» Official Name: Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
» Location: 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) southeast of Miami
» Population: 3,878,532
» Capital: San Juan
» Area Codes: 787 and 939
   Dial 1-787 or 1-939 for numbers outside the San Juan metro area
» Climate: Tropical
   Average temperature 82 degrees (28 C)
» Currency: U.S. Dollar
» Driving: Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
   A valid drivers license from elsewhere can be used for up to one month.
» Taxes: There is no sales tax in Puerto Rico. Jewelry tax 5%
» Time of Day: Puerto Rico is on Atlantic Standard Time (AST)
   This is one hour later than U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST) from October
   through April, and the same as Eastern Daylight Saving Time from April through
   October.

» American Red Cross: 787-759-7979 / 787-725-0121
» Life-Threatening Emergencies: 911
» Air Ambulance Service: 787-756-3424
» Better Business Bureau: 787-729-9494
» Fire Department: 787-343-2330
» Medical Emergencies: 787-754-2550 / 787-343-2550
» Poison Control Center: 787-726-5674 / 787-726-5660
» Police Department: 787-726-7020 / 787-343-2020
» Time of Day: 787-728-9595
» Travelers Aid: 787-791-1054 / 787-791-1034
» Weather: 787-253-4586

Old San Juan is a must see for anyone visiting the island of Puerto Rico. Founded in 1521 by the great conquistador, Don Juan Ponce de Leon, the island lays claim to over 365 beaches and is home to what can only be described as breathtaking natural rain forest.

A few miles from the sweeping shores of San Juan rests the town of Caparra, this is where Governor Ponce called home. Before his infamous quest for the fountain of youth, he ordered the fortress Casa Blanca built in this area. Eventually, the entire city became a fortress with the Governors Mansion, La Fortelza, on the north side and El Morro and San Cristobal castles towering the others. These architectural wonders plead for your exploration, as do the shops, cafes, and galleries that sprinkle Old San Juan's cobble stoned streets. The competitive nature of the area helps keep the prices down and the quality high.

The Restaurants and bars also draw large crowds, with much of the action takes place on South Fortaleza (SoFo), along Cristo Street and at the north end of San Sabastian. Make it a point to check out Cafe’ Bohemio (787) 723-9200 at the El Covento Hotel, 100 Cristo St. in Old San Juan, its delectable cuisine is served from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The bar remains open until 2 am. Seven square blocks of Old San Juan are considered to be a national historic sight, so while you're basking in the glow of the tropics take a moment and remember that you're doing so in the arms of Caribbean history.

The residents of Puerto Rico would never use the term Inc San Juan to describe the little towns east of its more sophisticated sibling, but the term is completely appropriate. The city is so pervasive that everything else in Puerto Rico is called "out on the island". Natives refer to each San Juan neighborhood as its own distinct entity. Towns like Saturce, Miamar, Hato Rey, or Condado have wonderful things to offer, but Condado is by far the most popular. Its often referred to as the Miami Beach of Puerto Rico. Each year the Arts and Film Festival is held at this location.

Visitors to Puerto Rico usually arrive to Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in Isla Verde, a major Tourist area with long beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, and restaurants a plenty. The Wydham El San Juan, the Ritz Carlton, and the Inter-continental San Juan resort are all a stones throw away.

» AGUAVIVA - Seaside Latino Cuisine
   364 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan Bar and Tapas
   Fresh seafood & ceviche
   (787) 722-0665

» Bistro Gambaro
   320 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan
   Puerto Rican Style lunch, brunch and dinner.
   Daily art shows and Jazz.
   (787) 724-4592

» Numero Uno Restaurant
   56 Condado Avenue, Condado
   (787) 721-5572

» The Parrot Club: Trendy Latino Bistro and Bar
   363 Calle Fortaleza (between Plaza Colon & callejon de la capilla)
   (787) 725 7370

» The Red Snapper
   Ashford Avenue @ Vendig Street
   (next to Condom World)

No need to sacrifice the little man's college fund to enjoy some of Puerto Rico's 18 casinos, but you can if you must. When your level of excitement exceeds your sense of reason there is plenty of action at the Baccarat, Craps and Caribbean Stud Poker tables. Call the casinos and learn more about special events and competitions.

