Reggaeton and rhythm

Last May I was lucky enough to be invited by the Puerto Rico Tourist Board to explore their beautiful island with 5 other travel professionals. Following a straightforward flight via Madrid, we arrived in the evening at the fabulous ESJ Hotel, a landmark in San Juan and the oldest large resort hotel on the island. It has the vibe of Sinatra-time Vegas, with huge chandeliers, a massive casino and a party atmosphere. A lot of Puerto Rican nightlife centres around the hotels rather than stand alone bars. The first morning, jetlag had me up very early and I walked the 100m from my room to a beautiful long stretch of public beach. I had the water to myself and it was a wonderful way to start the day. The hotel is now part of the Fairmont brand and the breakfast lived up to their reputation, it was really something!

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory without state status, so they don't get a vote for President!! The island has a pleasant blend of Caribbean laid back vibes and U.S. efficiency and service. Lots of recognisable restaurant chains and shops and of course USD everywhere. The food was very Caribbean. Puerto Ricans like to deep fry everything from bananas to fish to sausages. They also have gorgeous fresh seafood and salads so your heart will be ok.

I found it very easy to meet and chat with the local people, everywhere we went. Puerto Rico is in the hurricane belt of the Caribbean and is often effected during the season June to October. In September 2017, in the space of ten days, Hurricanes Irma and and Maria ripped through the island with devastating effects. They power grid was almost completely destroyed, water was cut by 50%, cell service by 60% and over 3000 people died. It's incredible to see how an island can bounce back and there is very little evidence of the destruction visible today. Many people we met shared their stories of 2017, and how it effected their own families.

On our first day we left the city and headed out into El Yunque National Park, a beautiful verdant dense forest with gorgeous walking trails, waterfalls and an interpretive centre. It was fun to see all the school groups arriving for their nature tours; there were as many locals as tourists exploring the area. I was really impressed with the beautiful flowers and butterflies and the freshness of the air, despite the 30 degree heat!

The capital San Juan is a port town with old city walls, much like you would find in Crete or Malta. We visited the ancient citadel and learned the history of the explorers that founded the island. San Juan old town is a real treat. Higgledy piggledy streets with houses of every colour of the rainbow; lots of music playing on the streets and from bars and restaurants.

Another day we headed to the second city of Ponce, which has an even slower pace and very interesting history. Murals abound this small city and we found so many art galleries and public art, it is well known for its music and culture locally.

One thing not to miss is Plaza Santurce on a weekend evening. I have never experienced anything like the vibrancy of this square, it puts Temple Bar in the halfpenny place! Locals of all ages and a smattering of tourists gather to dance to the Reggaeton and Samba bands, playing from the sides of trucks, often 8 or ten elder men all with brass instruments playing their hearts out! I found the music in Cuba and New Orleans very special but this was even better!

I think Puerto Rico is well worth a visit for a few days. I would recommend a day or two lying by the pool at a gorgeous resort then heading out to the old town. It would make the perfect 5-6 day break before heading on a Caribbean Cruise! All the big ships depart from San Juan, and it would make a better value fun alternative to Miami as a cruise starting point.

Thank you Puerto Rico for your hospitality, it was loads of fun!