Compare Pure Puerto Rico by Singles Travel International vs New England's Fall Foliage Small Group by Insight Vacations
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Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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Duration | 6 days | 8 days |
Price From | $ 1,199 | $ 4,725 |
Price Per Day | $ 200 | $ 591 |
Highlights |
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Trip Style | Group tour | Group tour |
Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
Physical Level |
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Travel Themes |
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Countries Visited | ||
Cities and Attractions |
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Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
Activities |
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Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
Description |
Puerto Rico is rich with culture, adventure, beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine. One could easily spend weeks exploring this enchanted island, but we are highlighting some of the best on our long weekend. Imagine hiking in the rain forest, then basking on a deserted beach all in one day. How about zipping along on the world's longest single run zip-line at speeds up to 60 miles per hour? How about a private rum tasting with gourmet lunch in the Rum Capital of the World? We're saving the best for last, a "typico" Sunday in the mountains, "locals style" with lechon (roast pig), dancing and live music. Our STI Concierge, Kelly will give us dance lessons to get started! |
Embrace the beauty of New England during this 8-day guided tour. Behold Boston, one of the oldest cities in the U.S. and where much of the country was formed; here, you will traverse the red-brick Freedom Trail, where you will see the hall that housed the country’s first-ever town meeting and many more historic sites. Admire the bronzing leaves of Vermont’s lush trees as you travel to Stowe, where the real Von Trapp family of ‘The Sound of Music’ chose to live — and where you will stay. In Montpelier, visit a maple syrup farm where you can taste the sweet golden liquid tapped straight from the trees. Ride a gondola at Loon Mountain Resort into New Hampshire’s White Mountains and see as far as Canada. See Maine’s oldest lighthouse in Portland, then celebrate your trip with a decadent fresh lobster dinner. |
Day 1
Welcome to Puerto Rico, officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States and is located in the northeastern Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic and west of both the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. Puerto Rico is 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, making it the smallest island of the Greater Antilles and it's capital is San Juan.
Puerto Rico is a great destination for single travelers. Boricuas (locals) are warm and always make you feel as home
Transfer on your own via taxi to the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino in the heart of Condado Beach, San Juan's premier location for beaches, dining and nightlife!
Check-in with our Singles Travel International Concierge upon arrival at the hotel. Need help with sightseeing, shopping and dinner reservations? We’re here to make sure your vacation is everything you dreamt it would be!
This evening, we kick off the weekend with a welcome party and 3-course dinner with 1 glass of wine or beer, tax and gratuity at Casa Lola Restaurant in Condado area for Welcome Dinner. Casa Lola is the trendiest spot in Condado. Casa Lola will season guest’s senses with Chef Roberto Treviño vision of “Criollo” (Puerto Rican) Cuisine. Inspired in Lola’s own recipes, at Casa Lola will taste the best flavors of the island cuisine with added sexy touches of renowned chef Treviño. Our restaurant is a 15 minute walk from the hotel so wear comfy shoes!
After dinner, we head back to the hotel for a nightcap at the hotel or maybe stop along the way if the music moves you!
Day 2
Good morning! Breakfast is optional, but we’ve got some great recommendations. Starbucks is across the street!
Ready to go? We'll make our way to charming Old San Juan, the second oldest city in the new hemisphere. Travel back centuries and discover our fascinating history. This beautiful old city remains largely as it did 300 to 400 years ago. Over 400 restored 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings make this city a magical place to visit. Its narrow streets are covered with blue cobblestones. These cobbles were used as ballast on the empty Spanish trade ships. The ballast was unloaded when the ships were filled with sugar cane produced in Puerto Rico.
Our first stop will be San Cristobal Fort which in colonial times protected the island from enemy attacks. Walk through of the impressive fortress along with a guide for 30-45 minutes. Our walking tour continues through e blue, grayish cobblestone streets and feel the magic of the San Jose Church, Plaza San José, La Rogativa, La Fortaleza, San Juan Gate, and The San Juan Cathedral among other fascinating monuments.
Our tour is sure to leave us hungry and thirsty, but not to worry, this is the rum capital of the world and we couldn't let you leave without a proper sampling or 4! Lunch at Parrott Club, established in 1996 and quickly became a San Juan classic and a SOFO (South of Fortaleza) standard. Featuring innovative Nuevo Latino cuisine from Chef Guillermo Gonzalez, the Parrot Club’s menus spice up classic Latino dishes by combining fresh local ingredients with modern culinary preparations. We will have a family style lunch including several Puerto Rican specialties and a private Rum Tasting.
Puerto Rico is known as the Rum Capital of the world. Guests will be transported to magic and historic Old San Juan where guests will taste 4 different rums along with an explanation of each rum by a rummelier (bartender expert in rum). STI members may opt to stay longer in the Old San Juan area and explore the old city on their own or return to the hotel.
