Puerto Rico Travel Guide
Where I stayed in Puerto Rico
I stayed at The Royal Sonesta San Juan in Isla Verde. Approximately a five-minute drive from the airport.
Resort: The Royal Sonesta
Rooms- The rooms were nice and spacious, newly updated, and equipped with a full mirror and a stocked mini-bar. The room of choice was the oceanfront view on the 15th floor, while there is a balcony it’s small and is standing room only, but the views are immaculate.
Service- Everyone I encountered was extremely friendly and nice. Anything we had a question or concern about we were assisted quickly.
Restaurants on-site- There are a few restaurants onsite details below.
Akua Bar - Swim-up pool bar open during the weekend Friday-Sunday.
La Bodeguita – Lobby coffee shop, serving light breakfast, lunch, and snacks, open daily from 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House Puerto Rico - Steakhouse opened daily from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Aleli Restaurant – Breakfast with views overlooking the pool on the outdoor terrace open daily from 7:00 Am -11:00 AM.
Karaya- Lobby Bar/Restaurant on the terrace with pool views, lounge chairs, couches, and a beautiful fire pit. Signature cocktails, small bites, and full dinner entrees. Open daily from 5:00 PM – 1:00 am
Ocean Breeze – Beachfront outdoor restaurant/bar open daily from 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Cost-Depending on the day of the week determines the spike in the daily rate. We got in on a Sunday night and that rate was higher than the rest of the week.
Accessibility- Walking distance to shops, bars, and eateries.
Things to do
El Yunque Natural Waterslide & Rainforest Hiking with Transportation
All excursions can be booked via linked above for tour suggestions. The Viator website, allows you to see a list of even more exciting excursions that are happening during your time of travel.
Where to Eat
Pizza City - 24-hour bar restaurant that serves great fresh pizza.
El Hamburger - Popular lunch/dinner place this sells homemade hamburgers.
Lupi’s - Traditional Puerto Rican cuisine
Metropol - Cuban and Puerto Rican cuisine
Plato’s - Puerto Rican cuisine
Alambique - Beach bar deck right off the beach
Sweet Temptation by Dayra -The best cheesecake
Water Ice- Local vendors pushing carts up and down the beach
Puerto Rico Nightlife
La Placinta - a traditional farmers market by day that becomes San Juan's hottest street party by night, complete with booming live music, great restaurants, and late-night bars.
Distrito T-Mobile – concert and entertainment venue with lots of eating and drinks options. Daily events range from shows to different DJ sets.
Dance Clubs – Plenty depending on the area you stay. Follow the music!
Bars & Lounges - Check out this directory of over 50 bars and lounges in Puerto Rico.
Casinos- El San Juan hotel, Courtyard by the Marriot, and the Embassy Suites, are hotels with casinos along the strip.
Must-Have Items for Puerto Rico
Sunglasses
Mosquito Repellent
Lip Balm
Sneakers/Walking Shoes
Water Shoes
How to get around
Our beachfront resort was right on the strip walking distance to a number of bars, restaurants, casinos, other hotels, small clubs, CVS, cold stone, and other things that you may need.
We mostly traveled by Uber and the maximum cost per ride was around $20.00, with the majority of our trips ranging between $5.00 and $12.00. Depending on where you choose to go ziplining the uber will likely be a little more, due to the distance of the excursion being 35- 40 minutes away. Please note they don’t have LYFT here.
Unless you plan on going out far and visiting other cities in Puerto Rico a rental car is not necessary, but if you prefer to be at your own leisure then I'd suggest renting one but be mindful of the parking fees at the hotels they have both valet and self-parking at most hotels in this area starting around $25 per night.
NOTE: They have bird scooters all around so if you are up for an adventure it’s definitely a fun, low-cost way to get around.
Puerto Rico Airport Notes:
If you don’t have TSA precheck or CLEAR arrive early anywhere from 1.5-2 hours early to get through security.
The Simple Aruba Travel Guide : One Happy Island
This Aruba travel guide will explain everything you need about traveling to Aruba from excursions, things to do, places, to eat and how to get around.
We traveled to Aruba for 5 days and it was the perfect length. We live in Philadelphia and prefer straight flights, so we used the Corporate Blackcar Service to take us from Philadelphia to JFK airport. It was a straight ride, a clean car, and just excellent service. I plan to use this company again. We flew JetBlue, which was extremely reasonably priced, with Wi-Fi, snacks, and charging stations on the flight.
