Southern Caribbean Cruise/Rhapsody of the Seas
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Rhapsody of the Seas

Southern Caribbean Cruise - 8 night cruise



Cruise only from €975

Price based on lowest available cruise only fare for double occupancy. Subject to change at any time.


Description

Gratuities

Dates and Prices

Cabins

From memory-making in the Mediterranean to coasting through the Caribbean – your bucket list is about to get a lot shorter.

Chart a course for emerald island jungles and pristine Caribbean shores. Or set sail for Old World wonders and sun-soaked Mediterranean ports. From bucket list excursions into the ancient temples of Cozumel and the lush rainforests of Belize, to romantic strolls through the white-washed villages of Mykonos and along the medieval alleyways of Kotor – no matter where you choose to wander, Rhapsody of the Seas® delves deeper and adventures further, taking you to some of the world's most exotic cruise destinations.

Cruise ID: 12497

On all our ships, it is customary to offer tips to staff members for their good service and personal attention. You can pre-pay your service charge as part of your booking and this will be shared among Dining Services Staff, Stateroom Attendants and Other Housekeeping Services Personnel. If you have opted not to pre-pay your Service Charge before your cruise, for your convenience we will automatically add a $14.50 per guest per day service charge to each guest's SeaPass account on a daily basis. For guests in a Grand Suite or above, the amount is $17.50.

An 18% service charge is also automatically added to beverages and beverage packages, mini-bar items, spa & salon purchases as well as specialty dining products, including packages, classes and brunches.

Many of our guests choose to reward exceptional service during their cruise by providing additional gratuities. You may do so by providing an additional gratuity to your SeaPass onboard account or a cash gratuity at your discretion.

Date Time Price * Booking
13 April 2025 20:00 €975 Call us to book
24 May 2025 20:00 €984 Call us to book

* Price based on lowest available cruise only fare for double occupancy. Subject to change at any time.

Cabins on Rhapsody of the Seas

Spacious Ocean View Balcony
1-4

Immerse yourself in a gorgeous view for a memorable holiday.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Interior
1-4

Enjoy your holiday in the perfect space.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • Two Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Junior Suite
1-4

An incredible intimate suite with a great view.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom with tub

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Spacious Ocean View
1-4

Have a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • Double or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ultra Spacious Ocean View
1-6

Have a spectacular view in an immense space with family.

  • Three single beds
  • One double sofa bed
  • One Pullman bed
  • Up to 6 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • Twin
  • One Single Bed
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Interior Stateroom Guarantee
2-4

This standard stateroom offers two twin beds, a private bathroom and all the facilities of our standard staterooms.

  • 2 twin beds (can convert to a Royal King, measuring 184 cm (72.5 in) wide by 208 cm (82 in) long)
  • Pullman beds
  • 2-4 guests
  • Size: Varies by ship

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View
1-4

Gaze at the beautiful views from your cosy room.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • Two Pullman beds in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Some staterooms have two portholes instead of a window
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Connecting Ocean View
1-2

Experience a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • Up to 2 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony Guarantee
2-4

Vast views of the landscapes, seascapes and skies are yours to enjoy from your private balcony.

  • 2 twin beds (can convert to a Royal King, measuring 184 cm (72.5 in) wide by 208 cm (82 in) long)
  • 2-4 guests
  • Size: Varies by ship

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Owner's Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-4

Enjoy the ultimate suite for a perfect holiday.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed and dressing table
  • Living area with double sofa bed
  • One bathroom with tub

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Service
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Junior Suite Guarantee
3-4

These suites offer a comfortable bedroom, a small sitting area and a private balcony.

