You could spend an entire week exploring this historic colonial town, which also happens to be the oldest settlement within the United States. The city, almost entirely surrounded by stone walls built by the Spaniards, is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Stop by the emblematic Fort San Felipe del Morro, visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, and La Casa Blanca. At the end of the day you can relax at one of the many tree-shaded plazas or grab a bite to eat at a street cafe. A free tourist trolley serves the city.
El Yunque National Forest
A trip to Puerto Rico would not be complete without a stop at the only rain forest reserve in the United States. Just about an hour away from San Juan, this place has spectacular views of the island, waterfalls and nature trails. Go ready to walk around and get wet! After the rain forest, you can visit one of the nearby beaches. We suggest La Monserrate public beach, best known around the world as Luquillo Beach. It is one of the most photographed beaches in Puerto Rico and has won many awards for its excellent water and sand quality.
Bacardi Distillery
You will find the largest rum distillery in the world just 20 mintues away from San Juan. Tour the "Cathedral of Rum" to learn the history of the product and how to make your favorite drinks. Bonus: you get two free drinks at the end of the tour!
Bioluminescent Bay
Imagine the blackness of the sea on a moonless night. Now watch it sparkle with the darting lights of a million fireflies. The phosphorescence is actually bioluminescence generated by microscopic organisms in the water. The phenomenon occurs sporadically in warm seas around the world, but Puerto Rico is one of the only places on the planet where you can depend on it every evening at two different protected bays and a lagoon. If you want to experience this phenomenon, we suggest this kayaking tour of the lagoon. TIP: This trip could be combined with a trip to El Yunque in the morning.
Canopy Tour
If you are up for an adventure, take a Canopy Tour. We suggest Batey Zipline Adventure in Utuado. It is about a two hour drive from San Juan but it is worth it! They have different tour options that include visiting a cave, zip lining, and rappelling.
Horseback Riding
Puerto Rican Paso Fino horses are prized for their smooth, natural, four beat, lateral ambling gait and are used in many disciplines, but are especially popular for trail riding. Hacienda Carabali offers a two hour scenic tour through the foothills of El Yunque and includes a half hour swimming and refreshment break at the Mameyes River.
Casinos
Players consistently rate Puerto Rico as the most enjoyable gaming destination in the Caribbean. Almost a score of hotel and resort casinos are currently in operation, from Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde in the metro area to Dorado, Fajardo, Humacao, Ponce, and Mayagüez out on the island. All casinos feature state-of-the art slot machine technology, most are open until 4:00 AM or 6:00 AM, and a few are open 24 hours a day. You don't need to be a hotel guest to play; indeed, many locals and visitors make a day or evening of hopping from casino to casino. There was a time when you needed a jacket to enter, but today dress is casual during the day, and elegantly casual during the evenings - meaning no cut-offs, t-shirts or shorts. For a list of Casinos in Puerto Rico click here.
Cockfighting
Cockfighting in Puerto Rico is a gentleman's sport. The game has been legal in the island since 1933 and its considered a beloved tradition dating from Spain's colonization of the island more than five centuries ago.Club Gallistico de Puerto Rico in Isla Verde is a great place for turists to experience the sport. On Saturdays the fights go from 2-10 PM. Aside from the fights, you can watch the birds being prepared for their matches, an art in itself. As a tourist, you pay $5. They have friendly tour guides and translators to show you around. To read more about cockfighting at Club Gallistico click here.
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