Old San Juan is a must-see on a trip to Puerto Rico. Even if you're on a budget, you can get there from anywhere along the resort area of San Juan by taking the A-5 bus (75 cents), and you can get around on foot or take the free trolleys.

Old San Juan was permanently etched into my brain at age 13 when, shortly after a trip there, I saw Van Gogh's Cafe Terrace at Night.

Now, the Van Gogh painting was painted in Arles, France in 1888, and I was in Puerto Rico in the 1990's, but the young teen mind does not need your logic. The young teen mind makes whatever associations it likes. And, the young teen mind hates you. (just kidding)

I recently returned to the city which had so misinformed my artistic perception, and was delighted to see how little had changed -- Old San Juan is still one of the very most beautiful and well-preserved cities in the world. I brought along artist Tony J. Riley to take some photographs. Click through the gallery for some beautiful views and some fun places to visit like Don Q's (Puerto Rican rum and a free alternative to the Bacardi Factory tour -- thanks VirtualTourist for the tip!) and Raices, where they serve the very best traditional Puerto Rican dishes in tin pans and cups!

Old San Juan, now I understand what you tried to say to me ...

Gallery: Old San Juan - Beautiful Views and What to Do

Filed under: Photos, Stories, Nightlife