Under $100: San Juan, Puerto Rico

For an affordable and inspired vacation with unique culture, idyllic mountainscapes and beautiful beaches, consider Puerto Rico. Between the island life, great food and mild climate year-round, Puerto Rico can be an ideal destination for travelers without the cost of the typical Caribbean vacation.

A must-visit location for anyone visiting Puerto Rico is the capital city, San Juan. Fuel up early at Café Berlin with an Old San Juan Breakfast. For $14, enjoy a large portion of “the works.”

For a sweeter start, Casa Cortés offers a unique blend of art and chocolate. The specials menu changes weekly, so there is always something new, but often there are inspired dishes incorporating chocolate. Prices range based on season, but are often less than $10–15 a person for something light. Peruse the art gallery after breakfast, or just pop in for a coffee and sweets later in the day.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro © Ivan Santiago | Dreamstime

Strap on your walking shoes and head to Old San Juan for a tour of the town. The historic, colonial section of the city delights with vibrantly painted buildings, cobblestone streets and history on every corner.

Visit the 16^th-century forts of San Juan, Castillo San Felipe de Morro and San Cristóbal. Take a tour through the preserved park and historic grounds for $5 a person.

Relax on any of Puerto Rico’s beautiful beaches. Regions Calebra, Isabela, Aguadilla and many more provide picturesque views and free fun for visitors.

El Yunque National Forest © Dennis Van De Water | Dreamstime

Take a tour through the tropical rainforest of El Yunque National Forest. The price of admission is optional, but is a suggested $4 per adult. The panoramic views, lush green-covered mountains and hiking trails will work up an appetite for dinner in the city center.

Head back to the town square for dinner, drinks and dancing. There are many restaurants and bars located in the area, so pricing is competitive. Cuisine in Puerto Rico tends to be a blend of Caribbean, Mexican and American. Most popular dining stops include The Parrot Club and Pikayo for fusion cuisine. La Fonda de Frank and La Mallorquina offer more traditional options, but all with meals less than $15 each.

Many top spots offer happy hour all over the city, so it will be cost effective to get your night started with $2 beers before the live music and inevitable dancing begins. The nightclubs stay open late, so eat up and get ready for a long, fun night ahead.