This was my third vacation to the island of Puerto Rico. I haven’t been there in over 15 years, but always remembered the culture that made this island so very special to me. It wasn’t just about sand and blue water but it has so much more to offer. I was curious to visit the island after its horrible brush with a hurricane that left people homeless and without power for up to a year.
I stayed at the Marriott in San Juan at Condado Beach which was still a beautiful place not devastated by the hurricane. The hotel was exquisite, with wonderful staff and beautiful beaches. This made our stay relaxing and refreshing.
In our travels, we we took a Catamaran to another beach off the island which was beyond breathtaking. The clear, light blue water entranced you. You wanted to stay there forever.
We had a delicious lunch, many Pina Coladas, swam in the turquoise waters and even tried some snorkeling. Some other passengers even ventured to jump off the boat a few times. Overall, the day was magnificent and the air was salty and healing.
One day, we visited the fort used to help win the Spanish American war in 1898. The fort was set on the water and had history everywhere, highlighted by the wildlife that moved in, namely iguanas and parrots, and even some small crabs. Every corner of the fort intrigued us as we took in the history and the beauty of this historical landmark.
One evening we shopped in Old San Juan, ate in indigenous Puerto Rican restaurants and just relaxed and enjoyed the happy sounds of this beautiful island. I discovered Mufango, which is a plantain surrounding the food of your choice — grilled skirt steak, chicken and even seafood. On our last night in Puerto Rico I enjoyed a dish I never had before – Ropas Viejas which is a shredded beef deliciously seasoned in a sweet plantain presentation. The word delicious does not give this dish justice.
We met many Puerto Rican’s who are so grateful for our visits as they are working hard to rebuild their island which is still recovering from the aftermath of the hurricane. They offer great deals right now, so if you need a quick 4 day getaway, please check out Puerto Rico. You will never forget this island of paradise!
Take a look at my other article on vocal media: https://vocal.media/wander/the-magic-of-puerto-rico
What a view!
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Breathtaking…..
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Gorgeous beaches and I love plantains. Putting it on the list. Thanks for sharing.
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You definitely should. You will love it!
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Wowww
Really love the view and delicacies. 💓
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I ate some things i never tried before like mofongo and Ropa Viejas. Can’t wair to find a restaurant near home with these choices
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I always wanted to go to Puerto Rico! The sites are so beautiful
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This was my third trip. I love the culture there.
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Looks fantastic! I’ve always wanted to go to Puerto Rico ❤
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Definitely fun and full of culture 🏖
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We visited Puerto Rico last year and loved it. Your photos bring back wonderful memories. So glad to hear old San Juan and the Condado area survived the hurricane.
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We were so pleased with the Condado area even though some restaurants were still rebuilding. We know that the mountain areas are still struggling. Puerto Rico is one of my favorite places to visit.
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Look at that beautiful blue-green water. Puerto Rico has always been on our list of go-to places 🙂
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Looks & sounds amazing!
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It is. And an inexpensive 5 day getaway.
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The water looks amazing. Such great pictures. I hope to visit someday.
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It is so beautiful and relaxes you.
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Absolutely beautiful! Love all these photos 🙂 The wanderlust is certainly real!
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Wow! That water is gorgeous! One day soon, I hope to visit here so I’m pinning for future reference!
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Glad you are saving for future. A vacation of a lifetime!!!
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Never been in Puerto Rico. Just added to my bucket list.
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You wont regret it. Been there 4 times!!!
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I have been looking for a place to stay for our visit in June. I am going to check out the Marriott. We usually stay in Isla Verde, but those hotels are already booked. Your pictures are beautiful and I cannot wait to get back. I love the food on this gorgeous island. Mofongo is my favorite!
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They have really built it back up since hurricane. Great restaurants right near hotel.
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I have never been there… Someday I will… It seems amazing!!! Thank you for your information!
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