Puerto Rico

Our experience of Puerto Rico was one of culture, history, and food. The people are friendly and take pride in their heritage. The Spanish arrived in 1493 and built the fort Castillo San Felipe del Morro around the 16th Century. Castillo San Cristobal was finished in 1783. Both located in Old San Juan, it is the oldest part of Puerto Rico and has many sites and restaurants to experience. The Pina Colada is a creation from Puerto Rico. There are different stories as to who and exactly where it was created. Many say it was created at the Caribe Hilton, others say it was at Barrachina. Either way, go have one at each. San Juan Bautista is also in Old San Juan, and it is the second oldest church in the Western Hemisphere. It is also the oldest church in the United States.

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Make sure you journey down to Ponce on the southern coast. It is a small city founded in 1692 and has many museums and historical sites. If you like small surf towns, you definitely have to check out Rincon on the west coast of the island. Its a popular surf spot with many little shops and even its own brewery on the main strip. For those who like to hike, head over to El Yunque National Forest, which is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. There are multiple trails for all levels of fitness. The El Yunque Peak Tower trail takes you up to the peak and is about 3 miles round trip. As of recently, you need to make reservations before hand to get into the park. One ticket per vehicle.