If you’re looking for an amazing honeymoon destination that doesn’t require a passport, put Puerto Rico at the top of your list. Between the Caribbean, the historic architecture, and the fabulous food, PR feels miles away from home even though it’s a US commonwealth.
What to See and Where to Stay
San Juan offers some of the most beautiful Spanish colonial architecture in the Caribbean and an endless supply of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. If you’re headed to San Juan, take a look at the El San Juan Resort and Casino (866-317-8935). The glamorous lobby itself is worth a visit, and the accommodations are no less elegant --private casitas with sunken baths are just one of the deluxe options. Another plus: The gorgeous Isla Verde Beach is just outside.
There’s plenty to explore besides the beach in San Juan. Head to the partially enclosed Historic District in Old San Juan to check out the well-preserved monuments and squares as well as excellent restaurants and shopping. Get out of the city and into the beautiful waters surrounding San Juan with a snorkeling or scuba-diving trip. Caribe Aquatic Adventures (787-281-8858) offers experienced instructors who will work with all levels of divers, plus extremely small groups (often less than four divers per guide).
On the island’s west coast, the Horned Dorset Primavera Hotel (800-633-1857) in Rincon features posh surroundings in a secluded setting. The Spanish neo-colonial hotel looks onto a white sandy beach and is totally private -- there are no phones, TVs, or radios in the rooms. The hotel’s eponymous restaurant has an eclectic French-Caribbean menu with an intensely romantic setting.
Mona Island (787-722-1726) makes an excellent side trip. Known as the Galapagos of Puerto Rico, exquisite coral reefs surround the island, making it a prime spot for both scuba diving and snorkeling. In addition to a variety of tropical fish and coral, you may also spot sea turtles, dolphins, even whales -- plus some manmade treasures of the sea, including sunken Spanish galleons. On the island itself, hiking and camping are top activities; you’re likely to spot exotic animals, including giant iguanas. (The five-hour boat trip to reach the island is the only downside.)
The Best Time to Go
Puerto Rico is quite warm -- in the 70s and 80s year-round, with the highest temperatures (and most rainfall) coming in August. Weather-wise, hurricane season is the biggest issue: If you’re planning a honeymoon from June through November, this may be something you have to contend with. As a result, the high season for travel to Puerto Rico is December through April. The December holidays and the month of February tend to be the busiest for hotels -- book your accommodations well in advance. During the rest of the year, however, hotel rates drop significantly, beaches are much less crowded, and some attractions or tours may have reduced rates (although since there are fewer travelers, they may also decide to reduce service). For more general information on what’s going on in PR throughout the year, visit the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (800-866-7827).
The Best Ways to Save
Though the currency in Puerto Rico is the US dollar, you’ll definitely get more for your money in PR than you would back home. When you’re booking your accommodations, be sure to ask for as many details as possible on what the rate includes. Hotels often have different plans, ranging from the European Plan (or EP rate, which includes lodging only) to the American Plan (or AP rate, which includes all meals in addition to accommodations). Though it sounds pricier, the AP plan can often save you money --though obviously, it’s not for couples seeking a culinary adventure.
For those who want to experience a true taste of the island, another easy way to save money is to eat like a local. Puerto Rico is known for its roadside eateries and stands; even those that might look a bit seedy often boast delectable (and super-cheap) eats. It’s the perfect way to refuel on your way to (or from) the beach.
-- Kate Wood
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