After days of salt air, hidden coves, and sleepy southern towns, I pointed the car north and began the drive from Guánica back to San Juan. The road wound past mountains and palms, carrying me from the island’s quieter corners into the pulse of the capital. By the time I checked into the historic Fairmont El San Juan, with its grand lobby and echoes of a glamorous past, I could already feel the shift—this was Puerto Rico’s heartbeat. And what better way to close out my journey than with cobblestone strolls through Old San Juan, a swirl of pastel walls and centuries-old fortresses, and the best mojito of my life, sipped slowly as if to savor every last drop of the island.
As I sat with that perfect mojito in hand, I realized it wasn’t just about the drink—it was about everything it represented. The sweetness and the sharpness, the muddled leaves releasing their flavor, the balance of simple ingredients creating something unforgettable. Puerto Rico had been the same: a blend of history and modern rhythm, quiet shores and bustling plazas, new discoveries layered with timeless traditions. With one last toast, I said goodbye—for now—knowing this island has a way of calling you back.
Alyventures 