  • 2 twin beds (can convert to a Royal King, measuring 184 cm (72.5 in) wide by 208 cm (82 in) long)
  • Sofa bed
  • 3-4 guests
  • Size: Varies by ship

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Stateroom Guarantee
3-4

Our Ocean View staterooms offer a gorgeous view, two twin beds and a private bathroom

  • 2 twin beds (can convert to a Royal King, measuring 184 cm (72.5 in) wide by 208 cm (82 in) long)
  • Select rooms include Pullman beds
  • 3-4 guests
  • Size: Varies by ship

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Grand Suite - 2 Bedroom
1-8

Indulge in a comfortable suite and enjoy the extra perks.

  • Two sets of twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • Two Pullman beds
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 8 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Two bedrooms
  • Living area
  • Private balcony with an outdoor dining and seating area
  • Two bathrooms (master bathroom with tub)

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Service
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Second Bedroom
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed x2
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Royal Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-5

Relish an extraordinary holiday in this luxurious suite.

  • One King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 5 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Bedroom
  • Private balcony
  • One bathroom with whirlpool tub

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Services
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Dining Area
  • Shower
  • Whirlpool Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Suite (No Balcony)
1-8

Enjoy beautiful views of exotic ports, landscapes, seas and skies from your stateroom.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 8 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • Living area with extra beds
  • One bathroom

Suite Facilities:

  • Dedicated check-in queues
  • Reserved VIP seating
  • Priority Departure
  • Dedicated Suite Attendant
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Grand Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-5

Enjoy a comfortable suite and the extra perks.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 5 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom with a tub and double sink

Exclusive for Suites

  • Priority check-in and departure lounge
  • Concierge Service
  • Priority tender tickets
  • Complimentary luggage valet service
  • Luxury spa bathrobes to use onboard

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

View Itinerary By Date



Day 1 San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Rico

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

Day 2 Saint Croix Island, U.S. Virgin Islands

Day 3 Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands

Day 4 Philipsburg, Sint Maarten (Dutch part)

The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village's dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It's generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander's home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside.

Day 5 Basseterre, Saint Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis

Mountainous St. Kitts, the first English settlement in the Leeward Islands, crams some stunning scenery into its 65 square miles (168 square km). Vast, brilliant green fields of sugarcane (the former cash crop, now slowly being replanted) run to the shore. The fertile, lush island has some fascinating natural and historical attractions: a rain forest replete with waterfalls, thick vines, and secret trails; a central mountain range dominated by the 3,792-foot Mt. Liamuiga, whose crater has long been dormant; and Brimstone Hill, known in the 18th century as the Gibraltar of the West Indies. St. Kitts and Nevis, along with Anguilla, achieved self-government as an associated state of Great Britain in 1967. In 1983 St. Kitts and Nevis became an independent nation. English with a strong West Indian lilt is spoken here. People are friendly but shy; always ask before you take photographs. Also, be sure to wear wraps or shorts over beach attire when you're in public places.

Day 6 Bridgetown, Barbados

Located beside the island's only natural harbour, the capital of Barbados combines modern and colonial architecture with glorious palm tree-lined beaches and a number of historical attractions. Experience the relaxed culture of the city renowned for its British-style parliament buildings and vibrant beach life, and seek out the Anglican church and the 19th-century Barbados Garrison. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.

Day 7 Roseau, Dominica

Although it's one of the smallest capitals in the Caribbean, Roseau has the highest concentration of inhabitants of any town in the eastern Caribbean. Caribbean vernacular architecture and a bustling marketplace transport visitors back in time. Although you can walk the entire town in about an hour, you'll get a much better feel for the place on a leisurely stroll. For some years now, the Society for Historical Architectural Preservation and Enhancement (SHAPE) has organized programs and projects to preserve the city's architectural heritage. Several interesting buildings have already been restored. Lilac House, on Kennedy Avenue, has three types of gingerbread fretwork, latticed verandah railings, and heavy hurricane shutters. The J.W. Edwards Building, at the corner of Old and King George V sreets, has a stone base and a wooden second-floor gallery. The Old Market Plaza is the center of Roseau's historic district, which was laid out by the French on a radial plan rather than a grid, so streets such as Hanover, King George V, and Old radiate from this area. South of the marketplace is the Fort Young Hotel, built as a British fort in the 18th century; the nearby statehouse, public library, and Anglican cathedral are also worth a visit. New developments at the bay front on Dame M.E. Charles Boulevard have brightened up the waterfront.

