Welcome to Our Blog
on Monday, February 9, 2009
We plan on posting information and photos of our travels around Puerto Rico.
Sailing trip to Icacos Puerto Rico - Conquistador PR Sail boat charter
NIGHTLIFE IN PUERTO RICO - Puerto Rican Nightlife
on Sunday, February 8, 2009
NIGHTLIFE IN PUERTO RICO
If you are considering taking a trip any time in the near future, Puerto Rico may be just the place for you. The island of Puerto Rico offers a large diversity of things to do and places to explore. Activities include such things as relaxing on secluded beaches, hiking through dense rain forests, and enjoying five star restaurants. And after a full day of soaking in Puerto Rico, what better way of spending the evening than by visiting a local nightclub or casino? Puerto Rico is famous for its many restaurants, bars, clubs and casinos; just like there is something for everybody to do during the day, the wide variety of nightlife options provides something that will satisfy anybody’s tastes.
The liveliest nightlife on Puerto Rico is found in the metropolis of San Juan. Here in San Juan Metro, the streets are filled with casinos, clubs, restaurants and bars. Whether you prefer a quaint coffee shop or a rowdy disco, you will find what you are looking for here. Isla Verde is the center for the islands hottest discos and night clubs. In Condado, much of the quieter nightlife, such as coffee shops and hotel lobbies, can be found. Santurce is the home of La Placita, which is a favorite spot for locals to party on weekend nights.
If you enjoy gambling, Puerto Rico is definitely the place for you. Year after year, players rate Puerto Rico as the greatest gaming destination in the Caribbean. Even if you are not a gambler, you should take an opportunity to visit Puerto Rico’s casinos. It is an amazing experience to feel the energy inside one of these casinos, where the lights, tables, and sounds all create an absolutely ecstatic ambiance. And safety in these casinos is not a concern because they are highly regulated and protected by the Puerto Rican government. Regulations only permit the operation of casinos in hotels, which means they are located in secure environments with entertainment and amenities which are readily available.
Look out Las Vegas because Puerto Rico offers all of the modern gambling technologies and methods. Each of the nearly ten large casinos in Puerto Rico offer state-of-the-are slot machines, some of which are open 24 hours a day. And to try your luck at one of these casinos, you need not be a guest at the hotel in which the casino is located. Many tourists make an evening of hopping from one casino to the next. The casinos offer a wide variety of gaming options: Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker and Big Six Wheels are only a short list of the games to be found in Puerto Rico’s casinos. Here again, there is something for every type of player.
One thing can be certain when visiting Puerto Rico: The nightlife will not be dull. Regardless of your interest, you will be sure to find it here on this beautiful and exciting island.
If you are considering taking a trip any time in the near future, Puerto Rico may be just the place for you. The island of Puerto Rico offers a large diversity of things to do and places to explore. Activities include such things as relaxing on secluded beaches, hiking through dense rain forests, and enjoying five star restaurants. And after a full day of soaking in Puerto Rico, what better way of spending the evening than by visiting a local nightclub or casino? Puerto Rico is famous for its many restaurants, bars, clubs and casinos; just like there is something for everybody to do during the day, the wide variety of nightlife options provides something that will satisfy anybody’s tastes.
The liveliest nightlife on Puerto Rico is found in the metropolis of San Juan. Here in San Juan Metro, the streets are filled with casinos, clubs, restaurants and bars. Whether you prefer a quaint coffee shop or a rowdy disco, you will find what you are looking for here. Isla Verde is the center for the islands hottest discos and night clubs. In Condado, much of the quieter nightlife, such as coffee shops and hotel lobbies, can be found. Santurce is the home of La Placita, which is a favorite spot for locals to party on weekend nights.
If you enjoy gambling, Puerto Rico is definitely the place for you. Year after year, players rate Puerto Rico as the greatest gaming destination in the Caribbean. Even if you are not a gambler, you should take an opportunity to visit Puerto Rico’s casinos. It is an amazing experience to feel the energy inside one of these casinos, where the lights, tables, and sounds all create an absolutely ecstatic ambiance. And safety in these casinos is not a concern because they are highly regulated and protected by the Puerto Rican government. Regulations only permit the operation of casinos in hotels, which means they are located in secure environments with entertainment and amenities which are readily available.
