A perfect place for high-energy travelers, San Juan is quite a bustling place for a trip! If you are wondering is San Juan safe? Let me share with you a piece of detailed information about things to do in San Juan so that you can enjoy the vibrant place.
You know you can book one of the best Caribbean cruises to reach San Juan in Puerto Rico. I can bet you can enjoy one of the most vibrant vacation experiences of your life.
Additionally, the art museums, tropical beaches, historical places and sites, and salsa music make sure you have the time of your life when visiting San Juan. Let us go through the different elements that are necessary to establish the basic safety tips when traveling to San Juan.
Is San Juan Safe for Solo Women Travelers?
San Juan is quite safe for solo women travelers if some basic precautions are taken. I would suggest avoiding walking alone in unknown neighborhoods especially if they are poorly lit. Additionally, it is also important for you to learn the navigation of the city so, go through the maps to know better.
If you are walking at night, coming back to your accommodation, try to do that in a trusted group or with a friend. However, if you are solo traveling, you must know your route well. Yes, at times, the wrong place wrong time thing is true.
However, it is also necessary for you to be aware of the surroundings, limit your alcohol intake along with being careful when visiting pubs and bars. Let me share with you some of the safest places to stay, safest places to eat, and things to do safely.
Safest Place to Stay in San Juan
Let me share with you some of the safest places to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico as a tourist. As a place, yes there are petty crimes and theft, but no place is completely clean. There might be some issues however, most places are safe for travelers, especially with some precautions taken!
Condado – a tourist-based area where the people are quite friendly and helpful to the tourists. Furthermore, with a thriving nightlife scene, this place is perfect if you can stay here.
Henceforth, visiting museums and other important places becomes easier. Let’s not forget that you can hop to clubs and restaurants regularly if you stay close!
Santurce – One of the most populated areas of San Juan, this location is quite safe for you to book your accommodation here. Starting from museums, and art and music, you will get everything here. Admittedly, you will also enjoy the different types of cuisines available in this locality.
Things to Do in San Juan
If you want to enjoy visiting San Juan safely, let me share with you some of the coolest places that are worth visiting. History speaks here along with offering you some of the most picturesque places across the city.
Starting from the beaches to the streets, San Juan offers you beautiful places to explore. Let me share some of the things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico for free! These activities will make sure you have the time of your life!
El Yunque National Forest
This place is beautiful, especially if you are a natural person, this is it for you. Go visit nature and check out those beautiful waterfalls. You can also hike through the rainforest experiencing some of the best places in San Juan.
You can take a guided tour, or you can venture alone based on your experience of hiking. I would suggest you take an extra set of clothes along with extra hiking boots because chances are you will catch rain when you go across the trail.
Ocean Park Beach
This is one of the most popular beaches in San Juan, as people visit this beach for swimming and surfing. A large beach that is accessed by the public is in the neighborhood of the barrio of Santurce in Puerto Rico.
There is a little restaurant at this beach, but you probably won’t get a lot of options. It is better if you carry your drinks and order something minimalistic from the restaurant and accordingly enjoy the beach vibe.
Cobblestone Streets
Beautiful museums, colonial churches, and architecture across the cobblestone streets will take your breath away. I am sure you will start admiring the place when you take a stroll across these streets.
The streets are paved with blue cobblestone pavers, the beauty of it will just make you stare. You can get amazing pictures along with learning about the colonial past of the Island from these cobblestone streets.
La Fortaleza
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Fortaleza is a historic fortress. You can take a guided tour of this place. You can see the current residence of the Governor-General of Puerto Rico, there is also an arsenal here.
Furthermore, you cannot roam around the fortress at your own will, instead try to book the 30-minute guided walking tours across the place from Monday to Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The tour is inclusive of the interiors of the fortress when the government is not in session and the luscious gardens.
Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
The cemetery is historically profound especially because it is filled with graves of significant Puerto Rican figures. Salvador Brau, Jose Ferrer, Rafael Hernandez, Jose de Diego, and others are all buried here.
You will find them one of the most beautiful places as the cemetery faces the Atlantic Ocean. It is all about the symbolization of the journey of the souls in their afterlife!
Food to Have in San Juan
Are you a foodie like me? Whenever I travel somewhere, what I find very necessary is to try the food that the locals enjoy. This shows how the way a place develops a relationship with the local food, the people, and the culture there.
La Placita de Santurce – With several bars and food stalls, this place is as lively as a festival, the market square attracts you like no other. One of the hotspots of Puerto Rico, both travelers and locals are attracted to this place.
