Puerto Rico Vacations - Anyone got advice?

Dr. Zaius · 04-09-2009, 01:45 PM

I'm taking a vacation to Puerto Rico. I'm looking for suggestions on the best things to do while there, the best places to eat, to stay, all that... lay it on me!!!

Right now we are thinking about staying in San Juan at a resort hotel, on the beach. This gives us access to most if not all the resources to do the diverse outings that have been suggested, like cave exploring, rain forest, Old San Juan, snorkeling, etc.

Is there a better way to "do" PR?

Thanks.

---

Mods - I know I already have the Aruba thread open, but I am getting NO feedback on PR. IF you merge them, please keep the Puerto Rico title... please!

Bmiggsey · 04-09-2009, 01:48 PM

[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081192]I'm taking a vacation to Puerto Rico. I'm looking for suggestions on the best things to do while there, the best places to eat, to stay, all that... lay it on me!!!

Right now we are thinking about staying in San Juan at a resort hotel, on the beach. This gives us access to most if not all the resources to do the diverse outings that have been suggested, like cave exploring, rain forest, Old San Juan, snorkeling, etc.

Is there a better way to "do" PR?

Thanks.

---

Mods - I know I already have the Aruba thread open, but I am getting NO feedback on PR. IF you merge them, please keep the Puerto Rico title... please![/QUOTE]

Check ou the caribe hilton or El convento hotel.

Dr. Zaius · 04-09-2009, 01:51 PM

[QUOTE=Bmiggsey;3081195]Check ou the caribe hilton or El convento hotel.[/QUOTE]

I looked at El Convento, it looks awesome, but I can't tell if its on a beach or not - have you stayed there?

I'll check out the Caribe Hilton. Right now we are looking at the San Juan Marriott, and the InterContinental.

Part of me wants to get a smaller, more private villa... my girlfriend wants the big, giant resort (mostly cause they are right on the beach).

OurOwnerIsARealWoody · 04-09-2009, 02:01 PM

El Conquistador! (See other thread of yours for more info)

Broadway Joe · 04-09-2009, 02:59 PM

[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081200]...Right now we are looking at the San Juan Marriott...[/QUOTE]

I've been to this Hotel a couple of times.

The Casino is rockin - Free Breakfast was included in out stays - It's on the beach and there is a nice pool. A quick google search turned up that it was remodeled - our last trip was 3 years ago so I think I was there before the remodel.

Jet Blue direct out of NY to San Juan into a cab to your hotel room and your in paradise in 4 hours. :yes:

Although our next trip we're planning on staying near the old town area.

Mike D · 04-09-2009, 03:03 PM

Check out the Paradisus resort, all inclusive.

Very nice. And you can go around the whole Island by bus to tour etc. It is right near one of the rain forests, El Junque (might be spelled wrong). I went for four days and it was amazing.

ZachS · 04-09-2009, 03:03 PM

I used cheapcarribean.com about a week ago and got a 5 day 4 night at the San Juan Mariott and Stelaris casino for $550 a person. I highly recommend that site!

Mike D · 04-09-2009, 03:03 PM

Here is a link, apparently they changed names.

[url]http://www.gran-melia-puerto-rico.com/en/[/url]

southparkcpa · 04-09-2009, 03:18 PM

[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081192]I'm taking a vacation to Puerto Rico. I'm looking for suggestions on the best things to do while there, the best places to eat, to stay, all that... lay it on me!!!

Right now we are thinking about staying in San Juan at a resort hotel, on the beach. This gives us access to most if not all the resources to do the diverse outings that have been suggested, like cave exploring, rain forest, Old San Juan, snorkeling, etc.

Is there a better way to "do" PR?

Thanks.

---

Mods - I know I already have the Aruba thread open, but I am getting NO feedback on PR. IF you merge them, please keep the Puerto Rico title... please![/QUOTE]

I grew up in Brentwood, LI, isn't that the same thing?:D

Just a joke, relax.

Dr. Zaius · 04-09-2009, 03:51 PM

[QUOTE=southparkcpa;3081347]I grew up in Brentwood, LI, isn't that the same thing?:D

Just a joke, relax.[/QUOTE]

LOL - You won't offend me, everyone knows there are more Puerto Ricans in NY than in PR!!!

SUJets1988 · 04-09-2009, 05:08 PM

From what I remember, Old San Juan was really just shopping and 'culture,' so I hated it as a kid (still would now). The lady will probably be intrigued.

We did the rainforest too, that was really cool I remember. If you're into the nature stuff, that would be a fun day. I don't remember seeing a lot of animals, mainly birds and bugs, but there are some really great views. The one we went to was up on a mountain, no idea where though.