Look out Las Vegas because Puerto Rico offers all of the modern gambling technologies and methods. Each of the nearly ten large casinos in Puerto Rico offer state-of-the-are slot machines, some of which are open 24 hours a day. And to try your luck at one of these casinos, you need not be a guest at the hotel in which the casino is located. Many tourists make an evening of hopping from one casino to the next. The casinos offer a wide variety of gaming options: Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker and Big Six Wheels are only a short list of the games to be found in Puerto Rico’s casinos. Here again, there is something for every type of player.
One thing can be certain when visiting Puerto Rico: The nightlife will not be dull. Regardless of your interest, you will be sure to find it here on this beautiful and exciting island.
PUERTO RICAN VACATIONS - PR - Palmas del Mar
PUERTO RICAN VACATIONS
Although perhaps it doesn’t immediately come to mind when considering your next place to visit on vacation, Puerto Rico is one of the greatest places on earth to spend your vacation. Whether you are looking for a place for high adventure, or simply a nice beach on which you can unwind and relax, Puerto Rico is just the place for you. So if you are planning a trip this year, it would do you well to take Puerto Rico into consideration. It probably won’t require that you gather very much research before realizing how much Puerto Rico has to offer. However, when traveling abroad, to Puerto Rico or otherwise, it can be difficult to ascertain where to stay on your travels. The following article will provide some information which will hopefully be helpful in determining which accommodations will best suit your traveling needs.
Puerto Rico offers such a wide range of activities that it would likely be impossible for anybody to visit there and not find something appealing. And just as there is a wide variety of travel options, there is a wide variety of lodging accommodations. Whether you are looking for something very modest, or something luxurious, there will certainly be something available that fits your travel budget and tastes.
We will begin with the cream of the crop. Puerto Rico has numerous luxury resorts that are located throughout the island, generally right on the beaches. You will find most all of the nicer hotel names that you find here on the mainland: Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and Ritz-Carlton are only a few of the big names that are represented in Puerto Rico. You will also find beach hotels such as Best Western, Embassy Suites, and Radisson on the island. To many, these beach resorts are considered the prime place to stay while in Puerto Rico. This is largely due to the amenities provided by these resorts such as stellar golf courses, ritzy casinos, exciting nightlife and fine dining. To book a reservation, simply visit the website of the hotel of your choosing.
Next on the list there are more moderately priced hotels, typically located only a few blocks from the beach. These hotels are still very nice, but generally cater to business travelers and, as such, do not offer as many amenities as the beach resorts. For those of you who are looking to save a little money, perhaps these hotels would be a good option.
Moving right along, another very good lodging alternative while on the island of Puerto Rico is staying in what is referred to as a parador. Paradors are smaller than the large hotel chains and are privately owned. You can rest assured that you will receive quality care and attention because local government regulates the paradors to ensure customer satisfaction. Paradors are a great option because you can get a real feel for authentic Puerto Rican culture.
Whether you opt for a resort, a hotel, or a parador, your experience in Puerto Rico is sure to be memorable. Check out specific costs and locations online, and begin planning your Puerto Rican getaway today.
Although perhaps it doesn’t immediately come to mind when considering your next place to visit on vacation, Puerto Rico is one of the greatest places on earth to spend your vacation. Whether you are looking for a place for high adventure, or simply a nice beach on which you can unwind and relax, Puerto Rico is just the place for you. So if you are planning a trip this year, it would do you well to take Puerto Rico into consideration. It probably won’t require that you gather very much research before realizing how much Puerto Rico has to offer. However, when traveling abroad, to Puerto Rico or otherwise, it can be difficult to ascertain where to stay on your travels. The following article will provide some information which will hopefully be helpful in determining which accommodations will best suit your traveling needs.
Puerto Rico offers such a wide range of activities that it would likely be impossible for anybody to visit there and not find something appealing. And just as there is a wide variety of travel options, there is a wide variety of lodging accommodations. Whether you are looking for something very modest, or something luxurious, there will certainly be something available that fits your travel budget and tastes.
