We had mixed feelings about Nassau, which is probably why I wasn’t motivated to document our experience. It was crowded with tourists, the locals weren’t very nice or friendly, the main attractions weren’t at all impressive, things were overpriced, and the waters were too rough for a relaxing dip. Apparently, I’m not the only person who’s been disappointed by the port city. Many people who’ve been share my thoughts.
Still, I’m glad I came. It’s nice to visit and experience a destination at least once, even if it did disappoint. Here are some photos from my trip.
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
Here is the second set of photos from my trip to Samana in the Dominican Republic. Be sure to check out the first set here.
From Las Terrenas in the north, we made our way south to the town of Samana to check out check out two other Bahia Principe properties and also visit the town itself.
The first property, Grand Bahia Principe Cayacoa, an inclusive property that’s both luxurious as well as family-friendly and has fantastic views of the bay and the town.
It was, however, the second property that impressed me. Luxury Bahia Principe Samana, a newly opened Bahia Principe property, is simply gorgeous. It’s small and has a luxury boutique resort style; but its relaxed, beach house feel compliments its poshness. I especially adored the lobby!
After checking out the two properties, we boarded a boat for a quick trip to Bahia Principe’s pride and joy in the Dominican Republic. Set on a small, partially-private island, Luxury Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado is a luxurious, adults-only, all-inclusive property. Like all Bahia Principe properties, this one’s also beautiful. However, it does convey a feeling of remoteness, which makes it extra special.
If you’re going to stay at this resort and on the island, don’t miss out on two things: (1) a spa treatment at the onsite spa, and (2) late night drinks at the bar on the public beach.
Processed with VSCO with c2 preset
Be sure to check out more photos from my Samana adventures here.
Currently planning our family trip next year but we can’t seem to decide on a destination. We’re torn between going on a grand tour of Italy or discovering a more offbeat city in Central or South America. Personally, I’d rather be exploring the cities of Havana and Cartagena. I’ve had my share of beaches and beach resorts in the last few months, and I’m kind of on a city kick right now, especially those with splashes of colors; winding, cobblestone streets; beautiful markets with great artisanal finds; amazing cuisine; and a terrific blend of old and modern design and architecture.
At the moment, I’m obsessed with these five cities. They are currently at the top of my travel list.
I have a soft spot for the Dominican Republic. Not only was it the very first Caribbean island I ever visited, I also adore its people—they’re so welcoming and friendly—and love its shallow, sandy beaches full of beautiful sand dollars and shells.
Before my epic United Kingdom/Marrakesh trip in July, I was invited by Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts to come out to Samana to check out their gorgeous all-inclusive properties there and experience some of the European-popular province’s attractions. It was a fantastic experience: one brimming with adventure, delicious dips in the water, amazing seafood and wonderful people.
Our first stop was the lovely, beach house style resort of Grand Bahia Principe El Portillo and the nearby town of Las Terrenas.
We also spent some time visiting small villages and farms, meeting with the locals, and doing some snorkeling and swimming at the gorgeous Playa Rincon, which doesn’t see a lot of tourists because it’s a bit hard to get to and the dirt road that leads to it is kind of rough. The beach is definitely worth the trek though, and it’s probably my favorite on the island.
Processed with VSCO with c3 preset
Enjoyed these photos? Keep an eye out for the second set, to follow soon…
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
A tranquil courtyard, green and decorated here and there with unusual metal sculptures, led arriving guests from The Royal Playa del Carmen‘s enormous lobby to the pools and the beach beyond. Standing there, it’s quite easy to fully appreciate the resort’s allure. Six or so elegantly beautiful Mexican hacienda-style structures, painted white for a more modern flair, rise above you in their modest grandness, their doric columns and intricate iron railing balconies both intimate and inviting.
The Royal Playa del Carmen
Courtyard at The Royal Playa del Carmen
The Royal Playa del Carmen
Back in the courtyard, two paths on the opposite sides lead to the pool area, where two big pools sit, busy with guests enjoying their fruity cocktails and flanked with at least two hot tubs, possibly a couple hundred lounge chairs and several curtained cabanas, all arranged in a very appealing way. From here, you can hear the sounds of the waves as they kiss the beach, the famous Playa del Carmen beach, that lay just a few steps beyond.
