Postcards from Puerto Rico, Part II

Old San Juan is well-known for its old-world architecture and colourful houses. Morning, before the day heats up, is the perfect time to stroll the city’s charming streets.

(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)
(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)

Given the age of the city (over 500 years old!), it’s no surprise San Juan’s architectural style also spans centuries. Houses, and the historic quarter, were cleverly planned to maximize exposure to the cooling breezes off the ocean, a must on a tropical island. Homes have high ceilings and shady inner courtyards, and streets are laid out to channel airflow through them.

(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)
(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)
(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)

Keep an eye out too for the streets’ blue cobblestones, a hallmark of Old San Juan. These were ingeniously fashioned with waste from the iron smelting process and are now featured in many photographs and souvenir products from the city.

(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)
(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)

The cheery array of pastel colours seems to compliment the island’s sunny disposition. Wandering Old San Juan’s streets is the perfect way to take them all in at your own pace: you’ll be delighted at every corner!

Have you been to Old San Juan before? Did you fall in love with its charming historic streets? Let me know in a comment or email!

(Photo credit: canuckrunningamuck)

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