San Juan (Spanish for Saint John) is the capital and most populous
municipality in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (which is an unincorporated
territory of the United States). It was founded as a Spanish settlement
named Ciudad de Puerto Rico in the second decade of 16th century
and is regarded as the second-oldest capital city established by the
Europeans (here, the Spanish) in the Americas. The city of San Juan doubles
up as the number one seaport (in terms of tourists and cargo influx) and
the axis of regional finance and tourism. San Juan is home to several
historical monuments that closely depict its Spanish and British colonial
past.
Things to do in San Juan
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Named in honor of King Philip II of Spain (1556-98 AD), the Castillo San
Felipe del Morro a famous 16th century citadel in San Juan. This
citadel was built to defend the port city and to safeguard its entrance
from hostile British naval forces and the pirates.
La Fortaleza (Spanish for ‘The Fortress’)
The oldest mansion in the Americas, the La Fortaleza is a former defensive
superstructure built to protect the city and its harbor from hostile naval
forces and pirates. Built between 1533 and 1540, it now hosts the official
residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico.
Castillo San Cristobal (Spanish for ‘Fort San Cristobal’)
Fort San Cristobal is the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the
Americas. It is spread across almost 27 acres of land, though nearly a
third of its was demolished to facilitate the flow of city’s traffic in
1897. It is very important from a strategic viewpoint because it acts as a
secure embankment around the city.
Best Time to Visit San Juan
Winter season (the months from December to April) are the best to book your
flights from Minneapolis to San Juan. It is the season when you can have a
great time at beach, indulging in water sports. Book your flights from MSP
to SJU during summers to enjoy famous cultural events like San Sebastian
Street Festival, Maricao Coffee Festival, Casals Festival and Ponce
Carnival. It is advised to book San Juan flights in advance to avoid paying
more during peak season.