On March 11th, we arrive in San Juan, "the most vibrant city in the Caribbean", according to the New York Times. Fortunately, only one other ship, The Independence of the Seas, will be in port with us. Lots of activities and excursions are available here from ziplining to river trekking, waterfall climbing, and kayaking to salsa dancing and shopping for local art. Two old forts are nearby and worth a "look see". El Morro is a great fortress and has belonged to all five centuries of the city's past and present. San Cristobal Fort is a World Heritage site and is impressive from the dungeons to the spires. El Yunque, the only rainforest designated as a U.S. National Forest, is located about an hour south of San Juan.
San Juan is walkable, but it can be hot and the hills are steep. There's a free trolley that will take you around Old San Juan and to the forts. You can pick it up across from the information booth, between cruise piers three and four.
To start the day off, how about mallorca (little sweet & savory pastries) and cafe con leche at La Bombonera? In business since 1902, this is a must do. Then how about a pina colada or the local beer, Medallia, at Barrachina? For lunch be sure to try mofongo, a must-try for first-time visitors who want to sample the local fare. Essentially, mofongo is a mashed mound of plantains into which a combination of seafood, meat, or vegetables is added. It can be served as a side dish or a main course accompanied typically by beans and rice. Check out Restaurant Raices for lunch. .
Wanna do some Latin dancing? How about salsa lessons? Head to the Latin Roots... free lessons at 11 am! .
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