Sue and I hit upon San Juan purely by accident. The thing is this: we were stranded at the Luis Marin Airport while on our way to so the authorities were kind enough to put us up at one of the best luxury resort spa, the San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino. We had a thoroughly good time in the heart of the Caribbean in the midst of a large, picturesque beach. Sue wanted to jump into the swimming pool right away but then we hand no luggage save for our handbags. We had beer in the bar while a live band played some great Spanish numbers. Stepping out into the glorious sunshine we saw a city choc-a-bloc with fabulous Spanish architecture, malls, cafes, etc. This is also where European civilization anchored its beginnings, almost, after Santa Domingo.
Sue wanted to rent a car but was warned by the kindly hotel receptionist about the chaotic traffic and parking difficulties so we decided to hotfoot it to the old city contained within timeworn thick walls. We walked up to the La Plaza de las Palomas meaning ‘Plaza of the Doves’ and saw at least a million pigeons on the archway, the concrete with small kids screaming with delight while breaking off bread and feeding them. The old city is dotted with some breathtaking architecture, La Fortazela being one of them. Currently the Governor’s mansion it was a prison during colonial times. Walking around we were simply charmed by the old houses, old-style lamp posts and the streets. I, for one, did not wish to leave.
A quick lunch at a wayside café later we made our way towards Paseo de la Princesa, the world famous promenade close to the bay. We saw cruise ships docking in and pouring out their legions. The unruffled blue stretch of the ocean left us with a lot of inner peace.
Sue wanted to visit other San Juan landmarks like El Morro and the San Cristobal Fort but there was no time. We made our way back to the hotel tired and happy.
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