Hey everyone, it’s Brandon here, and I’m excited to share our incredible trip to Puerto Rico and Vieques in 2024. Jackie and I had an unforgettable time, and I hope our experiences inspire your next travel adventure.
Travel Experience & Accommodations
Our journey began with a smooth five-hour flight to Puerto Rico, made even better by using our points for first-class seats. Touching down in Puerto Rico felt familiar and exciting – no passports needed, American currency in use, and a vibe that was both exotic and comforting. Our first stop, would be Vieques the island to the east of Puerto Rico. We stayed in a charming Airbnb with concrete counters, a cozy master bedroom, and a fantastic rooftop observation deck. The roosters and a bit of early morning construction didn’t dampen our spirits one bit!
Transportation & Exploration
To explore the island, we rented a highlighter yellow Jeep from Avis. It was a required choice since the rough roads in Vieques required a 4×4. The island’s speed limit of 35 mph and lack of stoplights made driving an adventure. We visited various stunning beaches and landmarks, including a scenic land bridge and the far western tip of the island, Punta Arenas. Hiking enthusiasts like us will love the mountain trail we found on AllTrails, which offered breathtaking views from the summit.
Activities & Highlights
Our days were packed with exciting activities. From beach outings and drone flying to hiking, there was never a dull moment. One of the trip’s highlights was visiting the bioluminescent bay in Vieques. Experiencing the glowing algae under a new moon was nothing short of magical – truly one of nature’s best tricks.
Dining Experiences
Of course, no trip is complete without indulging in local cuisine. We enjoyed delicious meals at places like Mam Mia’s, Christy’s, and Taverna. Trying local dishes like mofongo and savory empanadas was a treat. Whether it was pizza, calzone, or the unique pork and bacon mofongo, every meal added a new flavor to our adventure.
Old San Juan Visit
For the final leg of our trip, we headed back to the main island and stayed in Old San Juan at the Decanter Hotel. The city’s rich history and vibrant tourist atmosphere were captivating. There was something to see around every corner. We toured the historical forts, which only cost $10/ day for entry into both. Learning about the area’s history was fascinating. Our evenings were spent dining at a restaurant with recipes over 200 years old – the lobster risotto and chicken were to die for.
Exploring Old San Juan by foot was a breeze, and we even ventured into La Perla, the neighborhood famous for being the backdrop of the “Despacito” music video. Though it has a rough reputation, it was worth checking out.
Our trip ended with a quiet morning, grabbing coffee in Old San Juan before heading to the airport. This adventure was a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. If you haven’t been to Puerto Rico and Vieques, we highly recommend it. It’s a destination that offers something for everyone, and we can’t wait to return.
Until next time, happy travels!
- Brandon and Jackie
