Spreading the word – Ray J. Kelly

Walking Paseo de la Princesa and Paseo del Morro

San Juan, Puerto Rico

This review was originally published on Tripadvisor February 12, 2015 — and although older, it still stands the test of time — much like the Morro!

If you’re looking to combine sightseeing, picture taking and a bit of exercise, try walking the Paseo de la Princesa which ultimately turns into the Paseo del Morro. Essentially, this route takes you away from the cruise ships and street vendors, transports you through time, then leaves you in awe with a breathtaking finale at the base of Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

NOTE: Something I wish I’d known before going on the walk — when you reach the end of the Paseo del Morro, at the base of the castle, there’s no way to get up to the castle itself. There’s no exit. You have to turn around and walk back. The closest entrance into the city is through the San Juan gate about 1.5 miles back. Just to spell it out, that’s 3 miles round trip from the San Juan gate. The San Juan gate is about a mile from the beginning of Paseo de la Princesa. Given the potential for heat, direct sunlight and lack of shade, this might not be a walk for everyone.

It get pretty hot along the wall and there’s very little shade, so make sure to bring sunscreen and water!

Review: Capri Laguna On The Beach

Staff, view, location make for perfect beach getaway

This review was originally published on Tripadvisor on June 14, 2021

After a year of hunkering in the desert during the pandemic, my husband and I needed an ocean escape. Our wish list: beachfront room, private outdoor space, comfy surroundings, easy access to the basics. The Capri Laguna delivered all of that and more. From Morgan who made booking the room super easy, Desiree’s warm and informative greeting at check-in, the friendly gentlemen who set up the chairs and umbrellas on the beach, the manager (who remembered my name and room number in passing) to the crew that cleaned our room daily, and the rest of the front desk staff (Jessica!) — we felt welcome and cared for during our entire stay.

The beachfront king room with sofa bed had a large balcony furnished with one beach lounger, small table with two chairs—kitchenette with dining table + chairs—and t.v. offered everything we needed for our 4-night stay. The updated bathroom had good water pressure. The bed was on the softer side, but we found it very comfortable and easy on our backs for the entire stay.

Our little slice of heaven for four nights on Laguna Beach. Seriously, what else do you need?

Situated a mile from downtown Laguna Beach, the Capri Laguna is ideally located. Within a half-mile, we found everything we needed from groceries (Ralphs), great breakfast (Orange Inn), amazing Mexican (Avila’s El Ranchito), and delicious poke bowls (Poke Tiki).

For us, the Capri Laguna set the scene for a perfect low-key beach getaway. When not lounging on the beach, we found ourselves happily hanging in our little oasis enjoying the impressive view and dining on our balcony.

Capri Laguna On The Beach: 1441 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651-3158

Re[x] Mid-Century Modern Furniture

2500 N Palm Canyon Dr. Suite B1 Palm Springs, CA 92262

When fun, thoughtfully curated, and eclectic furnishings meet extraordinary customer service, the world’s just gotta know!

Our search for an in-stock dining table — which is difficult to find these days — led us to Re[X] over the weekend. Greeted by James, we found what we were looking for and more almost right away. To say he made browsing and debating options fun is an understatement. And Ralf, the super-friendly and knowledgable owner, sets a high bar for ensuring his customers are treated well. From answering questions and quickly preparing our purchases for transport to graciously going above and beyond to accommodate a last-minute exchange (totally due to my inability to make a decision), Ralf exemplifies a true pro — one that knows how to build trust and brand loyalty with first-time shoppers.

I want to call out that everyone working in Re[X] was wearing masks at all times — in the store and when helping us load our car. Additionally, the space itself is airy and clean with ample space to maintain distance from other visitors.

I highly recommend a visit to Re[X] in North Palm Springs whenever you’re in the mood for a mid-century modern furniture sensory overload (in a great way)!