Destinations: Puerto Rico - The Lovely Escapist

Day Trip To Vieques Puerto Rico | Things To Do & How To Get There

Angie — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 19:02:49 +0000

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Isla de Vieques, located 7 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico, is considered to be a haven for those seeking an authentic Caribbean experience. The island is relatively quiet, lush, uncrowded, and gorgeous. Of course, there are charming towns and resorts, but the roaming wild horses, undeveloped beach coves, and lack of traffic lights help to create this illusion that the island is still wild and untouched. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or staying for a week, Vieques is a small Puerto Rican treasure where you will experience a tropical paradise.

While Vieques is well-known for boat tours of the Bioluminescent Bay (or Mosquito Bay), there are many other activities and places to see on the island. What I’ve listed below is by no means everything, but if you’re only visiting for a short time, these are the highlights. Even though I only had a few hours to visit Vieques, it takes its place as one of my top five islands in the Caribbean!

For more adventures in Puerto Rico, be sure to also check out my blog posts on “A Guide To Visiting San Juan”, “Exploring El Yunque National Park”, and “Icacos & Palomino Islands“.

Sun Bay Beach

There are many beautiful beaches on the island; however, with our limited time, we wanted to visit one that was easily accessible.

Sun Bay Beach is the most popular beaches on Vieques and a quick 15-minute cab ride from where the ferry drops you off. This beach is well maintained, has a lifeguard, and offers amenities such as bathrooms, showers, and a restaurant.

We spent roughly two hours walking along the shore, laying in the shade of the palm trees, and digging our feet into the light tan colored sand. The wind blew mildly, rusting the palm trees overhead just enough to lull a couple of lazy beach bums like ourselves to sleep. However, we didn’t have all day, so we had to get going, which is where Sun Bay’s other benefit comes into play – its location on the island.

Sun Bay is on the south side of the island next to the small town of Esperanza. If you walk to the far west portion of the crescent beach, you can cross a sandbar and arrive on the beach of Esperanza. This walk was a blast. There’s even a small island, Cayo de Tierra, that you can access by foot across the sandbar.

The Town Of Esperanza, Vieques

Esperanza, which means hope in Spanish, is the perfect tourist town. Only a 10-minute walk from Sun Bay Beach, this town consists of a small walk-way full of restaurants along the beach, ATV rentals, colorful boats in the bay, and friendly faces everywhere.

We stopped for lunch at Bananas Beach Bar and Guesthouse. The two-story restaurant is laid back and offers excellent views of the sea. We had the pulled-pork sliders and chicken mofongo – both were delicious!

The Ceiba Tree (Parque de la Ceiba)

The Ceiba tree of Vieques is something we didn’t plan on seeing. However, after hearing about it from our taxi driver, we had to stop by. It is somewhat of an island mascot.

The tree is between 300 and 400 years old. Myth and legends surround this Ceiba tree, which is easy to understand once you’ve seen its size.
It’s one of those places that has an aura around it. Time moves slower, the grass seems greener, the wind smells sweeter, and you become somewhat hypnotized with nature. It reminded me of the talking tree in Pocahontas!

The rest of the park, not just the tree, is just as cool. Wild horses frequently graze around the tree. We even saw two mustangs fighting each other in the middle of the road! Vieques seems to be overrun with horses, but all the locals treat them as their pets, leaving treats and petting them if they get close enough. We weren’t brave enough to approach them, but we did snap some good pictures.

There’s also a beach! Punta Caballo is just north of the tree, while Mosquito Pier is west of the tree. Between Punta Caballo and Mosquito Pier is a beautiful strip of sand. It is much more “virgin” than Sun Bay, but as we walked along it, we found it still held all of the same beauty.

Mosquito Pier

What began as a project by the U.S. Navy in 1941 to create a sea wall connecting Vieques to mainland Puerto Rico, Mosquito Pier is one of the best fishing and snorkeling spots on the island of Vieques. The pier itself is over a mile-long, which makes it a fantastic snorkeling spot.

The pier offers calm waters, which are accessible from either the beach or the pier itself. We didn’t have time to snorkel ourselves, but just from walking the dock and glancing over the edge, we could see barracuda, starfish, sea turtles, and tons of different schools of fish.

To get to the pier, we walked along Playa La Peña, the beach near the Ceiba tree. However, the best snorkeling is on the other side of Mosquito Pier.

I wish we would’ve had more time to explore this area of the island, but we had to get back to the docks before the last ferry left.