Cabanas at The Royal Playa del CarmenView from my hotel suite at The Royal Playa del CarmenView from my hotel suite at The Royal Playa del Carmen
I was almost sad to leave the brilliant blue waters of Cancun behind, which was where I was until an hour earlier. But walking onto that serene, cream-colored beach and seeing that familiar turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya again after so many months, I am reminded of why I prefer it over Cancun’s partying ways.
It was here where, a little over a year ago, I fell in love with the Yucatan Peninsula and this unfailingly intriguing country. Having a smaller budget then, I made do with a cheap-ish studio apartment that turned out to be more expensive than its actually worth. Picture rough sheets, no air conditioning to take shelter from the tropical heat, a ceiling fan that sounded as if it was about to fly off its base any minute to shred me to bits in my sleep, and the occasional roach in the tiny bathroom that, judging from their gigantic size, could also possibly murder me during slumber. The only good thing that AirBnB find had going for it, in fact, was that it was just a short stroll from Playa’s main tourist strip.
This time around, I find myself, with incredible relief, surrounded in luxury. With over 500 upscale rooms, the all-inclusive Royal Playa del Carmen is an adults-only, beachfront property whose well-appointed suites boasts a massive bathroom, a Jacuzzi, and at times, a private plunge pool. It comes, undeniably, with palatial elegance, from its architecture down to the excellent service, but that elegance is also somehow charmingly subdued. It is, in other words, posh without being stuffy and superior, upscale but sincerely friendly. It’s one of the many things I love about it.
Suites with private plunge pools at The Royal Playa del Carmen
I also love its abundance of delightful surprises that you’ll truly be hard-pressed to find in other properties, let alone in an all-inclusive one. Consider, for example, its quiet pool area–a gorgeous hidden gem that you wouldn’t know existed until either somebody told you or you just happened to discover it while getting lost in the resort’s expansive grounds. Consider nearby the onsite coffee shop–an unusual thing for an all-inclusive property–that serves proper lattes and is always ready with plates of cookies and muffins for afternoon indulging.
The Royal Playa del CarmenProcessed with VSCO with c1 preset
Consider also the spa, whose bamboo-enclosed outdoor massage area may just be as glorious as those ones on the beach, the 24-hour snack bar where you can grab delicious snacks as well as good wine and cerveza any time of the day, the balcony hammocks that you wouldn’t have to fight anyone for, the pool concierge who is ready to lend a hand when you’ve run out of sunscreen, and even the friendly stray cats the staff has kindly allowed to stay on property for guests to dote on.
Spa Azul at The Royal Playa del CarmenSpa Azul at The Royal Playa del Carmen
And I love the food, the delicious fares of Brazilian, Asian Fusion, Spanish, Mediterranean, Caribbean, and French Mexican type cuisines that you can indulge in, guilt-free because you are, after all, on vacation. And because it’s hard to stay at this resort and not indulge. The sheer loveliness of it, whether bathed in sunshine or swathed in dusky blue, will make anyone drop their guard and simply revel in anything and everything.
Conchas and cappuccino for breakfast
Salad and cheese plate at the Brazilian restaurant at The Royal Playa del Carmen
Though most of all, I love that it’s one of those places where you, without meaning to, just automatically drop your shoulders, straighten your spine and walk as if you’re wearing a thousand dollar dress. But really you know no one will look down their noses at you if you’re sweating through your cheap, Target-bought top after just getting back from exploring the ruins of Tulum under that sweltering, unforgiving midday sun.
Or when, on your last day, you just happen to take a slip on an oversized sandbag while you were walking on a neighboring beach (because why wouldn’t you?), and you’re walking back to your suite all gross, your legs sandy and your bottom algae-covered.
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
Mexico holds a special place for anyone who’s made the trek south of the border. There’s the history, pre-Colombian and post, the beautiful beaches and the natural wonders. There’s the food, the all-inclusive resorts, and, always a factor for vacation, the affordability. Mexico does not, however, hold a monopoly on these features and, if you’re looking for something just a little different, here are 5 fantastic alternatives that will make you want to quit your job and stay.
The Ruins: Belize
Temple in Plaza A in Caracol, Belize (Photo: Dennis Jarvis)
Some of the amazing discoveries in Mexico are the Mayan ruins that pepper the Yucatan peninsula. Even though the Mexican pre-Colombian sites are very well taken care of, if you journey to Belize, you’ll see an extension of the Mayan landmarks. These southern sights are different in one particular aspect. At a few of the different sites, you can actually climb the ruins.
