Most people think of San Juan as a transit point for cruise ships that sail the Antilles.It’s deep natural harbor has served sea-faring vessels for centuries. The rich land of the Taino Indians that greeted the Spaniards and was colonized by Ponce de Leon holds a wealth of natural beauty and cultural intrigue. Now our close neighbor is welcoming us to get to know her.
Puerto Rico is a self-governing commonwealth in association with the United States.No special documentation is required for U.S. citizens entering from a domestic gateway. However, I was erroneously asked for my passport in Denver, carrying a birth certificate or passport is not a bad idea. The currency is US dollars, there’s no sales tax and everyone I met was bilingual. The economy is strong, and investment in infrastructure is evident in the modern roads that cover the entire island.
Pick up a Que Pasa! at your hotel, it will guide you across the entire island. In Old San Juan a walking tour can start with El Morro fortress, and work its way down the hill through cobblestone streets of shops, museums, galleries and colorful townhouses. See the governors mansion and Casa Blanca which for 250 years was the residence of the Ponce de Leon family. Linger on the Paseo La Princesa, lined with trees, street lamps and benches along the old city wall, looking out at the harbor.
El Yunque is the only rainforest within the U.S. National Forest System. Just 45 minutes from San Juan, trails offer lush forest and waterfalls. The east coast from Rio Grande to Palmas del Mar are dotted with resorts, seafood restaurants, watersports and fishing villages. On the southwest shore more beaches and a unique dry forest home to plants and animals only found here. In the northwest among limestone hills covered with lushvegetation is breathtaking Rio Camuy Cave Park.
Accommodations through out the island range from luxury resort to charming paradors. The Mesones Gastromicos program includes 43 dining place across the island offering Puerto Rican cuisine. The Puerto Rico Tourism Company has made a huge effort to make travel fun and easy. Call James TravelPOINTS to book your trip to Puerto Rico 1-800-538-7461, www.travelpoints.com.
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