How To Get To Vieques:

You have two options when planning a visit to Vieques:

1. Take a commuter flight to Vieques from the San Juan Airport. You can find flights from three airports in Puerto Rico (San Juan, Aguadilla, Ponce), but flights from San Juan are more flexible and much cheaper. The flight is about 25 minutes costs between $100-$300 round trip.

2. Take the ferry from Ceiba. This is what we did since it was more affordable, and we were only visiting for one day. You can reserve tickets online at www.porferry.com. Only 20% of the tickets are available online, so if it looks like they are sold out, there may still be a chance to purchase at the ferry terminal. If you visit during holidays and weekends, the wait will be long, so come prepared with snacks and some patience. Tickets cost $2 one way, and the ride is approximately 30 minutes.

Tip: The ferry schedule often changes (due to weather, holidays, maintenance, break downs, etc.). Please check the official ferry page for the daily itinerary.

How To Get Around Vieques:

Vieques is a small island but not so small that you can walk the entire thing in a day, so having some kind of transportation is key. Here are the best options for getting around Vieques:

1. Rental car. There are many beaches only accessible by car, preferably a jeep. Some of these beaches are the most beautiful on the island and require 10-15 minute drives from the main road entrance. To secure a car, be sure to book ahead! For more information about rental car options, check out the official Vieques website: https://vieques.com/island-car-rentals/.

2. Scooter. This is an excellent option for those visiting for one day. Not only is it a fun and adventurous way to explore the island, but it’s cost-effective. For scooter rentals, check out Scooters Vieques Rentals. They also offer UTVs and golf cart rentals. We tried renting from them but didn’t have a reservation. When we arrived at 10 am, they were sold out, so if you can, reserve ahead of time!

3. Taxis / Publicos. Taxis or Publicos are shared vans or cars recognized by a yellow tag. Once you get off the ferry or walk outside the airport, there will be many taxi drivers offering their services. You can share a ride, which will lower the cost, or request a private drive. Fares can range from $3.00 – $5.00 per person. We didn’t have the option of a rental car or scooter, so this is what we did, and it worked out well!

Note: Before they drop you off, ask your taxi driver for their cell number and set a specific pick-up time (since service on the island is spotty). Since many of the taxi drivers are in communication with one another, you may get a different person picking you up then who dropped you off. Just be careful and call or text your original driver to make sure.

Between the beautiful beaches, amazing greenery, and clear waters, Vieques truly surprised us. We hope to one day return and stay on the island so we can truly get the full Isla de Vieques experience.

Cheers!

Angie xoxo

The post Day Trip To Vieques Puerto Rico | Things To Do & How To Get There appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

Exploring El Yunque National Rainforest Without A Guide

Angie — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 00:22:54 +0000

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Have you ever heard Tarzan’s jungle call?? Well, if you have, just imagine my husband making that noise as he swung through the air, holding onto one of the vines descending from the rainforest canopy. If you didn’t know better, you would think we were exploring the Amazonian jungle or India’s Satpura National Park, but we were actually in the United States’ only tropical rainforest, El Yunque.

El Yunque is one of the reasons many tourists visit Puerto Rico.

At nearly 29,000 acres, our single day of exploring didn’t allow us to see much of the forest, but we were able to check out many of the terrific waterfalls that grace this beautiful piece of earth.

Parts of El Yunque recently reopened after the impacts of hurricanes Irma and Maria, and I figured it was about time I gave you a straightforward one-day itinerary to explore it! Below, you’ll find how to beat the crowds, which waterfalls are worth the effort, and where to swing from jungle vines Tarzan-style!

As I mentioned, parts of the rainforest are now open since the hurricanes, but many are not. Be sure to check the USDA website for updates on which areas are available to visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/elyunque/recarea/?recid=43397.

Currently, the trail to La Mina Falls is closed to the public.

La Mina Falls

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Your day will start early!

El Yunque opens at 7:30 AM, and you want to be there exactly at 7:30. El Yunque is a huge tourist spot, and there are hundreds of tour buses that make the trip up the two-lane road winding through the forest. If you don’t start early, you can get stuck coming and going from the forest behind these buses. It is well worth the effort to wake up early for this one.

You will start your adventure at the El Portal Visitor Center at the entrance to the forest. This is a great place to stop and grab a map if you didn’t print one out beforehand. From there, you’ll drive up the main road for about 6 to 7 kilometers. You should pass La Coca Falls on the right side of the road and Yokahu Tower on the left side. You are looking for La Mina Trail.

La Mina Falls is the most popular set of waterfalls in the park. It’s a short and well-maintained hike to these beautiful falls with a nice swimming pool at the bottom of them. This means they get packed with tourists, so you need to see them first!

