Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island and unincorporated U.S. territory with a landscape of mountains, waterfalls and the El Yunque tropical rainforest. It’s a place where the Old World is mashed up with the new offering rich history and culture, exceptional food, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, relaxation, adventure and is now a major hub worldwide for crypto.
I spent a couple days there and fell in love with the island and all it has to offer. Check out my itinerary below.
Day 1: Culebra island
The sun was shining, perfect for a day of sun & fun in Culebra, one of the major islands in Puerto Rico’s archipelago and an 1.5h ferry-ride away. Acclaimed for its white-sand beaches and active reef, it’s a perfect place to unwind for the day, being almost uninhabited. I grabbed lunch at Zaco’s Tacos near the bay and headed to the beach. I was very set on the beach I was going to, consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world: Flamenco Beach. This place is seriously incredible. I’ve been to many beaches before but never one as paradisiac and empty. It’s basically your own little private beach!
I got back to the mainland just in time for dinner and went to Pio Pio, a highly recommended Champagne Bar in Old San Juan where they serve unique wines, cocktails and tasty bites. Out of all the dishes we tried, don’t miss the tartare and the puff pastry wellington, delish. I ended my night with a little dancing session and drinks at La Factoria!
Day 2: Old San Juan
The next day I went to Kasalta for brunch. This place is popularly known for its traditional bakery and sandwiches. Come with an empty stomach for this and prepare to wait in line! I tried the ham and cheese Mallorca, which is basically a brioche sandwich dusted with powdered sugar, some oatmeal and a Quesito: a sweet and savory cheese pastry. Everything was very good and very filling.
I then spent the rest of my day in Old San Juan doing a food tour. I hadn’t been able to see the old town during the day and it was even more beautiful than I had imagined: beautiful squares, colorful buildings, quirky shops and many delicious-looking spots to eat. On the tour I got to taste some of Puerto Rico’s most popular dishes such as the Cubano sandwich, chicken Mofongo, Piña Colada, and rice with pork and beans. I loved that all the dishes were farm-to-table and you could definitely taste the love!
Day 3: Condado
On my last day I stayed close to the Condado area, and headed over to Arya Rooftop for a brunch with a view. It’s located within the O:LV Hotel and has star-Chef Mario Pagán in charge of the menu. I enjoyed a very delicious brunch while enjoying the skyline. I spent the rest of my day roaming around the streets of Condado until mid-afternoon when I decided to drop by Alcapurria Quemá in La Placita de Santurce, to try this famous puerto rican fritter dish. It was filling but boy was it GOOD.
To put the cherry on top of a fabulous trip, I had dinner in highly anticipated Santaella, by acclaimed Chef Jose Santaella. The dinner was out of this world. Every dish was phenomenal but if I have to recommend something, it’s the raw tuna skewers and the seabass: 10/10!
Puerto Rico gave me exquisite food boasting flavor and culture, a beautiful old town to wander around for hours and stunning clear blue water beaches. I’d go back in a heartbeat! Find my Puerto Rico Guide on the Andiago app and follow on Instagram to stay updated about my future trips!