» Diamond Place Hotel | Condado
   55 Condado Avenue
   787-721-0810

» Radisson Ambassor Plaza Hotel | Condado
   1369 Ashford Avenue
   787-721-7300

» San Juan Marriott Resort | Condado
   1309 Ashford Avenue
   787-722-7000

There are plenty of attractions on the Island of Puerto Rico including Museums, Kayaking and Walking Tours. Plan ahead to visit the following: Most hotels have organized tours, but you can just as easily take a taxi from your hotel to Old San Juan and start from there!

» Bacardi Factory
No trip to San Juan is complete until you tour the Bacardi Factory. When you arrive, a special Bacardi cocktail greets you. You are then treated to a fascinating guided tour of the facilities. Everything from fermentation to the bottle machinery is at work and on display. You can even tape a Bacardi signature video e-mail to send to all of your friends are in DC, telling them you are at "Casa de Bacardi." At the end of your tour, you can purchase specialty Bacardi products that are not available for sale in the Mainland US, and purchase your favorite Bacardi spirits (along with souvenirs) at a fraction of the cost you would pay for them at home. Free-guided tours depart daily (except for Sundays) every 20 minutes from 9:00 am - 10:30 am and from 12 noon - 4:30 pm.

Getting there: Your hotel will have a set time for the tours, but you can easily go on your own. Take a taxi from your hotel to the Ship Terminal. At the ship terminal, you will board a ferry. The fare is fifty-cents. Once you reach the other side of the cape, there are mini-vans and taxis awaiting you at a rate of $2 per person. They will take you to the factory, which is approximately a 5-minute drive. They will be lined up waiting for you at the end of your tour, to take you back to the ferry.

» El Yunque Rainforest
El Yunque, also known as the Caribbean National Forest, is breathtaking. Adventure not just limited to the beach. It's kind of like Jurassic Park without the dinosaurs. Climb, Hike, and explore the forest. "Ride" the waterfalls, dive from the rocks into the river streams, and just appreciate something like you've never seen before.

Admission $3,
Hours: 9am-5pm

Getting there: Ask your hotel Concierge for a tour schedule
For more detailed information on El Yunque and travel tips when inside the rainforest, we recommend that you visit Vivid Light Photography.

» San Cristobal Fort
For all you cultured folk, and even for those who want an amazing sight to see, San Cristobal is it. Once the entry point to San Juan, construction on the fort was begun in 1635 and finished in 1678, although modifications were made well into the 18th Century.

Its better-known sister fort, El Morro, was designed to protect the city from attacks by sea; San Cristobal guarded from approaches by land. If you are interested in history, enjoy a walk on the ramparts, where half a millennium ago Spanish soldiers held their watch. If you love to photograph spectacular views, this fort is a goldmine for you, with its panoramic view of the coast from the small peninsula of Old San Juan to Condado and beyond.

Wear comfortable shoes! Covering 27 acres, this is the largest fort built by the Spanish in the New World. Guided tours will show you where the first shots of the Spanish-American War were fired and will reveal part of its intricate defense system, designed by two Irishmen in the employ of the Spanish crown. Don't miss the Iberia del Diablo,I a sentry box that, according to one legend, devoured soldiers sent there on guard. A labyrinth of tunnels crisscrosses deep under ground where the dungeons are located, and the outside walls fall 150 feet straight onto the rocks of the north shore.

San San Cristobal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Site under the U.S. National Park Service. The fort is open to the public daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Getting there: San San Cristobal Fort is on the right, just before you enter Old San Juan. Simply take a taxi from your hotel. Ride is approximately 10 minutes.

» African Heritage Museum
   Museo Nuestra Raíz Africana
   Tel. (787) 724-4294 / 724-4184
   San Jose Plaza, San Sebastián St.
   San Juan, PR 0090

» Caparra Ruins Historical Museum & Park
   Museo y Parque Historico Ruinas de Caparra
   Tel. (787) 781-4795
   Road 2, Km. 6.4
   Guaynabo, PR 00968

   Ruins of one of the oldest Puerto Rican cities capitalized during Spanish rule. A
   museum located near the ruins exhibits objects related to the history and
   colonization of Puerto Rico.