2milehighJet · 04-09-2009, 06:02 PM

Ive been to a surf town called Rincon. About 2 hours from San Jaun. Amazing surfing and cool little beach side watering holes. I flew into San Juan and rented a car, when I returned to the airport only had a little time to spend in Old San Jaun, wish i had more time there.

jr17892 · 04-09-2009, 07:38 PM

[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081200]I looked at El Convento, it looks awesome, but I can't tell if its on a beach or not - have you stayed there?

I'll check out the Caribe Hilton. Right now we are looking at the San Juan Marriott, and the InterContinental.

Part of me wants to get a smaller, more private villa... my girlfriend wants the big, giant resort (mostly cause they are right on the beach).[/QUOTE]

I have stayed at the El Convento. It is a really nice hotel and is located in Old San Juan. Its not near the beach, so if that's what you are looking for, I don't recommend it. Also, because its in Old San Juan, the streets are very narrow and make driving and parking very difficult if you plan to rent a car. It also makes it a bit of a pain if you plan to catch a cab into San Juan for dinner and such. Allow extra time for traffic.

nvajet99 · 04-09-2009, 08:33 PM

spent 3 nights at El Convento, 2 nights at SJ Marriott and a week in Rincon for a wedding, all in one trip. Proper San Juan blows, my opinion, old San Juan is great, could have spent a week there, the restaurants are great but it does have the rodeo drive feel. Driving from the airport into old San Juan our cab was nailed by rocks the whole way by punks.

The SJ Marriot we booked because we wanted a few easy nights near the airport before going home, the place is okay, but expensive and the casino is real small, head out to the gigantic lobby bar and the prices are ridiculous, the beach is nice, some decent restaurants, but you can tell the MO is cheap room rate and make up for it on people spending momey there....

El Convento is a GREAT place, cool atmosphere, place is hollow, bats everwhere, it is an old Woolworth family mansion worth checking out, also whenever the Food Network is in PR, they are usually in old SJ..

Jetsrush · 04-10-2009, 03:58 PM

[QUOTE=SUJets1988;3081492]From what I remember, Old San Juan was really just shopping and 'culture,' so I hated it as a kid (still would now). The lady will probably be intrigued.

We did the rainforest too, that was really cool I remember. If you're into the nature stuff, that would be a fun day. I don't remember seeing a lot of animals, mainly birds and bugs, but there are some really great views. The one we went to was up on a mountain, no idea where though.[/QUOTE]

El Junque

thebigragu · 04-10-2009, 04:31 PM

If I want to get mugged beaten and stabbed i go above 128 street in harlem. Cheaper and lets be honest more bang bang for your buck...lmao

SUJets1988 · 04-10-2009, 05:43 PM

[QUOTE=Jetsrush;3082682]El Junque[/QUOTE]
I thought you were calling my post junk, but I googled it and the rainforest is El Yunque.

[IMG]http://juventudibp.files.wordpress.com/2006/12/1385931-la_coca_falls_at_el_yunque-puerto_rico.jpg[/IMG]

Dcat · 04-10-2009, 05:50 PM

The Rain Forest is great. Also, I forgot the name of the town/beach all the way on the NW side, but we went horseback riding on the beach there and it was a great deal of fun. Finally, there are the caverns which are a must-visit. Completely amazing.

jzelada121 · 04-10-2009, 06:02 PM

I lived in PR for 8 years. El Convento hotel is nice, but its nowhere near the beach, its in old San Juan. If you are staying in old San Juan check out a hotel called Gallery Inn, its an old colonial house converted to a hotel. Its a pretty cool place, if you are going with your girl get the honeymoon suite. The rooms are not huge or anything, but the suite has a hot tub in the roof. Its a pretty nice view.
You should check out a town called Parguera (snapper), its a pretty cool fishing town. Very laid back, good food and drinks all over the place. You can get good seafood, really cheap. Try not to stay too late after dark.

04-09-2009, 01:45 PM	#1
Dr. Zaius thinking realistically unrealistic thoughts. Banned Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Enemy Territory Posts: 6,522	Puerto Rico Vacations - Anyone got advice? I'm taking a vacation to Puerto Rico. I'm looking for suggestions on the best things to do while there, the best places to eat, to stay, all that... lay it on me!!! Right now we are thinking about staying in San Juan at a resort hotel, on the beach. This gives us access to most if not all the resources to do the diverse outings that have been suggested, like cave exploring, rain forest, Old San Juan, snorkeling, etc. Is there a better way to "do" PR? Thanks. --- Mods - I know I already have the Aruba thread open, but I am getting NO feedback on PR. IF you merge them, please keep the Puerto Rico title... please!

