibo[/wiki] - You can go see the Arecibo observatory and Cavernas del Rio Camuy (Camuy River Caverns) in the same day. Arecibo is about one hour west of San Juan.
* [wiki=50f8465c5ebb50d33b69b7f6f5eb3d1d]Loiza[/wiki] - On the north coast of Loiza you will find Piñones, a great place to go to the beach and eat some of the best Puerto Rican fried food. Just minutes away from El Condado and Old San Juan.
* [wiki=fa4abf7996d0979f8df0833c257c866e]Fajardo[/wiki] - In eastern Puerto Rico a nice trip to make is Las Cabezas de San Juan, a natural reserve, you will have a tour around the place where they will show you the different types of plants in the reserve and then the lighthouse which now serves as a small museum, the place has a spectacular view. Reservation is required.
* [wiki=a66a1c4d379e69cf95b031249f2895aa]Rio Grande[/wiki] - The Caribbean National Rain Forest or El Yunque is located here, a great place to spend the day with nature, enjoying an awesome view and walking between trees and small rivers. There are many different trails, the La Mina trail affords hikers to swim in a waterfall towards the middle of the trail.
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[wiki_table=27239a8e]
[[Category: Populated places in Puerto Rico]]
[wiki=9523a84c8e4e7d933e7a8f8792135070]de:San Juan[/wiki]
[wiki=f45fda65a2d35007a3cc5397875f84f0]eo:San-Juano[/wiki]
[wiki=05bc1c254d9b55305d8a62093383cd84]it:San Juan[/wiki]
[wiki=9e96a84198cdacaa393468af61c64810]ja:サンフアン (プエルトリコ)[/wiki]
[wiki=14e7ab69fd79cf0f2a404971dcdaf6ed]nl:San Juan[/wiki]
[wiki=57b831884e91eb41f5ff8bc4b87c8898]pt:San Juan[/wiki]
[[WikiPedia:San Juan, Puerto Rico]]
[wiki=f05f1e98bfe5ee2b4cee1a874a1e47d6]Dmoz:Caribbean/Puerto_Rico/Localities/San_Juan/[/wiki]
[wiki=44471961542543fdccd6712df972864e]World66:centralamericathecaribbean/thecaribbean/puertorico/sanjuan[/wiki]
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