» Casa Alonso Museum of Art, History & Culture
   Museo de Arte, Historia y Cultura Casa Alonso
   Tel. (787) 855-1364
   34 Betances St.
   Vega Baja, PR 00693

   Located in a beautiful, spacious house constructed in the neoclassic-criollo style
   of Spanish masonry, pebbles, bricks and wood. The museum opened its doors
   to the public in September of 1992.

» Casa Blanca Museum
   Museo Casa Blanca
   Tel. (787) 725-1454
   1 San Sebastián St.
   San Juan, PR 00901

   Ponce de Leon built the original structure in 1521, but died before living there.
   It was destroyed by a hurricane two years later. The current building was
   constructed by Ponce de Leon's son in-law. Now a museum of 16th and 17th
   century Puerto Rican life, the second floor also houses a Ain Indian exhibit.
   Lush gardens cover the grounds.

   Getting there: Simply take a taxi from your hotel to any of the Museums.
   Ride is approximately 10 minutes.

Narrow cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, centuries-old fortresses overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, fascinating museums and art galleries, handcrafts on the corners - and everything bathed by a tropical breeze - these are some of the characteristics of legendary Old San Juan.

Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing, grab your camera, and get ready to marvel at the perfect marriage of the past and the present on the very lived-in streets. A walking tour is a wonderful way to get acquainted with the Old City. If you need a break, hop aboard the no-charge trolley cars that make the rounds to and from La Puntilla and Covadonga parking lots at one of the clearly marked stops.

» La Casita
   Your Old San Juan adventure begins at La Casita, or The Little House,
   the yellow building located in Plaza de la Dársena that houses a Puerto
   Rico Tourism Company Information Center. Open Mon. through Wed. from
   8:30 AM to 8:00 PM; Thur. and Fri. until 5:30 PM; Sat. and Sun. from
   9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. There is an outdoor crafts market around the building
   that is open Sat. and Sun. from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM and Mon. and Tues.
   from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM. The crafts market schedule may vary according
   to cruise ship itineraries.

   Tel. (787) 722-1709

» San Juan Bay
   La Casita overlooks San Juan Bay. It is the busiest ocean port in
   the Caribbean, bringing in half of the regions trade and over one
   million cruise ship visitors a year. Bayside shops carry everything
   from gold jewelry to island arts and crafts. At Casa Don Q Puerto Rico,
   located across the street from Pier 1, you can learn about Destilería
   Serrallés, a rum distillery established in 1865... and sample its
   award-winning products.

»La Muralla
   As the promenade continues, it follows the curve of the bay and leads
   you to La Muralla, or city wall. Built mostly between 1539 and 1641
   using sandstone blocks up to 20 feet thick, the wall was completed in
   1782. It protected the city against enemy attacks. At the western mouth
   of the bay you will see Isla de Cabras (Goat Island),
   and a small Spanish fort built in 1610.

» Museo de Dona Fela
   From La Fortaleza, go to Recinto Oeste Street and turn right on Caleta de
   San Juan Street. There you will find Museo de Dona Fela, the original
   residence of Felisa Rincón de Gautier, the first woman to become Mayor
   of San Juan. This museum features personal belongings, period memorabilia,
   and awards granted to this exceptional woman. Open weekdays from
   9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

   Tel. (787) 723-1897

» Casa Rosada
   The lovely house in front of La Rogativa is Casa Rosada, or Pink House.
   It was built in 1812 for the Spanish army and is now a day care center for
   government employees' children.

» Plazuela de la Rogativa
   From Museo de Dona Fela, return to Recinto Oeste Street and climb the hill
   to reach Plazuela de la Rogativa, a small plaza with a bronze sculpture by
   Lindsay Daen. The work recreates the day a bishop and his companions
   frightened away British troops during a 1797 attack on the city by carrying
   torches and chanting. The enemies thought the procession was local
   troop reinforcements.