We will begin with the cream of the crop. Puerto Rico has numerous luxury resorts that are located throughout the island, generally right on the beaches. You will find most all of the nicer hotel names that you find here on the mainland: Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and Ritz-Carlton are only a few of the big names that are represented in Puerto Rico. You will also find beach hotels such as Best Western, Embassy Suites, and Radisson on the island. To many, these beach resorts are considered the prime place to stay while in Puerto Rico. This is largely due to the amenities provided by these resorts such as stellar golf courses, ritzy casinos, exciting nightlife and fine dining. To book a reservation, simply visit the website of the hotel of your choosing.
Next on the list there are more moderately priced hotels, typically located only a few blocks from the beach. These hotels are still very nice, but generally cater to business travelers and, as such, do not offer as many amenities as the beach resorts. For those of you who are looking to save a little money, perhaps these hotels would be a good option.
Moving right along, another very good lodging alternative while on the island of Puerto Rico is staying in what is referred to as a parador. Paradors are smaller than the large hotel chains and are privately owned. You can rest assured that you will receive quality care and attention because local government regulates the paradors to ensure customer satisfaction. Paradors are a great option because you can get a real feel for authentic Puerto Rican culture.
Whether you opt for a resort, a hotel, or a parador, your experience in Puerto Rico is sure to be memorable. Check out specific costs and locations online, and begin planning your Puerto Rican getaway today.
PEOPLE OF PUERTO RICO
PEOPLE OF PUERTO RICO
When traveling to a new destination, it is always good to know about the people of the land to which you are traveling. The locals of Puerto Rico are an amazing people who are rich in culture and warmly welcoming in nature. Unlike on many islands, the people of Puerto Rico are culturally and racially diverse. Tainos were native to the island and made up all of the island’s people before Spain conquered Puerto Rico and forced the Tainos into slavery. Nearly the entire native population was wiped out at this time, except for a small number of American Indians who fled into the mountains and eventually inter-married with the Spaniards. Those who intermarried came to be known as jibaros, and very few of them remain living on the island today. Spain imported slaves from all over Africa and the island’s racial make up was further diversified when other ethnic groups were brought over to work on the plantations.
Later, in 1898, the United States acquired the Puerto Rico, at which time American influence began to further transform Puerto Rican culture. Later still, when the island was industrialized, laborers were imported from China, France, and Germany. Traces of influence from these countries can still be noticed today. In the 1960s a large influx of Cuban immigrants entered Puerto Rico to escape Castro’s rule, also greatly impacting Puerto Rican culture. Lastly, the people of the Dominican Republic have changed Puerto Rican culture since a large number of Dominican Republicans have migrated to the island. As you can see Puerto Rico has been a melting pot of sorts, and as such, offers a conglomerate of people with a vastly diverse and unique culture.
Today Puerto Rico is one of the world’s most densely populated islands. The island hosts nearly four million people on a land mass that requires them to live with more than 1,000 people per square mile. The high density of Puerto Rico’s population makes for a unique atmosphere and an astounding blend of cross-cultural traditions and rituals. Primarily, these Puerto Ricans are Hispanic. While Puerto Rico is technically a part of the United States, locals to the island take a great pride in Puerto Rico and generally refer to themselves as Puerto Ricans, not Americans.
Visitors to Puerto Rico will be hard pressed not to take notice of the cultural fusion that is apparent in the island’s art, music, food, and architecture. For instance, many of the island’s older buildings are Spanish-colonial in style, while the architecture of the newer buildings is ultra-modern. Also, the music is a unique blend of world music styles that cannot be found anywhere else. Moreover, while many of the historic wonders of Puerto Rico remain, the island is peppered with modern conveniences and amenities which definitely add to the convenience of traveling throughout the island. Words cannot articulate how fascinating the people of Puerto Rico are. Come to Puerto Rico and see for yourself this one and only crossroads of ancient tradition and modern convenience that these people have established.
