That Cool Travel Couple

As a U.S. citizen, Puerto Rico is one of the most beautiful islands you can visit without your passport! I enjoyed the laidback culture, delicious food and stunning beaches on every coast. 

Practicalities

Everything you need to know to visit Puerto Rico!

Currency: USD

Recommended length of stay: one to two weeks 

Month of visit: November

Useful tips: Rent a car for maximal exploration! 

CDC’s recommended vaccinations: Click here!

Packing List

• 3 pairs of bathing suits
• 2 pairs of shorts and lightweight shirts
• lightweight dress or long sleeve/long pants
• Sandals
• Bug Spray
• Sunscreen
• Packable towel
• Beach blanket
• A good book

You’ll most likely be flying into San Juan which is the capital of Puerto Rico. I had to take a red eye and had an early morning layover in Miami, so by the time I arrived at my hotel I was in much need of some TLC! Luckily, I was staying at the perfect place for that. The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel exudes luxury and I was greeted with a cold glass of champagne to sip while I checked in to my luxury Biltmore Ocean View Suite. My balcony had an amazing view of the water and the suite was resplendent with a deep bath tub for the ultimate in relaxation, and the infinity pool had spectacular views!

After catching a quick nap, I headed down to the Condado beach which is flanked by several other luxury hotels and nice looking restaurants. The weather was perfect and the service was impeccable. Condado Vanderbilt provided me with personalized Butler Service during my stay. 

There are an overwhelming amount of delicious eateries within walking distance of the Condado Vaderbilt. Definitely check out 1950 Condado which has authentic Puerto Rican food and many, many varieties of mojitos! In addition, it also has this amazing mural of the Puerto Rican flag along one wall, along with other unique decor. Pinky’s on Calle Loiza also has bomb sandwiches. 

Puerto Rico is famous for its beaches, therefore I’m going to share with you a few of my favorites. While driving around the west side of the island, I visited Crash Boat Beach which is one of my favorite beaches of all time, full of people relaxing and enjoying a true beach day. I enjoyed the sea, the sun, the sand and of course the pinchos, a local delicacy of skewers of grilled fish or meat. Note – parking can be a little tight! I also visited Playa La Jungla which has to be one of the most private and peaceful beaches I encountered. The ocean here is very calm as well which made for a great floating experience. 

No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without visiting Rincon, a cute little surfer town on the far west coast of Puerto Rico. Of note, there is a small airport in Aguadilla which is between Dorado and Rincon, and might be useful if you intend to fly from a more local airport or stay on the west side of the island. I stayed at Rincon of the Seas Gran Caribbean Hotel which had a popcorn machine in the lobby and is walking distance to multiple great restaurants where you can get a chilled coconut with a view. 

Next, I was headed towards the south, where I stayed at the Hilton in Ponce. This is a smaller town with a nice main square. El 69 is a chilled out laid-back local spot for drinks in Ponce. Vistas restaurant has delicious food and a beautiful view over the rooftops of Ponce. 

Before I knew it, my time in Puerto Rico had almost come to an end. It was time to head back to San Juan, but this time instead of spending time at a luxury resort I opted to visit the Old San Juan instead. I stayed in an apartment at La Capitana Old San Juan which I chose mostly for the views over Garita del Diablo – and did it deliver! I definitely recommend spending a day strolling around the cobblestones of Viejo San Juan eating and drinking and enjoying the colorful culture. For instance, you could visit Castillo San Felipe, a centuries old beautiful castle, or Fortaleza street which is where you’ll find the iconic umbrella street. 

To sum up, my trip was over too soon. Hasta luego, Puerto Rico! Looking for more beach side relaxation? Head on over to Belize!