San Juan is an amazing city and I had a great time while I was there. A lot of my plans were cut short due to the hurricane (that went around us). Everyone there was nice and helpful and there was no shortage of all types of people traveling. I rented a car to get away from main part of San Juan and drove to a beach about an hour away that wasn't crowded which had great photo opportunities. Just be mindful that the further you get away from the city the more you can see some places are still recovering from the hurricane that it a few years ago. I also went to the Bacardi factory which I highly recommend. You taste all types of Bacardi and learn the history behind it and while it's a staple within PR. Make sure you visit Old San Juan and walk the streets. They have some great restaurants and shops to hit up, but it can get crowded in that area too because the cruise port it also there. It might be crazy to even have to state this, but you DO NOT need a passport to visit a territory of the United States if you are a citizen of the U.S.

I stayed at the Grand Bahia Principe Aquamarine. The cost was around $285 per night if booked through the property's website and shared transportation was included, but I took a private transfer for around $100 round trip to avoid the wait. The property itself was nice; however, I wouldn't stay there again. The Grand Bahia brand has about 7 different resort building on the property which makes it huge. You either have to walk long distance or take the shuttle. They have different activities going on a different location which is good; but no so good after a few drink and you're trying to look at the map and find that location. The food was definitely NOT good. The excursions are what made Punta Cana a great trip. I would go back again, but not stay at the same resort.

Montego Bay was amazing and I expected nothing less. I stayed at the Hyatt Zilara which is an adult only resort. I booked through American Airlines website to get it included as a package. The cost of the resort was around $350 per night and this was a week before Christmas. The property was very nice and up to date. The rooms didn't show no signs of aging. My room faced the resort pool but if you can get a ocean view or swim-up then go for it. There is a mix crowd at the resort; however, no too many of color. They have a great selection of activities to do there and there's foam party a couple times out the week. If you ever need a taxi to go out in town you can go to the front desk and they will hook you up.

Aruba was a birthday trip for to get away from the States for a few days. Easy non-stop flight from BWI and I found myself in the Country (One Happy Island) I must admit in customs as the airport was the long I ever had to wait to get a stamp, nearly 2 hours. I rented a car which allowed me to not have to wait on taxis, shuttles or excursion buses to go anywhere. I do recommend rental a car that way your time isn't limited to waiting on other transportation. I stayed at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino which allowed me to have free and unlimited access to Flamingo Island; which is a private island for the Marriott property. They also have free parking if you rent a car. You can also show up early to the front desk and purchase a day pass. I must admit that island is the ultimate relaxation. I wasn't to crowded, you can order food and drink, jump in the water and take a few pics with the flamingos. There is two sides to the island; the flamingo is adult only after a certain time and the family side (Iguana Beach). I took a hike up to Hooibery Mountain for a slight cardio workout. It is only a short drive from Oranjestad. Here you can take the stairs up a Mountain (approx 600 stairs) pretty much located in the middle of the Island. At the top you are presented with a panoramic view of the entire island. I highly recommend going if you are looking to do something different outside of the main city. Other locations I recommend visiting are Natural Bridge Aruba and the lighthouse either at sunrise or sunset. All are located in my "Aruba" IG story. IG: Scotty_300