Tip: Since it is a rainforest, the ground is often wet from rain or dew, so the risk of slipping is high. Prevent this by wearing shoes with a grip! I would recommend real hiking shoes or sturdy tennis shoes.

The hike from the road, where you can park easily, to the falls is beautiful. Having grown up and lived in Arizona, I’ve never experienced this level of green in my life. Everywhere you look, the vegetation is bountiful and vibrant. It reminded me of something out of a dinosaur movie (Land Before Time, where you at)!

The falls aren’t disappointing either. The exquisite waterfall drops 35 feet! Be careful making your way to the pool, though; the rocks are quite slippery.

Going to La Mina Falls early in the morning will guarantee you a great day! You will have the opportunity to explore these beautiful falls in relative tranquility and isolation. The hike back will only rejuvenate you as you head towards our next stop, Mt. Britton Tower!

Mt. Britton Tower

There are a few different ways to get to the Mt. Britton Lookout Tower, but I can only speak to the one we took: the Bano De Oro Trail. Throughout this hike, you get to see how humans have tried to change the natural ways of the forest… unsuccessfully.

Across the street, where you park for La Mina Falls, Palo Colorado Visitors Center, about 50 yards up is the Bano De Oro trailhead. An uphill paved path leads you to the “Baño de Oro” pool. It is currently abandoned and no longer used as a swimming pool. However, it has a tranquil aura as you gaze into one of mankind’s attempts to change nature. As you continue to hike uphill on some gravel-paved switchbacks, you come across an old fish hatchery tank built of stone, now overgrown on the right side of the trail. These tanks represent a failed attempt to introduce trout, an exotic cold-water fish, to the tropical forest waters. It is almost laughable that someone would think of putting a fish hatchery or swimming pool in the middle of a rainforest, but that’s just how we operate, I guess.

After the fish hatchery, you can continue to meet up with the Mt. Britton Trail. This is the longest trail in the forest, so come prepared with water! The trail crosses two rushing mountain streams and then intersects with Forest Service Road 10 (only official vehicles can use it as a road, hence why you don’t just drive to the tower). Turn right on the road and continue for approximately 500 feet, where it intersects with the remaining portion of the trail. The final leg of the trail leads upward through the Cloud Forest until it reaches Mount Britton peak and the Mount Britton Tower.

The stone tower was built in the 1930s. On a clear day, you get a panoramic view of the surrounding forest, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea.

This hike was a blast! You’ll feel like a true explorer hiking through the rainforest. Along the path, keep your eyes out for large vines to swing from! Of course, be sure to test them with your weight before you start swinging. The tower itself was amazing. One of the rare places you can see both sides of the island.

The hike takes about an hour, so you want to get to the trailhead around 9 at the latest to beat the hordes of tourists.

Juan Diego Falls

Once you get back to your car, it is time to head back down to Juan Diego Falls.

Juan Diego Falls are just off the road at Kilometer 10. Keep your eyes out, the sign was removed when we were there. The trail is short and easy to follow once you’ve found the start.

There are a few sets of waterfalls that make up Juan Diego Falls. You’ll get to a couple of little waterfalls first, but as you continue, you’ll find larger and larger falls. The “end” of the trail has a nice picnic area with around a 20-foot waterfall behind it, but this isn’t the end! On the right-hand side, you’ll see a muddy bank speckled with trees. Go up it.

You’ll be able to see a larger and, usually, less crowded waterfall. The hike up this muddy bank is somewhat sketchy, but the reward is well worth it. Once you get to the top of this little hill, you will head to your left to access the 40-foot waterfall and pool. Only the private local guides take people to this spot, so you should have it all by yourself!

El Yunque blew our expectations away. From the beautiful foliage to the breathtaking waterfalls, you won’t be able to get through this park without seeing something new!

The drive home was a slow one; we spent a bit too long at Juan Diego and got stuck behind some tour buses heading out of the park, but we weren’t bothered at all. Completely renewed by nature, we were delighted to have had the opportunity to explore this remarkable piece of the world.

For more adventures in Puerto Rico, check out my other blog posts: “A Guide To Visiting San Juan“, “Icacos & Palomino Islands“, and “Day Trip To Vieques“.

If you are ever in Puerto Rico and itching for a good hike, you must explore El Yunque! What are some of your favorite waterfalls?

Cheers!

Angie xoxo

The post Exploring El Yunque National Rainforest Without A Guide appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

A Guide To Visit San Juan, Puerto Rico | Things To Do & Where To Stay

Angie — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 21:22:36 +0000

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Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island with a rich history, gorgeous beaches, lush mountains, rushing waterfalls and the El Yunque rainforest. Since it’s a U.S. territory, there are a lot of advantages if you are a U.S. citizen.