Check out Tikal to climb the tallest temple steps; or head over to Caracol, the largest Mayan ruins. Caracol is so large, it’s still being excavated and covers an area twice as large as current capital of Belize, Belize City.
The Beaches: US Virgin Islands
Trunk Bay, US Virgin Islands (Photo: Everett Carrico)
In Mexico, you’re bound to spend a lot of time at the beach. A country with two long coastlines boasts countless beach destinations such as Riviera Maya, Acapulco, Cabo, and so on; but there are other beaches only a few hours plane ride away that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Trunk Bay on St. John Island in the US Virgin Islands is paradise in beach form. The waters so pristine, you’ll want to bring a snorkel, and the beach (and the US Virgin Islands) remote enough to ensure you won’t be battling the hordes that go to places like Cancun and can relax and enjoy life in Island Time.
The Food: Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s Mofongo (Photo: Jing)
Mexico has the taco. Puerto Rico has mofongo. This iconic dish is a staple of Puerto-Rican cuisine and should be on everyone’s itinerary when they visit Puerto Rico. Think of a dumpling where the dough is made from plantains and stuffed and cooked with savory meats.
Puerto Rican food doesn’t end there however. Pasteles are the tamales of Puerto Rico and, though hefty, are often served as side dishes. You can also find Lechon (roast suckling pig), Arroz con Gandules (their own take on rice and beans), and a whole litany of fried finger foods such as Cuchifritos and Frituras, among others.
The Resorts: the Dominican Republic
Club Med Punta Cana (Photo: Michelle Rae Uy)
Invariably, one of the reasons people head to Mexico is to stay at all-inclusive resorts. These resorts bring the luxury of a pampered experience with off-site activities that will remind you why you came to Mexico in the first place.
The Dominican Republic is a fantastic alternative when looking elsewhere for a new resort. Not only does the Dominican Republic house a Club Med with its own Cirque de Soleil playscape (Creactive), but also a plethora of other resorts to vacation such as the Excellence Punta Cana and the Now Larimar Punta Cana. Most resorts either offer or can help book area excursions.
Nature: Costa Rica
Sloth in Costa Rica (Courtesy Visit Costa Rica)
Biodiversity is not exclusively a feature of Mexico. Though there are great opportunities to see incredible wildlife (from nature reserves to more developed areas like the aqua park Xel-Ha) in Mexico, Costa Rica is in many ways the place to go to explore the wilderness.
Due to a more a nascent tourist industry and lower levels of development, places like Tortuguero National Park, where you can watch several species of turtles nest and return to sea, and Corcovado National Park, where you can find all 4 species of the indigenous monkeys, will capture your attention. In fact, Corcovado is not only great for finding monkeys but you can also find Tapirs, sloths, anteaters, and, if you’re lucky, the jaguar. While there, make sure to wander the Cloud Forests.
Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, is definitely a paradise.
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
Cruises aren’t our favorite way to travel, but after our wonderful experience aboard the Disney Dream, we cannot wait to do it again! Here are some of the photos from our cruise.
Pre-Cruise Stay at Disney World
Onboard the Disney Dream
Star Wars: Millenium Falcon
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
The Disney Cruise Line takes the magical feeling of a Disney park and the sense of adventure you get from a cruise. The combination of these two makes the Disney Dream one of the best vacations you’ve ever taken. Here are some of the reasons why I loved the Disney Dream Cruise.
Vibe
Vibe Teen Club (Photo: Michelle Rae)
For me, the best part of the Disney Dream cruise is Vibe, the onboard teen club for ages 14 to 17. It’s the perfect place for teens like me to get away from their family and connect with other kids their age. Vibe has it’s own private deck with its own pool and lounging area, as well as deck games. The counselors are really cool and welcoming to everyone. Although our counsellors were technically our “chaperones,” it felt like they were just hanging out with us.
At the coffee bar, food and drinks such as chips and smoothies are served. There are a lot of things to do from watching movies to chatting with the counselors and playing foosball with them. Every so often, we would start playing a game that involved everyone, such as Crown the Couch Potato. To ensure that only teens can get in, you have to present a special Key to the World at the secret entrance.
