Hidden Gems of Puerto Rico — 5 Off-the-Track Attractions to Visit

 

Off-the-beaten-track Places in Puerto Rico worth Visiting

Puerto Rico is a part of the Antilles archipelago that lies from Cuba the whole way to South America and separates the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The island is popular among tourists thanks to the white crystal sand and pure water.

Puerto Rico is located in the middle of the archipelago with loads of natural recreation resources and unspoiled nature. Despite the islands long and arduous history of invasions and power dilution, it is now famous for being a calm place to spend a week or two lying on a beach, sunbathing, and enjoying tropical nature.

Traditional tourism companies offer their clients a rather typical vacation plan in Puerto Rico — staying in a hotel with all-inclusive attribute with a couple of prearranged road trips. The majority of tourists, however, omit discovering the island and only visit the main tourist attractions. Surprisingly, there are no road trip tours around the island.

If you try to search the net for personal tours in Puerto Rico or buy cheap essay on the best places to visit on an island, you will probably find a common roster of entertainment. In our opinion, it would be a mistake to skip all the beauty Puerto Rico has prepared for you.

In this article, we have collected the top 5 off-the-track attractions worth visiting in Puerto Rico.

The Tanks With Graffiti

If you are keen on history, you may know that Puerto Rico did not take an active part in Second World War II. However, that does not mean that the US did not leave their siege engines here — US Navy used the island just before the war to test their troops and bombs before applying it into the war conditions. The training exercises began in 1939 and lasted through the war and after. After five years of island exploitation, the US Navy decided to leave Puerto Rico and abandon the archipelago. Due to the urgency of withdrawal, the US left their armor, siege machines, and other gear on their existing site. Finally, all the military stuff became… a piece of art.

If you come to the east-north of the island, you can see tanks covered with graffiti. There are many murals that proclaim peace on the machines of destruction — this way, artists express their resistance to violence. New graffiti is added on top of others as salty water makes the metal rust and oxidize. In order to find this post-war museum under an open sky, go to the Playa Flamenco beach. Apart from painted armor, you can enjoy beautiful beaches with few tourists interrupting you because this place is not usually included in the common tourist guides.

La Guancha Boardwalk

Ponce is a magnificent town with attractive architecture and museums. However, we recommend you dedicate a few hours to La Guancha Boardwalk — a long promenade with ice cream kiosks, restaurants, street musicians, shops, and benches to watch the sunset and enjoy the moment. The best thing is that Guancha is not densely crowded with tourists — only a few of them come here.

Ponce is located in the south of the island. You can get there by car or tourist buses. However, we advise you to come here in the evening — life thrives here during that time. Also, make sure you have located the promenade correctly. There is plenty of negative feedback on TripAdvisor stating that tourists could not find the place and wasted time searching.

El Charco Azul Swimming Pool

If looking for nature treasures is down your lane, then you definitely should find El Charco Azul swimming pool. Locals call it a swimming hole due to its location inside the mountain. The “hole” itself fills up with a waterfall and is not spoiled by tourists. You can enjoy indigenous nature while swimming in the pool as well as tropical fish found in the water. Moreover, it is a perfect spot for a picnic — El Charco Azul is an off-the-beaten-track place, so you should not expect to meet anybody here.

La Cueva Ventana

Want a fantastic view from a quiet and calm place? La Cueva Ventana is a hidden cave offering magnificent views on Arebico Walley. As the mountain itself is home to seagulls, the picture is complemented with a pleasant seaside background sounds. You can’t find a location better suited for enjoying the moment of unifying with the world. La Cueva Ventana is a lovely place for both individual visitors and couples — you can positively impress your second half with a lovely surprise. They will not forget it!

Chinchorros

Chinchorros is a local name for bars with cheap local food and beverages. However, you should not focus on money — Chinchorros offers much more than a usual urban restaurant. They are located in small streets where the locals reside.

If you want to find a Chinchorro, just walk into the town without a map or city guide. Once you get lost in the city, you’ll definitely pay attention to one of the small pub-crawl crowds. Do not miss the chance to talk with local regulars. If they speak English well enough, you’ll have a chance to have a drink with someone who will tell you much more than all tourist guides combined.

By the way, Chinchorros is an institution of chinchorreo art of crawl. Try to fit in the local vibes by slowly driving around the quarter, hitting spots one by one. If you are a good listener, you may know many interesting facts about residents’ life. Finally, make your own list of Chinchorro pubs and rate them. You’ll remember that for far longer than lying on a chaise lounge!

How To Plan a Romantic Getaway in Puerto Rico

 Puerto Rico is a perfect destination for any romantic getaway. Known as the Island of Enchantment, this island is full of beaches and romantic experiences. Whether you are planning on proposing or just want some quality time away from life, Puerto Rico is a place all couples can enjoy.