You don’t need a passport to visit
You can use your cell phone without additional fees
The US dollar is the official currency
There are inexpensive flights from many U.S. cities

With so many advantages, why not book your flights to the Caribbean’s ‘Enchanted Island’ right now???

If you do end up visiting, I definitely recommend flying into San Juan, Puerto Rico, and making it your home base. San Juan is the capital and largest city, with a little something for everyone. For those seeking a typical beach-vacation vibe, check out the Isla Verde area. It is known for its hotel strips, casinos, beach bars, and shops. Most visitors stay here and take Uber (yes, they have Uber!) to Old San Juan. This part of the city is home to the San Juan Historic Site, featuring beautiful buildings dating from the 16th century, two Spanish fortresses, old city walls, the tomb of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, cobblestoned streets, and pastel colored houses. There is so much history, culture, and life in this neighborhood!

This guide to visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico, is filled with information about the best sites to see, places to stay, where to eat, and things to do during your trip.

For more adventures in Puerto Rico, be sure to also check out my blog posts on “Day Trip To Vieques Island”, “Exploring El Yunque National Park“, and “Icacos & Palomino Islands“.

What to Do and See

Wander the pastel streets of Old San Juan. Founded in 1508 by Ponce de Leon, this city is rich with history, culture, food, and colonial architecture. It is easily the prettiest part of San Juan, so don’t forget your camera!

Visit Save A Gato. Save A Gato (gato is Spanish for “cat”) is a volunteer organization that cares for and feeds the colony cats of Old San Juan. If you’ve dreamed of being surrounded by dozens of cats at one time, then you can’t miss this hidden gem. Say hello to these furry friends by walking along the Paseo del Morro Recreation Trail (north of the San Juan Gate).

Explore the Spanish fortresses of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristóbal. Learn about the unique designs of each fort and how Spain kept Puerto Rico under its control for nearly 400 years! I promise it’s definitely worth paying the small $7 fee (valid for both fortresses).

Go on a mixology tour at the Bacardi Distillery. Learn everything from the history of Bacardi to how to make the perfect mojito. Need a preview? Check out this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hyZr2xFy-A.

Take a day trip to a neighboring island. Go on a catamaran tour with East Island Excursions to Culebra, ferry over to Vieques, or take a water taxi to Icacos and Palomino. Every island has incredible beaches and clear waters, so whichever one you choose, you can’t go wrong.

Tour the El Yunque rainforest. While the hurricane damaged the rainforest, it is quickly recovering! In fact, the lower section of the main road has opened, so you can now explore certain areas – some even include waterfalls! For more information on what to see in the El Yunque rainforest, check out my blog “A Guide To Exploring El Yunque National Rainforest | Waterfall Edition“.

Head West with a private guide. Exploring the whole island is accessible from San Juan, and I highly recommend visiting the Cueva de Indio (Cave of the Indian) in Arecibo, the black-sand beaches at Playa Boca in Barcelonetta, and the San Sebastian Waterfalls. For all private tours, contact Mario at 787-547-6941 on WhatsApp. Mario was recommended to us by the AC Hotel San Juan Condado and is seriously impressive! He created a killer itinerary and is very friendly, knowledgeable about the island, and a safe driver. If you’re looking to experience more than just the city, I suggest going on a private tour with Mario.

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(The red dress in the photo above is from Black Coral)

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Where to Stay

The Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino

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Located next to the Puerto Rico Convention Center and only a 5-minute drive to the Condado beach or a 10-minute drive to historic Old San Juan, the Sheraton Puerto Rico is the ideal home base for those visiting Puerto Rico for both business and pleasure. What makes this hotel unique is that guests will find every sort of comfort and entertainment on the property. The Sheraton has a large casino with 400 slot machines and 18 game tables, the Zen Spa Retreat, the District Lounge & Sushi Bar, a club lounge, and an infinity pool. It’s tempting to stay on the property while enjoying all the amenities simply. You can read more about my stay at The Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino here.

AC Hotel San Juan Condado

In the heart of the vibrant Condado District, you will find a hotel so wonderful, you may never leave. That would be the AC Hotel San Juan by Marriott. This modern hotel is perfect for those looking for luxury accommodation and a central location. Enjoy the most incredible city views from the AC Hotel’s rooftop pool, discover Caribbean flavors at local restaurants, relax at the beautiful Condado beach, or drive 5 minutes to Old San Juan. You really can’t go wrong when you stay at the AC Hotel. Read more about my stay at the AC Hotel San Juan Condado here.

