Puerto Rico Diary- La Concha

Hi there! My husband and I just returned from celebrating our belated 10-year anniversary in Puerto Rico (Presidents Day weekend). We had never left our two children and neither of us had ever been to PR before. We did not know what to expect but wanted somewhere with consistently nice weather and a direct flight from Washington, D.C. We absolutely loved it- the weather was perfect and it was a great mix of beach and urban for us. We stayed at the Marriott/Renaissance La Concha, which is right on the beach. Its been recently redone and has a very happening lobby/pool scene. We stayed in the new suite tower which was ideal for us because we got to experience the hip vibe but had space and quiet (I haven't slept in what feels like years!) The staff was lovely-- my only complaint would be that they need to heat the pools as there is a significant breeze coming off the ocean. Also, the hot tubs appeared to be broken while we were there for part of the time- they were not hot. It was fixed by the last day of the stay. The gym overlooks the water and is gorgeous and the food/drink service next to the pool was great.

My husband and I like to be active so we actually walked to and from Old San Juan a few days but its not for the faint of heart- I believe its about 7 miles and I would only recommend you do it during daytime and along the water. I would never recommend you do it alone either for safety purposes. I'd also strongly recommend sunblock, a hat and water.

For breakfast in OSJ, we loved La Bambonera and apparently Samantha Brown's travel show is about to do a piece there. It has a definite local flair and was very affordable.

Around the hotel area, we really enjoyed Budathai for dinner. It has great appetizers, drinks, ceviche and sushi. It has a NY meets PR feel but everyone was very friendly and it overlooks the water. Not cheap though. We ate at Miro based on recs here but I found it to be way overpriced for what it was. We very much enjoyed Ropa Viejo and regretted not making reservations as it was packed.

We tried to avoid cabs (other than the airport of course) but did go to Isla Verde via cab and ate at Metropole for lunch. Fantastic food! The beach area was very nice and if I had to pick one of the IV resorts to stay in I would say the Old San Juan appeared to be the nicest (we checked it and the Ritz out). Still, I was glad we were at the La Concha and would choose it again.

Hope this helps someone!!