If you're planning a trip to Puerto Rico and trying to decide on accommodations, consider Carolina (kah-ro-LEE-na), located on the northern coast. Carolina is the island's 4th largest city and is considered part of the metropolitan area. While there's plenty to do and see here, it isn't quite as crowded and hectic as its big sister, San Juan.

Carolina is a vibrant city, minutes from the LMM International Airport, with large beaches on its northern boundary. Aviones Beach is a favorite hangout for surfers, from professionals to gremos (beginners), who come for the Atlantic waves. You'll delight in the seaside stands selling a variety of local foods.

A wonderful family beach in the area is Balneario de Isla Verde, a beautiful sandy shore with lifeguards, public restrooms and showers, and a nice picnic area. Several restaurants are adjacent to the beach so you won't have to go far to find some grub.

A great beach for kids is Pinones Beach. A natural rock wall protects the shore and creates a shallow pool with clear, calm water. Natural sand dunes and coconut palms line the area, and you'll find miles of paved bike trails meandering through the mangroves. Located just off Highway 187, Pinones has a huge parking lot for beach visitors. Bring some snacks and water since there are no restaurants or concession stands.

You'll find plenty to do in Carolina besides the beach activities. Sports fans will love the Roberto Clemente Sports Center, named after Caolina's own baseball legend. Caribbean Raceway Park provides thrilling auto racing, and the Skate Park and the extensive Bowling Center provide hours of fun for all ages.

History lovers are only minutes away from Old San Juan and its forts, monuments, cathedrals, and ruins. The nearby town of Loiza is another fascinating place to visit, with its rich Afro-Caribbean culture, history, art, and amazing foods and crafts.

One of the best things about Carolina is its free trolley system, which stops at all the local attractions, restaurants, and shopping. And if you miss it, don't worry. You have to wait only 15 minutes for another run! And speaking of restaurants, you'll find plenty in Carolina, offering a huge array of cuisine.

Another advantage to staying in Carolina is the lodging. The luxurious condos and apartments are low in price, but high on amenities.  And the locations are impossible to beat!

Shopping is premium in Carolina. One of the largest malls in Puerto Rico is the Carolina Plaza, with a plethora of interesting stores with great bargains. You'll also find plenty of  quaint little shops in the area, with unique one-of-a-kind items.

Carolina's nightlife is phenominal! Discotheques, live bands, jazz bars, pubs, taverns, swanky nightclubs, and opulent casinos will entertain you until the wee hours, and the best thing about the night scene is that most of these venues are within walking distance of each other!

Carolina would be a great choice for your stay while in Puerto Rico. It's safe, and it's easy to get to. And with the trolley system, it's easy to navigate. You won't have to worry about the traffic jams of San Juan or geting lost in the rural areas. Carolina is the perfect happy medium!

This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Holle Abee. 

Isla Verde is the hottest part of Carolina, and you can bet that the holiday home that you rent there will be equally hot.  Or cool.  (Is "cool" the new hot?  Or is it still "hot" to say hot?  We can't keep up.)