When traveling to a new destination, it is always good to know about the people of the land to which you are traveling. The locals of Puerto Rico are an amazing people who are rich in culture and warmly welcoming in nature. Unlike on many islands, the people of Puerto Rico are culturally and racially diverse. Tainos were native to the island and made up all of the island’s people before Spain conquered Puerto Rico and forced the Tainos into slavery. Nearly the entire native population was wiped out at this time, except for a small number of American Indians who fled into the mountains and eventually inter-married with the Spaniards. Those who intermarried came to be known as jibaros, and very few of them remain living on the island today. Spain imported slaves from all over Africa and the island’s racial make up was further diversified when other ethnic groups were brought over to work on the plantations.
Later, in 1898, the United States acquired the Puerto Rico, at which time American influence began to further transform Puerto Rican culture. Later still, when the island was industrialized, laborers were imported from China, France, and Germany. Traces of influence from these countries can still be noticed today. In the 1960s a large influx of Cuban immigrants entered Puerto Rico to escape Castro’s rule, also greatly impacting Puerto Rican culture. Lastly, the people of the Dominican Republic have changed Puerto Rican culture since a large number of Dominican Republicans have migrated to the island. As you can see Puerto Rico has been a melting pot of sorts, and as such, offers a conglomerate of people with a vastly diverse and unique culture.
Today Puerto Rico is one of the world’s most densely populated islands. The island hosts nearly four million people on a land mass that requires them to live with more than 1,000 people per square mile. The high density of Puerto Rico’s population makes for a unique atmosphere and an astounding blend of cross-cultural traditions and rituals. Primarily, these Puerto Ricans are Hispanic. While Puerto Rico is technically a part of the United States, locals to the island take a great pride in Puerto Rico and generally refer to themselves as Puerto Ricans, not Americans.
Visitors to Puerto Rico will be hard pressed not to take notice of the cultural fusion that is apparent in the island’s art, music, food, and architecture. For instance, many of the island’s older buildings are Spanish-colonial in style, while the architecture of the newer buildings is ultra-modern. Also, the music is a unique blend of world music styles that cannot be found anywhere else. Moreover, while many of the historic wonders of Puerto Rico remain, the island is peppered with modern conveniences and amenities which definitely add to the convenience of traveling throughout the island. Words cannot articulate how fascinating the people of Puerto Rico are. Come to Puerto Rico and see for yourself this one and only crossroads of ancient tradition and modern convenience that these people have established.
Getting Around Puerto Rico - PR Palmas del Mar
Getting Around Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico can be a wonderful place to visit. Despite the relatively small size of the island, there is an abundance of things to do and see. According to your tastes, you can spend an entire vacation unwinding on relaxing beaches or you can schedule your itinerary with minute-to-minute high adventure activities. One of the great things about Puerto Rico is that nearly anything you decide to do on the island can be easily accessed due to the ease of transportation. Unlike many other travel destinations, Puerto Rico has taken a keen interest in providing efficient and safe ways for visitors to explore the area.
The first thing you want to know about transportation in Puerto Rico is how to get to the island itself. In almost every instance, airlines fly into Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. This airport is located directly outside of the major city of San Juan, and because Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, the airport is equipped with all of the safety and security measures required under United States law. In addition to this main hub, Puerto Rico has other smaller airports that offer some direct flights from the USA and many flights from region to region within the island.
Once you arrive in Puerto Rico, you will be provided with substantially the same travel options which are offered here on the mainland. Most visitors travel by taxi from the airport to their hotels, although some hotels offer free transportation from the airport to the hotel. Another option is to rent a car from a conveniently located rental agency. If you have any difficulty with finding the right transportation, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, located right in the airport, will be more than happy to provide you with assistance.
After settling into your hotel, there are numerous ways to get around the island, and depending upon which part of Puerto Rico you want to visit, you will usually have more than one mode of transportation from which you can choose from. Throughout the major cities of Puerto Rico are taxis, rental cars, city buses, and "público" vans. In historic Old San Juan, there is a no-charge trolley tour that is available to visitors on most every day. For those of you with the budget and desire for a quick and easy way to explore the extremities of the island, Fernando L. Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan offers flights to surrounding cities and even some of the smaller islands which surround Puerto Rico. Similarly, private boats can be chartered to any of the surrounding islands, and public ferries provide transportation to the islands of Culebra and Vieques.
Traveling to Puerto Rico and getting around once you are there should be absolutely no problem. In fact, with how easy transportation is in Puerto Rico, your biggest problem will be deciding where you want to go, not how you will get there.
