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How to Enjoy a Holiday in Puerto Rico

16:37 Mon 24th May 2010 |

Bursting with natural richness, blending magnificent mountains and radiant rainforests, which are enclosed by soft yellow sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters - what more could you want from this amazing island.

Spanish Attractions:

On this beautiful picturesque island both the culture and way of life boast unique characteristics. The quaint buildings proudly preserve their original Spanish style while the streets are booming with fiestas and restaurants serving delicious food like the infamous paella.

Due to its large size, there are more Puerto Rico visitor attractions than on nearly any other Caribbean island. From some of the most adventurous water sports like windsurfing, to relaxing on the beach front with a Pina Colada or joining in with the evenings festivities you have a non-stop rowdy atmosphere waiting to entice its visitors. If you’re just looking for a nice stroll through some beautiful sights you can visit the colonial architecture located in Old San Juan that has been preserved, restored and brought to life under the hot Caribbean sun.

Traditions are widespread through the Spanish islands; as such you will be able to attend one of Puerto Rico’s Fiestas Patronales. These are celebrations that are held in each town’s plaza in order to honour the patron saint of the area. These fiestas last up to 10 days and include games, food and renowned Spanish music; so you can enjoy some Spanish dancing while on this beautiful island. As well as enjoying the fun and frenzied atmosphere generated by these traditional celebrations you will also get some insight into the history and legends of the past. 

Puerto Rico has so much to offer its visitors all year round, but if you want to explore an island that has such natural exquisiteness Vieques Island could be the perfect destination. Discover Puerto Mosquito- a sleepy spot on Vieques Island where you’ll find the well known bioluminescent bay. Thanks to the miniscule plankton that live in this area and act like fireflies of the sea, you will see the waters erupt in light every evening; providing a truly memorable experience.

If you want to get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife you should definitely take a trip to Culebra Island’s exquisite wildlife reserve, which is undoubtedly one of the best visitor attractions on this Spanish island. The best time to visit this spectacular attraction is during nestling season, so you can watch the amazing leatherback turtles crawl into the ocean for the first time, full of life and possibility, just like the island itself.

Spanish Entertainment:

While exploring the tropical island of Puerto Rico you will find local exotic hideaways, miles of sandy beaches, mountains and valleys as well as many other natural wonders. In addition to these natural attractions you will find plenty more to keep your eyes mesmerised; and what other way than to browse the local shopping on offer.

Puerto Rico has the largest shopping centre in the whole of the Caribbean. It boasts a super chic modern shopping centre called Plaza Las Americas, which is located in Hato Rey, San Juan. The centre features over 300 stores; exhibiting fabulous jewellery, fashion clothing and accessories and delicious local cuisine. 

If you’re looking more for the crème-de-la-crème designer chic you should strut your stuff in the renowned shoppers Mecca of Puerto Rico; Condado Area. Condado offers brand name stores such as Gucci and Dior; feel like a celebrity walking through all the designer boutiques, and whether you are just window shopping or looking for a designer treat you will be amazed with the selection on offer.

Puerto Ricans, like most Caribbean residents, are very laid back people. For them, meal time is a great way to socialise. So while on this island you should take the time out to sample some of the local cuisine dishes on offer. As an appetiser you could opt for some friend plantains, then some delicious mofongo with your entrée. Puerto Rico has many delicious restaurants to choose from, including some American favourites like Chili's, which should definitely be on your list.

The culture, the scenery, the people; every detail makes Puerto Rico a magnificent and unique island.

- K.J.N -

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