By Cathleen K. Bode
Imagine catching a quick flight from Orlando and arriving in the heart and soul of the Caribbean! Puerto Rico is an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea consisting of the main island, four small islands, and hundreds of cays and islets.
After disembarking the plane I was looking for the immigration line, however, I found myself navigating to the baggage claim area and soon I was outside of the airport. Puerto Rico (Spanish for ‘rich port’; abbreviated PR), officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is a self-governing Caribbean archipelago and island organized as an unincorporated territory of the United States under the designation of commonwealth.
So, if you’re visiting from any part of the U.S., you don’t have to exchange your currency, update your cell phone plan for international service, or go through customs or immigration. An unforgettable Caribbean getaway is within easy reach—no passport required. There’s Uber and taxis right outside of the airport ready to take you to wherever you want to go.
With smiling faces and a helpful hand, I instantly felt that genuine friendliness of the Puerto Rican people. I felt good. Almost everyone speaks English even though Spanish is the dominant language.
I opted for a taxi and I was on my way to the iconic Caribe Hilton in San Juan, which is approximately 10 minutes drive from the San Juan Airport Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport.
Caribe Hilton is known as Hilton’s first international hotel and the birthplace of the Piña Colada. Located on a secluded beachfront peninsula in the heart of San Juan’s city center, this AAA Four Diamond award-winning resort celebrated its 75th anniversary! Luxury abounds with open frescos and, in the center of the grand lobby is the Caribe Bar with floor to ceiling glass windows, welcoming guests in with panoramic ocean views.
As the story goes—The piña colada was first created in1954 right here at the Caribe Hilton by bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero. So, If you like piña coladas, you should know the famous tropical drink is Puerto Rico’s national drink! This iconic drink goes beyond savoring the mix of pineapple juice, coconut cream, and rum. It’s synonymous with tropical breezes, the warm Caribbean sun and celebrating the good life with dear friends, old & new.
What’s more, this 7-acre oasis is ideally situated near cultural attractions, making it a prime location for vacationers who desire both serene beach scapes and urban excitement!
After opening its doors in 1949, the Caribe Hilton immediately attracted the rich and famous and was all the buzz! Attracting the likes of Gloria Swanson, a glamorous Hollywood star during the 1920s silent movie era. She also starred as the fading movie queen Norma Desmond in the 1950 film Sunset Boulevard. Elizabeth Taylor spent part of her first honeymoon here in 1950 with Conrad Hilton, Jr., son of Hilton Hotels’ founder, Conrad Hilton. Even President Barack Obama visited in 2011.
A stream of big names from movie greats, dignitaries, and athletes will grace the corridors of the iconic Caribe Hilton in the coming decades … Oh! If these walls could talk!
After checking-in at the breezy, open air front desk, I leisurely walked around to see what they had to offer before heading up to my room on the 19th floor of the Wave wing, which, is in the tallest tower at the resort. The Caribe Hilton has a variety of room categories to suit your taste and spread across multiple buildings. The hotel room was quite large, comfortable and well-appointed with a king bed, a large flat screen TV, marble bathroom with a walk-in shower, and a spacious balcony. Esthetically pleasing and clean. It had commanding vistas overlooking its beautiful grounds and the ocean beyond. I knew then that I have arrived on a tropical island ready to immerse myself in all its beauty.
On property, there are several fine dining restaurants to choose from. Rustica and Lola’s—two exceptional dining options located in one spot, offering something for every palate. Guests can choose Italian cuisine at La Rustica, known for its freshly prepared antipasti, seafood, and an impressive selection of pastas, paired with wines from renowned vineyards worldwide. If you’re wanting Latin flavors look no further than Lola’s, where you can enjoy traditional Puerto Rican dishes featuring classics like mofongo filled with shrimp, skirt steak, or fried pork, alongside authentic sides such as arañitas, arroz mamposteado, and fresh seafood.
Morton’s The Steakhouse—when you’re in the mood for that classic Morton’s dining experience with prime-aged beef and signature steakhouse sides with a killer martini, then this is the place for you.
Ocean Restaurant & Lounge is an ultra lounge that celebrates the culinary fusion of Spanish and Creole melanges, unique island spices and fresh farm-to-table herbs to create the ultimate foodie burlesque. A perfect place for a relaxed nightcap before heading up to your room.
Early risers—Nectar del Caribe is the spot for you! Savor a delightful breakfast buffet or à la carte options in a vibrant tropical setting. Starbucks—Yes, Starbucks fans, there is a Starbucks on property. Grab your favorite coffee and a quick bite to fuel your morning. Ice Cream & Cookies—a more local spot offering refreshing açaí bowls, smoothies, coffee, and a variety of sandwiches alongside its signature treats.
Late risers—In-Room Dining: Relax in your room with breakfast delivered right to your door.
From piña coladas to rum tastings, weddings and toasting to the bride and groom, luxury spa days and endless beach waves—this special place has it all.
The people of Puerto Rico refer to themselves as Boricuas. The word Boricua comes from Borinquen or Borikén a term derived from the indigenous Taínos who inhabited Puerto Rico for hundreds of years before the Spanish arrived in 1493. Puerto Ricans use the term Boricua as an expression of cultural and ancestral pride in their island.
Old San Juan is the oldest settlement within Puerto Rico and the historic colonial district of the city of San Juan. The architecture of Old San Juan was made in grids, which allowed cross-ventilation between its buildings and squares. So, when you walk through the cobblestoned streets, to avoid the heat you just have to walk on the shaded side of the street.
Old San Juan features colorful Spanish colonial buildings and 16th-century landmarks including El Morro and La Fortaleza, massive fortresses with sweeping ocean views, as well as the Paseo De La Princesa—the city’s most beloved and beautiful bayside promenade. Paseo De La Princesa is a 19th-century promenade that has stretched to become a reflection of the city’s center of commerce and cultural exchange. Its timeless charm has transformed into a market and a romantic and elegant pathway to enjoy day and night. You’ll also find a lovely restaurant, La Princesa Gastrobar, an authentic Puerto Rican gastronomic experience inspired by historic cookbooks from 1859-1950 and cherished family recipes.
There is so much to see and enjoy in San Juan—the people are so warm, the culture so hospitable, and the food is oh so good! There are many local cafes that cater to the growing movement of coffee aficionados, and, at night the music fills the air with a blend of instruments, sounds and cultures. The music in Puerto Rico has hints of Caribbean, African, Spanish and Taíno influence. From salsa and merengue to plena and reggaetón, you’ll find it has a style of its own, one that’s as lively and unique as the island itself. So, go ahead and immerse yourself to the vibrant atmosphere of Calle San Sebastián, mingling and dancing with the locals, and stopping by iconic spots like La Factoria, The Cannon Club at Gallery Inn, and El Batey Bar.
You may even see Bad Bunny performed an impromptu concert like he did for fans from the rooftop of a gas station in San Juan!
I leave this beautiful island with a newfound respect of Puerto Rico’s complex history and depart with deep appreciation of its resilient people.
CaribeHilton.com
