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As the new year began, I embarked on a remarkable journey to the vibrant city of San Juan, Puerto Rico. My adventure started at the luxurious Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, situated in the stylish Condado district. Thanks to booking through the AMEX Fine Hotels & Resort program, we were delighted to be upgraded to a stunning suite with breathtaking ocean views—a perfect launch into our unforgettable trip.
Sony A7R III
f/3.2
24mm
100
1/8000 secOur exploration kicked off in Old San Juan, where the past is alive in vibrant colors and cobblestoned streets. Walking through this historic area felt like stepping back in time. The colonial buildings, each painted in pastel hues, and grand fortresses like Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, offered deep insights into Puerto Rico’s rich history and stunning views of the coastline.
Next on my itinerary was a trip to El Yunque National Forest, a lush paradise showcasing Puerto Rico’s diverse flora and fauna. The Welcome Center at El Yunque was not only beautiful but also educational, well worth the small entrance fee. Hiking through its trails, I was mesmerized by the towering trees and the symphony of tropical birds. The occasional waterfall, with sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creating rainbows in the mist, was a sight of pure wonder.
Following the rainforest, I ventured into the surreal beauty of one of Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays. Unlike most, this bay glowed with an ethereal white light, each stroke of my kayak paddle igniting the water with a ghostly luminescence. The experience was not just visually stunning but also educational, as our guide detailed the fragile ecosystem and the conservation efforts preserving this natural phenomenon.
I concluded my trip with two nights at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve. While the resort boasted extensive grounds and generous beach frontage, it was somewhat isolated. The dining options during the week were limited, and we encountered an unexpected challenge—terrible invisible flies known locally as no-see-ums, which left us with harsh bug bites. A strong recommendation for future visitors: bring ample bug spray!
From the historic allure of Old San Juan to the natural beauty of El Yunque and the mystical lights of the bioluminescent bay, my Puerto Rican journey was a rich tapestry of cultures, history, and nature. Each experience wove into a vibrant narrative, leaving me with a profound appreciation for the island’s spirit and beauty, and memories that will last a lifetime.
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