04-09-2009, 07:38 PM	#13
jr17892 tired of the hype. Let's just f'n play already. All League Join Date: Mar 2006 Posts: 850	[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081200]I looked at El Convento, it looks awesome, but I can't tell if its on a beach or not - have you stayed there? I'll check out the Caribe Hilton. Right now we are looking at the San Juan Marriott, and the InterContinental. Part of me wants to get a smaller, more private villa... my girlfriend wants the big, giant resort (mostly cause they are right on the beach).[/QUOTE] I have stayed at the El Convento. It is a really nice hotel and is located in Old San Juan. Its not near the beach, so if that's what you are looking for, I don't recommend it. Also, because its in Old San Juan, the streets are very narrow and make driving and parking very difficult if you plan to rent a car. It also makes it a bit of a pain if you plan to catch a cab into San Juan for dinner and such. Allow extra time for traffic. Last edited by jr17892; 04-09-2009 at 07:42 PM.

04-09-2009, 01:48 PM	#2
Bmiggsey All League Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Hoboken Posts: 692	[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081192]I'm taking a vacation to Puerto Rico. I'm looking for suggestions on the best things to do while there, the best places to eat, to stay, all that... lay it on me!!! Right now we are thinking about staying in San Juan at a resort hotel, on the beach. This gives us access to most if not all the resources to do the diverse outings that have been suggested, like cave exploring, rain forest, Old San Juan, snorkeling, etc. Is there a better way to "do" PR? Thanks. --- Mods - I know I already have the Aruba thread open, but I am getting NO feedback on PR. IF you merge them, please keep the Puerto Rico title... please![/QUOTE] Check ou the caribe hilton or El convento hotel.

04-09-2009, 01:51 PM	#3
Dr. Zaius thinking realistically unrealistic thoughts. Banned Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Enemy Territory Posts: 6,522	[QUOTE=Bmiggsey;3081195]Check ou the caribe hilton or El convento hotel.[/QUOTE] I looked at El Convento, it looks awesome, but I can't tell if its on a beach or not - have you stayed there? I'll check out the Caribe Hilton. Right now we are looking at the San Juan Marriott, and the InterContinental. Part of me wants to get a smaller, more private villa... my girlfriend wants the big, giant resort (mostly cause they are right on the beach).

04-09-2009, 02:01 PM	#4
OurOwnerIsARealWoody Undrafted Free Agent Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 34	El Conquistador! (See other thread of yours for more info)

04-09-2009, 02:59 PM	#5
Broadway Joe is busy photographing the Jets Jets Insider VIP Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 848	[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081200]...Right now we are looking at the San Juan Marriott...[/QUOTE] I've been to this Hotel a couple of times. The Casino is rockin - Free Breakfast was included in out stays - It's on the beach and there is a nice pool. A quick google search turned up that it was remodeled - our last trip was 3 years ago so I think I was there before the remodel. Jet Blue direct out of NY to San Juan into a cab to your hotel room and your in paradise in 4 hours. :yes: Although our next trip we're planning on staying near the old town area.

04-09-2009, 03:03 PM	#6
Mike D 2-14 here we come!! And I couldn't be happier about it!! All Pro Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Sunrise, FL Posts: 9,915	Check out the Paradisus resort, all inclusive. Very nice. And you can go around the whole Island by bus to tour etc. It is right near one of the rain forests, El Junque (might be spelled wrong). I went for four days and it was amazing.

04-09-2009, 03:03 PM	#7
ZachS Practice Squad Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 296	I used cheapcarribean.com about a week ago and got a 5 day 4 night at the San Juan Mariott and Stelaris casino for $550 a person. I highly recommend that site!

04-09-2009, 03:18 PM	#9
southparkcpa I see the 88 to 97 period all over again. Jets Insider VIP Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: NC Posts: 15,923	[QUOTE=Integrity28;3081192]I'm taking a vacation to Puerto Rico. I'm looking for suggestions on the best things to do while there, the best places to eat, to stay, all that... lay it on me!!! Right now we are thinking about staying in San Juan at a resort hotel, on the beach. This gives us access to most if not all the resources to do the diverse outings that have been suggested, like cave exploring, rain forest, Old San Juan, snorkeling, etc. Is there a better way to "do" PR? Thanks. --- Mods - I know I already have the Aruba thread open, but I am getting NO feedback on PR. IF you merge them, please keep the Puerto Rico title... please![/QUOTE] I grew up in Brentwood, LI, isn't that the same thing?:D Just a joke, relax.

