Juan Ponce de Leon, the historically well-known seeker of the Fountain of Youth,
explored and settled this tropical island and then became its first governor in 1508. Above the weathered walls of Old San Juan gleams the family home of the famed Spanish explorer. In 1521 Juan Ponce de León's fledgling colony moved from a swampy settlement to a small island in a large bay. A grateful Spanish Crown gave the land to de Leon and in 1521 the historic "Casa Blanca" was built. That same year marked the end of de Leon's life. He died dramatically by a poison-tipped arrow and never had the opportunity to live in the mansion which was his reward from King Charles the First.
From that time until the 20th century, the district we know as Old San Juan was the undisputed capital of Puerto Rico. However, as the Island population increased, so did the need for more space. Outlying districts grew up and eventually became important in their own right. Old San Juan encompass a seven-square-block area that create a vibrant center full of historic sites, plazas, fine restaurants, boutiques, galleries, colonial architecture and churches.
Along with Old San Juan, all of these districts-Condado, Miramar, Isla Verde, Ocean Park, Santurce, Hato Rey, Río Piedras, Puerto Nuevo, Guaynabo, Cataño, Bayamón, Trujillo Alto and Carolina-form the diverse urban community known as Metropolitan San Juan.
Shore Excursion 
New Fast Ferry Operates in Puerto Rico
A new high-speed ferry offers service from San Juan to the islands of Culebra and Vieques. Departing from Pier Two in Old San Juan, Island Hi-Speed Ferry reaches Culebra in about one hour and 45 minutes, then continues for the 30-minute journey to Vieques. The ferry operates one round-trip Monday through Thursday and two round-trips Friday through Sunday. Rates range from $17 to $73. Island Hi-Speed Ferry previously operated a ferry on Block Island Sound in Rhode Island. Its partner company, Boston Harbor Cruises, also operates Virgin Island Fast Ferry. For more information, visit islandhispeedferry.com .
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