Puerto Rico can be a wonderful place to visit. Despite the relatively small size of the island, there is an abundance of things to do and see. According to your tastes, you can spend an entire vacation unwinding on relaxing beaches or you can schedule your itinerary with minute-to-minute high adventure activities. One of the great things about Puerto Rico is that nearly anything you decide to do on the island can be easily accessed due to the ease of transportation. Unlike many other travel destinations, Puerto Rico has taken a keen interest in providing efficient and safe ways for visitors to explore the area.
The first thing you want to know about transportation in Puerto Rico is how to get to the island itself. In almost every instance, airlines fly into Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. This airport is located directly outside of the major city of San Juan, and because Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, the airport is equipped with all of the safety and security measures required under United States law. In addition to this main hub, Puerto Rico has other smaller airports that offer some direct flights from the USA and many flights from region to region within the island.
Once you arrive in Puerto Rico, you will be provided with substantially the same travel options which are offered here on the mainland. Most visitors travel by taxi from the airport to their hotels, although some hotels offer free transportation from the airport to the hotel. Another option is to rent a car from a conveniently located rental agency. If you have any difficulty with finding the right transportation, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, located right in the airport, will be more than happy to provide you with assistance.
After settling into your hotel, there are numerous ways to get around the island, and depending upon which part of Puerto Rico you want to visit, you will usually have more than one mode of transportation from which you can choose from. Throughout the major cities of Puerto Rico are taxis, rental cars, city buses, and "público" vans. In historic Old San Juan, there is a no-charge trolley tour that is available to visitors on most every day. For those of you with the budget and desire for a quick and easy way to explore the extremities of the island, Fernando L. Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan offers flights to surrounding cities and even some of the smaller islands which surround Puerto Rico. Similarly, private boats can be chartered to any of the surrounding islands, and public ferries provide transportation to the islands of Culebra and Vieques.
Traveling to Puerto Rico and getting around once you are there should be absolutely no problem. In fact, with how easy transportation is in Puerto Rico, your biggest problem will be deciding where you want to go, not how you will get there.
REGIONS OF PUERTO RICO
REGIONS OF PUERTO RICO
You may have heard how wonderful of a place Puerto Rico is to visit. Despite being a relatively small island, there is something in Puerto Rico for everybody. The action enthusiast and the person seeking a relaxing getaway alike will have a marvelous experience in Puerto Rico. Perhaps the greatest thing about Puerto Rico is the island’s diversity. In exploring the island, you will be pleased to find many of the world’s cultures as you go from one region to the next. There is much to be seen and much to be learned in Puerto Rico, so be prepared for a wide variety of activities, geography and culture. Also, before going, you should get to know about the various regions of Puerto Rico so you can plan your trip efficiently and effectively.
Puerto Rico can be divided up unto five regions: North, South, East, West and Central. The North Region is made up of ten towns nestled against the Atlantic Ocean, and it is Puerto Rico’s center of commerce. Most of the island’s major resorts and shopping spots are located in the city of San Juan, here in the North Region. You will never have a shortage of things to do or see in the North Region; from fine dining to visiting historic sites to relaxing on beautiful beaches, this region provides a broad array of activities. Some of the most visited spots in the North Region include the historic Old San Juan district, the Rio Camuy Caves in Camuy, and the Arecibo Observatory in Arecibo.
The Southern Region of Puerto Rico is very unique in its own right. Here in the Southern Region you will find a nice mixture of rural and urban environments and you will marvel at the architectural wonders. One thing to know about this region is that it is the hottest and driest part of the island, so be prepared for the weather. Some of the hottest spots of the Southern Region are Aguirre Forest Reserve and Serralles Castle.
No trip to Puerto Rico would be complete without visiting the Eastern Region of the island. This region is known for its natural beauty; amazing sunsets, remote beaches, and snorkeling all make the Eastern Region unique. Some things to check out in the Eastern Region are El Yunque Luquillo Beach, El Faro in Fajardo, and Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo.
The Western Region of Puerto Rico is graced with hundreds of miles of coastline. You will find most of Puerto Rico’s popular beaches here in this region, and it is famous for water sports such as surfing and scuba diving. Some places that visitors enjoy visiting in the Western Region are Boqueron Beach, Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, and the island’s only zoo, Mayaguez Zoo.