La Factoria – This bar is popular and known for its creative cocktails such as espresso martini, lavender mule and lager beer, hijos de Borinquen, and others! A low-lit salsa-filled ambiance is quite homely with their delicious fish tacos, stuffed mushrooms, fried goat cheese balls, and others.
Chicharron – One of the most delicious tapas menus, this restaurant is one of the best places to taste the Puerto Rican malanga soup. Let’s not forget to try the Mofongo from here.
Deaverdura – A small restaurant, giving a farm eatery vibe offers you some of the best pernil in San Juan. You also need to try the pollo al ajillo with rice, which is to die for. It is located right in the heart of the city; the lively Latin American restaurant gives you the perfect taste of local cuisine.
Molini’s – A hidden gem of a restaurant, the menu keeps changing every day offering you some of the best local cuisines. If you are looking for an authentic Puerto Rican dish, try their Arroz con gandules. You are in for a treat!
Safety Tips for Solo Women Traveler
The safety tips that I am sharing with you are from my experience as a solo female traveler! My experiences have helped me create a checklist for myself especially when I am traveling alone, both domestically and internationally.
Select your accommodation area in a well-lit neighborhood. This will ensure your safety even when you are returning late to your hotel or leaving early to visit a tourist place. Another thing to keep in mind, if you are walking alone, try to be on proper-lit roads, especially at night.
It is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times, even when in a crowd. I recently traveled to a crowded city in India, and I realized, that pickpockets and petty theft are most rampant in crowds. Even at night, you must be aware of your surroundings.
When using transportation, use reputable and trusted individual drivers and organizations for ride-sharing services, organized tours, and taxis.
Try not to flaunt too much in terms of clothing or accessories. For example, it is better if you do not wear expensive watches, expensive bags, jewelry, and large amounts of cash.
You must keep track of the weather in San Juan and check the forecast before you make the plans. It is better to be prepared especially because you are a visitor to the city hence, you might not get help whenever you need it. Better take precautions instead of worrying about what will happen later.
Wrapping Up!
In conclusion, when you visit San Juan, you must enjoy the beautiful places, enjoy the local Puerto Rican dishes, and experience their culture. And when you ask, is San Juan safe? You will know yourself if you keep all the safety tips discussed above in this blog.
Comment below on what you think is the must-visit place in San Juan and why. Furthermore, it is also significant for you to plan your trip, especially if you are traveling solo.
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
Before you set off on your global adventure, it's crucial to have a well-thought-out plan for what to pack and what to store.
Create two lists; one for items you'll need on your travels and another for possessions that will stay behind. This will help you prioritize and make the packing process more manageable. Remember, the aim is to travel light but also ensure that your life back home remains intact for your return.
Sorting Your Essentials
Deciding what to take with you on your journey is a balancing act between necessity and luxury. Start by listing all the essentials like travel documents, medication, TEFL accreditation, and basic clothing. Once you’ve got that sorted, think about the climate of your destination and pack accordingly.
Don’t forget to include a small first-aid kit and any specialized gear you might need for activities you plan to do. It’s always better to have a few versatile items rather than overpacking with things you might not use.
Using Storage Units
Storage units are an excellent option for keeping your larger possessions safe while you're away. Not only do they offer a secure environment for items like furniture, but they also provide a climate-controlled setting for keepsakes that may be sensitive to temperature or humidity. Make sure to pack these items carefully, using bubble wrap or cloth to prevent any damage.
Opt for a storage facility that has robust security measures like 24/7 surveillance and coded access to ensure the utmost safety of your belongings. Safestore’s storage units all have 24-hour CCTV, and they have locations across the country. Their dry, clean, and secure units are the perfect place to store your belongings while you travel the world.
What To Do With Your Car
If you own a car, you'll need to decide what to do with it while you're traveling. Long-term parking can be expensive and may expose your vehicle to the elements. A better option might be to leave it with a trusted friend or family member who can occasionally run the engine and keep it maintained. Alternatively, you could look into professional vehicle storage services that offer secure, climate-controlled environments specifically designed for car storage.
Preparing Your Home For Your Absence
Before you leave, make sure to take care of household responsibilities that could become issues in your absence. Contact your utility providers to inform them of your travel plans and see if any services can be paused. Arrange for someone to collect your mail or have it held at the post office. If you have subscriptions or regular deliveries, pause or cancel them for the duration of your trip. These small steps will help you avoid unnecessary costs and complications when you return.
