Folks, <BR> <BR> We need to plan a vacation for ~4 days in PR in November (a family trip). What are the great places that shouldn't be missed outside of San Juan, and if anyone has suggestions for lodging. We are not that interested in busy cities; we prefer nature and typical places. <BR> <BR>Thanks, <BR> <BR>Igal <BR>

I recommend staying outside of San Juan. It is a large city with traffic, highways, crowds and little Caribbean feeling to it. We stay at the Hyatt Dorado, about 40 minutes outside of SJ. It has a large sister hotel Hyatt Cerramar 1 mile away and they run a shuttle continuously. If you are going with kids, I recommend the Cerramar. If you are going with adults only, the Dorado is better. The beach at the Dorado is better, but Cerramar has a great river pool and lots of kids activities. A trip to the rainforest is nice, you can take that from the Hyatts.

Do you have any info about theHyatt Dorado? It sounds like fun place. My son and I plan to stay in S J for 4 days Jan 10. <BR>Celeste

I agree, go w/ the hyatt.It's remote and is beautiful. There are a bunch of restaurants at the cerromar proerty( the asian is super); Bring your rollerblades as there is a great course around the property. enjoy!

You may want to rent a car for a day and visit some more local places, regardless of where you base yourself. Since you are only spending about 4 days, I think the Hyatts is a good idea, because they are only about 30-45 minutes away from the San Juan airport. You can rent a car for a day and drive 1 hour west to the Rio Camuy Caverns, which are very natural and beautiful. I've heard that there's a lake area with restaurants near the Camuy Caverns, but I have never been there (maybe a guide book will say). <BR> <BR>The south/southwestern part of the island is very quaint (Ponce, LaParguera, Cabo Rojo and Guanica)...but I wouldn't recommend it for a short trip.