San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Also located in the Condado District is the San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino. I promise that if you stay here, you will have the time of your life. Try your luck at the Stellaris Casino, relax by the pool, experience the incredible nightlife in Condado, or walk the streets of Old San Juan (only a 5-minute drive away). There is something for everyone. What primarily makes the San Juan Marriott special is the beach! Only 20 feet away from the pool is soft sand, turquoise water, and unlimited fun. For those of you wanting to be close to all the action in the city while also enjoying the beautiful Condado beach, the San Juan Marriott is the perfect place for you!

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Where to Eat

Crush Juice Bar – If you love acai bowls and you want to taste the most delicious peanut butter acai bowl in the world, then go to Crush. They also have a fantastic selection of smoothies and juices! I went here every day during my trip, and to this day, it’s still my favorite juice bar! Crush is conveniently located across the street from the AC Hotel San Juan Condado, so it’s easy to grab something on your way out to the beach or to Old San Juan.

La Bombonera – La Bombonera is the oldest restaurant in Old San Juan. Known for its coffee and “Mallorca” pastries, it’s the hottest breakfast spot in town. So popular in fact, that you will need to make a reservation most days to get a seat. Once you get inside, you’ll notice something remarkable. Little glimpses of La Bombonera’s past can be seen in several vintage photographs hanging on the restaurant’s walls. It’s wonderful not only to taste the incredible food whose recipes have been passed down for generations but also to experience history.

El Jibarito – If you visit Old San Juan, you must eat lunch at El Jibarito!!!! After asking many people where we could find the best local food, they all said EL Jibarito. Of course, they were right. The food was authentic and delicious! Plus, it was all very reasonably priced. I highly recommend trying white rice and red beans, chicken empanadas, and mofongo, which is a Puerto Rican dish made from mashed plantains. Seriously, if you want to try real Puerto Rico food, just head to El Jibarito.

Santaella – Enjoy a modern Puerto Rican dining experience presented by Chef Jose Santaella. The menu features authentic dishes and local ingredients, showcasing the flavors and vibrant energy of Puerto Rico. The restaurant is the perfect place for many different occasions. Take a seat at the bar and socialize while sipping on cocktails, listen to music and chat with friends over an excellent meal, or sneak to a corner table to enjoy a romantic evening with your loved one. For an evening to remember, make your reservations at Santaella.

How to Get Around

If you plan on staying in the San Juan area, I highly recommend using Uber. Everything in San Juan is about a 10-minute car ride away, and sometimes parking can be a nightmare, so save yourself some time, money, and stress and grab an Uber. For those who prefer Lyft over Uber, unfortunately, Lyft is not available in Puerto Rico. If you’re wondering about Taxi services, they are available. However, it is possible to have a taxi driver who takes you to your destination and tries to charge you a fee that is unfair. To avoid this situation, I always choose Uber.

If you are up for renting a car, it gives you more flexibility! You can easily take a quick road trip outside the city or get a better feel for San Juan as you explore the streets behind the wheel yourself. Rental cars tend to be low-cost and pretty easy to use. All you need is a driver’s license and a credit card. The easiest place to get a rental car is at the airport, but there are a few other locations around town where you can get one as well.

FOR A SNEAK PEAK OF MY ADVENTURES AROUND SAN JUAN PUERTO RICO, CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO:

This post is written in partnership with Marriott Hotels. As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Sheraton Puerto Rico for the private tour of Old San Juan, to AC Hotel San Juan Condado for booking the Bacardi mixology tour, and to San Juan Marriott for the catamaran tour with East Island Excursions.

Angie xoxo

The post A Guide To Visit San Juan, Puerto Rico | Things To Do & Where To Stay appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

Book Your Stay At The AC Hotel San Juan Condado | Puerto Rico

Angie — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 17:23:40 +0000

The AC Hotel San Juan is an upscale hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico that offers a combination of luxury and leisure in the heart of the vibrant Condado district.

Whether you are walking to the beautiful Condado beach and participating in the island’s water sports or relaxing on the hotel’s outdoor rooftop swimming pool, the central location of the AC Hotel San Juan will fit your every need. During the evening you can dine in at the AC Kitchen while enjoying stunning views of San Juan and the Caribbean Sea or take a stroll around the Condado District and discover local flavors. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at the AC Hotel San Juan Condado.

Rooms

Out of the 233 rooms at the AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado, I had to luxury of staying in the Guest Room.

