Sippin' Parcha Mojito in PR
I just got back from a really special trip with my family to Puerto Rico. Can you believe I was 50 years old when I finally got to visit it for the first time? I had no idea how much I would enjoy it. My kids have been wanting to go so we gifted them the trip for Christmas this year.
One of the nights, we walked over to our new favorite speakeasy bar, La Factoria (this place in itself deserves it’s own post). Anyway, I was sipping my Mojito with Parcha, listening to the salsa music that vibrated that you couldn’t help but swing your hips. I spotted a group of women holding on to each other, doing their very best to move to the beat, all while tears running down as they cackled full of laughter. I couldn't help but laugh along with them and think - What a great idea! Planning a girlfriends trip here.
That's exactly what kept running through my mind as I strolled through the colorful alleys and ate my way around the fun little town of Old San Juan. This place hits every girlfriend trip element… incredible food, fun activities to do with the girls, roof top bars, boat charters to gorgeous beach island. I can go on and on.
In case Puerto Rico is on your radar, here is a sample of our itinerary with a few comments on some of our favorite activities and experiences in hopes it helps you plan your next trip!
Day 1
You made it! Time to check into your hotel. We stayed at Palacio Provincial San Juan, a historic and quaint hotel (also a more updated, sister hotel to El Convento) whose origins date back to the 1830s and housed a postal office among other things. We loved how central it is located, the breezy courtyards in the middle and our favorite part was the rooftop bar with an infinity pool.
Dinner at one of the finer restaurants, Santaella, located by the well known La Placita (a market by day, nightlife hotspot by night). Great bar drinks and delicious food.
Day 2
Breakfast @ Caficultura, a brunch spot just an 8 min walk if you’re staying at Palacio Provincial. I enjoyed my breakfast skillet and people watching across one of the plazas.
Midday: Flavors of San Juan Food tour… the best way to get to know the area, local cuisine and culture. Come with stretchy pants because the food is sooooo good!
Late afternoon: Walk the food coma off and check out a piece of PR history at El Moro and/or el Castillo San Cristobal. Gorgeous views too! Make sure to stop by Cafe Lab for a cafe bon bon. You’re just going to have to trust me!
Dinner at Bottles… we didn’t make it to this spot so I can’t speak personally but it was recommended by a good friend that lives in PR. (Note - They don’t take reservations)
Day 3
Breakfast: Brunch at Mousa a modern take on puerto rican dishes. Let’s just say they had me at Brulee pancakes.
Spend the day at any of their local beaches. A local won’t hesitate to share their favorites.
Late afternoon: Mixology class and/or history tour with Casa Bacardi, home of the world renowned rum.
Dinner: La Lanterna - delicious dishes in a gorgeous courtyard lit by lanterns.
Day 4:
Charter a private Catamaran to the gorgeous Cayo Icaco or Culebras with Fare Harbor. By far our favorite activity! Yil and the crew are so accommodating and attentive. It included everything, including drinks, BBQ lunch, even a charcuterie spread.
Dinner at Il Bacaro a cozy and tasty Italian restaurant
Day 5:
Grab the very best pan sobao in PR and quick breakfast at Moncho Pan Panaderia and head over to El Yunque. I highly recommend going on a tour with a local. Depending on what you’re comfortable doing, there are so many different types of tours, including hiking to the natural rock water slide at Las Paylas.
Dinner at Marmalade tasting menus were so fun
Day 6:
Breakfast @ Cafe Berlin before heading back home!
Click HERE to access my full PR guide.