04-09-2009, 03:51 PM	#10
Dr. Zaius thinking realistically unrealistic thoughts. Banned Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Enemy Territory Posts: 6,522	[QUOTE=southparkcpa;3081347]I grew up in Brentwood, LI, isn't that the same thing?:D Just a joke, relax.[/QUOTE] LOL - You won't offend me, everyone knows there are more Puerto Ricans in NY than in PR!!!

04-09-2009, 05:08 PM	#11
SUJets1988 Hall Of Fame Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: NYC Posts: 5,842	From what I remember, Old San Juan was really just shopping and 'culture,' so I hated it as a kid (still would now). The lady will probably be intrigued. We did the rainforest too, that was really cool I remember. If you're into the nature stuff, that would be a fun day. I don't remember seeing a lot of animals, mainly birds and bugs, but there are some really great views. The one we went to was up on a mountain, no idea where though.

04-09-2009, 06:02 PM	#12
2milehighJet is not that high All League Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Breckenridge, CO Posts: 3,188	Ive been to a surf town called Rincon. About 2 hours from San Jaun. Amazing surfing and cool little beach side watering holes. I flew into San Juan and rented a car, when I returned to the airport only had a little time to spend in Old San Jaun, wish i had more time there.

04-09-2009, 08:33 PM	#14
nvajet99 Undrafted Free Agent Join Date: Mar 2004 Posts: 153	spent 3 nights at El Convento, 2 nights at SJ Marriott and a week in Rincon for a wedding, all in one trip. Proper San Juan blows, my opinion, old San Juan is great, could have spent a week there, the restaurants are great but it does have the rodeo drive feel. Driving from the airport into old San Juan our cab was nailed by rocks the whole way by punks. The SJ Marriot we booked because we wanted a few easy nights near the airport before going home, the place is okay, but expensive and the casino is real small, head out to the gigantic lobby bar and the prices are ridiculous, the beach is nice, some decent restaurants, but you can tell the MO is cheap room rate and make up for it on people spending momey there.... El Convento is a GREAT place, cool atmosphere, place is hollow, bats everwhere, it is an old Woolworth family mansion worth checking out, also whenever the Food Network is in PR, they are usually in old SJ..

04-10-2009, 03:58 PM	#15
Jetsrush Drunk All League Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Dump, Staten Island Posts: 2,771	[QUOTE=SUJets1988;3081492]From what I remember, Old San Juan was really just shopping and 'culture,' so I hated it as a kid (still would now). The lady will probably be intrigued. We did the rainforest too, that was really cool I remember. If you're into the nature stuff, that would be a fun day. I don't remember seeing a lot of animals, mainly birds and bugs, but there are some really great views. The one we went to was up on a mountain, no idea where though.[/QUOTE] El Junque

04-10-2009, 04:31 PM	#16
thebigragu Downright Brilliant All Pro Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Staten Island Posts: 7,870	If I want to get mugged beaten and stabbed i go above 128 street in harlem. Cheaper and lets be honest more bang bang for your buck...lmao

04-10-2009, 05:43 PM	#17
SUJets1988 Hall Of Fame Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: NYC Posts: 5,842	[QUOTE=Jetsrush;3082682]El Junque[/QUOTE] I thought you were calling my post junk, but I googled it and the rainforest is El Yunque. [IMG]http://juventudibp.files.wordpress.com/2006/12/1385931-la_coca_falls_at_el_yunque-puerto_rico.jpg[/IMG]

04-10-2009, 05:50 PM	#18
Dcat Out here we is stoned immaculate Jets Insider VIP Join Date: Feb 2006 Posts: 8,183	The Rain Forest is great. Also, I forgot the name of the town/beach all the way on the NW side, but we went horseback riding on the beach there and it was a great deal of fun. Finally, there are the caverns which are a must-visit. Completely amazing.

04-10-2009, 06:02 PM	#19
jzelada121 We need more DL!!! All League Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: California Posts: 3,153	I lived in PR for 8 years. El Convento hotel is nice, but its nowhere near the beach, its in old San Juan. If you are staying in old San Juan check out a hotel called Gallery Inn, its an old colonial house converted to a hotel. Its a pretty cool place, if you are going with your girl get the honeymoon suite. The rooms are not huge or anything, but the suite has a hot tub in the roof. Its a pretty nice view. You should check out a town called Parguera (snapper), its a pretty cool fishing town. Very laid back, good food and drinks all over the place. You can get good seafood, really cheap. Try not to stay too late after dark.