Celebrating 18 Years of Togetherness: Our Unforgettable Family Adventure in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Traveling with family is an unforgettable adventure, especially when you’re celebrating a significant milestone. For our 18th anniversary, we decided to return to the beautiful shores of San Juan, Puerto Rico, a place we had visited exactly eight years ago but this time with a special twist – our daughters, Kamilah and Isabelah, were coming along! This trip was particularly special as it marked Isabelah’s first airplane ride and our return as a family of 4 to a place filled with fond memories.

Our trip began on a Thursday, and despite a three-hour delay at the airport, the flight was smooth, and both girls handled it exceptionally well. Upon arrival, we opted to pick up our car rental—a Jeep Wrangler for some extra fun—right at the airport to avoid another trip back the next day. We had booked a suite at La Concha Renaissance Hotel in Condado, known for its direct ocean views. The room was not only spacious but also impeccably clean and cozy, perfect for our family of four. After settling in, we explored the neighborhood and enjoyed a delightful dinner nearby.

The following morning greeted us with stunning blue skies and ocean vistas. After enjoying a hearty breakfast of eggs and pancakes in a nearby breakfast spot, we set out to explore the historic charms of Viejo San Juan. Our first stop was Castillo San Cristóbal, one of the largest fortifications built by the Spanish in the New World. This massive structure, full of dungeons, cannons, and well-preserved outposts, offers a panoramic view of the San Juan coastline and a deep dive into Puerto Rican history.

However, our historical tour was cut short when we discovered our rental car was infested with roaches – a distressing discovery that forced us to return to our hotel prematurely. The situation with “Next Car Rental” (which we strongly advise against using due to their poorly maintained vehicles) only worsened as replacement cars also turned out to be infested. We eventually turned to Enterprise, which provided a pest-free car, salvaging the remainder of our trip.

Despite the car troubles, we enjoyed a lovely dinner around Condado that night and spent the evening relaxing by the hotel’s pool, taking in the beach views.

Determined to make the most of our time, we set off to El Yunque National Forest on Saturday. Known for its diverse ecosystem and breathtaking natural beauty, El Yunque was the perfect playground for our family. We hiked the Angelito Trail, which led us to a beautiful river where the girls played in the water, surrounded by the lush greenery of the rainforest.

†In the afternoon, we drove to Luquillo Beach, famous for its golden sands and the Kioskos de Luquillo—a row of food stalls offering everything from traditional Puerto Rican snacks to seafood. The area was lively and bustling with tourists and locals alike. After a day full of adventure, we returned to our hotel, where we ended the evening with the delightful Mango Parcha Cheesecake at the hotel’s restaurant, Solera.

Sunday was spent discovering more local gems. We drove to Playa Piñones, a tranquil spot favored by locals, offering pristine beaches and an authentic slice of Puerto Rican culture, far from the more tourist-trodden paths. The afternoon was perfect, mingling with friendly locals and soaking up the serene atmosphere.

Later, we joined a friend’s birthday celebration, enjoying an evening with beautiful people, full of genuine Puerto Rican hospitality and homemade delights – a true highlight of our cultural immersion.

Monday was a cloudy day, perfect for unwinding at the hotel. We strolled around Condado, and enjoyed the hotel’s pool and beach despite the weather. The beach at La Concha is known for its strong currents, but we still enjoyed the sandy shore and the vibrant hotel atmosphere. The hotel crowd was lively, especially on weekend nights when a DJ played in the lobby, creating a festive party vibe.

Our journey concluded on Tuesday with another delayed flight, but the journey back was smooth and reflective. This trip to Puerto Rico not only celebrated our anniversary but also strengthened our family bond, enriched by new experiences and shared adventures.

San Juan, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, provided the perfect backdrop for our 18 years anniversary celebration. From the historical fortresses of Viejo San Juan to the natural wonders of El Yunque and the hidden beachside retreats, Puerto Rico offers a mosaic of experiences. We left with hearts full of joy, eager to return and explore even more of this enchanting island!

This trip was more than a vacation; it was a celebration of milestones, family, and the enduring spirit of adventure. Here’s to many more years and travels together!