Castaway Cay
Disney Dream from Castaway Cay (Photo: Michelle Rae)Castaway Cay (Photo: Michelle Rae)Beach on Castaway Cay (Photo: Michelle Rae)Castaway Cay (Photo: Michelle Rae)Bike Path on Castaway Cay (Photo: Michelle Rae)Tower on Castaway Cay (Photo: Michelle Rae)
Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island in the Bahamas that serves as a port for all of the Disney Cruise Line ships. Since it’s privately owned by Disney, it’s not crowded and you don’t have to wait in lines for long. The water is very clear and beautiful, which makes it very refreshing and a nice change from the pools on the ship. There’s a variety of activities from snorkeling to going down a water slide. I didn’t have time to visit it, but there’s a teen area called Hide Out for ages 14 to 17. My favorite activity is the Stingray Adventure where you get to learn about stingrays, feed them, and snorkel with them.
The Staff
The cast members were extremely friendly and made me feel like I was part of this huge Disney family. We got the same two servers who catered to our dinner needs every night. On the first night at dinner, I got extremely seasick and our servers checked up on me constantly, trying to help me feel better. Although I was okay for the rest of the trip, they continued to check on me and make sure that I wasn’t feeling sick. And the counselors at Vibe felt more like friends than chaperones. I was extremely sad to say goodbye to everyone.
The Food/Restaurants
Enchanted Garden (Photo: Michelle Rae)
For dinner each night, you rotate through one of three different restaurants – Animator’s Palate, Royal Palace, and Enchanted Garden each having their own theme and menu. The food options were a lot better than I expected and tasted AMAZING! My favorite restaurant is Animator’s Palate, which is designed like an animator’s studio and its walls are covered with sketches of beloved Disney characters. Although Animator’s Palate was my favorite restaurant, my favorite menu was Royal Palace’s french cuisine. I ordered the best duck I’ve ever tasted and I even got to try escargot.
The Shows
The entertainment was fantastic and made me feel like I was 6 years old again. In the Walt Disney Theater, there was a different show every night. I only had the chance to go to 2 out 3 of the shows, the Golden Mickeys and Disney’s Believe, both of which were very magical. My favorite was Disney’s Believe which got me to tear up at the end and made me never want to grow up. There are also shows and parties on the 11th deck each day, the first of which was the Sail Away Celebration. One of the deck parties, Pirates in the Caribbean, ended in an awesome fireworks display.
Deck 11 on Disney Dream (Photo: Michelle Rae)Caribbean view from Disney Dream (Photo: Michelle Rae)
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
Visiting Nassau for a few hours during our very first Disney cruise, we got a fairly good glimpse of the vibrant Bahamian capital as well as a sampling of the good and the bad. Here are the things we love and the things we hate about the port city.
What We Love:
Conch fritters, jerk chicken and curry chicken | Photo: Michelle Rae
The Colors. The colonial houses and buildings that line Nassau’s streets all flaunt pastel pink, yellow, blue and green colors, making them simply adorable to look at!
The Food. We loved the food so much that we had to bring home some Bahamian spices with us. Try the conch fritters, jerk chicken and curry chicken with the Bahamian rice and plantains for a hearty meal, and get an afternoon boost with a cup of Bahamian coffee. The small restaurants at The Fish Fry serves authentic Bahamian cuisine while The Pasion Boutique sells terrific coffee beans.
The Pirates Museum. Sure, it’s a little cheesy and definitely touristy, but looking at the exhibits, learning about piracy and trying to guess the answers to the trivia questions was pretty fun and a good way to kill an hour.
The Beaches. Fine sand plus warm, blue waters equals best beach day ever. Just be careful as the waves can get pretty strong.
The Historic Buildings. Admittedly, the forts are small and not that impressive, but we love them just the same. They are, after all, a part of the city’s intriguing history. We adore the Queen’s Staircase too!
The Pirates Museum | Photo: Michelle Rae
What We Hate (Dislike, Really):
The People. We can honestly say that out of a few places we’ve visited in the Caribbean, the locals in Nassau are the least friendly and the most aggressive, especially when it comes to making a sale.
The Straw Market. There’s not much to it really. We did enjoy the little albeit overpriced toy turtles made from coconut husks.
The Tourist Area. Much like the Straw Market, there’s nothing special and authentic about the main commercial strip, despite the hundreds of tourists everyday it draws everyday. However, if you’re careful, you might find hidden gems that sell local products.
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
Photo: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle Rae
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
El Conquistador Resort with Coqui Water Park and Palomino Island
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
El Yunque National Forest
Photo: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle RaePhoto: Michelle Rae
Las Croabas
Kayaks in Las Croabas | Photo: Michelle Rae
Fort of San Cristobal, Old San Juan
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
Photo: Michelle Rae
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
It may be a small island, but Puerto Rico is arguably one of the most beautiful and lush destinations in the Caribbean that afford diversity in attractions and activities. You can go hiking in a tropical rainforest one minute and exploring the old forts of a historic coastal city the next, and still have plenty of time to squeeze a little bit of R&R in a private island.
