Destination: Parque Central, San Juan

About two weeks ago, I went to Parque Central (translation: Central Park) for a run and to buy fish. Perhaps this sounds a bit strange. Well, Parque Central, which has about 35 acres, is the largest plot of green open space in the San Juan metro area where people can bike, walk and run along a system of trails. There are also tennis courts, two swimming pools (at the Natatorium), spinning studio, running track, a fish market and cafeteria! There is now also a driving range next to the park. Although it is a lot smaller than New York's Central Park, which is 843 acres in size, San Juan's Parque Central is a great and safe place to get some exercise. This is not a place frequented by tourists, but more for locals.

In my previous visits, I've come across Sierra Club guided groups exploring the mangroves and looking out for special flora and fauna. There are indeed many different species of birds, and lots of iguanas! I had also noticed a pescadería (translation: fish market) located immediately to the right of the entrance of the park. Unfortunately, the day I went, only sierra (sawfish) and chillo (red snapper) were available. Both of which are the most widely fished on the island. I ended up getting the sawfish, which was very good. For those who are interested in visiting the pescadería, they are open everyday except for Mondays. Word of advice: get there early in the morning!