Puerto Rico is a small island located to the southeast of the coast of Florida and to the east of the coast of the Dominican Republic. While not a state itself, it is regarded as an unincorporated territory tofthe USA. This affects a few things, such as the way the government is structured and how the island is represented in Congress, but for the average citizen, there is very little difference. It’s often overlooked that Puerto Rico is not in fact a separate country, but a territory where Americans may come and go freely, no passport or visas needed. Speaking from experience, it is a beautiful island with a rich cultural history, wonderful food, and gorgeous beaches. Hereares a few more details about why Americans should consider experiencing the island themselves.
- San Juan – the Gateway to the New World
When Christopher Columbus landed in the Americas, his second expedition landed in the area that would eventually become San Juan, the current capital of the island. San Juan is a fascinating city, blending much of the old world with the new. At the entrance to the Bahia de San Juan is the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a fort constructed originally to oversee the bay that was developed over the course of 200 years into what it is today. In the town proper, cobblestone streets zig-zag in a twisting maze of colonial homes, museums, and restaurants. These cobblestone streets served as the first streets laid in the New World, gradually turning blue over time due to a chemical reaction in the clay. Walking on these streets and through the fortress, one feels connected to both the history of the island and the American nation as a whole. It is a wonderful experience that I strongly recommend any Americanundertake, especially with a knowledgeable tour guide.
- Culebra – Puerto Rico’s Hidden Gem
Just off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico is an even smaller island called Culebra. While being a little tricky to access (requiring either a small plane or a ferry), it is a must-see. It features some of the prettiest beaches I have ever seen, especially Flamenco Beach, which hosts pristine white-sand beaches, translucent water, and even various landmarks left by other visitors and locals alike. An especially notable feature of that beach is also the remains of an old Sherman tank left behind during training operations conducted by the USA during the Second World War. It now serves as a sort of jungle gym for the local youths, and is yet another example of the island’s connections to history. To highlight how great a spot it is to visit, the last time I was there was on a high school graduation trip with my uncle. Now, 15 years later, I still remember the sand and reefs clear as day. It is literally an unforgettable experience.
- Ponce – A Quieter Local Rhythm
In the Central-Southern region of the island is the city of Ponce. Unlike San Juan, which can be host to numerous tourists and a vibrant and youthful culture, Ponce features a much calmer, quieter atmosphere. When I would visit my late grandparents there, Ponce always felt like a small town with the same old-world feel that San Juan has, but with a much calmer atmosphere. Museums abound detailing the history of the city, which historians would say serves as the “birthplace of Puerto Rican national identity.” For a much more laid-back environment, it, to,o is dripping with history. It serves as an excellent reminder that while the capital is a wonderful destination, Puerto Rico has a plethora of similar towns and cities rife with history to uncover.
Puerto Rico is a beautiful island. I’ll confess to being biased about that statement, considering I was born there, but I feel safe in saying that such a bias is warranted after my experiences there as an adult. With average costs being generally lower than those seen in other islands, such as Hawaii (with no disrespect intended, Hawaii is stunning too), Puerto Rico serves as a wonderful option for the discerning traveler looking to experience a taste of the tropics on a more modest budget, especially those with a passion for history. With no restrictions for Americans to visit, I highly encourage anyone with the means to seize the opportunity. It is certain to be an unforgettable experience.
