Lying on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico is one of the most beautiful Islands in the Americas. It is awash with a rich culture that is present not just in its people and cuisines but also in the many breathtaking sites dotting the island.

Tourists from the neighboring United States and [...]]]>

Lying on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico is one of the most beautiful Islands in the Americas. It is awash with a rich culture that is present not just in its people and cuisines but also in the many breathtaking sites dotting the island.

Tourists from the neighboring United States and others from all over the world visit the island for the sun, the sand and the exciting charms. Although the island is filled with resorts and hotels for the well-heeled tourist, you can still enjoy your vacation in budget friendly hotels. Here are some of the cheapest hotels that still offer exquisite services and amenities.

Gallery Inn at Galería San Juan

Gallery Inn is the perfect gateway for couples looking for that romantic, quiet, bohemian experience in a sun kissed Caribbean destination. Every room is an open window to the panoramic and authentic views of the seas and the underlying landscape.

You would mistakenly think that you are in a five-star hotel once you step into the boutique rooms fitted with modern amenities and all the luxuries of a Caribbean experience. The rooms open into terraces and small garden filled with floors and leading to the beachfront. The smaller rooms are cheaper but, without the compromising on comfort. Be sure to enjoy a night of serenading music over a glass of wine, at the hotel’s rooftop.

At Wind Chimes Inn

Going by the name At Wind Chimes Inn, this budget resort is filled with sounds of chimes that hang daintily in every corner of the Inn. This is one of the most popular hotels on San Juan beaches due to its proximity to the airport and to the open Puerto Rican sandy beaches.

Guests are treated to roomy accommodation featuring large beds, air conditioning, bathrooms and a kitchenette. Although the kitchen and the bathrooms are not as large, they are neat enough to get you through. Rooms have their own patios overhang by shady palm trees; the patios are a great place to relax or have breakfast from. This is an excellent hotel to come to if you are vacationing with your family, particularly due to the favorable costs of food and accommodation.

La Caleta Guesthouse

If you go on vacation to Puerto Rico in the low season, you just might get a place to stay for just $50. Located at the heart of San Juan, La Caleta rentals are one such place offering a package of three nights, laundry facilities and non-inclusive meals. Guests can either stay at the studio apartments or book the larger 3 bedroom apartments, all of which are spotless and fitted with modern kitchens and bathroom.

This post was written by Donna

Puerto Rico is a bustling mix of culture, nature and gracious people. The country is essentially an archipelago of islands including the main island of Puerto Rico, Vieques, Culebra and Mona.

Puerto Rico is one of the smaller and densely populated islands in the world, given that it hosts almost 4 million people on [...]]]>

Puerto Rico is a bustling mix of culture, nature and gracious people. The country is essentially an archipelago of islands including the main island of Puerto Rico, Vieques, Culebra and Mona.

Puerto Rico is one of the smaller and densely populated islands in the world, given that it hosts almost 4 million people on an area that is 100 miles long and 35 miles wide. Although the sleepy charms of the country cannot be overlooked, there is more to Puerto Rico than sun, sand and surf.

Unofficial Mascot

You would think that a country’s mascot would be something serious and formidable. Not for Puerto Rico. Of the most cited Puerto Rico fun facts is the coquí frog, which is the island’s unofficial mascot.

The frog is a native creature of the island and the people here find it cute, not just for its small size but also for its melodic voice. The frog chirrups all day long from dusk to dawn and while the songs are appealing to the locals, foreigners often cannot stand it.

Their Own People

Puerto Ricans are born as American because the island is a territory of the United States. But even though the people of the island recognize this fact, they are firm in the belief that they are Puerto Ricans first.

Thus, you will hardly hear any Puerto Rican referring to him or herself as an American. Besides, the island is home to people of different origins including Spaniards, African, Chinese, Indians and Tainos. However they do not seem to pay much attention to these different origins and they get along well as Puertorriqueños or Boricuas – Puerto Ricans.

What’s in a name?

Puerto Rico was originally named San Juan Bautista by Columbus , with the port area called Puerto Rico (rich port). However, at some point the island became known as Puerto Rico, with the area around the port called San Juan.

The name given the island by the indigenous Taíno people was “Borinquen”, or “Borikén”, which means “Land of the Valiant Lord”. The island is often known in Spanish as “la isla del encanto” or “the island of enchantment”.

Puerto Rican culture

Some of the words we use in our day-to-day lives actually originated from the Tainos of Puerto Rico. These words include barbacoa which translates to barbeque, hamaca (hammock) and huracan (hurricane).