Our evening is at leisure, but your STI Concierge recommends La Placita for the group. La Plaza del Mercado in Santurce, an area also called “La Placita” is a slice of typical Puerto Rico. Located across the Baldorioty de Castro Highway (on the other side of Condado) at Dos Hermanos and Capitol Streets in San Juan's blue-collar neighborhood, the Santurce marketplace is a quaint square with a colorful central building fronting giant avocado sculptures. Inside is a traditional market where, during the day, you'll find fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other local produce. Around the market, fondas, or local eateries, and bars line the plaza. From Thursday to Sunday, La Placita transforms into a crowded, lively, and boisterous block party. If you want to experience the flavor and vibe of Puerto Rico, the Plaza is about as authentic a destination as we're able to recommend. And if you want to hang out with the locals at night, you'll find plenty of them right here. Bring your dancing shoes!
Day 3
Breakfast is at leisure, grab a small bite nearby or have breakfast in the hotel.
Today will truly be a highlight! We'll travel together to the Caribbean National Rain Forest, known as El Yunque, the only tropical forest in the United States National Forest System. It's rugged land climbs from almost sea level to about 3,500 feet above sea level and is doused with up to 200 inches of rain every year. Nowhere in the world will your eyes observe a greater wealth of beauty than what is waiting for you in the rain forest. According to ancient Indian legend, the good spirit "Yuquiyu" reigned on his mighty mountain top throne, protecting Puerto Rico and its people. Many of the sights you will see today are the same as those that dazzled the first Spanish Explorers more than 500 years ago. We'll see 1,000 year-old trees, strange plants with exotic rainbow colored flowers, and thick vines with great masses of lush red blossoms waving in the cool breeze. From the heart of this breathtaking beauty we''ll hear the incessant, yet delightful, two-note chanting of the "Coqui," the chattering of unseen tropical birds and, if we're lucky, the squawk of the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. Our tour includes La Coca Falls, Yokahu Tower and a low impact trail hike.
Our day is not over yet! We're going to spend the afternoon, basking in the sun of what seems like a deserted beach at Luquillo. The soft sands, shaded by imposing coconut palm trees and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, make it a dreamer's retreat. Dressing rooms, lockers, showers and lifeguards are available for our convenience. Just pack your beach towel, sunscreen lotion and relax! STI members will enjoy the opportunity to try some tasty local specialties such as seafood and Creole fritters from the myriad of beachside kiosks. We'll return to San Juan in the early evening, refreshed and with a glow on our cheeks!
This evening is free to have dinner with new friends and party it up on San Juan, it's Friday night! Of course, if you plan to zip line, it may be an early night for you. Not to worry, we still have Saturday night!
Day 4
Breakfast is at leisure, grab a small bite nearby or have breakfast in the hotel. Our day is at leisure to explore, shop, lay out on the beach at our hotel or any other activity that you may enjoy. Our hotel has a full casino and spa, so there's plenty to do and our STI Concierge is on hand to help you make the best decisions.
OPTIONAL TOUR TO TORO VERDE ADVENTURE PARK
Our tour begins with a 1-hour ride to Toro Verde Adventure Park in Morovis. They'll be waiting for us and we'll get a chance to enjoy two exciting adventures, Zip Line and la Bestia (The Beast) adventures. Zip Line consists of eight exciting, two-line wires, each with arrival and departure platforms and small walks across multiple platforms. The speed of the cable varies with wind speed. La Bestia allows us to experience flying "free as a bird" through the sky with a special harness. It’s one of the world’s longest single run zip-lines, with a length of 4.745 feet (1.446km) and you'll likely approach speeds up to 60MPH. After our exhilarating activities, we'll will have lunch at Toro Verde Restaurant and share our excitemnt.
This evening is free to have dinner with new friends and party it up on San Juan, now it's Saturday and Kelly will make sure that everyone is on the dance floor! No experience necessary.
Day 5
Breakfast is at leisure, but we strongly recommend that save some room for today's lunch in the Cayey Mountains. We never eat less that twice while there! But no worries, dance is all off in the main pavilion or strolling the main street for souvenir bargains!
A short (1-hour) ride to Guavate gives our guide time to tell us what to expect and all that we have an opportunity to experience on a "typico" Sunday in the country. Guavate is located in the heart of Puerto Rico’s Sierra de Cayey mountain and features a variety of activities for those looking to experience countryside culture with true Puerto Rican flavor and mesmerizing vistas close to nature. Guavate is famous throughout the island for it’s distinctive “lechoneras”. Lining both sides of the road, these open-aired eateries offer the ultimate Puerto Rican dish – lechón asado – savoury suckling pig roasted on a spit.
Upon arrival, Kelly will direct us to our own, tranquil picnic area in the middle of a babbling brook and greenery all around. We're above it all and while there, she'll give us a Bachata/Salsa lesson so we're light on our feet today. Lunch follows and then we'll have the opportunity to do some shopping, dance with locals, drink some Medallas (local beer $2) and listen to live music.
At approximately 3:30 p.m., we'll transfer back from Guavate to San Juan. Arrival around 5:00 p.m.
With our bellies full, we may not be interested in a big dinner but Kelly will gather us for a farewell drink and get together at the hotel. Then who know? It's all up to you.
Day 6
Breakfast is at leisure this morning.
Check out is at noon, then transfer to the airport for our flights home. Safe journeys! Kelly is on hand to assist with your departure.