The Guest Rooms feature either one king bed or two queen beds, contemporary decor, luxury bedding, flat-panel TVs and private balconies with city / partial ocean views.

Other amenities include a mini-refrigerator, marble bathroom, air conditioning, two complimentary bottled waters, pay movies, a safe, a coffee maker, desk, seating area, hairdryer, iron, and free high-speed Internet access.

I loved the modern decor and minimalism of the room. It was a comfortable area to unwind, but at the same time, the simple interior and mute colors juxtaposed the liveliness happening all around San Juan. Just hearing the hustle and bustle from your balcony adds to your eagerness to go out and explore the surrounding area. I appreciate the hotel’s intent to provide guests with a modern, comfortable stay while using those same tools to encourage guest to experience the colorful culture and environment of San Juan.

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content_align=”left” style_type=”none” sep_color=””]

Property

When you enter the AC Hotel San Juan’s lobby, you will first notice the modern decor with mixed natural colors —from deep grey and charcoal tones to layers of graceful creams. The contemporary style circulates throughout the entire hotel from each open-aired rooms to the all-white rooftop pool. This urban design is flawless, ideal for both leisure and business travelers alike.

Some of the amenities you will find on the property include a top-notch fitness center, rooftop pool that overlooks San Juan and the Caribbean Sea, three on-site restaurants, seven event rooms, and a resort-style convenience store.

Not only does the hotel offer luxury accommodations and amenities, but the hotel is close to some of the best restaurants, attractions, and nightlife in the Condado District. Plus, you are only a short distance from the beach, Old San Juan, the Financial District, and Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport.

This AC Hotel positively is the perfect hotel for anyone wanting a well-rounded experience of San Juan.

Wearing Black Coral

Rooftop Pool

If you’re looking for some serious RNR, head to the hotel’s pool.

The AC Hotel San Juan is about a 5-minute walk from the Condado Beach, so it was important to provide guests with an exceptional recreational area. Not only did they design a fantastic pool and outdoor lounge, but they did so on the hotel’s rooftop!

The panoramic views of the Condado District and the Caribbean Sea are quite stunning and a reason alone to stay at the AC Hotel.

White lounge chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas surround the rectangular, aqua-colored pool. Even though it is on a rooftop, there is quite a lot of space, so it never feels crowded.

As a bonus, you can even grab a couple of drinks at the bar next to the AC Kitchen. Did someone say, “Pina Coladas?”

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AC Kitchen & Lounge

The AC Kitchen, located on the top floor of AC Hotel, is an excellent option for breakfast and lunch. They offer a European inspired breakfast buffet ($18 USD) and tapas lunch with the possibility of dining indoor or outdoor. Every morning I looked forward to sampling different foods from the buffet while soaking up the incredible views from the rooftop seating area.

The AC Lounge and Bar, located on the bottom floor of the AC Hotel, is the perfect place to meet with friends while enjoying cocktails and a variety of tapas. While there are many delicious dishes, you must try the flatbread! I can honestly say that it was the most delicious flatbreads I’ve ever tasted.

Also, right next to the AC Lounge is a casual cafe, Sobao By Los Cidrines. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick cup of coffee and pastries.

If you’re looking for one of the best hotels in San Juan Puerto Rico, I highly recommend staying at AC Hotel San Juan Condado!

To book a night click here!

This post is written in partnership with Marriott Hotels and AC Hotel Condado. As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you so much to everyone who made this trip possible, and to the wonderful staff at the AC Hotel for making me feel at home. This trip was definitely one to remember.

Angie xoxo

FOR A SNEAK PEAK OF MY ADVENTURES IN PUERTO RICO, CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO:

The post Book Your Stay At The AC Hotel San Juan Condado | Puerto Rico appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

Staying At The Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino

Angie — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 18:58:16 +0000

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Not only is the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino situated in the Puerto Rico Convention Center District, but it is also only minutes away from historic Old San Juan and the beautiful San Juan beaches. The hotel’s proximity to these locations makes it an ideal home base for both business and leisure guests staying in Puerto Rico.

Whether you’re utilizing the business center, overlooking the Bay of San Juan at the infinity pool, trying your luck at the casino, or getting a taste for some local cuisine, you’ll find that there is something for everyone at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino.

Rooms

Out of the 503 rooms and suites at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino, I had the pleasure of staying in the colorful Superior Room.

The Superior Room features beige carpets and upholstered headboards, white linens, white and wooden furnishings, and orange accent walls. It has 2 ultra-comfortable Sheraton Signature beds, an ADA-Compliant shower with bath and extra space, stunning balcony views of San Juan Bay and the Puerto Rico Convention Center, a state-of-the-art safe lock key card system, a coffee maker, 40-inch flat-screen TV, and High-Speed Internet Access.