» Casa Blanca
   Take the upper road along a plant-decked wall to a doorway above Casa
   Rosada. This is one of the five entrances to Casa Blanca, or the White House.
   For 250 years it was the residence of the descendents of Juan Ponce de Leon,
   the first governor of Puerto Rico. The house is now a museum of 16th and 17th
   century family life and houses a miniature replica of a Taíno village. The garden
   is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entrance fee is $2.00 for adults and
   $1.00 for senior citizens and children.

   Tel. (787) 724-1454.

» Fuerte San Felipe del Morro
   Exit Casa Blanca through Recinto Oeste Street. Straight-ahead is Fuerte San
   Felipe del Morro or El Morro fortress, rising majestically 140 feet above the sea.
   El Morro (meaning "promontory" in Spanish), surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean
   and San Juan Bay, is the most striking of the city's military fortifications.
   It was built between 1540 and 1783 to protect San Juan from attack by sea.
   Among its many attractions is a maze of secret tunnels and dungeons, and a
   small museum with information on its history. Along with San Cristobal Fort,
   El Morro has been designated a National Historic Site and is part of a World
   Heritage Site. It is administered by the U.S. National Park Service. Open daily
   from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. English tours depart at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
   Entrance fee is $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for senior citizens and children.
   No entrance fee for children under 12.

   Tel. (787) 729-6960

» Plaza de Hostos
   The small square in front of Plaza de la Dársena, near La Casita, is Plaza
   de Hostos. This square features artisans' displays, snack stands, and the
   traditional pirageros, vendors who sell shaved ice topped with tropical
   fruit syrups.

» Paseo La Princesa
   Near Plaza de la Marina and a statue honoring the Puerto Rican immigrant,
   you will find Paseo La Princesa. It is a promenade lined with trees,
   pocket parks, sculptures, and benches, and leads to a magnificent fountain
   with a bronze sculpture by Luis Sanguino depicting the island's cultural roots.

» La Princesa
   Midway through the promenade is La Princesa itself, a former jail and
   now headquarters of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. The restored
   building features a gallery of Puerto Rican art with permanent and
   visiting exhibitions.

   Tel. (787) 721-2400

» Puerta de San Juan
   The promenade leads to the red-painted Puerta de San Juan or San Juan
   Gate, The promenade leads to the red-painted Puerta de San Juan or San
   Juan Gate, where you re-enter the city. This is one of six original massive
   wooden doors that centuries ago were closed at sundown to protect
   the residents.

» La Fortaleza
   Go through the doorway and make a right on Recinto Oeste Street
   to La Fortaleza. It is a palatial structure built in 1540 and
   the oldest governor's mansion in the Western Hemisphere still in use.
   Guided tours are available weekdays, except holidays, from 9:00 AM
   to 3:30 PM; tours in English every hour, in Spanish every half hour.
   Schedules are subject to change. Proper attire required.

   Tel. (787) 721-7000, ext. 2358

   Getting there: Most hotels have these tours set up, but if you wish
   do take them on your own, simply take a taxi from your hotel to Old
   San Juan, and start from there!

» Dominican Republic
   Tatiana's Travel
   (787) 273-1870

   Offers Gay tours to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic on a cruise ship
   with local gay entertainment. It is best to arrange your trip before
   you arrive in Puerto Rico. Call for specific rates.

» St. Croix / St. Thomas
   For those more adventurous and wanting to make the best out of their
   Caribbean stay, you can hop a plane boat to neighboring Islands,
   St. Croix and St. Thomas. The boat port is located just 5 minutes
   from your hotel and takes a little over an hour. If you are going
   to St. Croix for the day, think about doing some snorkeling,
   scuba diving or other water activities.

   Check out St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures
   (only available in Christian-stead)

   Contact: 888-FLY TOUR or visit Seaborne Airlines for schedule and
   more information.

» Vieques
   A small island off of the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, that has the
   most beautiful beaches ever seen to man. There is plenty not to do
   in Vieques. There is no traffic, little crowds, because most of the
   island is uninhabited. What you can do is really relax, and let
   your mind wander. Sun Bay beach is recommended, as it is one of
   the worlds best hideaways, but remember you have 52 other
   beaches to choose from!

