The Fairmont El San Juan Hotel expertly balances the joy of a domestic getaway with the allure of the Caribbean.
Puerto Rico, a magnificent group of islands with more than 270 miles of coastline, exudes Caribbean beauty and is only a three- to four-hour trip from the majority of locations in the continental United States. Additionally, you can leave your passport at home because it is an American territory.
I finally arrived at the seaside city of San Juan, Puerto Rico's most populous and frequently visited location, after a very simple travel day from New York City, which included skipping the lines at customs, not having to worry about jet lag, and securing a window seat on my aircraft.
The true delight was where I was staying, the historic Fairmont El San Juan Hotel on Isla Verde Beach, just a short distance from Old San Juan's cobblestone streets and vibrant colonial structures. The establishment describes itself as a place where "calm ocean vistas and bustling urban vibes mix."
The 1958-built hotel became a popular hangout for wealthy jet setters and celebrities in the 1960s. Due to its stunning surroundings, which include four pools, opulent cabanas, poolside and seaside villas, eight trendy dining establishments, and a full-service spa, the resort has an irresistible charm today.
The Banyan Villa, named for the property's 300-year-old banyan tree, served as my residence for the following few days. About 350 square feet in size, my room had its terrace, was more than adequate for a solitary traveler like myself, and was close to the villa's hammock and lovely light gardens and pools.
The hotel's interior design is exquisite throughout. The foyer might be considered the major attraction. It's the focus of the hotel's nightlife, where you can dance at the on-site club, enjoy a cocktail beneath a huge hand-blown crystal chandelier, or if you're feeling lucky, go to the Foxwoods El San Juan Casino.
The Chico Cabaret, a secret speakeasy open exclusively on weekends, is another attraction. Imagine it: As 1960s music fills the space, burlesque dancers command the stage. You can't help but be taken back in time to a time when famous people like Sammy Davis, Jr. and Frank Sinatra performed there.
The food comes next. Choose from eight on-site dining options, or have a meal in your suite or by the pool (I did both). My favorite was Caa by Juliana Gonzalez, the hotel's specialty restaurant, which serves traditional fare like mofongo and Camarones al ajillo (garlicky prawns with yucca fritters and sherry butter sauce).
There are several sites outside the resort boundaries that are worth visiting. The hotel offers a range of experiences, whether you're a foodie, history buff, or adventurer.
It was 92 degrees on my first full day, so I decided to take a catamaran tour to get out on the lake. Culebra, a tiny, thinly populated island 20 miles off the coast of Fajardo, was our final stop. It is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous sites I have ever seen, with diamond-dusted sand and blue lakes. And what could be better than sipping a pia colada?
The following day, the hotel set up a walking tour of Old San Juan that included visits to five of the most well-known restaurants in the area. While learning about the history of Old San Juan, we drank coffee made from beans harvested on a Yauco family farm run by the fourth generation and ate pork shoulder cooked Puerto Rican style with rice and beans. My inner foodie and history buff were both satiated as a result of this encounter and the entire trip as a whole.