Since I am constantly working, it was so refreshing to have WiFi that really was high speed! Too many times I’ve stayed somewhere where I could only find a connection to the Internet in the lobby. But at the Sheraton, once you connect, you will stay connected anywhere on the property.

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Property

The Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino opened in 2009 with the intent to provide accommodations for those attending the Puerto Rico Convention Center. This specific Sheraton property is unlike others as it is more upscale, contemporary, modern, and fresh, while providing guests with everything for business and entertainment.

For example, the hotel’s casino has over 400 slot machines and 18 game tables including Blackjack, Poker, Roulette, EZ Baccarat, Craps, and more. The best part —it’s open 24/7! So have some fun and hit the casino!

The hotel also offers a club lounge for those who would like to upgrade, a fitness center, an infinity pool overlooking the Bay of San Juan, multiple dining options, and spa treatments at Zen Spa Retreat.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here at the Sheraton Puerto Rico & Casino.

Infinity Pool

On the fourth floor of the hotel, guests will discover an infinity-edge pool that overlooks the bay and San Juan Cruise Port.

There are two shallow areas within the pool as well as a longer section perfect for swimming laps. Around the pool deck are lounge chairs, pool cabanas, and a jacuzzi.

As a bonus, if you are getting hungry or would like a drink, the Bay Pool Bar & Grill is at your service. I highly recommend trying their delicious guacamole and the Margarita Sombrero. Both are delightful and, let’s face it, you shouldn’t have one without the other!

The Sheraton really does a fantastic job creating the perfect place where guest can relax and unwind with a cocktail in hand while enjoying the bay views at sunset.

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Choices and The District Lounge & Sushi Bar

Choices, located on the bottom floor of the Sheraton Puerto Rico, is the go-to restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. At this casual urban bistro, Executive Chef, Jannette Berrios, does a fabulous job featuring traditional favorites with a Puerto Rican twist.

For dinner, I was lucky enough to try a variety of new dishes on the menu such as the fish tacos, lechon croquette, urban fajitas, and barrilito pudding. Everything really was scrumptious —especially the lechon croquettes. It was my first time trying them and I couldn’t get enough!

The District Lounge & Sushi Bar, located on the bottom floor of the Sheraton Puerto Rico, provides guests with a sophisticated yet relaxed setting for cocktails and a quick bite.

I personally loved the atmosphere at this lounge, especially after a drink or two following a long day out and about in San Juan. Also, can we just take a moment to admire the ‘out of this world’ light fixture hanging above the bar???

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Zen Spa Retreat

After a full day of traveling and another full day walking around Old San Juan, my body was in serious need of relaxation. Lucky for me, the Sheraton hosts the Zen Spa Retreat, located on the third floor of the hotel.

As I entered the Zen Spa, a wave of calmness washed over me. The dimly lit lobby, soothing smells, and friendly receptionists provide a tranquil atmosphere, which continues throughout the spa experience.

The Spa features eight treatment rooms, two VIP suites, a Vichy shower, men’s and women’s locker rooms with saunas and steam rooms, two relaxation lounges, and a tea room. Available treatments include massages, facials, body wraps, and hair or nail services. A select number of zen stone treatments that use natural elements like basalt lava, marble, and jade stones are also offered.

During my time at the spa, I enjoyed a hot stone massage, the sauna, the relaxation lounge, and a glass of champagne. The experience was far better than I could have imaged as I left with a feeling of ease and serenity.

Whether you’re visiting San Juan for business or pleasure, I highly recommend staying at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino!

To book a night click here!

This post is written in partnership with Marriott Hotels and Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino. As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you so much to everyone who made this trip possible, and to the wonderful staff at Sheraton Puerto Rico for making me feel at home. This trip was definitely one to remember.

Angie xoxo

FOR A SNEAK PEAK OF MY ADVENTURES IN PUERTO RICO, CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO:

The post Staying At The Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

Icacos and Palomino Islands: Paradise in East Puerto Rico

Angie — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 20:11:05 +0000

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The sting of the rain whipped against our faces as the small speedboat fought the waves off the northeast coast of Puerto Rico. My husband grabbed our towel to protect us from the sea, rain, and wind.

And then, just as quickly as the storm arrived, it was peaceful again.