IMPORTANT: All visitors are required to complete Aruba’s Embarkation/Disembarkation Card prior to arrival, which is the country’s digitized customs and immigration process. This is required for each person infants, and children included. The online ED card is linked below. Be sure to have this card available prior to arrival at the airport as you will be unable to board without it. Aruba's Online Mandatory ED Card
Where to Stay in Aruba
We stayed at an all-inclusive resort in Palm Beach
Resort: Barcelo’ Aruba
I booked directly through the site which allowed me to gain loyalty points.
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort in Palm Beach, I highly suggest Barcelo’ Aruba which is a family-friendly resort without the bombarding of children everywhere. This resort was equipped with 5 restaurants -Italian, Japanese, Seafood, Mexican, and a daily buffet that served breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Daily activities in the pool and on the beach each night, along with nightly performances in the lobby bar and a nightly show in the ballroom. They also offer the Royal Level which is an upgraded luxury portion of the resort.
Things to do in Aruba
Aruba Atlantis Submarine Expedition
Explore Aruba on a certified submarine
View the underwater reef and marine creatures
Dive to depths of 130 feet
UTV Tour- Fofoti Tours
Exciting and adventurous tour of Aruba by UTV
Opportunity to Cliff Dive
Stop at some of Aruba's most important points Natural bridge, lighthouse, etc
Flyboarding
30-minute experience in the air or in the water depending on your balance.
Sunset Cruise
2–3-hour cruise on the beautiful waters of Aruba
Snacks and open bar provided
All excursions can be booked via linked above for tour suggestions. The Viator website, allows you to see a list of even more exciting excursions that are happening during your time of travel.
Aruba Night Life
Dance Clubs
@7 Club Lounge
Gusto Night Club Aruba
Bars & Lounges
Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill Aruba
Sopranos Piano Bar
Blue Bar
Azia Restaurant & Lounge
Casinos
The Casino at the Hilton
Excelsior Casino
Must-Have Items for Aruba
Cash for Tips and Taxi
Sunglasses
Mosquito Repellent
Lip Balm
Sneakers/Walking Shoes
Water shoes
How to get around
Our resort was right on a strip that contained bars, restaurants, a marketplace, and little shops. So, we literally could walk out of the resort and cross the street for a somewhat downtown vibe. To get around we used taxis which were readily available throughout the island. They were on reserve at our hotel and in town, they are taxi stops like bus stops where you go and await a taxi. The maximum we paid for a taxi was to and from the airport which was about $35 US dollars and about a 15–20-minute drive.
Aruba Airport Notes:
If you are traveling from Aruba to the United States, you go through immigration at the Aruba airport prior to boarding the flight. As of October 2022, they are not accepting mobile passports. The security and immigration lines only have about two scanners so please give yourself ample time to get through security to be able to board your flight on time.
Overall, this was a great trip and Aruba has now become one of my favorite islands. The weather during October was perfect for me, not super-hot and with just enough sun to tan if you want or to avoid if you choose.
If you made it to the end, of this blog article I appreciate you for reading it!!! Feel free to leave any comments and I will respond as soon as possible. Are you planning a trip to Aruba soon?
Turks & Caicos Travel Guide
Large bodies of turquoise water so clear you can see the fish, sand so smooth it's like walking on clouds. Turks and Caicos is the absolute place for complete relaxation.
On vacation, I love a mix of fun, food, & relaxation. This destination was all of them perfectly combined.
Keep reading to discover how to take on Turks & Caicos!
Where to Stay in Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos has so many options. Villas, resorts, hotels, beach houses, condos anything to fit your budget.
We stayed at the Neptune Villas which was such an amazing experience they had villas ranging from 1bedroom to 3 bedrooms. Equipped with a full kitchen, washer, and dryer, wrapped porch, walking distance to a small area of the beach, and the famous LaBrissa restaurant which has great food. We canoed and kayaked on the villa grounds.
If you want to be closer to the bulk of entertainment in Turk and Caicos, I recommend staying closer to the Grace Bay area. They have ocean-front resorts and boutique hotels that are quite the sight.
Things to do in Turks & Caicos
Noah’s Ark – Popular beach club on the water. You can take a water taxi, private boat rental, or jet ski’s over to this beach club in the middle of the beautiful ocean.
Parasailing – This excursion allows you the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the white sands, pristine waters, and colorful reefs.
Snorkeling- snorkeling is available at many natural reefs where many fish and sea turtles swim freely.
Catamaran - Love a booze cruise then this is the activity for you, sailing on the turquoise water, with great tunes, and good company this is perfect to unwind and relax.