The Central Region of Puerto Rico is the island’s most rugged region. Here in the Central Region, you can explore the Cordillera Central, which climbs to over 4,300 feet above sea level. Visitors to the Central Region will enjoy a serene experience and natural beauty characterized by enormous waterfalls and dense vegetation. Highlights of the Central Region include Montoso Gardens in Maricao and Caguana Indian Ceremonial Park if Utuado.
You may have heard how wonderful of a place Puerto Rico is to visit. Despite being a relatively small island, there is something in Puerto Rico for everybody. The action enthusiast and the person seeking a relaxing getaway alike will have a marvelous experience in Puerto Rico. Perhaps the greatest thing about Puerto Rico is the island’s diversity. In exploring the island, you will be pleased to find many of the world’s cultures as you go from one region to the next. There is much to be seen and much to be learned in Puerto Rico, so be prepared for a wide variety of activities, geography and culture. Also, before going, you should get to know about the various regions of Puerto Rico so you can plan your trip efficiently and effectively.
Puerto Rico can be divided up unto five regions: North, South, East, West and Central. The North Region is made up of ten towns nestled against the Atlantic Ocean, and it is Puerto Rico’s center of commerce. Most of the island’s major resorts and shopping spots are located in the city of San Juan, here in the North Region. You will never have a shortage of things to do or see in the North Region; from fine dining to visiting historic sites to relaxing on beautiful beaches, this region provides a broad array of activities. Some of the most visited spots in the North Region include the historic Old San Juan district, the Rio Camuy Caves in Camuy, and the Arecibo Observatory in Arecibo.
The Southern Region of Puerto Rico is very unique in its own right. Here in the Southern Region you will find a nice mixture of rural and urban environments and you will marvel at the architectural wonders. One thing to know about this region is that it is the hottest and driest part of the island, so be prepared for the weather. Some of the hottest spots of the Southern Region are Aguirre Forest Reserve and Serralles Castle.
No trip to Puerto Rico would be complete without visiting the Eastern Region of the island. This region is known for its natural beauty; amazing sunsets, remote beaches, and snorkeling all make the Eastern Region unique. Some things to check out in the Eastern Region are El Yunque Luquillo Beach, El Faro in Fajardo, and Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo.
The Western Region of Puerto Rico is graced with hundreds of miles of coastline. You will find most of Puerto Rico’s popular beaches here in this region, and it is famous for water sports such as surfing and scuba diving. Some places that visitors enjoy visiting in the Western Region are Boqueron Beach, Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, and the island’s only zoo, Mayaguez Zoo.
The Central Region of Puerto Rico is the island’s most rugged region. Here in the Central Region, you can explore the Cordillera Central, which climbs to over 4,300 feet above sea level. Visitors to the Central Region will enjoy a serene experience and natural beauty characterized by enormous waterfalls and dense vegetation. Highlights of the Central Region include Montoso Gardens in Maricao and Caguana Indian Ceremonial Park if Utuado.
Palmas del Mar - Puerto Rico
PUERTO RICO - La Isla Del Encanto
Tired of the same old vacation spots? If so, Puerto Rico may be just the place for you. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico is the easternmost of the Greater Antilles islands. Although a relatively small island, only 35 miles long by 100 miles wide, Puerto Rico features a tremendously diverse geography and a breathtaking landscape. Explore limestone caves in the northern region of the island; marvel at jagged peaks, windy roads, and old coffee plantations in the island’s center, called Cordillera Central; or stand in awe of some of nature’s most stunning dry and rain forests. If the excitement gets too much, relax on a secluded beach on the islands coastal plains.
Regardless of the time of year you plan to visit, count on moderate temperatures. Although somewhat cooler in the mountains and at night, the temperature remains around 82 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. The coastal breeze helps to moderate heat and humidity, so come prepared to visit the beaches – from sandy to rocky, white sand to black sand. Keep in mind, however, that the rainy season is between June and November, and there is periodically hurricane danger during these months.
