XM3 Challenge - San Juan, Puerto Rico

RCCL Grandeur of the Seas - San Juan

     May 15 is fast approaching, and Zija distributors will be gathering to board the Serenade of the Seas in San Juan, Puerto Rico.  When we were last in San Juan, Nov 2009, we were surprised at the heat and humidity, but found many wonders in this beautiful Territory of the United States.  From a world renouned Bioluminescent Bay to Rain forests at El Yunque, Cock fights to shopping.  There is definitely something for everyone here in the north east end of the Caribbean Sea.

     When you arrive at the airport, getting to old San Juan is easy as getting a cab.  For $19 (Plus Tip), you can fill up the taxi and have them take you to the Pan American Pier, where you can drop off your luggage to be loaded on the ship.  The ship won't start boarding until 2pm.  If you arrive well before that, either take a long stroll  (About 1 1/2 miles) around the bay to Old San Juan, or take a taxi over to that side.  Near old pier 4, you can pick up one of the free trolley's that will take you on a certain route around Old San Juan.

     Here are some other things you can do and see around Old San Juan:



Citadel on the Fort Wall

 El Morro (Castillo San Felipe del Morro) is a U.S. National Historic Site, managed by the US Park Service, and easily accessible from the port area in Old San Juan.  Open everyday from 9am to 6pm, you will have time to see this historic site, but you may wish you had more time.


I love to try the local cuisine.  Puerto Rico has hosted a few of the favorite Travel Channel types, like Andrew Zimmern (Bizarre Foods) and Adam Richman (Man vs. Food).  But I am not a 5 star restaurant guy.  I like the smaller less well known places.  I recently found out about a place located on Calle Sol, from a blogger who always goes there when he is in San Juan.  So for lunch on Sunday, you'll find me at El Jibarito, 280 Calle Sol.



Raices Fountain

      For me, I had to take a stroll along Paseo de la Princesa.  Here you will find a piece of art work that celebrates the diversity of Puerto Rico, The Raíces Fountain of Old San Juan.  The fountain was not on when we were there, but I look forward to seeing and feeling the cool water spray.  Nearby, you can walk to the Gate of Old San Juan or visit the outdoor shopping area.  If you are feeling energetic or have lots of time, you can follow the Paseo all the way to El Morro.



     The architecture here is historical, just like many of the statues and monuments.  You will enjoy the beauty of it all.  The ship leaves at 8:30.  Make sure you are on board no later than 7pm.  There will be plenty of fun before and during the sail away party.

We Are Here For You