Old San Juan is like a window to the past, to the era of grand exploration when generously sponsored conquistadors would head out for open seas in search of gold and glory. For me, it was quite intense to imagine the courage these guys must have had to head into the unknown and explore unchartered foreign shores, not knowing what hostilities they might find.

Puerto Rico was discovered shortly after Columbus first discovered the New World when he landed on what it now the Dominican Republic. With an enormous natural harbor and spectacular vistas overlooking the Atlantic, the island’s northern shores of San Juan were perfect for constructing a Spanish stronghold.

In the early 1500’s, the Spaniards began building two massive forts: San Cristobal and El Morro. They also built a beautiful city within giant fortified walls and narrow cobbled streets. Remnants of these ancient walls still encircle Old San Juan, which is now listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Since I only had one day in Old San Juan, I chose a hotel that was right in the heart of the old city and spent my day touring the old forts. As I walked through the old spooky corridors, I felt the weight of history at every turn. From the musty dungeon and cramped lookouts to the spacious staterooms with fantastic ocean-view balconies, I wondered what life was like within these walls. Ancient footsteps were everywhere.

As one of the oldest attractions in the New World, Old San Juan boasts a little bit of everything, ranging from historic structures and museums to world-class restaurants, hip clubs and beautiful nearby beaches. I would say this is a spot for just about anyone.

February 15, 2006