Here are ten of the best activities you absolutely have to do when visiting Puerto Rico.
Explore the Rainforest, Muddy Hiking Trails and All
Waterfalls at El Yunque National Forest | Photo: Michelle RaeWaterfalls at El Yunque National Forest | Photo: Michelle Rae
El Yunque (http://www.fs.usda.gov/elyunque) is the only tropic rainforest in the United States, and it just so happens to be in Puerto Rico. But don’t let its title intimidate you – it has a plethora of attractions that even the kids will find easily accessible. Start by visiting the roadside La Coca Waterfalls (but do be careful on those slippery rocks) then climb the Yokahu Tower for its sweeping views of the forest and the coast and then take a trail, the muddier the better, to one of the forest’s more hidden attractions.
Tip: Pack a picnic basket, plenty of water and your best hiking shoes.
Stay at El Conquistador Resort, For a Day or Two or However Long You Want
El Conquistador Resort | Photo: Michelle RaeEl Conquistador Resort | Photo: Michelle Rae
Even non resort-loving travelers will LOVE this piece of paradise located only about 15 minutes away from the town of Fajardo. El Conquistador (http://www.elconresort.com/) will capture any traveler’s heart, families with kids especially, what with its stunning location at the top of a cliff, its waterpark that comes with lovely views of both the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea, as well as its private island, Palomino, which comes with its own sandbar that made movie history. Looking to sample the island’s traditional dishes? The resort makes a point of not only integrating the Puerto Rican way of cooking but also adding local dishes on the menus.
Tip: Allocate an entire day on Palomino Island, as there are many things to do there, including snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, and horseback riding.
Kayak Through a Mangrove Forest to a Bioluminescent Bay, in Darkness
Kayaks in Las Croabas | Photo: Michelle Rae
You’ll love navigating your tandem kayaks through a mangrove channel, in darkness, to see the dinoflagellates perform one of nature’s miracles. Drive to Las Croabas where kayak tour agency Yokahu Kayak Trips (https://www.facebook.com/YokahuKayak/) will take you on this guided adventure into Laguna Grande, one of Puerto Rico’s three bio bays where you’ll witness firsthand the water light up and sparkle when disturbed. In the bay, stop and listen as your guides tell you about how these fascinating microorganisms work and the efforts being done to preserve their dying ecosystem.
Tip: Go on a moonless summer night for brighter illumination. And don’t be afraid to slosh you hand in the water to see it sparkle.
See Old San Juan, from its Massive Forts to its Adorable Houses
San Cristobal in Old San Juan | Photo: Michelle UySan Cristobal in Old San Juan | Photo: Michelle UySan Cristobal in Old San Juan | Photo: Michelle UyOld San Juan from San Cristobal | Photo: Michelle Rae
With a hint of European flair, a touch of culture, and a dash of history, Old San Juan is an incredible and picturesque city to explore, even with kids in tow. Walk the blue cobblestone streets, taking your time, and discover how the port city was once an important stronghold in the Caribbean. Start at the Capitol and the Plaza de la Barandilla across the street and work your way to Fort San Felipe del Morro and its neighboring cemetery, stopping at Fort San Cristobal along the way. Then head inland to visit Hotel El Convento, Catedral San Juan Bautista, La Fortaleza, and Parque Las Palomas and its old chapel.
Old San Juan | Photo: Michelle RaeOld San Juan | Photo: Michelle RaeOld San Juan | Photo: Michelle RaeLa Fortaleza at Christmas Time | Photo: Michelle RaeCatedral San Juan Bautista | Photo: Michelle Rae
Tips: Bring plenty of water on this walking tour, and do take your time exploring the forts. And remember to bring your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities.
Zip Line at ToroVerde, Even if You’re Afraid of Heights
Zip line at ToroVerde | Photo: Michelle RaeZip line at ToroVerde | Photo: Michelle Rae
Those who suffer from mild to moderate acrophobia need not worry. Zip lining on one of the world’s longest single run line (4.745 feet) may be a little unnerving at first, but when you’re on it zipping over the beautiful valley below belly down like a bird, it’s the best feeling in the world. At ToroVerde (http://www.toroverdepr.com/) ecological park, you’ll be walking and soaring over trees, streams and rivers like there’s no tomorrow. And you’re gonna want to do it all over again. Young kids (8 and over) can participate too, thanks to the park’s kid-friendly Bull Maze rope course, which features suspension bridges, monkey bars and rope nets.