Clear bottom Tours- clear bottom kayak rentals, kayak tours, and Aerial Photography.
Places to Eat in Turks & Caicos
Breakfast/Brunch
Bay Bistro- Beach views and Brunch located at the Sibonne Beach Hotel in Grace bay.
Solana Restaurant-Fine dining beachfront restaurant.
Lunch/Dinner
Mango Reef- located on the Marina at the Alexander Resort known for Fresh Seafood and amazing flavors.
Da Conch Shack-Friendly vibes with traditional and modern island food served right on the beach with your feet in the sand. Each day they offer the option of live music and DJs to help get the party started.
Bugaloo’s Conch Craw- beach-side seafood restaurant with daily live entertainment, outdoor games, horseback riding, and beach access. (Swimwear encouraged)
Somewhere Café & Lounge- Tex Mex Cuisine right on the beach.
Sweet T’s- Takeout Restaurant serving some amazing fried chicken.
Bar/Lounges/Other
Shiaha Lounge -Hookah Bar
Vibez Lounge- Lounge
Island Scoop-Ice Cream
Mala Bar-Local Bar
Must-Have Items
How to get around
Public transportation is not readily available here. However, people do walk and bike a lot. Taxis are available but are quite pricey. For those visiting that plan to travel to different areas of the island, I would strongly recommend renting a car from either the airport or a trusted local company. A local company was suggested by our villas staff. The car was dropped off to us for a total of $56.00 a day. (Keep in mind our 12 min taxi from the airport to our villas was $40.00 one-way per person). In Providencia, you drive on the left side of the road. Takes a little adjusting but after a minute in the car, you are bound to get the hang of things.
What are you looking forward to in Turks & Caicos
My Puerto Rico Experience
Looking for some Puerto Rico travel advice? Trying to narrow down the list to what to put on your itinerary? To help you out I’ll enlighten you on my Puerto Rico Travel experiences.
Recently I got to celebrate my 29th birthday in PUERTO RICO! An amazing experience was an understatement. This was our 3rd trip here and each time we get to experience something new.
This trip was a time for me to relax and enjoy my birthday, however, I’m also a full-time student and right after we got back would be a midterm week, so I had to incorporate homework, studying, and zoom calls while on vacation. No biggie, it’s all a part of the end goal! I did spend some mornings on zoom calls, doing some schoolwork, and studying. But nonetheless, I got to have fun in Puerto Rico!
Puerto Rico has so many amazing sights, such as beaches, mountains, and rainforests. It also has other landscapes, food, and a lot of culture. There is so much to do on this island and no matter what you choose you’re guaranteed to have a great time! First, determine what you’re absolute must are and plan from there.
So, are you looking for some Puerto Rico travel advice? Trying to narrow down the list to what to put on your itinerary? To help you out I’ll enlighten you on my Puerto Rico Travel experiences.
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico
Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort
This resort is on the beach with a beachfront view you get an amazing glance at the beautiful waters. This hotel offers a buffet-style breakfast, an outdoor restaurant and bar for lunch and dinner, and a rooftop restaurant. Lobby casino and a parking garage. This hotel is within walking distance to some great restaurants and bars.
Embassy Suites
This hotel was great very family-friendly. They provided a complimentary hot buffet breakfast, complimentary happy hour at 5:30 daily, and a $10 voucher to their on-site casino. There was a little shop in the lobby that sold snacks and goodies and handmade pizzas to order. The pool view was amazing accompanied by a beach bar and outdoor food court. This hotel was about a block and half from the beach and a block away from CVS. As an Embassy guest, you have the luxury of complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas that were available once you got to the beach. In addition, there are waiters that provide menus for drinks and food on the beach.
Whether you’re looking for a beachfront resort, luxury resorts, mountain views, boutique-style resorts, the options are limitless. My suggestion is to read the reviews and make sure the amenities that you desire are included. Next year, we plan to try the Sonesta beach resort which is near the other hotels mentioned above.
Things to do in Puerto Rico
Rum Distillery Tour
Ron Del Barrilito. They have several different options for the tours the Heritage tour shows you a peek into the history and craftsmanship of Ron del Barrilito. The Mixology tour consists of an interactive class that shows you how to make some amazing drinks. The last tour they offer is the tasting tour which is an opportunity to sip and enjoy all their rums. This rum is not sold in the U.S., so be sure to get a bottle there or at the airport!
