Visit the art galleries – Puerto
Ricans are big on art, and there many world-class galleries in the old city. Lithographs are especially famous – and are a great reminder of your visit.
Buy Carved Santos – You’ll notice
a lot of small, carved, painted santos (saints) for sale. These little statues are well-loved. Most are of the Tres Magos (the three Kings who visited the manger), but you’ll find a variety of saints in some of the bigger shops. While there are some “touristy” versions, you can find some very artistic pieces that are quite valuable.
Tour the walls and forts – This is a
MUST. Even if you walk around yourself (which is easy to do), you MUST see the forts. If you only have time or the inclination to visit one (there are four, including La Fortaleza, which is now the Governor’s mansion), then visit El Morro, the biggest (set on 27 acres). The history is astonishing, the views breathtaking, and the selfie opportunities abundant. BTW, you can walk to the fort from central Old San Juan – it’s a few minutes and a great walk.
Visit Juan Ponce de Leon’s Grave –
It’s at the top of the hill in Old San Juan in the Catedral San Juan Bautista (San
Juan Bautista Cathedral). The Cathedral is pretty cool, too. And, though he did kill off the Taino, Juan Ponce is still considered a bit of a hero on the island.
Visit El Yunque - El Yunque National
Forest is the only tropical rain forest in the USA. It averages about 20 feet of rain per year. With its waterfalls, lush tropical foliage, rivers and windy roads (REALLY windy roads), it’s a treasure to enjoy. Go up to the lookout tower and climb all the way up. You can see all the way to the sea. Post-Maria, some areas of the forest are still closed. No matter. Visit what you can. You will not regret it.
10 ❘ January 2019 ®
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