Handmade Avarcas and Espadrilles — Local services in San Juan

This was such a fun experience! I booked this workshop during my babymoon trip to Puerto Rico and it was a perfect activity for when you want to be out of the sun for a bit but still want to do something authentic, plus it doesn’t hurt that the shop is located right on the famous Calle de la Fortaleza. I lucked out and my workshop was led by Kathe, one of the owners of Handmade, here all the way from Spain to open this new location in PR! The workshop started with learning the history of espadrilles or espardeñas. Next you pick your base, design, and colors (shiny or matte) and finally you get to work designing. They lead you through the whole process and help when needed. Beverages, snacks and fun music are provided, and you even get a surprise at the end to celebrate finishing your one-of-a kind shoes. The shop is designed so cute too, I couldn’t stop taking pictures. I would highly recommend this experience and am so glad I found it on Airbnb even though they have only been open in PR for just a few weeks....

Where to start with this class?!? It was such a blast! My friend and I booked it to celebrate my birthday and we had such a wonderful time. Before booking it my friend was very apprehensive to book because she hated espadrilles. This experience has converted her! She is absolutely in love with her pair and I can't wait to wear mine. Alex, Natalia and the entire staff at Handmade are all such gems and clearly passionate about what they do. They worked their magic educating us on the history of espadrilles but also worked to made sure we walked out of there with something we will love. We even got a quick dance lesson to show off our shoes. The team at Handmade even surprised me with a cake and some champagne to celebrate my birthday :) We both left with wonderful memories and gorgeous shoes. We will happily be back to see our friends and shop...

Isabella was AMAZING!!!!! I was in PR last week on vacation and came across the store she was extremely helpful I was able to get 2 pairs of shoes and found out I can get shipping to the US. I came across this store years ago and was so happy to come across it in PR. It's an absolutely beautiful store and Isabella was an absolute rockstar. I will definitely be going back in my next trip to PR. If I could I would give more stars. I will also be sending an email to corporate because they need to know they have and amazing staff and store in PR. Hands down I'll be raving to them about Isabella the girl needs raised. I would have put a review sooner but I wanted to make sure it was done well. The shoes are absolutely amazing and so comfy I wish I could get one...