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Im with Bernardo on this: I like the city of San Juan!
Colorful, historical buildings on the coast of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
My first trip to Puerto Rico was three years after Hurricane Maria.
I saw blue tarps fastened to roofs and bare trees steadily growing back to their former emerald glory.
Visiting my family in Cayey, I heard stories of how loud the winds were.
Panoramic view over the hills in the jungle of the El Yunque national forest in Puerto Rico.
No power for five months.
Puerto Rico has since regained its old-world charm and contemporary flair.
The islands versatility offers a choose-your-own-adventure for travelers.
Photo courtesy of The Gallery Inn
For personal chefAnjelica Velazquez, flying to the island is a moment in itself.
It feels like my ancestors praising me for making it safely home to the motherland.
It feels like getting really far away without worrying about where you put your passport, shared Zyndorf.
Photo courtesy of Dreamcatcher by DW
Its also a home away from home for Eli Valentin, co-founder of the creator commerce platformFourthwall.
Seeing people learn more about our culture and get exposed to our way of life is just amazing.
They learn that this paradise is not far away.
Photo courtesy of Palacio Provincial
For natives and travelers alike, there are always newfound gems to explore.
Without further ado, heres the ultimate Puerto Rico playbook with newfound gems from insiders near and far.
Nows the time to book your flight to the beloved crown jewel of the Caribbeanno passport needed.
Photo: Courtesy of Café Regina
Several art organizations are also in residence, as well as theMuseo de Las Americasoccupying the second floor.
Hiking in Puerto Ricos national rainforest is a must, especially for snagging a mythical waterfall #nofilter photo.
Live parrots nibbling on mint leaves grace various perches throughout the space.
Photo: Courtesy of Vianda
Chances are, if you ask around, youll get this recommendation from locals.
It is the oldest standing diner on the island and stays open till 3 p.m. purely through word-of-mouth.
Theres also live music and plenty of picnic tables to lure you from the beach.
Photo of Los 3 Cuernos taken by Lauren Sanchez
I felt Id completely left reality when I sat down for dinner.
swordfish ceviche and warm naan).
The menu changes rapidly to accommodate the freshest ingredients.
Photo: Courtesy of El Vino Crudo
Make room for dessert and ask for the purple cloud.
Fresh, locally sourced in a friendly environment.
It would rank the top restaurant on my list, said Valentin.
A view over Vieques.
All the dishes are focused on farm-to-table ingredients.
Suffice to say, its on my list for when I return.
The one-roomed jukebox dive bar specializes in exotically flavoredchichaitos,shots made with Anisette liqueur and rum.
(Try Nutella or guava.)
Its a perfect first stop for a night out in Old San Juan.
Velazquez offers upSantaellaas a way to kickstart your night of salsa dancing.
Valentin agrees: You get the deliciousness of a fine dining experience with a mix of Puerto Rican fun.
I ordered a lavender mule so pretty a couple behind me immediately requested the same.
Los Hijos de Borinquen is another cocktail with a cult following.
You may recognize the name for having glowing reviews as the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
(There are only five in existence, three of which are in Puerto Rico.)
A recommendation from Valentin, he also recommends checking out Tin Box, a BBQ and Sushi restaurant.
Definitely try the rumande: a passion fruit lemonade mixed with Puerto Rican rum.
He recommends renting a boat for the day or doing one of the many tours available to explore.
If you are into diving, La Parguera is the place to visit.
As for where to grab a bite post-dive?
So many options to try, from empanadillas to fresh oysters, but my recommendation has to beEl Turrumote.
Its traditional Puerto Rican food with freshly-cut fish.
After all, you are in a fishing area!
This restaurant is located inLa Parguera Yacht Cluband is only open from Thursday to Sunday.
Pork reigns supreme as you drive down Route 184 to find back-to-back lechonerasrestaurants specializing in slow-roasted pork.
Pasteles, morcillas, and many other delicacies are served here.
The lines are long because the food is so good, but they move along quickly, said Noida.
Playa Suciais an isolated beach protected by the towns nature reserve with a stunning lighthouse view worth the venture.
For Velazquez, she suggests packing a cooler as you take in the beautiful white sands.
Note: Theres limited parking, so check that to get a prime spot to soak up the rays.
Finish off your cultural tour with a meal atEl Negocio de Panchi.
Think bright Caribbean flavors with a homey vibe.
