Workation in Paradise: Our Adventures in Puerto Rico
For CompanyCations with family, last November was a time filled with sun, adventure, and unforgettable experiences in Puerto Rico. Join us on our journey as we combined work and pleasure in the best possible way!
A Nervous Start
When we flew to Puerto Rico, we were met with reports of massive flooding. Fortunately, we had booked our first night at the airport, so we didn’t have to venture out immediately. A bit nervous about picking up the rental car, we quickly breathed a sigh of relief. In Puerto Rico, they are used to downpours, and their roads are well-prepared to quickly handle large amounts of water. So, when we finally set off, the roads were dry and ready for our adventure.
First Stop: Old Town San Juan
Our adventure began in the charming old town of San Juan. Old San Juan is one of the oldest settlements in the Americas and offers a mix of history, culture, and a lively atmosphere. The colorful house facades, cobblestone streets, and rich history make every walk a journey back in time.
We started with a tour of the San Juan National Historic Site, where we visited the impressive fortresses Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal. These massive structures were built by the Spanish to defend the city from sea attacks. The view from the fortress walls is spectacular, offering a fantastic panorama of the Atlantic Ocean and the city.
After exploring the fortresses, we walked to Catedral de San Juan Bautista, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Western Hemisphere. This magnificent building is a peaceful oasis amid the city's hustle and bustle, a place for reflection and admiration of its Gothic architecture.
We took a break to enjoy some ice cream at the popular gelato bar Anita. With a wide variety of flavors and a refreshing break from the heat, this was a highlight for both young and old in our team.
We continued our city walk through Old San Juan, passing iconic spots like Paseo de la Princesa, a beautiful promenade lined with statues, fountains, and trees. It leads to Puerta de San Juan, the last remaining of the original gates that once allowed entry to the city.
After a lovely lunch at a local restaurant, where we enjoyed Puerto Rican cuisine, it was time to head towards Ceiba, our base for the upcoming week.
Heading to Ceiba
Ceiba became our base for a week filled with activities. We took a memorable boat trip to the island of Culebra and Bahia Flamenco, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Bahia Flamenco is known for its crystal-clear water and white sand that stretches as far as the eye can see. We spent the day snorkeling, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the fantastic scenery. We also indulged in delicious ice cream at Rolls of Heaven, a charming little café where you can sit in a small courtyard with chickens roaming around the tables. Culebra is a peaceful island offering a perfect escape from the bustling mainland, with its relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty.
Rainforest Adventures
One day was dedicated to a rainforest hike in El Yunque National Forest. Here, we explored natural rock slides and water holes, and even picked coconuts that tasted divine in the middle of nature. The hike took us through dense forests, past roaring waterfalls, and to the most incredible viewpoints. We loved sliding down the rocks and swimming in the crystal-clear water holes.
On our way back, we took a detour to explore Luquillo Beach. Although the road there was challenging with its narrow paths and deep puddles that hadn’t fully dried up after the floods, it quickly turned into a thrilling experience for us adults, as we had to walk barefoot through large puddles while the kids laughed and talked about snakes! Despite the little drama on the way, our swim at Luquillo Beach was something we will never forget.
Another highlight was a 20th birthday dinner at the cozy restaurant El Pescador in Las Croabas. Here, we enjoyed authentic Puerto Rican food like mofongo, fantastic drinks, and a friendly atmosphere that made the evening unforgettable.
Next Destination: Dorado
After a fantastic week in Ceiba, we drove to Dorado.
From here, we made several day trips. For example, we drove to a beautiful beach – Playa de Vega Baja. Perfect for relaxation and a bit of adventure. This beach is known for its crystal-clear water, rocks that frame the beach and separate it from the rest of the ocean, and soft sand. You can easily spend a whole day here sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. There are also several kiosks serving delicious local dishes and refreshing drinks.
On the way to Guajataca, we stopped at a lookout point with outstanding views. Mirador de Guajataca offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Guajataca area. Here, you can see lush forests, cliffs, and the sea stretching out to the horizon. We also stopped at Cara del Indio to see the impressive Mabodamaca sculpture. This enormous stone statue, depicting a Taíno Indian, stands proudly on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect spot to take in Puerto Rico's natural beauty and capture some memorable photos.
Down at Guajataca Beach, we took a small walk through the Guajataca Tunnel. This tunnel, which was once part of a railway, leads directly to a secluded beach. It’s an experience to walk through the tunnel and emerge onto the untouched coastline with its dramatic cliffs and wild waves. Perfect for adventurous souls looking to explore something unique.
For those who want to shop till they drop, there are Puerto Rico Premium Outlets. Time flies here as you can find a variety of stores. It’s an excellent place to find bargains from well-known brands.
We also visited Catarata Gozalandia, a magical waterfall where we swam and jumped from cliffs (an adrenaline rush for those who dared). This spectacular waterfall is hidden in a lush rainforest and offers a perfect spot for adventure and relaxation.
The perfect end to our trip! Thankfully, the kids only told us about the snakes they saw on the way home – so glad I missed that!
Having a job that allows for workations with family is absolutely amazing! It offers a perfect balance between work and quality time with loved ones, opening up for adventures and new experiences. Being able to travel and see the world without taking vacation days is truly a luxury! When you have the flexibility to work from anywhere, you can explore new places, cultures, and activities without sacrificing career progress. This lifestyle not only provides professional freedom but also the chance to create unforgettable memories together as a family. Something we value highly. If you have the chance to go on a workation – do it!!! It’s an experience that enriches both your work and your life.
Best regards,
The CompanyCations Team
