Condado: The Jewel of San Juan

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-bor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-bor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-bor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh/ah]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]

• I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
  [kee-see-eh-rah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
  [ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl preh-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [seys]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (para ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (pah-rah)]

Condado began its transformation in the late 19th century as a seaside resort area, attracting wealthy families from the mainland United States. The construction of luxurious hotels and mansions signified its rise as a prominent tourist destination. The establishment of the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel in 1919 marked a significant milestone in the area’s development, offering opulence and drawing elite visitors to San Juan.

Throughout the 20th century, Condado evolved into a cultural melting pot, blending Puerto Rican traditions with influences from American and European cultures. This fusion is evident in the local cuisine, festivals, and architecture, showcasing a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the diversity of its inhabitants and visitors.

During World War II, Condado's strategic coastal location led to increased military presence in San Juan. The area saw the establishment of military facilities and accommodations for troops, which contributed to the local economy and infrastructure development. This period also prompted advancements in public services and urban planning in Condado.

The latter half of the 20th century witnessed significant modernization in Condado, with the construction of high-rise hotels, condominiums, and commercial spaces. The neighborhood became synonymous with luxury living and tourism, attracting both international visitors and affluent residents. This development spurred economic growth, making Condado one of the most sought-after areas in San Juan.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of preserving Condado's cultural heritage. Local organizations and government initiatives focus on maintaining historical sites and promoting cultural events that celebrate Puerto Rican art, music, and traditions. This effort aims to ensure that the unique identity of Condado continues to thrive amid ongoing urban development.

Condado is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in San Juan. If you're arriving from Old San Juan, you can take a short taxi ride or use a local bus (Route D53) that runs regularly. For visitors coming from the San Juan International Airport, taxis and rideshare services are available, taking about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Additionally, the public bus system offers routes that connect Condado with various parts of the city.

Condado is a walkable neighborhood with many attractions within close proximity. Biking is also popular, with rental services available for those who prefer cycling along the beach. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to other parts of San Juan. Taxis and rideshare services are readily available for those who wish to travel further afield.

Condado is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, it is wise to remain vigilant. Areas nearby, such as some parts of Santurce, have higher crime rates, particularly at night. Avoid walking in poorly lit areas after dark and keep personal belongings secure. Always use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps when traveling at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is the Hospital del Maestro, located a short taxi ride away. It is advisable to keep a list of emergency contacts and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available in Condado for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do wear beach-appropriate attire, but avoid wearing swimsuits away from the beach. Always dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and be mindful when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly or those in need. Don't eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenas' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy meals at outdoor cafés. Don't drink alcohol in public places outside designated areas.

To experience Condado like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with local artists and shop owners, who often have fascinating stories about the area. Enjoy a stroll along the beach promenade during the early morning or sunset for a truly local experience. Don’t forget to explore the hidden gems of the neighborhood, such as small galleries and boutique shops tucked away from the main thoroughfares.