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Jose Kevo
Jose Kevo
First Reviewer
5 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
1
Review
4
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Editor Pick

Blind Date Advice

  • September 29, 2004
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Jose Kevo from Middle-of-Nowhere, Missouri
Blind Date Advice

When showing up without knowing what to expect, a good first impression is always most important; especially if time together could be limited. Keep it simple. Based on Latin enlightenment, expect initial perceptions to be flirtatious, yet traditionally old-fashioned.

Plaza de Colón is likely best for initial greetings. A statue of Christopher Columbus rises above a rotunda lined with steps and fountains centered in this large plaza dividing San Juan between old to the west, and newer to the east. Regardless of what plans transpire, use this as launching point whether taking a taxi, free historic trolley, or straying hand-in-hand.

Off the northeast/back-side of the plaza, Avenida Muñoz Rivera climbs the steep hill leading towards entrance of Fort San Cristobal. Only if time permits would you consider this a must-see compared to what waits further down Calle Norgazaray. Keep going until coming to El Campo de Morro; a sprawl of wide-open green concealing the best awaiting in Old San Juan.


The graveled walkway is longer than it looks but worth every step of the way across windswept lawns leading to Fuerte San Felipe del Morro, crowning jewel defining the entire island. The facade is level and rather plain upon approach, but once inside richness detailing Puerto Rico, Rich Port, unfolds. Six levels of cavernous citadels terrace downward towards the sea.

Expect to get a rise...in form of goose bumps, regardless of how much devotion becomes inspired. Look for intricate details beyond the obvious; El Morro is one of those places commanding attention using every sensory mode a body can muster.

The main gate is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm with $5 admission fee. Tickets are also good for San Cristobal which seems like nothing if you chance encounter El Morro first.


Plaza del Quinto Centenario is across Calle Norzagaray from El Morro's lawn with sculptures, artwork, and dancing waters great for passing through on hot days if appropriately attired. Heading up steps, the street jogs in back of plaza before turning south as Calle del Cristo; Old San Juan's artery for street festivals and celebrating. Beginning with Plaza San José, numerous bars and grills are great for lingering.

Two blocks down, Catedral de San Juan crowns a small hill; worth a quick peek as it doubles as a tomb for Ponce de León. Calle del Cristo converts into a tourist haven with upscale shops and eateries inviting shared experiences. Street dead-ends at historic Capilla del Cristo with pidgeon-ladened Parque de las Palomas to the right.

Eventually meander your way in direction of Plaza de Armas, which anchors the historic center. There are plenty of shaded benches, unless opting for sitting around bases of the fountain or band shell-sized gazebo, or one of the outdoor cafés serving rich coffee blends. Survey susceptibilities after this introductory engagement; gaze deeply at the one you're entertaining and determine if fate is worth a second go-round where intentions only become more intimate.

From journal Mistress of My Desires

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