Ok. I’m just going to say what’s on most of our minds these days: I HATE THIS WEATHER!

Here in the Northeast we’re still surrounded by hills of snow and frigid temperatures that don’t appear to be disappearing any time soon.  And it’s not just in our area because much of the rest of the country has experienced some effect from what seems to be one of the worst winters in recent time.

So where to escape that’s warm and exotic, but doesn’t have the hassles associated with travel to a foreign country?

Earlier this month I was invited  by the San Juan Marriott to visit Puerto Rico. A commonwealth of the United States,  the advantages of choosing this colorful Caribbean destination are obvious-no customs to go through, no currency conversions, and many of our phone or data plans can be used there at no extra cost.

I’d traveled there a number of years ago, but this visit was definitely an improvement. While the San Juan Marriott is nestled on  its own section of sandy beach, its location on Ashford Avenue in the Condado area of the city is within easy walking distance from fine restaurants and luxury shops.

In fact, after I settled into my beautiful room which was part of the hotel’s multimillion dollar renovation and then met the rest of the travel writers on this trip, we all walked over to Budatai. Owned and operated by Food Network’s Iron Chef Robert Trevino, this restaurant blends Asian inspired food with subtle hints of Latin and Caribbean spices and flavors that received great various travel sites including reviews from Frommer’s .

 

Then it was back to rest up for the exciting events ahead including a hike in the rainforest, a trip to Old San Juan City, a visit to Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and, the best for last,a night time kayaking trip on one of Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bays.

 

Next: El Yunque Rainforest