SJU - 9 Hours at the Puerto Rico Airport

For many traveling to the Caribbean, SJU Airport in Puerto Rico is either your destination or your layover. Time spent at any airport can be a nightmare, but SJU offers plenty to keep you occupied. After all, 21,000 passengers a day can’t be wrong!

SJU Shopping

Most people wouldn’t think of an airport for shopping, but SJU is an interesting experience. Inside, the airport is madeup of four concourses – A, B, C, and D. Within the airport is a maze of hallways that runs thru the duty free shopping you can experience. It’s like a Macy’s department store connecting some airport jet bridges together. You’ll find purfume, cigarettes, clothes, and liquor. While I don’t drink, I was captivated by how many varieties and promotions of Johnnie Walker were available. You can get black, double black, blue… and even buy 2 get 1 free. Also note – it’s all duty free.

Dining

Beware of the food options – or lack thereof. It’s not that they don’t have food options, it’s just a craps-shoot on if or when they will be open. At 6am, I arrived and nothing seemed open. However Landshark Bar and grill was actually open if you walked up and asked the hostess. A good breakfast was to be had complete with orange juice with a slide of orange in it. Just don’t expect Starbucks to be open when you need it. Also, they might say they are open in the afternoon, but it looked like they closed at noon. Just get used to “Island Time” and SJU will remind you that it’s not quite the same as your other airports.

Landshark Bar & Grill at SJU Airport in Puerto Rico

Also, you’d think a trip to the islands would be the perfect time for a visit to Air Margaritaville… Well, that too wasn’t open during the 9 hours I was there.

Air Margaritaville at SJU in Puerto Rico.

Just Relaxing

Those hard seats in coach and wreck havoc on your back as you fly out to SJU. Good news is that if you need to rest and relax, there are 2 (maybe 3) Global Lounges. They offer a one day pass for about $38. It allows you to get access to some food, drinks, comfortable seats, tables… and even relaxing lounges in the quiet room. Some people might not like the amenities, but when you need that padded bench to lay on between flights, it’s priceless. Quick note – check out Priority Pass to save and earn cash back on your visit.