If you have traveled to Puerto Rico, you may have seen the el pilón used to smash plantains for a local delicacy. When it was first invented by the Taino’s the pilón was 4 feet tall and the pounding hammer was heavier that today’s baseball bat.

People

Puerto Ricans are very friendly and you would be surprised by the many kisses that fly around among families and friends. Unlike some of our cultures in which people are very particular about space, in the island, space is not something positive.

In fact people often stand very close to one another when having a conversation. And speaking of conversations, Puerto Ricans have a very animated way of expressing themselves. They do so through vigorous hand movements and intense facial expressions.

This post was written by Donna

Home to white sandy beaches, warm sunsets, extravaganzas and hospitable people, Puerto Rio is indeed a family friendly travel destination. When vacationing with your family in this destination island, you will be spoilt for choice by the range of accommodation facilities and leisure activities available.

Where you choose to stay and what you chose [...]]]>

Home to white sandy beaches, warm sunsets, extravaganzas and hospitable people, Puerto Rio is indeed a family friendly travel destination. When vacationing with your family in this destination island, you will be spoilt for choice by the range of accommodation facilities and leisure activities available.

Where you choose to stay and what you chose to do is entirely left to your imagination. The capital San Juan is awash with luxurious resorts, while islands in the interior will attract you with the typical Caribbean allures.  Here are some of the best places to stay while visiting this charming Island.

The El Conquistador resort in Fajardo

The El Conquistador resort lies at the heart of Fajardo. It is a large family resort right at the fringes of the Caribbean shores and opens up the whole family to a diverse range of beach activities. Some of the fun activities that you can enjoy with the family include golfing, tennis and beach baseball. Enjoy the waters of the Caribbean by kayaking, canoeing and surfing on the high majestic waves.

The kids will love the trips to the park and splashing around in the toddler’s swimming pool. Take advantage of the Water Park Package offered by the hotel. The package includes a breakfast buffet, a trip to four national parks, airport transfers and spa treatment for the adults.

Rio Mar Beach Hotel

If you and the family are fond of nature and wondering where to stay in Puerto Rico, the Rio Mar Beach Resort and Spa is ideal. The hotel nestles close to the famous and serene El Yunque rainforest.  This hidden family getaway is an opening to some of the most exhilarating beach activities your family has ever enjoyed.

The hotel offers kids’ activities including sand castles building, scavenger hunts, nature walks and dancing classes. For the adults, the spa, casino, golf and tennis courses are perfect for unwinding. After a long day of activities, treat yourselves to the diverse and mouthwatering cuisines offered at the various onsite restaurants.

Caribe Hilton

Caribe Hilton is the perfect destination for families looking to experience the charms of the capital city, San Juan. This boutique hotel opens up to some of the most luxurious expanses of white sandy beaches in the island. Each of the rooms offers guests a panoramic view of the sea and the breathtaking landscape.

The hotel offers family packages some of which allow children below 18 years to stay at the hotel for free and children below 5 year can eat for free. The kids will be thrilled by the range of games available in the game room and in the kid’s center. The more grown up kids and adults will enjoy the water sports and the idea of just lying on the sandy beaches under the warm Caribbean sun.

This post was written by Donna

Puerto Rico is a favorite travel destination with tourists from all over the world looking for sun, sand and relaxation. Although this is a small Caribbean island, it is home to numerous interesting sites, tours and activities to undertake.

In Puerto Rico, there are no clear-cut rules on what to do and where to [...]]]>

Puerto Rico is a favorite travel destination with tourists from all over the world looking for sun, sand and relaxation. Although this is a small Caribbean island, it is home to numerous interesting sites, tours and activities to undertake.

In Puerto Rico, there are no clear-cut rules on what to do and where to go; it all depends on your imagination and fancy. From the off-trail tours and destinations, to the spectacular beach vistas and formidable natural landscapes, Puerto Rico is all for the taking. Here are some of the places you cannot afford to miss to go when visiting the island.

Bioluminescent Bay

The Bioluminescent Bay is a popular attraction in the Island of Vieques. Also known as the Mosquito Bay, this is a water body that harbors sea creatures that produce a luminous light. The light produced causes the bay and its waters to light up and shimmer in the dark of the night.

The bay encloses some of the deepest waters of the Sea and is surrounded by red mangrove trees all round. This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Puerto Rico and continues to attract even those who have already experienced this shimmering wonder.

