Neighborhoods: El Condado:
El Condado, as the locals say, is the island's most glamorous district, featuring boutiques, a variety of restaurants, and some of the finest hotels on the island. Contrary to popular belief, many nationals do reside here in the exquisite turn-of-the-century mansions. You'll notice the populace on any given day to be a good balance between tourists and locals. If you are an avid jogger, you'll love the expanse of open area. This district spans from the Condado Plaza Hotel & Casino in the west to the Ocean Park area in the east. Condado attracts an upscale party crowd who flocks to its clubs and ubiquitous small cafés and bars. Kali, with its wild bashes, is a prime choice for the party-hearty crowd. Among the pubs, Dunbar's in the Ocean Park sector stands out for its fun-loving people and tantalizing food. Take to the dance floor and learn the latest salsa moves at any of the hotel lobbies that provide this type of entertainment for visitors.
Old San Juan/Puerta de Tierra:
San Juan is a traditional, colonial city that is bordered by walls. San Juan is connected to the mainland via several bridges. Old San Juan itself consists of narrow streets encompassing over four hundred years of history and tradition. Dine in one of the great establishments on Fortaleza Street, party in San Sebastián until dawn, or simply stroll along the charming avenues and thoroughfares. Similar to Europe this area is to people-watch, and there is no better place to indulge in this activity than from one of the several plazas that are located throughout the city. This town has something for all ages, young and old. A must-see is the impressive Spanish fort El Morro. San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico's after hours nightlife, most hot clubs, lively bar, discotheques, and casinos are located here. Sanjuaneros, or the people of San Juan, are serious party-goers, and they know how to keep the party scene alive and well. Playing hard seems to be part of his culture.
Isla Verde:
Isla Verde
Isla Verde is home to high-rise apartment buildings, huge clubs and luxurious hotels. This area is actually part of the municipality of Carolina, connected to San Juan via several highways and streets. It spans from the Punta Las Marías area ( adjacent to Ocean Park ) to the land just beyond the International Airport. Isla Verde hosts world-class hotels that include the Ritz-Carlton and El San Juan. Its nightlife is exciting, and the enormous balneario, or public beach, is where locals and guests come to sunbathe and get their fill of people-watching. Isla Verde in recent years has been converted into a mega-party district, housing super clubs like Brava. There are plenty of cafés and street-side bars along this strip. The lobbies of the InterContinental San Juan and the Ritz-Carlton have excellent entertainment, but the ever popular El San Juan Hotel & Casino is, without question, the place to be on Saturdays.