Tip: Allot an entire day for this excursion.
Feast on the Local Cuisine, Devil (and Diet) May Care
Local food | Photo: Michelle RaeLocal food | Photo: Michelle Rae
Sampling the local dishes is perhaps one of the best ways to truly experience a destination, and Puerto Rico has plenty of those. Dishes that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy are served at most restaurants on the island, even in the new area of San Juan, so they’re not hard to find. Some of the dishes the whole family must try are arroz mamposteao or arroz con gandules, mofongo, brandade and pasteles. The island is also known for its roast pork as well as its Latino-style grilled steak served with chimichurri. Must try restaurants include Café Puerto Rico and The Parrot Club in Old San Juan, the French-inspired Cocina Abierta (http://www.cocinaabierta.com/home), which serves one of the best mofongos (Duck Confit Stuffed Mofongo) in San Juan, and Chops Steakhouse at El Conquistador Resort.
Tip: For those who don’t eat meat, many restaurants serve delicious seafood and vegetarian options.
Explore New San Juan, Especially the Street Art Scene
Street art in San Juan | Photo: Michelle RaeStreet art in San Juan | Photo: Michelle RaeStreet art in San Juan | Photo: Michelle Rae
Surprisingly, Puerto Rico has some of the best urban and street art scenes in the Americas, if not the world; and a visit in San Juan is not completely without exploring Santurce, home to city’s vibrant and thriving street art movement. Spend an hour or two discovering the district’s murals and sculptures on walls, under bridges and on the streets. Start on Fernandez Juncos Avenue near Hospital Pavia Santure.
Tip: Go in the morning or early afternoon.
Visit the Children’s Museum in Carolina, and Go on a Boat Ride
Boat at Museo del Nino Carolina | Photo: Michelle Rae
The Museo del Nino de Carolina (http://www.museodelninocarolina.com/), whose aim is to encourage kids to discover and pursue their passion (or passions) as early as possible, isn’t like any other children’s museum. Besides its interactive, kid-friendly exhibits on math, science, arts & crafts, theater and more, it also boasts a mini zoo, where kids can witness firsthand the hatching of duck and chicken eggs if they’re lucky, a go kart track, a boating tour of the nearby mangrove channel where they can see wild iguanas, birds and alligators relaxing on tree branches, and a real commercial plane that visitors can board and explore.
Tip: While ducks and chicken roam free, teach the kids not to chase them or attempt to disturb their nests. Wear long pants and apply bug spray generously before going on the boat ride.
Drive to the Smaller Towns, or Just Drive
Local restaurant in Piñones | Photo: Michelle RaeBeach in Piñones | Photo: Michelle RaeBeach in Piñones | Photo: Michelle Rae
Beautiful small towns that mostly slip under the tourist radar are an easy drive away from Puerto Rico’s cities and resort areas, so rent a car, round up the gang and make that drive. Just less than an hour from San Juan and you’ll already find yourselves in small towns that draw surfers, foodies and locals. Keep an eye out of quiet, kid-friendly beaches, idyllic scenes worthy of a stop, local restaurants and maybe a small town fiesta.
Tip: Many roads and towns – even parts of the El Yunque rainforest – in Puerto Rico have good cellphone reception so it’s impossible to get lost.
Swim, Of Course
Palomino Island | Photo: Michelle RaeBeach on Palomino Island | Photo: Michelle Rae
Warm waters, lovely stretches of beach and lots of natural barriers that break the massive waves far from shore make Puerto Rico’s beaches some of the best places in the Caribbean to swim in. Go to a beach near San Juan or at the resort you’re staying or to an off-the-beaten path one in a small town, slather on some sunscreen and just spend an entire day there. You’ll regret it, if you don’t. And on the northern part of the island, the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic so you’ll even have an opportunity to enjoy both.
Tip: El Conquistador’s Palomino Island has an islet called Palominito where a scene from Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides was filmed. It’s a lovely spot, especially if you’re looking for quiet and isolated.
El Conquistador Resort. 1000 El Conquistador Ave, Fajardo | 787 863 1000 | www.elconresort.com
all rights reserved. no part of this blog post may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the author.
Cartagena, Columbia (Courtesy 
stray with rae 