First impressions are important, and Puerto Rico left a good one the moment I stepped off the plane. A few neighbourhoods in San Juan had their rough patches, but overall, it was beautiful and clean with architecture mixing traditional Spanish and modern styles.
This particular neighbourhood around the downtown core wasn't the most picturesque, but it had interesting sights.
I couldn't believe people just left the scooters on the side of the road. It would be unthinkable here, where it would likely be gone before you had time to dismount.
Impressive architecture that has an element of power often associated with neoclassical forms, which radiate governmental authority. We don't have many buildings like this one where I live, so it's nice seeing them up close.
Like any major city, San Juan has its share of social problems. Across the street in front of the graffiti-covered building seen on the following photo, shelves full of books are visible. I think these were supposed to be free books for those who may not have the means to access them easily, but I didn't find out.
The modern mixed with traditional forms. One step in the future and one firmly planted in the past.
A little bit beyond the bridge lay the grand hotels and condos. The blue sea crashing mightily across the rocks and the sand. But in that moment, it was just a place between here and there in San Juan.
