Travel plans often present their own set of challenges, and our recent trip to Puerto Rico was a testament to navigating these unexpected turns. The journey ultimately unfolded into a deeply rewarding experience, despite a less than ideal beginning.
Thursday: An Unanticipated Detour
Our departure began with the expected chill of a Chicago winter. We headed to the airport, prepared for our escape. However, a delay on the train was followed by news of our flight to San Juan being delayed, then, less favorably, canceled. While certainly disappointing, this initial setback served as a prelude to the eventual success of the trip.
Friday: Resumed Travel and a Memorable Welcome
Friday brought a smoother experience. Our rescheduled travel proceeded without incident, leading us to San Juan as planned. That evening, we experienced our first taste of Puerto Rico’s culinary scene at Vianda. The dinner was exceptional, providing a pleasant introduction to the island’s offerings and setting a positive tone for the days ahead.
Saturday: Exploring Old San Juan’s Charms
Saturday commenced with an early start. After breakfast in the hotel room, utilizing a provided voucher, we embarked on a walk toward Old San Juan. Our route took us through several local parks, adding a touch of nature to our urban exploration. We arrived at the open-air market as it was concluding, but still managed to sample some refreshing hibiscus juice.
For lunch, we chose Don Ruiz, where we enjoyed traditional ham and cheese mallorcas paired with coffee. This simple yet satisfying meal was a highlight. We spent some time relaxing in a nearby park before returning to the hotel.
The evening brought an elegant experience, beginning with drinks at the Condado Vanderbilt. Dinner followed at 1919, an impressive culinary event. Our selections included lobster salad, spaghetti with crab and truffles, and swordfish, concluding with a classic chocolate soufflé. Other dishes at the table featured a chayote salad, gnochetti with pork ragu, halibut with mushrooms and cherries, and an interesting “pop corn” creation. A 2017 Ancien Carneros Pinot Noir complemented the meal perfectly.
Sunday: Rooftop Relaxation and Lagoon Serenity
Sunday began with breakfast at Pannes, a purposeful early start that allowed us to avoid the crowd. The meal was substantial and enjoyable, with selections like the “French Mess” and “Pancho Villa,” accompanied by coffee.
Midday was dedicated to relaxation on the hotel rooftop. This quiet space provided an opportunity to read and enjoy a mojito in the warmth of the sun. Later, we ventured onto the lagoon by raft, enhancing the afternoon’s tranquility with light snacks and Prosecco.
We prepared for our final dinner in Puerto Rico, choosing Jose Enrique. The meal featured flavorful local dishes such as morcilla, smoked pork skewers, frito del dia with yam mash and mojo, and mamposteao. It was a satisfying culmination of the island’s vibrant flavors. We returned to the hotel early to prepare for the morning’s departure.
Monday: A Smooth Conclusion
Monday began with an early departure for the airport. The flight was uneventful, proceeding as scheduled. This provided a straightforward and easy conclusion to our trip, ensuring we left Puerto Rico with positive memories of a rich and engaging experience.
Note: generated by Google Gemini from Chris’ notes
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