San Juan Neighborhood Guides: Puerta de Tierra

"Earth Gate" - That's what they call this neighborhood, which bridges Old San Juan and the rest of mainland Puerto Rico. Puerta de Tierra is the seat of Puerto Rico's government; home to some of its better hotels; and the place to go if you want to idle your day away on a public beach that's so well-maintained and clean that it is a member of a prestigious environmentally conscious club.

This is not the place to spend your entire Puerto Rican vacation; there is much more to see and do beyond Puerta de Tierra. But it does have its own place in the island's history, and its two best hotels will certainly make you feel comfortable.

Have you stayed in Puerta de Tierra? If you have, share your experience with us in the forum.