Bienvenidos a Puerto Rico! Welcome to Puerto Rico!
written by: Ms. Goodrich
There are thousands of beautiful islands all over the world. Each has its own special characteristics and history. One island in particular stands out from the rest. This island has flavor and culture like no other. This special island is Puerto Rico. The discovery of Puerto Rico in 1493 by Spanish explorers put this island on the map. If you haven't been yet, you should start planning a trip! I'll help you get started. Learn all about the culture, food, places to see, and other islands.
Culture
Puerto Rican culture was developed from several different cultures and races. When the Spaniards arrived to the island in the 18th century, they took the native Taino Indian women as brides. Later African slaves were imported to work in the fields and build roads. Several other groups of people came as well. Each group of people brought their own customs and traditions making up what we know as Puerto Rican culture today. In 1898, Puerto Rico became a colony of the United States attracting many citizens to the island. Therefore, the people of Puerto Rico come from a mix of several different races. Puerto Ricans are very proud and loyal to their island. Although they are a colony of the United States, they like to emphasize their culture, way of life, and hospitality. The people are very friendly, welcoming, love to celebrate, dance, and have a good time.
Food Places to See
Other Islands
There are lots of great places to visit on the mainland of Puerto Rico. However, I highly recommend spending a few days exploring the small islands off of the mainland. One of my favorite places in the world is a small island about an hour off the Eastern corner, called Culebra. The beaches are amongst the most beautiful in the world. Actually, Playa Flamenco has been named one of the top ten beached in the world, according to tripadvisor.com. Because of this, lots of tourists visit Culebra each year. Since Iv'e been several times, I can tell you firsthand that it is truly an amazing place. My favorite activities to enjoy on the island are snorkeling, camping, swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and eating at the local restaurant Mamacitas for dinner.
One of my favorite memories of Puerto Rico was laying on the sand at Playa Flamenco on a pitch black night, not a sound of noise around during a meteor shower. Hundreds of shooting stars flashed through the night sky like rockets. It was sight I will never forget.
Another island equally beautiful in sight is Vieques. The trip to Vieques takes about an hour and a half and can also be reached from the same ferry terminal in Fajardo. The island has slowly become a more popular tourist destination since the US Navy left in 2003. The navy used to occupy 2/3 of the land, which left little space for visitors and locals. Today the land is under Fish and Wildlife administration, making Vieques the largest national refuge in the Caribbean, according to www.vieques-island.com. The island is best know for its beaches, wild horses, and bioluminescent bay. When visiting it is best to rent a car, since public transportation can be unreliable and doesn't always go the best beaches.
I remember my first visit to Playa Media Luna. It is a pristine white sand beach with calm, warm Caribbean waters surrounded by palm trees. There wasn't a soul in sight, except for the people I was with. I thought to myself, how can this be? This beach is stunning and there's no one here!? This is what makes Puerto Rican beaches so nice.-you'll find these hidden, off the beaten path beaches with no one there.
In addition, Mosquito Bay, a bay that has glowing microorganisms that can be seen only at night is a sight to see. From the shore, tour companies lead kayakers out through the mangrove trees to a small, warm bay in complete darkness. Suddenly you will see small, white dots appear in the water and you'll even notice your boat and oars glowing. If you're lucky, a fish will swim by with a glowing neon body!
If you don't have time to visit Culebra or Vieques, there are a few short day trip options as well located off the shores of Fajardo. Icacos and Palamino can be reached by ferry and only take about thirty minutes to reach. These two islands are uninhabited and have no amenities. They are, however, both beautiful and the snorkeling is good too.
One of my favorite memories of Puerto Rico was laying on the sand at Playa Flamenco on a pitch black night, not a sound of noise around during a meteor shower. Hundreds of shooting stars flashed through the night sky like rockets. It was sight I will never forget.
Another island equally beautiful in sight is Vieques. The trip to Vieques takes about an hour and a half and can also be reached from the same ferry terminal in Fajardo. The island has slowly become a more popular tourist destination since the US Navy left in 2003. The navy used to occupy 2/3 of the land, which left little space for visitors and locals. Today the land is under Fish and Wildlife administration, making Vieques the largest national refuge in the Caribbean, according to www.vieques-island.com. The island is best know for its beaches, wild horses, and bioluminescent bay. When visiting it is best to rent a car, since public transportation can be unreliable and doesn't always go the best beaches.
I remember my first visit to Playa Media Luna. It is a pristine white sand beach with calm, warm Caribbean waters surrounded by palm trees. There wasn't a soul in sight, except for the people I was with. I thought to myself, how can this be? This beach is stunning and there's no one here!? This is what makes Puerto Rican beaches so nice.-you'll find these hidden, off the beaten path beaches with no one there.
In addition, Mosquito Bay, a bay that has glowing microorganisms that can be seen only at night is a sight to see. From the shore, tour companies lead kayakers out through the mangrove trees to a small, warm bay in complete darkness. Suddenly you will see small, white dots appear in the water and you'll even notice your boat and oars glowing. If you're lucky, a fish will swim by with a glowing neon body!
If you don't have time to visit Culebra or Vieques, there are a few short day trip options as well located off the shores of Fajardo. Icacos and Palamino can be reached by ferry and only take about thirty minutes to reach. These two islands are uninhabited and have no amenities. They are, however, both beautiful and the snorkeling is good too.
Conclusion
Puerto Rico is an amazing place! The island has a fascinating history and even more exciting culture. It is a wonderful place to visit. If you are planning a trip or thinking of a place to go, I recommend you consider going to Puerto Rico. You can check out topuertorico.org or Puerto Rico for more information. If you want to talk to someone who has been to Puerto Rico, you can talk to me or Ms. Chin. Puerto Rico is a beautiful, tropical island that you need to get to.
Sources
www.topuertorico.org
www.vieques-island.com
Puerto Rico by Joyce Johnstion
www.vieques-island.com
Puerto Rico by Joyce Johnstion