Day 8  Cruising

Day 9 San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Rico

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

Day 1 San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Rico

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

Day 2 Saint Croix Island, U.S. Virgin Islands

Day 3 Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands

Day 4 Philipsburg, Sint Maarten (Dutch part)

The capital of Dutch St. Maarten stretches about a mile (1½ km) along an isthmus between Great Bay and the Salt Pond and has five parallel streets. Most of the village's dozens of shops and restaurants are on Front Street, narrow and cobblestone, closest to Great Bay. It's generally congested when cruise ships are in port, because of its many duty-free shops and several casinos. Little lanes called steegjes connect Front Street with Back Street, which has fewer shops and considerably less congestion. Along the beach is a ½-mile-long (1-km-long) boardwalk with restaurants and several Wi-Fi hot spots.Wathey Square (pronounced watty) is in the heart of the village. Directly across from the square are the town hall and the courthouse, in a striking white building with cupola. The structure was built in 1793 and has served as the commander's home, a fire station, a jail, and a post office. The streets surrounding the square are lined with hotels, duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafés. The Captain Hodge Pier, just off the square, is a good spot to view Great Bay and the beach that stretches alongside.

Day 5 Roseau, Dominica

Although it's one of the smallest capitals in the Caribbean, Roseau has the highest concentration of inhabitants of any town in the eastern Caribbean. Caribbean vernacular architecture and a bustling marketplace transport visitors back in time. Although you can walk the entire town in about an hour, you'll get a much better feel for the place on a leisurely stroll. For some years now, the Society for Historical Architectural Preservation and Enhancement (SHAPE) has organized programs and projects to preserve the city's architectural heritage. Several interesting buildings have already been restored. Lilac House, on Kennedy Avenue, has three types of gingerbread fretwork, latticed verandah railings, and heavy hurricane shutters. The J.W. Edwards Building, at the corner of Old and King George V sreets, has a stone base and a wooden second-floor gallery. The Old Market Plaza is the center of Roseau's historic district, which was laid out by the French on a radial plan rather than a grid, so streets such as Hanover, King George V, and Old radiate from this area. South of the marketplace is the Fort Young Hotel, built as a British fort in the 18th century; the nearby statehouse, public library, and Anglican cathedral are also worth a visit. New developments at the bay front on Dame M.E. Charles Boulevard have brightened up the waterfront.

Day 6 Bridgetown, Barbados

Located beside the island's only natural harbour, the capital of Barbados combines modern and colonial architecture with glorious palm tree-lined beaches and a number of historical attractions. Experience the relaxed culture of the city renowned for its British-style parliament buildings and vibrant beach life, and seek out the Anglican church and the 19th-century Barbados Garrison. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.

Day 7 Castries, Saint Lucia

The typical image of a lush tropical paradise comes to life on the friendly island of St Lucia. Despite its small size – just 27 miles long and 14 miles wide – St Lucia is rich in natural splendour with dense emerald rainforest, banana plantations and orchards of coconut, mango and papaya trees. The twin peaks of Les Pitons, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site rise dramatically 2,000 feet into the sky and dominate the island. Look out for unusual birds with brilliant plumage such as the St Lucia parrot, see a surprising diversity of exotic flora and enjoy the warm hospitality of the islanders in the small villages and open-air markets. Please be aware that St Lucia is a small, mountainous island, with steep, winding and bumpy roads. Customers with back and neck problems should take this into consideration when booking an excursion.

Day 8  Cruising

Day 9 San Juan (Puerto Rico), Puerto Rico

If you associate Puerto Rico's capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island's nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico ("rich port").Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico's administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain's hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.

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