Puerto Rico is home to three different bioluminescent bays. The water in these bays appears phosphorescent because of the presence of microscopic organisms that emit light. At the three locations---Laguna Grande in Fajardo, La Parguera between Mayaguea and Ponce, and Mosquito Bay in Vieques---you can kayak through the bays after dark to see the phenomenon. Plan trips on moonless nights to get the best visual experience. Some tourism companies do not operate on nights with a full moon, as the light makes the effect difficult to see.
A walk through El Yunque rainforest introduces visitors to 240 different species of tree; jungle-like foliage; the sound of "el coquí," the tree frog; and perhaps an endangered Puerto Rican parrot or two. El Yunque also features several waterfalls and natural pools where visitors may bathe. El Yunque can be visited independently or with a guided tour. A large visitor's center at the entrance to the rainforest features educational exhibits and documentary films.
In Old San Juan, the walled city, visitors can get a sense of the history of Puerto Rico and the multicultural influences that contribute to the island---Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, Taíno and Anglo. Three Spanish colonial fortresses can be visited here: El Morro Fuerte, Cristóbal and La Fortaleza. Cobblestones and brightly painted houses characterize the streets of Old San Juan, and you'll find plenty of places to eat, drink and shop.
The national dish of Puerto Rico is called "mofongo" and served in almost any local restaurant. Mofongo is usually made with friend plantains mashed with broth and garlic, then filled with vegetables, meat or seafood. Puerto Rico's official drink is the piña colada, a cocktail made with rum, coconut cream and pineapple juice. Most beachside bars in Puerto Rico serve piña coladas. If you're interested in learning more Puerto Rican rum, go to the Bacardi Rum plant. Visitors can take a trolley tour of the distillery and bottling plant, visit the museum and imbibe a free cocktail.