This island is located in the Carribean but is a United States territory so you do not have to worry about a different currency if you are traveling from the United States. The official languages are Spanish and English so you may want to learn a couple of Spanish phrases before you leave.

Here are 5 different things you can do before you leave to have an amazing romantic trip:

Figure Out Where You Are Going

There are different ways you can travel. While Puerto Rico is an island, it could be exhausting if you are trying to see everything in a short amount of time. If you are there for several days you will want to choose one spot and maybe spend one day on an excursion visiting a different island or nearby city. If you are there for a longer amount of time, say a month or two, you can split up your time between different places. Once you have where you want to go, you can start planning the logistics of how you are going to get there and what you want to do.

Find An Amazing Place to Stay

Where you stay is going to determine the things you will do. If you are far away from the stuff you want to see and do, you will waste time getting there and having to go back. Choose a place that is near what you want to see. If you plan on driving everywhere, you can choose a place that is a little more secluded for privacy. The west side of the island is a great place if you want to be away from people. There are a bunch of different resorts and hotels to choose from that are affordable and also breath-taking.

Proposing? Be Prepared.

While there are gorgeous places all throughout Puerto Rico, you want somewhere that is extra special. Be sure to remember the diamond ring before you head out and make sure everything is in place.

Decide if you want it in the morning or evening. You could go to Culebra, a small island that features white sand beaches and tropical environment. This would be perfect for a morning sun rise proposal or a sunset proposal.  If you want something a little different you could spend the day in Old San Juan and enjoy the colorful buildings and cobblestone roads.

Try New Things

Traveling is a perfect time to get out of comfort zone and try new things. If you are an adrenaline junkie or just want some adventure, Puerto Rico has a lot of experiences to offer. There is the Toroverde which is a company that offers different ziplining tours including the largest zipline in the Americas.

If that is not your speed, you can experience fabulous beach adventures with paddleboarding lessons, scuba diving and sailing. You can visit the Vieques and it’s famous Mosquito Bay which has a bioluminescent bay that is truly a unique experience. If you are more of a night owl there are bar crawls and salsa dancing that are a great way to end your day.

Experience the Culture

One of the best parts about traveling is experiencing the different cultures. Puerto Rico is full of Spanish, American and native Taino influence. A good way to jump in and try everything is to set some time aside to Naranjito or Barranquitas. These are towns that feature drinking and snacking. If you are not confident with your Spanish you can always go on a food tour. This way you can meet new people and try new foods with the help of a local.

Have you ever been to Puerto rico? What would you do differently if you could go back? Be sure to share this with a friend or travel buddy!

Visiting Puerto Rico in 5 Unique Ways

With its vast beaches, extensively warm weather and tropical breezes, The Caribbean is a highly coveted vacation spot for many Americans. Several islands of the Gulf of Mexico coast are remote and therefore can make for a pricey and well-involved trip. If you are looking for a Caribbean vacation spot that cuts down on the hassle, consider visiting Puerto Rico.

A United States commonwealth, this island located off the coast of Florida offers vast amounts of cultural engagement as well as outdoor adventures. For a more subversive and unique experience, consider ways to visit this amazing island in alternative ways other than a typical week-long vacation. Not to mention the fact that Puerto Rico is very safe for tourists. The crime rate is very low, so you won’t need to worry about being safe.

The best way to travel to Puerto Rico is to go in off-peak season. Visiting during the off-season months of springtime will help you minimize crowds and get a great experience for a lower price tag. The weather patterns that are found throughout the winter months carry steadily into April, May, and June. This allows for a fantastic opportunity for a unique vacationing experience without overcrowding or extensive wait times for various attractions.

A unique way to see the island of Puerto Rico would be to attend university on the island. The island is home to 152 accredited universities and colleges, all of which accommodate a student's degree aspirations in the same way a mainland United States degree program would. Most degree programs are recognized by the United States and can easily be transferred if necessary. In fact, many courses are offered in English and Spanish, making the transition easy for expats from the U.S. mainland. The opportunity to study abroad allows students and young professionals to continue their pursue their studies while soaking up the culture of a Caribbean lifestyle.

If pursuing your degree is not in the cards for you, perhaps you can look at doing some volunteer work instead. For most, the opportunity to volunteer abroad is highly exciting. With its vast landscape, Puerto Rico is the home to five national wildlife refuges to threatened and endangered species of birds and other wildlife. In addition, groups such as Americas for Conservation + the Arts (AFC+A) help in the agricultural progress of the region. By assisting in cleaning and planting as well as the education farmers. Participating in these and other various volunteer groups can have a large impact on the community and its future.