El Yunque

The El Yunque area is a much-loved rainforest especially for those on eco-tours. This immense rainforest vastness is perched on the slopes of the Sierra de Luquillo Mountains and tapers off into Rio Grande. This is one of the largest rainforests and offers an exciting treat for those looking for challenging trail walks, trekking and hiking. The forest is also a hub of exotic plants and birds that will interest those keen on nature’s gifts. It is advisable to carry protective gear because this area is prone to heavy rainfall.

Rio Camuy Cave

Your trip to Puerto Rico is incomplete without exploring the Rio Camuy Cave. This is one of the oldest limestone caves in the island dating back to the time of the first immigrants who settled there. These are a series of caves numbering to 220 and it is believed that there are still 800 more caves that are yet to be discovered.

The caves overhung the crystalline waters of the underground rivers and guests are welcome to take a refreshing plunge into these rivers. The caves are also close to mountain ranges which taper off into some of the most sparkling lakes in Puerto Rico.

San Juan Crafts Market

Visit the San Juan Arts and Crafts Market, which is opens every day of the week except for Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. This is a hub bustling with colorful local arts and crafts, all at a favorable price.

If you want to purchase memorabilia that holds the true Puerto Rican allures, the market is a good place to start. Some of the things you can expect to buy here include jewelry, handbags, clothing and belts. After your shopping spree, treat yourself to the scrumptious street cuisines displayed in virtually every corner of San Juan.

This post was written by Donna

There is a reason that Caribbean destination weddings are so popular; the sandy beaches, the pink sunsets, the tantalizing sea breeze and the sheer exoticness, make a perfect combination for a wedding destination. Puerto Rico is famous among those tying the knot, for precisely these features.

If you choose to have your wedding in [...]]]>

There is a reason that Caribbean destination weddings are so popular; the sandy beaches, the pink sunsets, the tantalizing sea breeze and the sheer exoticness, make a perfect combination for a wedding destination. Puerto Rico is famous among those tying the knot, for precisely these features.

If you choose to have your wedding in this Island, you will find that you are spoilt for choice. There are plenty of resorts and beachfront hotels offering amazing wedding packages. However, to have the most gracious wedding in Puerto Rico, you must have your planning figured out.

Take advantage of the wedding packages as these will save you money and cut down the hustle. Wedding packages include accommodation for the bride and groom as well as their guests. The resort will also provide an avenue where the wedding ceremony will take place; this might be on the beach, in the garden, or in the hotel premises depending on your preferences.

Take into consideration that you might be required to pay an extra fee for the wedding planner. Do not overlook the services of the wedding planner, as she will play a great role in ensuring that you are not stressed on your big day.

Undertake a test run of all the key events that will take place during the wedding ceremony. Weddings in Puerto Rico can be especially painstaking if you are bringing in guests from other countries and if you will need to have different venues. If need be, ask the drivers to test drive so that they can familiarize themselves with routes to the different venues.

Also, do a vows exchanging and dinner rehearsal. Ensure that all activities are organized including leisure tours and beach sport. If you plan for guests to visit certain sites, then it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with these sites at least through pictures and recommendations from others.

You do not want to have your wedding on a rainy day. Although the weather in Puerto Rico is generally splendid all year round, the capital San Juan tends to have cooler and more unpredictable patterns. Consider doing the wedding in the months between December and April as there are fewer chances of hurricanes and storms.

The venue that you choose for your wedding will largely depend on your fancy and your budget. San Juan has plenty of high-end and luxurious resorts for those who want to splurge on their big day. Venues such as the Luquillo Beach have more affordable beachfront resorts that still offer pristine beaches and an authentic Caribbean experience.

Other spectacular and unusual places where you can tie the knot include: botanical gardens, unexplored islands, the thick jungles of tropical forests such as the El Yunque or in a subterranean cave such as the Camuy Caves.

This post was written by Donna

Puerto Rico boasts some exciting flavors that will spice up your holiday, and you can experience the authentic Caribbean cuisines at the several innovative and gourmet restaurants dotting the island. Enjoy the incredible island food and relish the tropical flavors. Here are some interesting Puerto Rican food facts for you!

Puerto Rican cuisine will [...]]]>

Puerto Rico boasts some exciting flavors that will spice up your holiday, and you can experience the authentic Caribbean cuisines at the several innovative and gourmet restaurants dotting the island. Enjoy the incredible island food and relish the tropical flavors. Here are some interesting Puerto Rican food facts for you!

Puerto Rican cuisine will delight and surprise you in more than one ways. The food is a distinctive blend of the African, Latin, and Caribbean cuisine. It makes use of both the native and imported ingredients to create unique dishes.

