Spanish language schools Study Spanish In Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico: A Great Place To Learn Spanish

San Juan, also known as "La Ciudad Amurallada" was founded by the Spanish in 1521. Ponce de Leon founded another settlement nearby about ten years earlier, however it became apparent the location was not good, and so the Spanish moved and founded San Juan. The move was made to take advantage of both a better defensive position and also to take advantage of the harbor. San Juan is considered to be one of the biggest and best harbors in the Caribbean. San Juan is also the second oldest city in the Americas.

Today San Juan is still an important port and today has also become a major tourist destination. San Juan consists of 3 major areas, the resort area (beach), Old San Juan, and the outlying communities. Some of the more important communities are Hato Rey, Puerta de Tierra, Santurce and Rio Piedras.

In the 16th century, San Juan was a main departure point for Spanish expeditions to other parts of the New World. Due to its importance massive fortifications were built to protect the city and the harbor. Today you can still visit these fortifications. It makes for an interesting visit.

Most tourists to San Juan should visit Old San Juan. This is where the original city was built. Today the buildings have been restored, and the area is full of beautiful homes, great little shops, museums, bars and restaurants.

The other very well known area of San Juan is the Condado. Here is where you will find the newest hotels and some of the nicest stretches of beaches. Additionally there is an abundace of entertainment options in this area. Furthermore the Condado is very centrally located within San Juan.

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