Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ISLA VERDE
Technically speaking, Isla Verde is in Carolina, a sprawling suburb of San Juan. It's the
preferred destination for vacationers who seek what the tourism brochures promise: mega
resorts, glitzy casinos and huge swaths of lovely sand beach.
HATO REY
As you head south from Santurce, the urban inquietude of the former business district is
replaced by the sleekness of its modern successor. The first signs of the brave new world
can be seen at Sagrado Corazon station, a space-age temple to the metro train that is the
first stop on San Juan's Tren Urbano. Welcome to Hato Rey, the Caribbean's wannabe Wall
Street, a gleaming cluster of glass-sheeted office towers and international banks that reflect
not only the crimson afternoon sun but also the lucid dreams of Puerto Rico's economic
miracle. Aside from the ubiquitous financial institutions, Hato Rey's primary attractions
revolve around shoppers and sports. Just west of the 'Miracle Mile' business district lies
the massive Plaza Las Américas (
Click here
), the largest mall in the Caribbean, along with
two major sports arenas - the Hiram Bithorn Stadium and the Roberto Clemente Coliseum.
SAN JUAN FOR CHILDREN
Puerto Ricans love children - it doesn't matter who they belong to - and they love
family, so traveling with youngsters is rarely a hassle, because the Puerto Ricans are
doing it too. There are some hotels that won't take children under a certain age, but
they are few. Several museums and hotels offer discounts for children - don't be
afraid to ask. If renting a car, make sure that the rental agency has a child seat for
you, and if taking a taxi any long distance, bring one with you. Children should carry
some form of ID in case there's an emergency. You'll rarely encounter any icy or dis-
dainful looks when dining out with your child, but some of the trendier places in Old
San Juan, Condado and Isla Verde would be the exception to that rule.
In and around San Juan there are several attractions that children really enjoy. The
Museo del Niño
is always a big hit - as are the many stray cats who nap outside it -
and the insect museum at the
Jardín Botánico
will have its ardent fans.
Isla Verde
is
the most child-friendly beach, with safe swimming and plenty of beach toys, or you
can always head further east to
Luquillo
. For some outdoor exercise hit the
bike
trails of Piñones
, or go
kayaking
on the nearby lagoon.