Old San Juan
Old San Juan is among the top-visited sites for visitors. The history, the sites, the food, the ambiances are so beautiful. Some of the most beautiful architects, and colorful buildings. This requires quite a bit of walking so wear comfortable shoes. The cobblestone streets, the boutique-style hotels, the musicians on the streets, the various food vendors, and quaint shops. You’re bound to find something for the whole family to enjoy. During your time in Old San Juan, you’ll have beautiful views of the San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Horseback Riding
Ever been horseback riding through beautiful scenery and then on the beach? Well, the horseback riding tours happen each day and are around 2.5 hours. (Approximately two stops at a beach bar and at the beach). Be prepared to make a new friend with your horse and take on the adventure your ride has to offer.
Helicopter Ride
Puerto Rico Helitours have a few options the Discover Old San Juan tour is a tour where you get to see some historic monuments but from above. The enchanted shore tour allows you to see both Old San Juan and the beautiful coast of Puerto Rico. The last tour is the Green Escape which allows you to see all the history, the mountains, the coast, and the city but from above. This was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!. The price ranged from $75 to-$300 per person.
Jet Skis
If you choose to stay in Carolina or at one of the resorts mentioned above, there is a Jet Ski rental right on the beach. The price was $90 per person for 30 mins. They offer a picture and go-pro package to document your trip. Dope experience you can also do two passengers if only one person chooses to drive.
Food Tour
If you want to taste the various foods from the Puerto Rican culture, I definitely recommend taking part in a food tour where you can sample different cuisines famous in Puerto Rico.
Rainforest El Yunque
The beautiful national rainforest in Puerto Rico is the ONLY tropical forest in the National Forest system. One of the most popular tourist sites and beautiful gems this island has to offer. Whether you choose to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, swim in the beautiful waters under the waterfall, or hike along the various trails it will be a great time.
La Placita de Santurce
Marketplace by day and a total vibe at night. Around 6 pm this becomes the place to be. A variety of different bars and lounges drink specials, and plenty of music to enjoy. The nightlife lives here.
Places to Eat in Puerto Rico
Barrachina Restaurant -indoor/outdoor venue and creator of the PINA COLADA
Chido’s-If you love tacos like me this place is a must!!
STK-Steakhouse with an amazing ambiance, great drinks, and spectacular serving sizes .
La Factoría- listed in the World’s Best Bar.
La Grieta-Beautiful outdoor setting right on a cobblestone block tucked off the main roads. Night ambiance with the lights, drinks, and the city traffic.
Kiosko El Boricua-looking for some good local food this is the absolute place to be. Fried foods and Puerto Rican Culture.
Must-Have Items
Sunglasses
Mosquito Repellent
Travel Tripod-This was my favorite item we got so many great pictures using it without having to ask strangers to take them. (Check out some of the photos above)
Lip Balm
Sneakers/Walking Shoes
How to get around
I love that where we stay is so close to things to do that we always just uber around. Ubers are normally less than $20.00.
I’d suggest you rent a car if you plan to go on an independent excursion to hike the various beautiful trails and mountains this island has to offer.
To end our trip on the 4th day we had breakfast at the hotel and enjoyed the complimentary hot breakfast buffet with a made-to-order omelet bar (my favorite). We took our last swim and enjoyed the pool for a few hours before heading to our room to shower and check out. We had a mid-evening flight, so we headed to Old San Juan for lunch and some more sightseeing. The hotel held our bags which was perfect because the airport is less than five minutes away, so a quick pit stop in our uber to the hotel then off to the airport to head back to Philadelphia.
What are you looking forward to when you plan your Trip to Puerto Rico?
What do you NEED in your toiletry bag? The ultimate checklist
Are you packing the right toiletries when you travel?
Packing can cause anxiety. Trust me I know. I overthink packing so much that I tend to forget the most important things in my toiletry bag, and always must make an emergency stop at the closet CVS. So, to avoid that going forward for you and me, I constructed a list of things that are commonly needed and used when away from home. Screenshot the checklist, print it, write it down do whatever just make sure you have everything you need packed in your toiletry bag for your next trip.
The Must Haves
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Lotion
Soap/Bodywash
Razor
Brush/Comb
Edge Control
Perfume/Body Spray
Lip Balm/ Lip Gloss/ Lipstick
Facial wash
For Some
Contact Solution
Contact Case
Eyeglasses
Feminine Hygiene Products- Sanitary Napkins/Pad
Advil/Excedrin/Tylenol
Birth Control
Purse Necessities
Lip balm
Wallet
Phone
Keys
Hand sanitizer
Mask