Trip Coach: February 20, 2007

I suggest your husband and son explore the northeastern corner of the island. They can spend the day hiking or biking the 6-mile Paseo Pinones Bike Path through gorgeous, pristine pine and palm forest along a rare strip of undeveloped coastline. The area is dotted with vendors selling traditional fritters and fried pies cooked over open fires.

Nearby is El Yunque Caribbean Forest, which contains the island's beloved rainforest. There are 14 miles of paved and primitive trails for hiking.

Finally, they should definitely spend an evening kayaking and swimming in the bioluminescent lagoon, Laguna Grande, to see the phosphorescent micro-organisms that make the sea glitter an electric green -- it's best seen under a moonless or cloudy nighttime sky. They should book their nighttime adventure with a local outfitter, such as Las Tortugas Adventures.

Other options include a tour of Las Cavernas Rio Camuy, the third largest subterranean river system in the world, on the northwest coast. Or check out local adventure outfitters such as Expediciones Palenque or Acampa, which lead guided spelunking, rappelling and body rafting trips through the mountain interior, Cordillera Central.

_______________________

Stafford Springs, CT: I am a single mom with 2 daughters. I would like to take them to Puerto Rico the week of April 16th. I like being with the natives more than I like resorts but if that is economical I will go that route. I can speak some Spanish and was thinking of the paradors as it may be the less expensive way to go. I do like to have my own kitchen also so I was thinking maybe I could rent a villa or apartment. I was also interested in Vieques. I want to relax on a beach but would also like 1 - 2 nights in Old San Juan. Help!!! My biggest expense will be airfare from Hartford and accomodations. I need to go cheap on a single mom's budget and again I can speak Spanish and want my daughters to play with local children. Thanks - Lauren

Suzanne Van Atten: Despite what you might think, paradors are not necessarily cheaper than other hotels, and the quality of their accommodations can be hit or miss.

And although Vieques is more "native" than the main island, everything is pretty pricey because most goods have to be transported in from the main island.

You might consider going to the small beach town of Boqueron the southwest corner of the main island. This is a popular vacation spot for Puerto Rican families, so the accommodations are affordable and often have kitchens or kitchenettes. Plus, there is virtually no American influence. You'll definitely get to practice your Spanish here! In addition, the public beach--Balneario Boqueron--is one of the island's best. The beach is gorgeous and the facilities are new and well maintained.

For inexpensive accommodations with kitchens in Old San Juan, try Caleta de las Monjas at www.thecaleta.com, although they may have a minimum night requirement depending on how booked they are. Another thrifty option in Old San Juan is Hotel Milano on Calle Fortaleza, although I don't believe they have kitchens.

_______________________

Valpo, IN: How often is there a problem with the ferry breaking down that goes between the mainland and the Island of Vieques? I will be traveling to Puerto Rico for usiness but I don't want to get stuck on the Island of Vieques and miss my meetings.