CRUISE — PORT OF CALL
San Juan PUERTO RICO
Add a few days pre- or post-cruise to explore one of North America’s oldest cities, where culture, history and delicious local treats await. By S arah Steinberg
FAS T FAC TS
Currency
United States dollar
Languages Spanish, English
Tipping
Some restaurants add a gratuity as a matter of course. Otherwise, tip 15%–20% for good service.
Temperature Average daily high of 86°F
Circa 1000 C.E. The Taíno people of the
Caribbean settle in Puerto Rico.
1493
Christopher Columbus arrives on the island and Spanish colonization begins.
1539
P
uerto Rico’s pulsating capital city has a rich and complex history: Indigenous, Spanish and African influences show up in both its architecture and its fusionforward dining scene. Don’t miss energetic neighborhoods like Santurce, with a plethora of galleries and public art, and the city’s many beckoning warm-water beaches, such as the swimming-friendly Playita del Condado.
18
Construction starts on the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a.k.a. El Morro, one of two fortifications built in San Juan to protect the gold-rich island.
1873
Slavery is abolished.
1952
Puerto Rico becomes a U.S. Commonwealth territory.
RANGE BEST BY ENSEMBLE
PHOTOS: MICHAEL OXENDINE/UNSPLASH (ACCORDION PLAYER); ROBERT LINDER/UNSPLASH (HISTORY).
H I S TO RY
