San Juan, Puerto Rico

OOJAH's AWESOME ODYSSEY
Peter & Christene Tanner
Tue 24 Dec 2013 12:16
We decided to remain in Salinas over Christmas although we're almost on our own. It's a very sheltered anchorage which meant we were confident to leave Oojah for a couple of days & hire a car to explore inland Puerto Rico. We wanted to visit the capital San Juan, the 2nd oldest Spanish City in the New World after Santa Domingo in the Dominican Republic. It was discovered by Columbus in 1493 & has a very secure harbour on the otherwise Inhospitable North coast. The old town is on a prominentory enclosed by huge walls defended by forts at each end. The English were the only attackers to get control but they allowed their animals to contaminate the water supply & had to retreat! It is a maze of narrow cobbled streets & old buildings buzzing with activity. Much to Christene's delight we stayed overnight in a lovely old hotel & she revelled in unlimited hot water. The following day we drove across part of the very scenic Central Highlands before returning to Oojah on the South coast.
Last night a huge line of tropical thunderstorms passed innocently by, comfortably missing us, but lighting up the sky; this morning it's very dark & wet but it'll do for a laundry day!
Our thanks to everyone who has sent Christmas greetings - we hope you all have a good one.

Love from Peter & Christene x