The chefs add a dollop of zest to standard meats such as lamb, fish and chicken by adding tangy sauces made from tropical fruits as mango, tamarind, or guava. The restaurants in the island serve fried fresh fish with mojo isleño, a yummy sauce made with olives, pimientos, onions, capers, tomato sauce, vinegar, and olive oil.

A typical island dish is actually derived from numerous cultural influences of the diverse ethnic groups that have settled in the region. You will find an unusual blend of native ingredients such as plantains and cacao with the African legumes and a Spanish dash in all items that are fried.

Puerto Rican food is often has flavorful meaty, salty, and crunchy dishes, and also the exotic herbs and spices. Some of the traditional dishes start with a sofrito, which is a thick and peppery vegetable sauce. The locals love to complement the pork, chicken, and seafood dishes with savory or sweet plantain.

The staple dishes of the Puerto Ricans are the savory fried appetizers such as codfish fritters or meat turnovers. Another famous starter is the soup, which has beans heavily flavored with local spices and herbs. A more satisfying version is the typical island stew that contains potatoes, meat chunks, and spices.

During parties and holidays, the most popular Puerto Rican dish is barbecued pork marinated lechon asado or citrus sauce. It is served with grilled plantains.

No food is complete without drinks. The spicy and delish Puerto Rican dishes are paired with a cold cerveza or imports from Mexico or America. Rum is the most popular beverage, ranging from white to amber, spiced or flavored. Cocktails include frosty, pina coladas, and fruity planter. Some Puerto Ricans follow their Spanish ancestors and like to have strong coffee after a filing meal.

When in Puerto Rico, let your taste buds go in for an adventure and enjoy the awesome traditional food and drinks.  Soak up in the flavor of the season and enjoy Spanish-style sangria and appetizing tapas.

This post was written by Umesh

Ponce is one of Puerto Rico’s popular cities for tourists looking for that inland and exclusive Caribbean experience. The city, also known as the “Pearl of the South” offers a captivating blend of historical sites, modern resorts, pristine beaches and happy people.

Ponce is home to hotels and resorts that cater to all types [...]]]>

Ponce is one of Puerto Rico’s popular cities for tourists looking for that inland and exclusive Caribbean experience. The city, also known as the “Pearl of the South” offers a captivating blend of historical sites, modern resorts, pristine beaches and happy people.

Ponce is home to hotels and resorts that cater to all types of tourists, from those on budget travels to the well heeled tourists. While in the city, you will be spoilt for choice on where to go and what to do. Be sure to immerse yourself in the alluring culture and the amazing vistas that you might not find anywhere in the Caribbean.

Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort

Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort lies on the fridges of Puerto Rico’s southern shores. With close proximity to the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, this is the ideal place for those looking for bustling hotels in Ponce. The Hilton Ponce is a four star hotel offering modern amenities and luxuries for individual, families and couples alike.

These include king size beds, bathrooms, air conditioning, refrigerators, coffeemakers and high speed Wi-Fi. All rooms open up to private balconies that overlook the vast expanses of the Caribbean Sea. Guests will enjoy the modern golfing facilities and tennis courts as well as the world class spa and fitness amenities.

Treat yourself to a luxury dining experience at the various restaurants which include: La Terraza, la Cava and the Cost Caribe.

Holiday Inn Ponce and El Tropical Casino

Guests looking for an idyllic vacation in Puerto Rico will fall in love with the Holiday Inn Ponce and El Tropical Casino. This family-friendly resort nestles comfortably on a mountain range that overlooks both the Sea and the city of Ponce.

The resort offers roomy suites fitted with modern amenities including cable television, internet services, air conditioning, a bath tub and a private balcony. Guests can also indulge in the rejuvenating spa treatments, the large swimming pool and the fitness center.

Enjoy your leisure time at the casino or at the golf course. Alternatively you can arrange for a trip to the Serralles Castle Museum, the El Vigia Observation Tower or the Tibes Indian Ceremonial Park.

Hotel Melia

Hotel Melia nestles at the heart of Ponce’s city center. As Ponce’s oldest family owed hotel, it offers a level of cosines and luxury that is unrivalled. Guests can access any of the 77 guesthouses all of which have a private balcony, a bathroom, internet services, satellite television and air conditioning.

Guests are treated to local and international breakfast buffet at the onsite restaurant. Enjoy the Puerto Rican summers in the swimming pool and lazy around on the sun decks.

Later in the day, be sure to visit the shopping centers and markets that are bustling with Puerto Rican memorabilia. While in the city, some attractions that will interest you include Ponce Art Museum, Hacienda Buena Vista, Dora Colon Clavell Urban Park and the Ponce Massacre Museum.

This post was written by Donna