Puerto Rico’s rich history lends itself to a diverse culture that will surely prove captivating. Puerto Ricans have deep African, Indian, and European roots that are very apparent in the local culture. Listen to unique hybridized Latin and African music with American and Spanish influences, or walk through villages decorated with Taino art and amazing Spanish and African architecture. After a full day of exploring the island, you will likely work up an appetite for Puerto Rican cuisine, referred to as comida criolla. Choose from a selection of locally caught fish, or enjoy the popular traditional chicken dish, arroz con pollo. Communicating with locals should not be difficult for Americans, as most locals speak both Spanish and English.
The Puerto Rican government encourages tourists and locals alike to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. For instance, local government has improved many of the natural areas and beaches with facilities and parks to provide comfort and accessibility. Also, all Puerto Rican beaches are public property, and some of which are designated balnearios, meaning they are equipped with parking lots, showers, lockers, restrooms, refreshments, picnic sites, and lifeguards. The island also features 20 public forest areas, or reserves forestales, which have miles of hiking trails and stunning nature exhibits. Some of the forest areas allow camping, but make arrangements beforehand, as a permit may be required.
The island of Puerto Rico has a wide variety of lodging options available, so you can be sure to find just the right accommodations. For a genuine local experience, try any of the small hotels, called paradores, located throughout the island. Cabanas (cabins) are also located throughout the island for approximately $75 per night. For a little more money, try one of the centro vacacionales, located on the coast or set deep in the islands interior mountains. If you are trying to be cost efficient, there are camping and vacation centers available at an affordable rate.
Regardless of where you stay in Puerto Rico, you will surely be charmed by la isla del encanto, the enchanted island.
Tired of the same old vacation spots? If so, Puerto Rico may be just the place for you. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico is the easternmost of the Greater Antilles islands. Although a relatively small island, only 35 miles long by 100 miles wide, Puerto Rico features a tremendously diverse geography and a breathtaking landscape. Explore limestone caves in the northern region of the island; marvel at jagged peaks, windy roads, and old coffee plantations in the island’s center, called Cordillera Central; or stand in awe of some of nature’s most stunning dry and rain forests. If the excitement gets too much, relax on a secluded beach on the islands coastal plains.
Regardless of the time of year you plan to visit, count on moderate temperatures. Although somewhat cooler in the mountains and at night, the temperature remains around 82 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. The coastal breeze helps to moderate heat and humidity, so come prepared to visit the beaches – from sandy to rocky, white sand to black sand. Keep in mind, however, that the rainy season is between June and November, and there is periodically hurricane danger during these months.
Puerto Rico’s rich history lends itself to a diverse culture that will surely prove captivating. Puerto Ricans have deep African, Indian, and European roots that are very apparent in the local culture. Listen to unique hybridized Latin and African music with American and Spanish influences, or walk through villages decorated with Taino art and amazing Spanish and African architecture. After a full day of exploring the island, you will likely work up an appetite for Puerto Rican cuisine, referred to as comida criolla. Choose from a selection of locally caught fish, or enjoy the popular traditional chicken dish, arroz con pollo. Communicating with locals should not be difficult for Americans, as most locals speak both Spanish and English.
The Puerto Rican government encourages tourists and locals alike to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. For instance, local government has improved many of the natural areas and beaches with facilities and parks to provide comfort and accessibility. Also, all Puerto Rican beaches are public property, and some of which are designated balnearios, meaning they are equipped with parking lots, showers, lockers, restrooms, refreshments, picnic sites, and lifeguards. The island also features 20 public forest areas, or reserves forestales, which have miles of hiking trails and stunning nature exhibits. Some of the forest areas allow camping, but make arrangements beforehand, as a permit may be required.
The island of Puerto Rico has a wide variety of lodging options available, so you can be sure to find just the right accommodations. For a genuine local experience, try any of the small hotels, called paradores, located throughout the island. Cabanas (cabins) are also located throughout the island for approximately $75 per night. For a little more money, try one of the centro vacacionales, located on the coast or set deep in the islands interior mountains. If you are trying to be cost efficient, there are camping and vacation centers available at an affordable rate.
Regardless of where you stay in Puerto Rico, you will surely be charmed by la isla del encanto, the enchanted island.