NOTE: Our weekend in San Juan has a bit of walking, so bring comfortable shoes. Some of our activities are within walking distance of our hotel (6-8 blocks or closer). If you require transportation, we will gladly assist at your own expense.
Itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of our local operators based on local conditions without compensation. Singles Travel International is not responsible for the consequences of any changes.
Day 1: Welcome to Boston
Affectionately known as Beantown, this revolutionary city is one of the oldest in the United States. On arrival at Boston Logan International Airport, a transfer will take you to your centrally located hotel, which is situated next to Boston Common, the city's largest park. After settling in, perhaps take a stroll to Downtown Crossing or historic Faneuil Hall. For those looking to shop, Quincy Market offers big brands and local products, set indoors and surrounding the columns of a regal 19th century building. At 18:00, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner with wine and an opportunity to mingle with fellow guests at your hotel.
Day 2: Beantown to Saratoga Springs
Today you’ll discover some of Boston’s most famous sights as you delve into the city’s transformative past. You’ll follow part of the red-brick Freedom Trail that brings the story of the American Revolution to life. Sights include Beacon Hill, Newbury Street, Faneuil Hall Marketplace and the Old South Meeting House. This afternoon, explore Stockbridge with an Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Norman Rockwell Museum, home to the largest and most significant collection of original Rockwell art. Alternatively, choose to take a guided tour of Chesterwood, the former summer home and studio of renowned 20th century sculptor Daniel Chester French. Travel on through the rolling hills of the Berkshires to your boutique hotel. Tucked away in the heart of Williamstown, this beautiful property is a prime example of timeless elegance.
Day 3: The Legends of the Fall and Stowe
Say goodbye to Massachusetts and journey through the bronze fall foliage of Vermont. Visit the Vermont Country Store for a unique shopping experience - you'll step back into history with their nostalgic assortment of products. Explore the Rockefellers' renowned Billings Farm and Museum, a captivating working dairy and farm life museum, followed by a stop in the quintessential Vermont village of Woodstock with its picturesque, covered bridge. End your day in the northern Vermont town of Stowe, home to the breathtaking alpine setting that attracted the real Von Trapp family of "The Sound of Music." Enjoy Austrian-style lagers during your Highlight Dinner at Bierhall Restaurant, followed by a tour of the on-site microbrewery.
Day 4: A Taste of Vermont Relaxed Start
Enjoy Vermont’s beautiful scenery ablaze with fall’s golden red colours. Experience a guided tour of the Ben and Jerry's Factory and get behind the scenes of their iconic flavours. Return to the enchanting town of Stowe where the rest of the day is yours. From wandering its quaint streets to hiking in the woods or relaxing back at your lodge, make the most of your last evening at this mountain resort.
Day 5: North Conway and the White Mountains
Move on to Vermont’s pretty capital, Montpelier. You'll travel to Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, where maple syrup is "tapped" from the trees. Taste a Vermont tradition, the unusually named ‘sugar on snow’, which is maple syrup drizzled over packed snow. This tasty treat is traditionally served with a doughnut and pickle. Journey to New Hampshire’s White Mountains and enter striking Franconia Notch. Take a scenic ride on the Gondola SkyRide at Loon Mountain Resort. On a clear day, you'll have superb panoramic views of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York and Canada. Later, journey through the dazzling crimson and orange hues of the famed Kancamagus Scenic Byway to North Conway. This spectacular section of Route 112 is unspoiled by industry and boasts 34.5 miles of untouched natural beauty.
Day 6: Sightseeing in the White Mountains Relaxed Start
In the morning, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you enjoy an insightful talk by a naturalist on the North Woods' wildlife and ecology. Expert Chris Lewey is the Executive Director and Founder of Raven Interpretive Programs. He holds a Master's Degree in Environmental Studies and will be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Then, more spectacular fall foliage awaits as you journey through Crawford Notch, an arresting pass through the White Mountains. Stop for pictures at the Silver Cascade Waterfall and Bretton Woods, which offers stunning views of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the northeast at 6,288 feet (1,917 metres). Your Travel Director will guide you on a scenic hike to Diana's Baths, which features a series of small cascading waterfalls. Return to your hotel where you can enjoy an evening at leisure.
Day 7: The Rugged Maine Coast Relaxed Start
Cross from New Hampshire into Maine this morning as you visit the jagged coastline and Portland Head Light on the spectacular shores of Fort Williams Park. This popular landmark is one of the most visited lighthouses in the country and is the oldest lighthouse in the state. Explore the historic town of Cape Elizabeth, then spend the rest of your afternoon at leisure. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Celebration Dinner featuring Maine lobster with your fellow travellers.
Day 8: Back to Boston
Known for its sandy beaches, Kennebunkport is a year-round coastal destination that houses the rich and famous, even serving as the summer retreat of former President George H.W. Bush. Travel along Ocean Drive with more stunning views of the Maine coastline, before driving back to Boston. Guests departing Boston will arrive at Boston Logan International Airport at 12:30. Those extending their stay will return to the Hyatt Regency Boston hotel.