   Travel to Vieques can be done by air or ferry. Taxi is available from
   your hotel, before 6pm to the Fajardo Ferry Terminal for a party
   of three, at $50. Note that fares can be considerably more depending
   on the driver/cab company. M&N Airlines provided shuttle flights
   at $20 one way from the Farjado Airport.

   Contact them at (877) 622-5566. Click here for ferry schedule and
   information from Farjado Terminal.

» Isle Verde
   Imagine living in a large city and having a beautiful beach as your
   backyard. Isle Verde beach is a series of beaches stretching for miles
   in front of luxury resorts and hi-rises. Isle Verde comes alive on
   weekends. Eat, party, drink, and tan. Many bars and restaurants
   are located adjacent to the beach. Surfing, and water sports
   are also available by the hotels and seaside shops.
   Isle Verde is located 15 minutes from your hotel in a taxi.

   For water activities in Isle Verde check out:
   Aquatic Adventures
   Park Plaza Normandie Hotel
   1062 Calle 19 Villa Nevarez, San Juan

   Phone: (787) 281-8858, Store Phone (787) 724-1882

» Kayaking/Scuba Diving
   Some of the most popular sites for ocean kayaking are along the coasts
   of the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra, Ballenas Bay
   bordering the Guánica Tropical Dry Forest in the southwest,
   and the small east coast islets and cays off Fajardo.

   There are many places you can rent a kayak, join an excursion or
   take classes. Start your search by contacting Club Kayak de Puerto
   Rico, whose members know the island almost as well as the Indians did!

   Club Kayak de Puerto Rico - (787) 782-6735
   Canoe and Kayak Federation of Puerto Rico - (787) 755-4793

» Atlantic Beach Hotel Bar
   1 Calle Vendig, Condado

   Ground zero. Locals and visitors pack the place, to meet, greet and mingle.
   Happy hour Mon-Sat 4pm-6pm; Tea dance on Sunday with show.

» Eros | visit website
   1257 Ponce De Leon Avenue
   Tel. (787) 722-1131

   Sexy strippers and drinks made from heaven. Popular with locals and visitors.

» Steam Works: 24 Hour Men's Sauna
   205 Calle Luna, 2nd Floor, Old San Juan
   Tel. (787) 725-4993

   Rooms, Lockers, Videos, Weights, Hot Tubs, Saunas.

» Kouros
   1515 Ponce De Leon Avenue, Santurice
   Upscale New York Style Dance Club. Featuring 2 VIP rooms,
   Strippers and huge dance floor. Open Saturdays.

» Junior's Bar
   Calle Condado #602, Santurice
   Tel. (787) 723 9447

   "The Latin Music Place". Intimate spot packed with hustlers, papi's and
   everything in between. Daily art shows and Jazz.
   Tel. (787) 724-4592

» Numero Uno Restaurant
   56 Condado Avenue, Condado
   Tel. (787) 721-5572

» The Parrot Club: Trendy Latino Bistro and Bar
   363 Calle Fortaleza (between Plaza Colon & callejon de la capilla)
   Tel. (787) 725 7370

» The Red Snapper
   Ashford Avenue @ Vendig Street
   (next to Condom World)

» Condom World
   Vendig Street and Ashford Avenue, Condado
   Video Sales, Rentals, Toys, Magazines, Novelty Items,
   Condoms & Lubricants and the infamous "Oral Gel".

» EROS Clothing
   Ashford Avenue and Vendig Street, Condado
   Tel. (787) 722-0662
   Upscale clothing beachwear, club wear and accessories.

» Plaza Las Americas
   Rt. 18 Chardon or Roosevelt
   300 Stores including, Banana Republic, GAP, etc.
   21 movie screens and a food court.

» Walgreens
   Ashford Avenue @ Condado Avenue
   For those essentials you need at the last minute. Open 24 hrs.

» Nuestro Ambiente
   1412 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Santurice.
   New "late night" spot. (787) 724-9093
   Extravagant, Las Vegas-style drag shows, with Legendary Puerto
   Rican Diva, Nina Flowers.

   E-mail for more info: nuestroambiente@yahoo.com

Few things capture the memory of a successful journey like a charming work of art. Below are a list Galleries, artist's studios and frame shops where you can acquire prints of interesting artwork.