Make Your Return As Smooth As Possible
The excitement of traveling the world is unparalleled, but eventually, the time will come to return home. To ensure a smooth transition back to your regular life, it's essential to plan your homecoming as meticulously as your departure. Start by making a checklist of tasks to complete upon your return, such as restocking your pantry, reactivating paused services, and checking the condition of stored items.
If you've left your car with someone, coordinate the return beforehand to avoid any last-minute hassles. Don't forget to reach out to friends or family who've been looking after your home, plants, or pets to let them know your return date. A little planning can go a long way in making your return not just bearable but enjoyable, allowing you to seamlessly pick up where you left off.
Planning a long-term trip abroad is an exciting but complex task that requires meticulous preparation. From sorting your essentials and securing your possessions to taking care of your home and vehicle, each step is crucial for a hassle-free experience. By following these guidelines, you can embark on your adventure with peace of mind, knowing that everything will be ready and waiting for you when you return.
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The art and cultural landscape of Denver is thriving. Also, there are many free and fun activities in Denver for adults willing to know about the culture of this Colorado City.
Further, if you are in Denver in winter, exploring the wildlife will be the best for traveling on a shoestring. Especially during the winter months (November to April) you will get to see many birds. Hundreds of migratory birds visit this part of the world in this season.
The most popular species among them are finches, woodpeckers, siskins, and jays.
However, you can begin the cultural activities in Denver for adults with a free walk and gazing at the festive winter lights. Also, in winter, there are some seasonal events that you can attend for free.
So, at Tour and Travel, we have curated some free and fun activities in Denver for adults this winter. Let’s have a look.
Cultural Fun Activities In Denver For Adults | Try These Things For Free
Art and culture have always been crucial for the tourism landscape of Denver. In 2022, these registered an economic activity of $2.6 billion in the Denver metro area.
Further, with destination marketing organizations (DMOs) like Visit Denver, the landscape is only going to improve. The result is already clear, with the tourism revenue in Denver reaching $10.3 billion in 2023.
Being a budget-friendly destination of course, helps in this tourism boost after the Covid-19 scenario. In fact, Denver is more budget-friendly as a travel destination compared to other metros in the Rocky Mountains.
So, no wonder many fun activities in Denver for adults are free and budget-friendly. And these activities even include visits to the popular museums of the city. So, let’s mark the dates now.
1. Visit The Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Address: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver
Phone Number: +1 303-370-6000
Visit for Free: 8th December, 18th November, etc.
Currently, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science has programs like “The Power of Poison,” and “Animals of the Rain Forest.” Further, the museum has permanent exhibits like gems and minerals, Egyptian mummies, prehistoric journeys, and the Space Odyssey.
Further, the dioramas at the Wildlife Halls are fascinating. Moreover, the museum has the only “Konovalenko gem sculptures on public display outside of Moscow.” So, if you are interested in Russian folklife, a visit to the museum will be great for you.
2. Visit The Museum of Contemporary Art
https://www.instagram.com/p/DDINAi_sA0N/?img_index=1
Address: 1485 Delgany St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Contact Number: +1 303-298-7554
Visit for Free: Penny Saturdays or the First Saturday of Every Month
Though not completely free, a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the most fun activities in Denver for adults. You just need to pay one penny to enter the museum on those Saturdays. However, entry is free for children and young adults up to 18 years.
The Museum of Contemporary Art is a wonderful place to find a fusion of Denver’s cultural tradition and the works of contemporary artists. Further, VR Art is one of the main attractions of this museum, making the experience more interactive for visitors.
Moreover, the museum keeps hosting world-class exhibitions for people across all age groups. The ongoing and upcoming events to attend at this museum are:
Brendan Fernandes: Within Seeing (26th October to 8th December 2024)
Ronny Quevedo: at the line (7th-8th December 2024)
Black Sheep Fridays: XXX-Themed Holiday Craft Making (13th December, 2024)
Siren (20th December 2024)
Laura Shill: Working On Myself (6th October 2024 to 19th January 2025)
3. Skating At Downtown Denver Rink
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Date: 21st November 2024 to 2nd February 2025
Venue: Skyline Park, 1601 Arapahoe St, Denver
The Downtown Denver Rink once again has become a winter wonderland. Skating, one of the most adventurous fun activities in Denver for adults, is free here. You can even take skating essentials on rent here.
Hours of operation are different on each day of the week. For example, from Monday to Saturday, the Downtown Denver Rink will remain open between 10 AM to 10 PM from 24th December 2024 to 5th January 2025.
