Traveling can be as elaborate as you wish it to be. It doesn’t always have to be overseas or miles and miles away from home. I would keep activities, food and culture that you enjoy or are interested in experiencing in mind when deciding where you’d like to travel to. This would help you make the most of your trip. As someone who has yet to travel many places on my own personal bucket list, I would recommend starting with a nearby option. There are many things to prepare for and plan when traveling. My personal recommendation would be visiting El Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Why Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico?
When considering flight time, traveling to Puerto Rico is only about a three hour plane ride. This would be roughly the equivalent to driving from New York City to the beginning of Pennsylvania! Something to keep in mind is that Viejo San Juan is a residential district so as a tourist, one must respect those who reside there. I was able to stay at an air bnb that had a view of the ocean and one of San Juan’s historic sights. The San Cristobal fortresses were walking distance from where I was staying and I suggest wearing comfortable footwear. There’s a lot of steep hills and walking to be done! The beaches in Puerto Rico are beautiful. They are kept clean and depending on which beach you visit, it can offer calm waters or wild waves. It is always very hot and it rains unexpectedly almost every day.
Although Viejo San Juan is a residential district, it still offers a lively environment. Music like salsa and merengue are always playing. Some food I’d recommend is mofongo, coconut pudding, flan and arroz con guandules (rice with pigeon peas) and meat of your choice. Traveling is a great way to escape everyday stressors. It is a great way to let your mind and body relax, get exercise through walking, dancing, swimming, sight-seeing and a great way to learn about history and culture outside of your own. What are some places you wish to travel to? I would like to visit the Grand Canyon next!