For those who yearn for tropical exoticism blended with a lively Latin culture, look no further than Puerto Rico. The big plus: U.S. citizens and permanent residents don’t even need a passport or visa to travel here, as the island is a U.S. territory. If traveling from the United States, all you need is a valid ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID card. It also means English is widely spoken. However, because of Spanish colonization and heritage, Spanish remains predominant.
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PHOTO: © STOCKPHOTOFAN1 | DREAMSTIME.COM
The island of Puerto Rico brims with sandy beaches, green- carpeted mountains, lush forests, and a plethora of fresh-water rivers and saltwater activities, making it a natural draw for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Combine this with a rich Hispanic history and culture, along with amazing international cuisine, and you have a scintillating island with a magnetic draw that at once provides a haven, sanctuary and retreat. As a result, many know it as a destination that can nurture the body, mind and soul.
Start your island wellness immersion at La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort. Located in the Condado district, the resort conveniently lies just steps from the ocean, strategically situated so one can enjoy resort amenities as well as numerous international restaurants within easy walking distance in town.
Ask about the resort’s water-based classes designed to improve joint movement and muscle flexibility, with each session followed by a warm soak in one of the Jacuzzis. Class instructors will guide you down the path of relaxation while helping you learn how to let go of built-up tension and anxiety.
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PHOTO: © CASA ALTERNAVIDA
Next, check out Casa Alternavida Wellness Experience by checking in to this inclusive health and wellness resort. This boutique center curates unique experiences designed for transformational change. The staff ’s highly trained specialists focus on helping individuals, families, groups and businesses realize their true potential. The all-inclusive resort also works with local farmers, chefs and wellness practitioners to deliver a comprehensive approach to wellness. By incorporating restorative nature-based adventure and organic cuisine, it focuses on integrating health and wellness for the whole person.
From guided forest therapy to group coaching in mindfulness practices and stress-reduction tools, Casa Alternavida will change your perspective. Its program also includes plenty of nature-based and water activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking. Easily one of my favorites, the resort had me with the restorative yoga and massage class.
Finally, save a day to travel northeast on the island to Isabela for a horseback riding adventure into the forest and surf. Riding in the surf is truly magical for the soul and must be experienced to be believed. Tropical Trail Rides offers two rides daily, seven days a week … providing one of my best memories ever.
LODGING
Casa Alternavida
An all-inclusive boutique wellness retreat located near San Juan, this unique place offers nature-based self-care; balanced lifestyle; and wellbeing for individuals, families, groups and corporations. Only 30 minutes from San Juan International Airport.
PR 968 Km 0.87, Río Grande, Puerto Rico
$$$–$$$$
La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
This iconic, beachfront resort in Condado is known as a luxurious staple for getaways that focus on relaxation, rejuvenation and recreation. The complex sits only steps from famous Condado Beach, or enjoy one of its three outdoor pools.
1077 Ashford Ave., San Juan, Puerto Rico
$$$$–$$$$$
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Tops for opulent luxury with seclusion, this 50-acre private hideaway located west of San Juan offers suites and private residences with a golf course, beachfront and private pools, gourmet restaurants and a spa — a AAA Five Diamond hotel and the Caribbean’s only Forbes Five-Star Hotel and Spa award winner.
100 Dorado Beach Drive, Dorado, Puerto Rico
$$$$$
DINING
1919 Restaurant
Settle in at the flagship restaurant at the new Condado Vanderbilt Hotel and savor small plates with ocean views by Michelin-rated chef Juan José Cuevas, known for pairing social consciousness with exquisite taste and focus on detail.
1055 Ashford Ave., San Juan, Puerto Rico
$$$–$$$$
Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar
For a fusion dining experience in Old San Juan, this place features contemporary and local cuisine with a French flavor, plus options for vegetarians and vegans. Consistently wins awards for cuisine.
317 Calle de la Fortaleza, San Juan, Puerto Rico
$$$–$$$$$
SUR Barra Nikkei
SUR presents a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine, from ingredients to cooking techniques. Self- taught chef Rafael Ubior Serrati shares his dishes and draws upon his experience while living in Peru.
411 Calle del Parque, San Juan, Puerto Rico
$$$–$$$$
INFO TO GO
Since San Juan is the leading gateway to the Eastern Caribbean, most international travelers arrive at San Juan International Airport, the largest and most accessible of the three airports on the island. A combination of 1,300 weekly non-stop flights and about 1,000 direct flights fly from cities such as New York (JFK or LGA); Boston (BOS); Orlando (MCO); Philadelphia (PHL); Hartford (BDL); Dallas (DFW); Houston (IAH and HOU); Baltimore (BWI); Washington, D.C. (IAD and DCA); and Chicago (ORD and MDW). Airlines with direct flights include Frontier Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue and Spirit Airlines, among others.
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