However, on Sundays, the hours of operation will be 11 AM to 6 PM.
Further, the timing will change from 6th January to 2nd February 2025. Then, the timing will be:
Monday to Thursday: 1 AM to 5 PM
Friday to Saturday: 1 AM to 10 PM
Sunday: 11 AM to 6 PM
Do You Know?Are you a Swiftie? Come visit the Downtown Denver Rink for free on 13th December 2024. You can enjoy skating here while singing “Happy Birthday to You” to the “Mother” along with fellow Swifties.Further, 24th January will be a fun day at Downtown Denver Rink if you are a Disco fan. With a pumping heart, you can enjoy skating here while listening to the hits of the 70s and 80s.
4. Be A Part of The Light the Lights
https://www.instagram.com/p/C1SD1j0OB4l/
Date: November 27, 2024 - January 26, 2025
Venue: Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Avenue, Denver
See Denver shining bright with festive light by being a part of the Light the Lights. Except Monday, this show will take place between 5:45 to 6:45 PM. Further, there will be no show on 7th and 21st December.
Light the Lights is a well-choreographed music and light show spanning around 8 minutes. However, the City and County Building will remain lit with static lights up to 10: 45 PM.
Being one of the most fun activities in Denver for adults, Light the Lights is also popular among kids.
5. Attend The Mile High Holidays Drone Show
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2024 Date: 22nd November to 31st December
Venues: Sculpture Park at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Ball Arena, etc.
The Mile High Drone Show is one of the major draws for the festive season in Denver. It amazes with animations and festive visuals.
Further, this 15-minute spectacle depicts the Denver Union Station, Mile High Tree, and other iconic landmarks of the city.
The Mile High Holidays Drone Show also has some special displays on days like the 25th and 31st of December. This year, the special performance on the 25th will begin at 7 PM, and on the 31st, the show will start at 5:30 PM.
So, it’s time for you to see the Denver sky come alive with the Mile High Holidays Drone Show for free.
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Nashville once again gears up for Christmas, and it is already under the spotlight, thanks to Mariah Carey's performance. Her Christmas Time Tour at Bridgestone Arena on 25th November 2024 has been a gala success. Further, she looked dreamy in her mermaid outfit.
However, Christmas in Nashville is always special, with many musical performances. In fact, attending these music concerts and events at Gaylord Opryland are the topmost fun activities in Nashville for adults.
Dickens of a Christmas is another attraction if you visit Nashville during Christmas. So, do you want to set your itinerary right when you visit Nashville this December? Here is a detailed Tour and Travel guide.
Fun Activities In Nashville For Adults: Christmas On My Mind
As winter sets in and you get to hear Ho! Ho! In the air, Nashville turns into a wonderland. So, if you have doubts about why Nashville is such a brilliant place during winter, you will find the answer in the pleasant weather conditions, festive markets, and light decor.
Moreover, you cannot miss the happening Christmas Village. Still, do you want more reasons to visit Christmas in Nashville? Then, you must try the signature Southern holiday cuisine. Food in Nashville is also popular on socials, with 251k posts on #nashvillefood.
So, with so many fun activities in Nashville for adults, let’s celebrate Christmas in the “Music City” this year.
However, before I get into the fun activities every Christmas, I must share the details about some upcoming events and celebrations in Nashville in December-January (2024-25).
Christmas And Winter Events In NashvilleDatesVenueJack Daniel's New Year's Eve Live: Nashville's Big Bash31st DecemberBicentennial Capitol Mall State ParkHoliday Screenings: The Santa Clause + How the Grinch Stole Christmas + The Polar Express25th December W NashvilleHoliday Screenings: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation + Elf + Christmas with the Kranks24th DecemberW NashvilleHoliday Movie Series: Elf 23rd DecemberHampton SocialHoliday Movie Series: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)22nd DecemberHampton SocialChristmas Fit for a Queen20th DecemberAnalog at Hutton Hotel David Alford's Southern Christmas SamplerDecember 19-20, 22, 27, & 29Belmont MansionPhotos with Santa8th November - 24th DecemberThe Green Hills MallChristmas8th November 2024 - 4th January 2025Gaylord OprylandThe Dancing Lights of Christmas8th November 2024 - 4th January 2025Lebanon, TNZoolumination14th November 2024 to 9th February 2025Nashville ZooHoliday Lights22nd November 2024 - 5th January 2025Cheekwood
So, have you marked the dates? Then, let’s know more about our favorite fun activities in Nashville for adults during Christmas.
