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Writer's pictureJordan Blaza Olsen

Puerto Rico - 2022

Visiting Puerto Rico had long been on my list, but life seemed to have a knack for getting in the way. Personal plans derailed, and work kept pulling me elsewhere, but eventually, I made it to the island. The experience was bittersweet yet fulfilling, delivering a sense of closure that I hadn’t anticipated. Puerto Rico has a unique charm: an unspoiled mix of beauty and rugged landscapes, with a Caribbean climate that felt just right. The food was a sensory delight, and Instagram-worthy spots seemed to pop up everywhere. So much so, that I returned the next year for my birthday.


For work, I attended a conference and stayed at the Condado Plaza Hotel. This place was a delightful mix of business and pleasure. On one side, the hotel provided beach access with tranquil waters, thanks to a natural rock barrier. My room on the opposite side had an amazing ocean view complemented by a wide-open sky. Their pool area was huge, complete with a water slide and a swim-up bar. One dining gem offered views of the shimmering waters and served up some killer corned beef hash and eggs.


After the conference ended, I switched to Courtyard by Marriott - Isla Verde Beach Resort, conveniently close to the airport. The view? Simply stunning—a long stretch of sandy beach with palm trees standing tall. Eating breakfast or dinner by the beach was nothing short of perfection, especially with the waves whispering against the shore and the gentle breeze caressing the palm fronds—truly a fabulous experience.


San Juan became my home base, a city where local eateries are like hidden treasures. I ventured into several unsuspecting spots, and trust me, looks can be deceiving. The food was nothing short of amazing, particularly the fried pork chops marinated in sofrito paired with rice and plantains. And the desserts? Flan and tres leches topped with coconut became a craving I couldn’t resist.


I know places like Culebra and Vieques have beautiful beaches, but Isla Verde was perfectly fine when the wind behaved. While the water may not have been crystalline, the simple joy of standing in the surf with the sun on your skin made it all worthwhile. If you're planning a visit, check online for the best seasons based on your ideal weather.


One of the things I loved was how much of San Juan’s historical architecture remains intact. Strolling through Old San Juan, don’t miss the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista, the second oldest cathedral in the Americas. Take a moment—say a prayer, enjoy the art, and rest your feet. Although I skipped it, you can also see Juan Ponce de Leon's tomb. The views from the forts and Parque de las Palomas offer great picture opportunities, and a stop at Plaza de Armas for some empanadas and soda made for a delightful afternoon.


When planning your Puerto Rico trip, do some homework on what to see and aim for that perfect balance between photogenic spots and hidden cultural gems. While popular places tend to draw crowds, visit during weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons to enjoy some peace. Wherever your travels take you, remember to stay safe and, above all, savor the simplicity of watching daily life unfold around you.



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