San Juan, Puerto Rico

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When you think of a phenomenal trip/vacation, what do you think of? Fine dining, beaches, shopping, laying poolside, luxury hotel rooms, sightseeing, etc.? Well I'd like to tell you about a phenomenal vacation I enjoyed with my family to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

 

The Condado Plaza Hilton, where we stayed, an upscale beach front resort property with 4 pools, 5 restaurants and a fitness center located near the city center. It was close to shopping, museums, historic landmarks, recreational venues, public transportation and the airport to say the least. We stayed in the Presidential Suite on the 10th floor. In addition, the hotel lobby as well as each individual floor had a warm, well lit, colorful and enchanting feeling. Each room in the suite had its own unique theme that mimicked the lobby and floors.
   

We dined at several different places but two restaurants that stood out to me were Pikayo and Ropa Vieja. Pikayo, an upscale eatery, was unique because they craft creative Puerto Rican fusion of dishes. The service as well as the food were outstanding. Ropa Vieja, Spanish for "old clothes" was cozy and romantic. The staff was great and the food excellent.

 

We trekked through the El Yunque Rainforest. This breathtaking journey allowed us to take in the beauty of exotic rainbow colored flowers, the chattering of tropical birds and enamoring waterfalls. Moreover, toured the world's largest rum distillery "The Bacardi Factory". We had the pleasure of acting as mixologists and were able to create 3 signature drinks, which were the Bacardi Mojito, Bacardi Pina Colada and the Bacardi Cuba Libre. We witnessed how these alcoholic beverages were distilled, housed and transported.

 

There were a variety of bars and nightclubs to choose from. We partied at a popular nightclub called The Hollywood Club. The Hollywood Club offered some of the hottest DJ's and an array of dance floors. The Rumba, a salsa club, was a vibrant place. Our ears truly enjoyed the Afro-Cuban bands. We ended our night partying away at Club Brava. Club Brava was one of the hotel lobby bars with live music and silver, gold and blue bars. It was a sight to see. We danced our shoes off - literally.

 

Just when we thought our vacation couldn't get any better we discovered "Old San Juan". Old San Juan was magical. It had an abundance of unforgettable landmarks, memorable shops and significant architecture. It had the most amazing feel to it unlike anything I've ever experienced.

 

Out of all of these wonderful events and places we experienced there was one common denominator and that was family. Everyplace we dined partied, toured, etc. the one thing that made it feel phenomenal was being with Family. So, if you were to ask me what I think of when going on a phenomenal vacation my answer will always be Family!