San Juan is Usually a major stop on the Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries -- not to mention a turnaround port for many ships. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, and San Juan is its urban hub. The city, by and large, is divided into "nuevo" and "old". The new includes a business district and outlying neighborhoods, concentrated with hotel chains like Isla Verde. The old is, of course, the historic city within ancient walls.

Puerto Rico is actually a self-governing US Commonwealth Territory. It is one of the larger islands in the Caribbean, measuring 110 miles east –west and 35 miles north-south. It is one of the few Caribbean islands that does not rely primarily on tourism as its economic base. Palm lined white sand beaches, gently rolling hills, rugged steep mountain ranges, a rain forest and dry desert-like areas are all a part of its diverse Landscape. This island, discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, has a rich history to explore. Old San Juan, once a walled city, is now a designated historic landmark. Architectural treasures abound, amidst the pastel-colored buildings that line the old narrow cobblestone streets. The glitzy resorts that line the beaches and sizzling non-stop nightlife make this island a very popular vacation destination.

Puerto Rico enjoys summer-like conditions year-round. Summer months have a higher rainfall than from November to April, when there is little rain. Water temperature remains relatively constant and varies no more than 4 degrees from the air temperature.

For those who visit San Juan as a day-stop on a Caribbean itinerary or embark or disembark there, the island's biggest appeal is the old city. Most cruise ships dock right in the heart of Old San Juan, which dates back to the 16th century. The old, walled city has been exquisitely preserved, and its sprawling forts, cobblestone streets, antique shops and art galleries make it an ideal first stop. Its mainstream attractions include the imposing El Morro fort, which dates back to 1539; the Cathedral of San Juan, where the island's first governor, Ponce de Leon, is buried.
And there's one more thing to keep in mind: many cruises stay in port until late at night. That makes it possible to sample some of the city's vibrant restaurants and nightlife (as long as you keep an eye on the clock).

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