| Many believe San Juan is just a small Spanish
colonial town with a couple of bustling avenues--an impression that is far
from true. Modern-day San Juan encompasses a vast area spanning some seven
different and distinct districts. This makes for a mixed bag which is part
of the wonder and joy of visiting San Juan.
Old San Juan/Puerta de Tierra
This traditional, colonial, Spanish, walled city is the actual seat of the
island's bicameral government. It houses La Fortaleza, home of the
Governor and El Capitolio, the seat of the House of representatives and
the Senate, located in nearby Puerta de Tierra. Both of these areas have
one thing in common, they are physically on the islet of San Juan and
connected to the mainland via several bridges. Old San Juan itself
consists of narrow streets encompassing over four hundred years in history
and tradition. Dine in one of the great establishments on Fortaleza
Street, party in San Sebastián until dawn or simply stroll along the
charming streets. A famous tradition is to people-watch from one of
several plazas that grace the area. There is something for everyone, young
and old, in Old San Juan. A "must-see" is the huge Spanish fort
built on the north side of the islet. Puerta de Tierra housse hotels like
the famous Caribe Hilton and the Radisson Normandie. Apart from that, the
area is not very touristy. Nevertheless, renovations are making this once
decrepit area an acceptable place.
Condado
El Condado, as locals say, is the island's most glamorous district,
featuring boutiques, fine restaurants and some of the finest hotels in
town. Contrary to popular belief, many people do reside here in exquisite
turn-of-the-century mansions. You'll notice the crowd to be a balance
between tourists and locals and, if you're a savvy jogger, you'll love it.
This district spans from the Condado Plaza in the west to the Ocean Park
area in the east.
Isla Verde
Isla Verde is the home of high-rise apartment buildings, huge clubs and
luxurious hotels. This area is actually part of the municipality of
Carolina, connected to San Juan via several highways and streets. It spans
from the Punta Las Marías area (adjacent to Ocean Park) to the area just
beyond the International Airport. Isla Verde hosts world-class hotels like
the Ritz-Carlton and El San Juan and its nightlife is certainly something
to write home about. It also houses the enormous balneario, or public
beach, where locals and guests come to tan their hides and get their fill
of people-watching.
Hato Rey
Hato Rey, some miles apart from Old San Juan (but easily accessed), is the
island's main business district. This is the district where local wheelers
and dealers conduct their business. Thus, its restaurant scene is much
more business oriented that anywhere else. The district also has a
residential area, Roosevelt Avenue, just off Highway 52. Roosevelt is one
of the most famous spots for nightlife in San Juan. Plaza Las Américas,
the Caribbean's biggest mall, is also located here.
Santurce/Miramar
Both districts are located just off Condado and Old San Juan, but north of
Hato Rey. Santurce was at once an upper-class neighborhood and
entertainment. Today, see office buildings and abandoned structures with a
small but very good marketplace (Plaza del Mercado). A huge effort from
the City Hall is being conducted to restore the sector's vitality. Miramar
is an up-and-coming area of apartment buildings, restored houses and even
some hotels.
Río Piedras
This district is known as the University City because it houses the
University of Puerto Rico. Visiting Río Piedras can be very exciting for
the tourist who wants to know the real Puerto Rico, first-hand. The
district has a traditional Plaza del Mercado and a very hometown
atmosphere.
Guaynabo
This is the main upscale suburb of San Juan. Guaynabo is home to several
of the island's most prosperous residents. It is full of boutique malls
offering fine accessories, jewelry and such. The houses here are simply
colossal. |