No passport? No problem. For a lot of in Upper Manhattan, the coastal city of San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital and largest city, is a staple getaway—a vibrant Caribbean experience wealthy in Spanish, African, and Taino culture, with a veritable abundance of traditional foods and a energetic nightlife scene besides. Crack a fresh coconut and explore miles of beaches before having fun with a few of the very best rum on this planet. Cue the salsa.
Flamenco Beach
cdwheatleyGetty Images
Not all beaches are built the identical. At the least that’s definitely the case in Culebra, a small island off the coast of San Juan only accessible by plane or boat. With pristine turquoise waters and white sand, it’s the optimal venue for snorkeling and immersing yourself in sea life—the island is a nesting site for big sea turtles and the endangered brown pelicans. Pro tip: Book your tickets for a day trip on a catamaran.
El Yunque National Forest
Alisha BubeGetty Images
Up for an outside tour? Look no further than El Yunque—the one tropical rainforest in the USA. A favourite of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s, this must-see sight includes miles of mountain climbing, zip-lining, and waterfalls in one of the diverse ecosystems on the island. Be prepared, because it does (unsurprisingly) rain here very often. (It isn’t called the rainforest for nothing.) El Yunque is situated only 35 minutes by automotive from the airport, and plenty of hotels offer day trips and guided tours. Find the rope swing, it’s a must.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Getty Images
As a Latest Yorker who likes to walk in all places, I quickly fell in love with every colourful cobblestone street in Old San Juan, lined with pastel-painted buildings and bustling shops, perfect for capturing that outfit of the day pic. Be sure that to stop by Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a six-level fortress overlooking the Atlantic ocean on the very tip of town. The views listed here are unmatched—the 500-year-old Spanish castle sits high on a hill surrounded by acres of meticulously manicured grounds. How do they mow all that grass? Sip on a piña colada and contemplate.
Copacabana One-Piece Swimsuit
Luxform Bike Shorts in Frost
Women’s Kinetic Breakthru Tech Lace Sneaker
Caña
Courtesy of Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
At Caña, having an incredible meal won’t be a difficulty; the toughest part is determining what to order. Whether you like street stands or dining ocean side with magnificent views, chef Juliana Gonzalez has developed a menu using her culinary background of Spanish influences to serve a contemporary tackle classic Puerto Rican dishes (think: blue crab rice and grilled prawns). The restaurant lives contained in the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, facing the shores of Isla Verde beach—the perfect vista for an awesome sun set.
José Enrique
Courtesy of Maria del Mar Ney-Martinez / @disfrutapr
It’s essential to, I repeat, must, have the fish of the day. Named after Puerto Rico’s most decorated chef, the acclaimed José Enrique is housed in an not noticeable constructing, but don’t be fooled: Inside, the allure lives on the table. From mofongo and pork belly bites to the beloved bacalaitos (crispy fish flatbread), you’ll quickly realize how Enrique has attracted a lot attention for mixing local ingredients right into a plate of deliciousness.
Santaella
Courtesy of Santaella
Classic and contemporary flavors mix at Santaella in the very best possible way. The menu boasts elevated traditional plates with a distinctly tropical vibe. Enjoy staples just like the rice of the day and empanadillas (fried Puerto Rican turnovers), and don’t dare call it quits without trying the alcapurrias (fritters)—Jimmy Fallon approved during his last visit to the island.
Lucie Double-Strap Block-Heel Sandal
Club Brava
Courtesy of Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
The vibes at Club Brava are simply unmatched. Previously often called Club Babylon, the high-energy lounge is a hot spot for celebs, along with serving as one of the vibrant going-out spots on the island. Conveniently situated contained in the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, Club Brava is a terrific alternative for a girls’ night out. We recommend dressing specifically for the flashing neon lights to draw attention on the dance floor. In case you’re a guest of the hotel, then you definately’re in luck, as admission is free.
La Factoría
Courtesy of La Factoria
Voted one in all the highest 50 bars in North America for five years in a row, La Factoría focuses on craft cocktails and having a extremely, really good time. Its signature drink, the Lavender Mule, is a very good selection for listening to salsa. Once you feel the urge to bop, hit the dance floor within the back room—and produce a buddy.
Azucena
Courtesy of Asuzena
Pair each criollo-inspired dish with a craft cocktail made by San Juan’s premier mixologists at this popular Caribbean restaurant. The custom pairing experience will quickly make it your favorite upscale dining option on the island, not to say the final word setting to have a good time your next birthday.
Elastic Lace Maxi Tube Skirt
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
Courtesy of Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
You’ll feel just like the foremost character of your individual movie at San Juan’s epicenter for culture and entertainment. The newly renovated Fairmont El San Juan Hotel features 11 restaurants, lounges, a casino, and a fitness center. Translation: You could possibly spend a complete day experiencing the amenities. Get your spa sesh in before taking within the live cabaret band at Chico Cabaret, followed by a luxe casino experience. Try booking the newly opened Banyan Villas, complete with a personal terrace and direct access to one in all the property’s 4 pools, and just a number of steps from the beach. There’s never a dull moment here, which makes it very hard to go away, but if you happen to’re itching to explore, the Fairmont sits just quarter-hour from Old San Juan.
Hotel El Convento
Courtesy of Hotel El Convento
Since 1962, Hotel El Convento has had a powerful status as Old San Juan’s premier boutique hotel. Formerly a convent in the center of Cathedral Square, the Sixteenth-century El Convento sits round the corner to a few of the very best shopping and nightlife in the realm. After spending your day on the beach club, take a three-minute walk to La Factoría, or simply enjoy a coffee on the terrace as you are taking within the old world charm.
Palacio Provincial
Courtesy of Palacio Provincial
Once Puerto Rico’s first post office, Palacio Provincial has since underwent an enthralling, contemporary renovation. Mainly, beautiful courtyards with open-air dining, rooms with wood-beamed ceilings, polished checkered floors, 12-foot windows, and Juliet balconies, and the highlight: a rooftop infinity pool with a bird’s-eye view of San Juan bay.
Taina Pleated Wide Leg Pants Green Multi
Sun Shield Body Glow Gel SPF 50
A body oil that leaves you glowing and protects you from the sun? Sign us up! Kopari’s latest launch can have you glowing within the sun for all of your vacation Instas.
Courtesy
Beauty BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush
Busy running around and seeing the sights all day? Grab this two-for-one lip and cheek cream blush for those touch-ups in between museums or drinks.
Courtesy
Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Waterproof Mascara
Waterproof mascara is at all times a must on vacation. The Iconic Overcurl from Dior can have you batting those lashes with out a care or worry on this planet. No clumping or mess here.
Courtesy
Bitchwitched
Wish to add a bit drama to your trip? This Puerto Rico-based brand launched in 2015 and crafts the boldest matte lipsticks (that also moisturize!) with a two-person team comprised of couple Desiree Rodríguez and Salvador Pérez. For an evening out, we advise the Bitchwitched red.
Courtesy
