Our first day in Puerto Rico was relaxing and somewhat adventurous. After arrive at our hotel, we walked down to the beach and enjoyed the breeze and the sunset.
The clerk suggested a BBQ place where she'd had dinner before. Since the dinner place was not within walking distance, we decided to rent a car. The concierge gave us the number to a car rental nearby, so we decided to walk.
As we're heading out, I'm expecting to walk into an Enterprise or Budget rent-a-car type of place. Oh no, this place was hardly a rent-a-car establishment. We walked down a little street that resembled an alley and up to a hotel where "Maria", the attendant, was expecting us. As you can imagine, I wanted to run! But, for the sake of vacation and adventure, I toughed it out.
We were given a new blue Ford Focus that was parked on the curb (no, it was not parked in a regular rental lot). By the time we signed our life away, it was dark and Maria checked our car with a flashlight and warned us about the insane fee we would be charged if the car was returned with any dents.
After thoroughly inspecting the car, we drove off and decided to get some dinner. Feeling brave from the car rental experience, we turned on the GPS and drove to the local BBQ place our hotel clerk suggested. Before we knew it, we were on the highway and, once again, it was scary! Although I speak Spanish, trying to read the highway signs at 50 mph was interesting as not all of them are in English. However, the most exciting part of the highway experience were the highway exits; the exits sneak up and there are no signs! There are no markings on the road, there are no street lights, and the exits look like alleys.
After missing our exit, we finally made it to the BBQ restaurant. I don't mean to sound redundant, but again, it was scary and this time, we were in a not so very nice looking part of town. The restaurant looked more like a rest stop and, yes, it was on a street that resembled an alley. We pulled up, got out, and got right back in the car! Although we were very hungry, the food looked like it had been left out (uncovered) for a while and we decided to have fast food instead. I wasn't able to take a picture of the restaurant, but the name of the place is BEBO'S BBQ in Isla Verde (open 24 hours). This is the link to the TripAdvisor reviews.
The next morning we drove to El Yunque National Forest. This place is beautiful. It's lush and green and the air is clean.
El Yunque is about 1 hour from the City of Carolina and it's pretty easy to get to. There's a lot to see, so I suggest you drive there early to make the most of your day. There are walking trails and waterfalls and lots of scenic driving. If you're going to take the trails up to the peak, make sure you're in shape. The walk up-hill is about 45 minutes and a little challenging. Visiting Old San Juan was also very nice. The City still holds a lot of rich culture and history. The streets have been kept in the original cobble stone and there are many historic landmarks including Forts and monuments. There are also many restaurants and shops to visit. The local food is delicious, so don't leave without having lunch or dinner at Cafe Puerto Rico or at Caficultura. Also, make sure you have some Mofongo (made from fried green plantains mashed with garlic, olive oil and pork or it can also be filled with vegetables, chicken, crab, shrimp, or beef) it is amazing.
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| Lunch and cafe at Caficultura |
