Tips & Tricks
In Old San Juan, Calle Fortaleza and Calle San Francisco have everything from T-shirt emporiums to jewelry stores to shops that specialize in made-to-order Panama hats. Running perpendicular to those streets is Calle Cristo, lined with factory-outlet stores, including Coach, Gant, Guess, and Ralph Lauren. On weekends, artisans sell their wares at stalls around Paseo […]
By Bus — The Metropolitan Bus Authority (tel. 787/767-7979 for route information) operates buses in the greater San Juan area. Bus stops are marked by upright metal signs or yellow posts that say PARADA. The bus terminal is the dock area in the same building as the Covadanga parking lot next to the Treasury Department. […]
Due to the vastness of the capital, it is advisable for visitors to hire taxis whenever possible (this applies to those who are not renting their own vehicle). You can hail a taxi in the street, or you can call one to come pick you up. Taxis are generally available at the airport, hotels, and […]
Anfiteatro Tito Puente (Tito Puente Amphitheater)(Avenida Piñeiro and Expreso Luís A. Ferré, Hato Rey) — Surrounded by lagoons and trees, the open-air theater hosts the annual Heineken Puerto Rico Jazzfest and other musical events. It’s named after the late, great musician who is widely credited with bringing salsa to the rest of the world. Each […]
Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza Hotel & Casino (999 Avenida Ashford, Condado) — Popular with locals, the casino at the Condado Plaza is probably worth a visit only if you’re staying in the hotel or if you’re looking for one open 24 hours a day. It’s just not as interesting as other options in the […]
Aguaviva (364 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan) — The name means “jellyfish,” which explains why this ultracool, ultramodern place has dim blue lighting like a tranquil ocean, and lamps shaped like jellyfish floating overhead. Elegantly groomed oysters and clams float on cracked ice along the raw bar. Eating here is like submerging oneself into the […]