1. Spend Your Christmas at Gaylord Opryland
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCHirPQhFU6/?img_index=1
Gaylord Opryland’s Christmas Festivities are the topmost fun activities in Nashville for adults during Christmas. Further, it has “Frosty the Snowman” and brilliant Christmas lights, among other attractions.
Moreover, the fun Christmas activities at Gaylord Opryland include:
Snowtubing
Soundwaves Water Experience
Exploring the Most Amazing Christmas Decorations
Ice Skating
A Country Christmas Dinner Show
Also, currently, Gaylord Opryland is offering a festive discount on its tickets and passes. However, the discount will be applicable till 1st December 2024. So, hurry up now!
In addition, to know more about Christmas fun and the offers at Gaylord Opryland, you can call 1-615-889-1000.
2. Be A Part Of The Dickens of a Christmas In Franklin, Tennessee (14th-15th December 2024)
If you want to be a part of the Dickens of a Christmas, you will have to drive for at least 20 minutes from Nashville Downtown. Also, on 14th December, 2024, Saturday, the event will take place between 10 AM to 6 PM.
Further, on 15th December, Sunday, the timing of the event will be between 11 AM to 5 PM.
Wilson Bank & Trust is at the helm of this event and as the name suggests, they try to create a wonderland from the times of Charles Dickens. The iconic architecture of Franklin works as a wonderful backdrop for the event.
Moreover, you get to see people dressed as famous characters from Charles Dickens novels on the streets. There will be musicians and performers adding to the festive spirit of Franklin.
Meanwhile, if you feel hungry, you can find a quick bite from the festive food trucks. In 2024, Dickens of a Christmas in Franklin is celebrating its 39th year. The highlights of this event are:
“Arts & Crafts Vendors
Food & Beverage Vendors
Main Stage Entertainment by Nissan
Victorian Village with Holiday Dancers, Characters, and Carolers
Acoustic Stage
StoryTimes by Atmos Energy & Hart and Home
Whiskey Lounge by Leipers Fork Distillery
Beer Garden by Bavarian Bierhaus” (Source: Heritage Foundation of Williamson County)
The Dickens of a Christmas In Franklin also impresses me with its inclusive nature. It has accessible parking for handicaps at Franklin Transit’s Park & Ride service or the 2nd and 4th Avenue garages.
Moreover, you don’t need to buy any tickets or pay fees to be a part of the Dickens of a Christmas In Franklin.
3. Be Amazed By The Holiday Lights At Cheekwood
This year, a visit to Nashville in December can make you a part of the “10th Annual Holiday LIGHTS.” Starting from 22nd November and continuing till 5th January, this event will take place every day from 4:30 PM to 10 PM.
So, why is this event one of the topmost fun activities in Nashville for adults? Let’s find out what the event says about your “Time to Shine.”
“Experience Nashville’s classic holiday tradition as you embark on a magical one-mile walk through Cheekwood’s gardens illuminated by more than a million lights. A delightful experience for all ages awaits, complete with s’mores, seasonal libations, and a Holiday Marketplace. Tour the Historic Mansion, specially decorated this year by former White House florist Laura Dowling.”
The ticket to be a part of Holiday Lights at Cheekwood starts at $16 (members) for adults. However, it can go up to $32 for the non-members. Further, you can buy the Merry & Bright Package to get 10% off on Holiday Marketplace and other facilities.
For members, the package costs $125, and for non-members, the package comes at $150. To get more information about Holiday Lights At Cheekwood, you can call the authority at 615.356.8000.
Want To Explore More Fun Activities In Nashville For Adults? Find Your Accommodation First
The fun activities in Nashville for adults are endless during Christmas. However, it all begins with finding a comfortable stay for you.
So, here are some curated options for you.
Name Of The HotelAddressContact NumberHampton Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown Capitol View706 Church St Nashville, TN 37203(615) 742-5550Tempo by Hilton Nashville Downtown530 11th Ave N Nashville, TN 37203(615) 780-2000Hyatt Place - Nashville Downtown301 3rd Ave S Nashville, TN 37201(615) 687-9995The Hermitage Hotel231 6th Ave N Nashville, TN 37219(615) 244-3121The Russell819 Russell St Nashville, TN 37206(615) 861-9535
The hotels mentioned in the table are picked on our in-house assessment of the amenities. We have also factored in Yelp reviews and ratings.
So, with cozy accommodations and festivals awaiting, it’s time to book your ticket to Nashville. Moreover, once you reach Nashville, you will be able to explore the city easily, thanks to the public bus system and electric rides.
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