Founded in 1521 by Ponce de León,
the capital of Puerto Rico,
San
Juan , is the oldest city in US
territory. Home to 1.6 million (more
than a third of the island's
citizens), it is also the heart of
Puerto Rican tourism. What draws
travellers here year-round are miles
of smooth, clean beaches, a wide
range of accommodation, fabulous
restaurants and, of course, Old San
Juan, whose beautifully restored
historic sights surrounded by
crashing turquoise surf are reason
enough to make a trip to Puerto
Rico.
Along with Old San Juan,
resort-filled Condado is the most
popular neighbourhood for visitors
thanks to its excellent beachfront
and fine boutiques, and these two
sections of the capital share the
highest concentration of restaurants
and lodging options. There's also
much to explore as the city extends
to the south and east, including the
beachfront neighbourhoods of Ocean
Park and Isla Verde; up-and-coming
Santurce with its numerous art
galleries; the financial district of
Hato Rey; and the college-town vibe
in Rio Piedras.
Within just a couple hours' drive
from San Juan are Puerto Rico's
rarest natural resources and some of
the best beaches and coral reefs in
the Caribbean. The El Yunque
rainforest, Luquillo Beach and the
Rio Camuy Cave Park all make
excellent day trips.
