Starry night, Latin rhythms: Magic!

Evening in San Juan.

¡Bienvenido de vuelta! Welcome back!

Before taking you on a tour of Old San Juan at night, I would like to extend a hearty congratulations and welcome to the newest members of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International who were inducted today—Friday—at the international induction ceremony.

As the sun sinks in the west and cruisers head back to their ships, Old San Juan goes through a period of transition. This is a great time to head out to one of the many restaurants in Old Town. In keeping with ANCC’s policy about presenters not promoting products, I will not recommend a restaurant. Oh, what the heck! We’re not giving CE credits for this blog. Ten years ago, I stumbled across the Aqua Viva. I was pleased and not surprised to find out it’s still here. If you are a fan of ceviche, this is the place for you. The many varieties are truly the best I have had in all my travels. When it comes to seafood, there are very few places where you can go wrong in Old San Juan. And if you’re not, there are still many choices, ranging from American fare to traditional Spanish and, of course, traditional Puerto Rican.

If you like ceviche, this is the place!

End of day is also a great time to just sit and relax in one of the many plazas as musicians gather and begin preparing for the evening’s festivities. San Juan is known as the Caribbean’s music capital. From symphonies to jazz festivals, there is something for every music lover in San Juan. There are fantastic venues to observe performances, but you can actually find some of the best music you’ve ever heard for free on the streets.

Tuning up.

San Juan, the Caribbean's music capital!

If music is not your thing, there is still plenty to do in Old San Juan at night. As you wander around, you will notice many things you didn’t see during the daytime that were right there in front of you. The historic architecture takes on completely different characteristics when bathed in the moonlight and glow of street lamps. The many sculptures and monuments that adorn the plazas seem to come alive at this hour.

Monuments come alive at night!

When it’s time to give your feet a rest from strolling around Old Town, there is a plethora of lounges, discos, and coffee shops in which to prop them up. Don’t just sit with your friends and talk among yourselves, though. The locals are warm and welcoming. They are always willing to share the history of their nation, a tall tale or two, and, if you are lucky, a tip about a secluded beach, a great surf spot, or equally as important, a recommendation for your next evening’s dining experience.

Activities in Old San Juan go on well into the early hours of the morning, if you care to stay up that late. And even at the wee hours, the streets are safe. If you should need assistance of any kind, a public safety official or friendly local is never far away.

With the moon high in the cloudless, starry night and the sound of Latin rhythms pulsating on the breeze, I’m off to soak up the rest of this amazing night. So, until tomorrow, ¡Buenas noches!

For Reflections on Nursing Leadership (RNL), published by the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International. Comments are moderated. Those that promote products or services will not be posted.