Lead Pricing
| Interior | Outside | Balcony | Suite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Request Price | Request Price | Request Price | Request Price |
Art inspires. Awakens your emotions and stimulates your thoughts.
In the quiet calm of morning, your private veranda becomes a place of true inspiration. Surrounded by the magnificence of the dawning day, at one with the vista of sea and sky, in awe of nature and the vast beauty of this world. The shoreline of the next port slides closer and closer into view, and with it an undeniable anticipation of things to come and the promise of limitless possibilities.
Silversea creates exceptional ocean journeys with unique opportunities to explore remote ports-of-call from an intimate haven of incomparable luxury, each voyage a unique masterpiece. Discover genuine European expertise reflected in every detail, from our tranquil all-suite accommodation and uncompromising service to distinctive fine dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy.
Our guests hail from across the globe, yet share an appreciation for the spectrum of choice offered in Silversea’s array of exotic destinations and exclusive explorations ashore. By blending these elements together with enrichment experiences, each new port becomes more than a destination, it becomes a state of mind, transcending the traditional concepts of cruising. It is this distinction that has earned Silversea the reputation of World’s Best.
ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE
COMPLIMENTARY BEVERAGES SERVED THROUGHOUT THE SHIP An extensive selection of fine wines, champagne, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks are yours to enjoy — all courtesy of Silversea.
IN-SUITE BEVERAGE CABINET STOCKED WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that awaits you, every suite features a beverage cabinet stocked with your preferred assortment of complimentary beverages.
COMPLIMENTARY IN-SUITE DINING AND 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE A formal dinner served course-by-course, a late-night snack, or a full breakfast delivered at your request — with no charge and no tipping.
COMPLIMENTARY SILVERSEA EXPERIENCE® A shoreside event exclusively for Silversea guests on select voyages. Recent outings have included dinner in the desert in Namibia and a concert at the ruins of Ephesus.
A FULL SPECTRUM OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENRICHMENT Production shows, classical concerts, and folkloric performances. Multi-tiered show lounge. Lectures by world affairs experts, renowned authors and destination specialists.
COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION INTO TOWN Roundtrip transportation from the pier to the heart of town in most ports of call.
Silversea … The art of travel. The art of good living.
A quiet sanctuary. The sitting area of the Vista Suite has plenty of room to relax. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.
The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed.
One bedroom: 287 ft² / 27m²
Features
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
The Classic Veranda Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located lower bow, the Classic Veranda Suite offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard — both inside and out. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
Located on the upper deck, and offering spectacular sunset views, the Superior Veranda Suite has all the comforts and luxury that you can expect aboard. A comfortable living space, attention to detail and a generous expanse of amenities, this stunning suite makes for a cosy home while on the seas. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32 m² including veranda
The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers a comfortable living space, close to the heart of the ship. With its preferred mid-ship location and all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard, the Deluxe Veranda Suite is the savvy traveller’s paradise— both inside and out. Elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private veranda, making every sunset feel as if it is yours alone.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32 m² including veranda
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda along the suite.
Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury.
An extravagant suite for an extravagant cruise.
One bedroom: 521 ft² / 49m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room with sitting area and dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at Officer’s Table
Stylish and sophisticated. Separate dining and living rooms. Larger verandas. Situated midship.
Perfection in design for comfortable living.
Silver Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 653–701 ft² / 61–65m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, full-sized bath and separate shower
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso Machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.
One bedroom: 967–1,007 sq ft / 90–94m2 including veranda (110–116 sq ft / 10–11m2)
Suite Features:
*Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
*Living room with sitting area
*Twin beds or queen-sized bed
*Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room
*Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
*Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
*Writing desk(s)
*Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
*Bang & Olufsen audio system
*Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
*Direct-dial telephone(s)
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Silversea Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The name Owner’s Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.
Available as two-bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
Two bedroom: 1,312–1,352 sq ft / 122–126m2 including veranda (170–176 sq ft / 16–17m2)
Suite Features:
*Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; two-bedroom has additional veranda
*Living room with sitting area; two-bedroom has additional sitting area
*Separate dining area and bar
*Twin beds or queen-sized bed; two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
*Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
*Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
*Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
*Writing desk(s)
*Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
*Bang & Olufsen audio system
*Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
*Direct-dial telephone(s)
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”.
Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Silversea Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The name Owners Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two- bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Authentic experiences. Simple pleasures. Shared moments. Silversea’s Millennium Class luxury cruise ships Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper offer you freedom and space to design your day. Slightly larger in size than ships Silver Cloud and Silver Wind, Silver Shadow retains Silversea’s essence – spacious suites, a complement of only 382 guests, superior service – paired with a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere and enhanced amenities. Aboard the Silver Shadow, energize body and soul with complimentary Pilates and yoga in the expanded fitness center. Savor fine wines and regional culinary creations in Le Champagne, the only Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux at sea. Or simply gaze at endless ocean views. Relish, relax, recharge … repeat … Silver Shadow.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 610 Feet
- Tonnage: 28,258 tonnes
- Maiden Voyage: 2000
- Refurbished: 2017
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 382
- Crew Nationality: International
- Officer Nationality: European
- Dining Staff Nationality: International
- Ship Registration: Bahamas
Ship Facilities
- Jogging Track
- Pool Bar
- Fitness Centre
- Beauty Salon
- The Panorama Lounge
- Internet Cafe
- The Pool Grill
- Observation Bar
- Lifts
- The Spa at Silversea
- Swimming Pool
- The Library
- La Terrazza
- La Dame
- The Connoisseur’s Corner
- Conference / Card Room
- The Show Lounge
- Casino
- The Bar
- Shopping Boutiques
- The Show Lounge
- The Restaurant
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Mar '21 | Ft Lauderdale (Pt Everglades), USA |
07:00 PM | |
| 16 Mar '21 | At sea | ||
| 17 Mar '21 | Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos |
09:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 18 Mar '21 | At sea | ||
| 19 Mar '21 | Road Town, British Virgin Islands |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 20 Mar '21 | Montserrat |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 21 Mar '21 | Castries, St Lucia |
08:00 AM | 10:00 PM |
| 22 Mar '21 | Bequia, St Vincent & The Grenadines |
08:00 AM | 04:00 PM |
| 23 Mar '21 | St Johns, Antigua & Barbuda |
09:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 24 Mar '21 | Gustavia, St Barts |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 25 Mar '21 | San Juan, Puerto Rico |
07:00 AM |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
10 Night Cruise sailing from Ft Lauderdale to San Juan aboard Silver Shadow.
Authentic experiences. Simple pleasures. Shared moments. Silversea’s Millennium Class luxury cruise ships Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper offer you freedom and space to design your day. Slightly larger in size than ships Silver Cloud and Silver Wind, Silver Shadow retains Silversea’s essence – spacious suites, a complement of only 382 guests, superior service – paired with a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere and enhanced amenities. Aboard the Silver Shadow, energize body and soul with complimentary Pilates and yoga in the expanded fitness center. Savor fine wines and regional culinary creations in Le Champagne, the only Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux at sea. Or simply gaze at endless ocean views. Relish, relax, recharge … repeat … Silver Shadow.
Highlights of this cruise:
Ft Lauderdale, Florida
Like many southeast Florida neighbors, Fort Lauderdale has long been revitalizing. In a state where gaudy tourist zones often stand aloof from workaday downtowns, Fort Lauderdale exhibits consistency at both ends of the 2-mile Las Olas corridor. The sparkling look results from upgrades both downtown and on the beachfront. Matching the downtown’s innovative arts district, cafés, and boutiques is an equally inventive beach area, with hotels, cafés, and shops facing an undeveloped shoreline, and new resort-style hotels replacing faded icons of yesteryear.
Bequia
Bequia is a Carib word meaning “island of the cloud.” Hilly and green with several golden-sand beaches, Bequia is 9 miles (14½ km) south of St. Vincent’s southwestern shore; with a population of 5,000, it’s the largest of the Grenadines. Although boatbuilding, whaling, and fishing have been the predominant industries here for generations, sailing has now become almost synonymous with Bequia. Admiralty Bay is a favored anchorage for both privately owned and chartered yachts. Lodgings range from comfortable resorts and villas to cozy West Indian—style inns. Bequia’s airport and the frequent ferry service from St. Vincent make this a favorite destination for day-trippers, as well. The ferry docks in Port Elizabeth, a tiny town with waterfront bars, restaurants, and shops where you can buy handmade souvenirs—including the exquisitely detailed model sailboats that are a famous Bequia export.
Gustavia
You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
If you associate Puerto Rico’s capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island’s nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico (“rich port”).Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico’s administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain’s hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.