We had just spent the entire day exploring islands off the coast of Puerto Rico and were on our way back to Fajardo to spend the night when the storm hit. It had been a bit windy all day, but it didn’t happen to rain until we were on the water. Luckily, it is only about a 30-minute boat ride from the last island we explored to shore, but with the rain stinging your face, those 30 minutes feel more like an hour!

It was December of 2016, pre-hurricane, and my husband and I were exploring the eastern portion of Puerto Rico. This was our first full day on the island, and we decided to check out some of the surrounding islands!

On the eastern side of Puerto Rico, there is a little chain of smaller islands that are extremely popular with the locals for vacations and day trips. Icacos, Ratones, Lobos, Blanquilla, Diablo, Palomino, and Palominitos make up this small archipelago. Unfortunately, it is pretty hard to get to some of them given the reefs and rocks surrounding them. However, Icacos, Palomino, and Palominitos remain popular beach destinations.

Below, I talk about Icacos and Palomino. What we did, how we got there, what we loved, what we disliked, and why you should go!

For more adventures in Puerto Rico, be sure to also check out my blog posts on “A Guide To Visiting San Juan”, “Exploring El Yunque National Park”, and “Day Trip To Vieques“.

Icacos Island

Icacos Island, aka Cayo Icacos, is a small uninhabited island. Known for snorkeling and its beautiful beach, it is a popular destination for the locals on the east side of Puerto Rico.

We met our water taxi, which we booked online at https://www.facebook.com/alexmandibula/, around 8:15 AM. For $200, he took us to Icacos, Palomino, and back to Fajardo.

It was a pretty day, but there was some wind, so the trip out to Icacos was a bit rough. However, you can’t complain when you are the first person to set foot on an uninhabited island that day! Most tours don’t start until 9 AM and don’t make it to the island until 9:15, so we had nearly a full hour of exploring the beach, deserted pier, and water all to ourselves.

It was magical.

However, watch out for sea urchins!!! I stepped on one when we were walking around the west side of the island, and it definitely hurt! The sea urchin was apparently already dead and had washed the ashore. This meant it was still sharp and had a bit of poison in its spines, but not nearly as much as if it were alive.

Other than that misstep, we enjoyed exploring the shoreline until around 10:30 or so. At that point, it was time to explore Palomino Island!

For more adventures in Puerto Rico, be sure to also check out my blog posts on “A Guide To Visiting San Juan”, “Exploring El Yunque National Park”, and “Day Trip To Vieques Island“.

Palamino Island

Isla Palomino, aka Palomino Island, is the largest of three private islands near Puerto Rico, the other two being Isla de Ramos and Isla de Lobos. Most of the island is rented to El Conquistador Resort for their beach and water activities.

The El Conquistador Resort has rented the eastern side of the island for their guests. We were not guests. However, our water taxi dropped us off on the beach next to the El Conquistador where we just walked over. The staff at the resort seemed pretty apathetic to keeping us out…..they actually didn’t care at all.

We went up to the gate, which is on the dock where the large El Conquistador Ferry docks, and it was locked. There was a staff member on the other side, so we asked if we could come in. He looked at us and shrugged…..so we jumped the fence right in front of him. He didn’t look up at all. It’s possible we got a staff member who just didn’t care, but it is also possible they just don’t mind if a few non-guests come over and spend some money at their resort!

El Conquistador has really set the island up nicely. A reef surrounds their portion of the island, so while it was a bit windy, the water around the beach was calm. This allows for fantastic snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, and paddle boarding, all of which El Conquistador rents for an hourly fee. They even have horseback riding through the trails in the mangrove forest of the island!

However, my favorite part was the iguanas! If you’ve seen my Instagram or read some of my other blogs (specifically on Exuma or Cancun) you know I love Iguanas!!! Aptly named, Iguana’s, the beachfront bar on Palomino Island, was crawling with them. I left Layton for 20 minutes or so to go play with them. We also snagged some food there and it was delicious!

From about 1PM to 4PM we explored the islands beach, reef, and palm trees. Between you and me, I think these pictures are really what got my Instagram going so quickly when I first started!

It was one of the most tranquil spots I’ve been. With the wind lapping at the palm fronds and the waves beating upon the reef, nature has a way to soothe your worries and stresses better than any drug in existence. Time flew by an before we knew it, it was time to head home.

Off the shore of Palomino island is Palominito Island, which is a tiny deserted island that became famous for a scene in Pirates of the Caribbean. We didn’t spend the time to explore the island, it was very small and you could see pretty much everything from the boat, so we just boated by on the way home.

If you are ever in Eastern Puerto Rico, you must explore Icacos Island and Palomino Island! What are some of your favorite island hopping adventures?

Cheers!

Angie xoxo

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