A Stay at Old San Juan in Puerto Rico
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
A Memorable Stay in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Overview
Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a captivating destination and a key departure point for Caribbean cruises. Here's a glimpse into our delightful experience before catching a cruise ship.
A Historical Gem
San Juan, founded in 1521 and known as 'La Ciudad Amurallada' (the walled city), holds the title of the oldest city under the U.S. flag. Once a crucial port for Spanish expeditions during the 16th century, its historic fortifications thwarted numerous English and Dutch attacks. Today, Old San Juan is a charming area filled with cobblestone streets and rich history.
Convenient Accommodations
We opted to stay in Old San Juan, noting its proximity to the cruise terminal located on the south side. Rather than choosing the beachfront resorts further away, our decision to stay in the historic district proved ideal for exploring local attractions. A $17 taxi from the airport brought us to our accommodation, Hotel Milano. Located on Calle Fortaleza?"a key commercial street?"the hotel offered a clean and comfortable stay, akin to a Travelodge or Days Inn. A delightful surprise was the hotel's rooftop restaurant, providing stunning views and a free continental breakfast.
Exploring Old San Juan
Our day was spent wandering through the enchanting cobblestone streets, home to over 400 restored colonial buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries. We visited several plazas and parks, and took advantage of the free shuttle bus service. With stops conveniently located near our hotel, the shuttle was an excellent way to see the area, including sites like the impressive El Morro fort. After exploring, we dined at a nearby restaurant, savoring authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, especially the delicious plantains my companion adored.
Embarking on Our Cruise
The short five-minute ride from our hotel to the cruise terminal made for a seamless transition onto our ship. Our stay in Old San Juan was hassle-free and enriching, making it a highly recommended stop for those embarking on Caribbean cruises from San Juan.
A Note for Divers
While our visit to San Juan was fantastic, the waters near the city aren’t ideal for scuba diving, often being murky with limited marine life due to heavy port activity. Better diving spots are about two hours east of San Juan, so future trips may include a venture eastward.
In summary, Old San Juan offers a wonderful blend of history, charm, and convenience for travelers looking to explore Puerto Rico before setting sail. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just in for a leisure stroll, this vibrant city won’t disappoint.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: A Stay at Old San Juan in Puerto Rico.
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