Puerto Rico: America’s Tropical Paradise

Growing up, Puerto Rico was one of the places we visited the most as a family. A short car ride from San Juan Airport will get you to what has always been our favorite spot: Dorado Beach. It’s like being transported to another part of the world without needing a (US) passport or a long flight!

In 2018, The Ritz Reserve took over and opened the resort in Dorado Beach. There are only 5 Ritz Reserves in the world-- known for their remote locations and epitomes of luxury. From the moment you enter, the resort’s perfectly manicured landscapes and spectacular views calm your senses-- it truly feels like a slice of paradise. Golf carts are the transportation of choice and no one moves too quickly. The coqui frogs sing you to sleep at night with a sound you’ve probably never heard before, and gorgeous light enters the window when you wake. Vacation never felt so good.

Spa Botanico is the cherry on top of this paradise. The 100 year old Ficus tree in front of the spa adds an element of whimsy and romance as you enter. The atrium to the spa has the feeling of an old apothecary with dried flowers and herbs adorning the walls and long center table. The doors open to an oasis of lounge areas surrounding a tranquility pool where you can hang out and wait for your treatment. Cozy up on a chaise, read a magazine, sip some tea and eat an amazing pastry. Actually, taste everything offered in the lounge rooms, even the infused water--you won't be disappointed! Dip in the hidden cold and warm pools and thrill your senses under a freezing bucket of water before jumping into the jacuzzi! Massage in a tree house? Compression treatment in a hammock? Ritual bath in a secret garden? YES PLEASE! And, the best manicure pedicure I’ve ever had!

The only problem with staying at the Ritz Reserve is not wanting to leave, and Puerto Rico has so much more to explore. Breathtaking sunsets, lush rainforests, delicious cuisine, and an almost 300 year old fort await just outside the gates.

El Yunque is the only Tropical Rainforest in the National Forest Registry. It’s quite small by comparison to other rainforests but it is astoundingly diverse.

Old San Juan boasts amazing restaurants and delicious ice cream (shout out to Anita La Mamma del Gelato), as well as many fun attractions and charming architecture.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro was once “the gateway to the Spanish empire” with its strategic oceanside location. This fort was essential in the defense of Spanish Territories especially against the British dating back to the late 1500s. From a military standpoint it was constantly fought over until the Spanish American war at which point it was considered outdated.

Don’t write off Puerto Rico because it’s a U.S. territory or isn’t exotic enough- that’s actually what makes it so appealing and easy to visit. A trip to this beautiful island will never be disappointing. Come see it for yourself and enjoy being transported to paradise without a passport!

I’d love to hear from you! Let me know if there are any specific topics you’d like to explore even further.