Caribe Hilton is a beautiful blend of historical charm and modern sophistication.
Stepping into San Juan, Puerto Rico, felt like stepping into a Caribbean dream come true. The first introduction to this paradise was the renowned Caribe Hilton, a beautiful blend of historical charm and modern sophistication. Originating in 1949 as the pioneer Hilton located outside the mainland United States, this stunning mega-resort is tucked away on a private peninsula with breathtaking views of the ocean and a private beach. It's a remarkable fusion of the old and the new, boasting spacious oceanfront pools, a variety of dining venues, lush tropical landscapes, a top-notch fitness center, and a vibrant bar alive with music. The majority of the rooms had private balconies with stunning ocean views and free Wi-Fi was accessible throughout the resort. Caribe Hilton was even the birthplace of the famous Pina Colada cocktail.
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One of the unique experiences offered was the Sea Trek Helmet Diving Tour. Wearing the helmet, I felt like an underwater astronaut, ready to uncover the secrets hidden beneath the cerulean waves. As I slowly descended from the shore into the marine abyss, I was overtaken by a rush of excitement. This underwater universe, usually concealed from us, was teeming with life and filled with countless mysteries.

The beauty of the Sea Trek was its universal accessibility – anyone over eight years old and above 80 pounds could join in, making it an excellent activity for families. The collective discovery and adventure brought us closer together as we admired the lively underwater life, the multicolored corals, and playful schools of fish. It was more than just an adventure; it was a learning experience, offering insights into the underwater world and its many inhabitants.

The Sea Trek started right from the hotel's beach, eliminating the need for a boat trip and allowing for an effortless transition from land to underwater exploration. The package included essentials like towels and a bottle of water, and use of the resort's amenities such as showers and changing rooms. It was a hassle-free, all-inclusive underwater expedition.

The Sea Trek Helmet Diving Tour was much more than just an activity. It was an engrossing journey into the fascinating world beneath the waves, a key highlight of my Puerto Rican escapade.

Following my underwater exploits, I embarked on a gastronomic exploration with Flavors of San Juan Food Tours. My journey began at Café Cuatro Sombras, where I relished a Cortadito, an intense espresso tempered with a dash of milk. Its robust flavor lingered on my taste buds, perfectly complemented by a croissant stuffed with black forest ham and Havarti cheese, sweetened with a hint of guava butter.

Next stop was Sr Paleta, where I cooled down with a tropical Parcha (passion fruit) popsicle. This frosty treat was a sweet escape from the Caribbean sun, paving the way for more culinary treasures. We then arrived at El Nido, a haven of local fare. Here, I delighted in a Mini Alcapurria, a unique fritter comprising green banana, yuca, yautía, beef, and garlic, paired with a croquette filled with malanga/taro and longaniza, a local pork sausage. Their Bolitas de queso, cheese balls filled with local cheese and mozzarella, offered an unmatched gastronomic thrill.
At La Mallorquina, a refreshing Mojito greeted me. This cocktail of rum, mint, lime, sugar, and soda water was the perfect prelude to the traditional Mofongo, a comforting dish of fried and mashed plantains, served with rice, beans, and criollo chicken. The tour concluded at Chocobar Cortés, where I indulged in a Chocolate Quesito, a lavish pastry filled with cream cheese and smothered in rich, local Chocolate Cortés. It was the ideal sweet finish to my culinary journey.

A Puerto Rican adventure is incomplete without a trip to El Yunque National Forest. As the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, its divine grandeur unfolded during a half-day excursion, showcasing nature's magnificence.

El Yunque is a trove of natural wonders, from the lush expanse of flora and fauna to the hypnotic waterfalls and towering mountain peaks. The verdant canopy seemed to vibrate with life, every leaf and branch teeming with rich biodiversity. Exotic birds fluttered among the towering trees, while the undergrowth rustled with the quiet movement of unseen creatures. Tucked away in the dense foliage were waterfalls, their harmonious cascading blending with the wild ambiance. From the rainforest's highest points, breathtaking panoramas unfolded - an infinite green sea touching the clear blue sky.

Always have your camera ready, as each moment in El Yunque is worth capturing. From the delicate bloom of orchids hiding in the undergrowth to the grand sight of waterfalls plummeting down rugged cliffs, this place truly showcases the boundless beauty of nature. The immersive experience of El Yunque, filled with stunning landscapes and alive with creatures, left an enduring mark on my Puerto Rican journey.

As dusk fell, San Juan's nightlife came alive. I headed to La Factoria, a hidden gem in the city's nightlife scene. Known for its innovation in Puerto Rican mixology, this secret speakeasy serves extraordinary cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. Their signature drink, the Lavender Mule, is a must-try.

Once the city was cloaked in a soft golden light, I journeyed to my final destination: Vianda. Nestled in the heart of Santurce, this restaurant is the brainchild of a husband-and-wife team, Francis Guzmán and Amelia Dill, who have more than two decades of experience in the hospitality industry and have been recognized by the esteemed James Beard Foundation.
Vianda is an homage to Puerto Rico's agricultural bounty, featuring a compact but ever-changing menu based on farm-to-table principles. Each dish is a gastronomic marvel made from fresh, local ingredients. Every serving showcased Chef Guzmán's creativity and respect for local produce. The menu was a heartfelt tribute to the island's farmers, incorporating Puerto Rico's agricultural gems in inventive and delectable ways. The welcoming hospitality, the sensational food, and the cozy ambiance made it an unforgettable dining experience.

So, whether you're an adventurous soul ready to explore the underwater world, a food connoisseur excited to sample the flavors of San Juan, or a nature enthusiast keen to soak in the lush El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico promises an unforgettable journey. At the end of the day, relax with a Lavender Mule at La Factoria, followed by a luxurious dinner at Vianda, before retiring to the comforts of the Caribe Hilton. The island looks forward to welcoming you, ready to share its treasures and craft enduring memories.