Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, before setting sail on your Caribbean adventure. As the oldest city under the U.S. flag, founded in 1521, Old San Juan offers a unique blend of colonial heritage and modern amenities. With its strategic location near the cruise ship terminal, staying in this enchanting seven-square-block area allows for easy exploration of cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and local cuisine, all while providing a convenient gateway to your cruise departure.
San Juan, Puerto Rico, serves as a prime embarkation point for many Caribbean cruises. Recognizing the city's strategic importance, we planned to arrive a day before our cruise to delve into the historical allure of 'La Ciudad Amurallada' (the walled city). San Juan's rich history dates back to the 16th century when the Spanish launched expeditions to the New World from this very port. The city's fortifications, particularly in Old San Juan, successfully thwarted invasions by the English and Dutch.
Rather than opting for a beach resort, we chose to stay in the heart of Old San Juan, favoring proximity to both the cruise terminal and the area's historical sites. A mere $17 taxi fare and a 30-minute drive from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport brought us to our destination. The urban development of San Juan, with its skyline of beachfront high-rises, was a notable contrast to other Caribbean cities I've visited.
Our accommodation at the Hotel Milano on Calle Fortaleza, a bustling commercial street, offered a clean and comfortable experience without the frills, at an affordable rate. Comparable to a Travelodge or Days Inn, the hotel's highlight was the complimentary continental breakfast served at its rooftop restaurant, providing panoramic views of the neighborhood.
Old San Juan is a treasure trove of over 400 meticulously restored colonial buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries, interspersed with plazas and parks. A delightful amenity is the free shuttle bus service, with a stop conveniently located near our hotel, which traverses two routes through the district. This service allowed us to gain a comprehensive overview of Old San Juan and visit significant landmarks like the imposing El Morro fort.
Despite getting momentarily disoriented in the evening due to the similarity of the streets, we managed to navigate back to our hotel with the help of a map. The local dining scene did not disappoint, offering authentic Puerto Rican flavors, including a variety of plantain dishes that were particularly enjoyed by my companion.
When the time came to board our cruise ship, a brief five-minute ride from the hotel to the terminal underscored the convenience of our chosen location. Our brief sojourn in Old San Juan was not only enriching but also seamless, making it an excellent recommendation for those embarking on a Caribbean cruise from San Juan.
The only letdown was the realization that scuba diving opportunities in the vicinity of San Juan were limited due to murky waters and a scarcity of marine life, likely a consequence of the bustling port activity. For diving enthusiasts, better sites await approximately two hours east of San Juan, something to consider for future travel plans to Puerto Rico.
In conclusion, a stay in Old San Juan is not just a prelude to a Caribbean cruise; it's a dive into the heart of Puerto Rico's colonial past, a chance to savor its present-day culture, and an opportunity to create memories that will last long after your cruise ship sails into the horizon.
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