If you are looking to make a long term impact, consider becoming an English tutor for children. English is a common tongue throughout the island but is typically broken. Several programs are available for people who speak both Spanish and English and have a desire to assist others with learning the language. Teaching English to the local population will give you a chance to help the local community while giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself within the native culture.

A fun and different way to explore the coast of Puerto Rico could be a ferry hop tour. For some, this method of travel may be the best way to explore the island's vast ecosystem. Boat tours that visit a few deserted islands around the main island can be completed within a day, and give travelers a chance to experience changes in scenery and adventures. Ferry hopping is a fun and unique way to travel to Puerto Rico. Plenty of tourists do this, it’s very easy to get tickets and schedule trips.

Visiting Puerto Rico is no doubt a fun adventure for all to be had. For some, taking a week's vacation in the capital city of San Juan allows for all the excitement they may need. However, if you are a bit more adventurous or you are looking for a longer connection with the local community, Puerto Rico offers several ways to become a part of its culture and explore all of its richness.

Budget Traveling in Puerto Rico

 Traveling is a great way to see the world in person. When people travel, they have a chance to think about the world in new ways, meet people they've never before and take a break from their daily lives. One of the truly great things about travel is that you don't need a lot of money to head out on the adventure you'll never forget. It's easier than ever before to travel the globe even if you don't have a lot of money. This article will give you great tips on how to travel Puerto Rico on any budget!

Go Off Peak

Many parts of the world have two separate seasons. There's the march from spring to winter and back again. Then there's another season. That's the season when the visitors arrive. Visitors typically stick to a certain times of the year. If you're planning a trip, you can often save a lot of money by choosing a trip during the off season. This when prices tend to drop. It's also when you'll find fewer people and avoid large crowds. If you really want to get to know the locals, this is the ideal time to travel. Many of us have had the luxury to travel to Puerto Rico and meet family and friends, and often times going during various times during the year is quite expensive. However, May and August, post the tourist months, tend to be quite cheap. Finding cheap flights to PR is crucial for traveling on a small budget. Consider joining flight email lists or travel clubs to make sure you never miss a deal.

Many travelers on a budget know that if they are very flexible with their travel dates, they can often score a real deal. The trick is to decide when you want to leave in a certain period of time. Then, you can often head out the airport and catch a last minute flight. Airlines will let you grab a seat at a lowered price if someone cancels at the last minute. The same is true of many hotels. You can often fill up a room and find a vacancy if there's been a last minute cancellation. If this a strategy that you're going to use, you'll want to make sure you have backup plans. You don't want to be left somewhere without a place to sleep. Keep your cell phone close and keep some extra money on hand just in case.

Choose Less Traveled Destinations

For the thrifty traveler, a less traveled destination is a perfect choice. Less traveled places are places that might have far fewer visitors yet still be equally delightful. Look for places that might be a little off the beaten path. An out of the way destination can take many forms. You might head to a well-traveled destination in Puerto Rico like San Juan but opt to see places that get far fewer visitors. There are various beautiful little towns on this glorious island where you can really get a bang for your buck as well as a beautiful experience. Mountain towns like San Sebastian are far enough away that you feel lost in the beauty of the island, but close enough that you can still have great experiences at places like Crashboat Beach in Aguadilla or Gozolandia Waterfalls, all within a half an hour drive of San Sebastian.

Treat Yourself a Little

If you're traveling for any length of time, you'll want to think about setting aside a special treat. For example, if you are touring the islands of the Caribbean, you might want to make some time for a luxury eastern Caribbean cruise. This will give you ample opportunity to rest and relax in an enjoyable setting where you be treated to fine service. Cruises into San Juan often go on sale, and are quite affordable for any budget. The key is not to spend too much money in the port, where prices are raised for tourists. Consider taking a day trip to Vieques, a beautiful island off the cost of Puerto Rico, with beaches that are absolutely to die for. There are other treats that can make your day. Look for a local restaurant with a Michelin star or two. This is an indication that the restaurant not only meets local standards. It's also an indication that the restaurant is likely to offer a very special meal. A gourmet meal makes the perfect end to a wonderful day of travel.

Hit the Local Grocery Store

Eating in Puerto Rico can often be expensive, but eating when you're traveling doesn't have to be expensive. Just like everywhere else, you'll find plenty of options for meals when you're on your way anywhere else. Many modern grocery stores have all sorts of eating options. If you have cooking facilities in your hotel room, now is the time to use them and bring food home to make cheaper meals. If you don't, many stores have all sorts of prepared meals on hand. There are Econos all over the island that will allow you to buy prepared food as well as ingredients, to help you have an authentic and cheap trip to the Isla Del Encanto. They're often much cheaper than the items you'll find in the better traveled area and just as tasty. You'll also find more selections such as sandwiches and soups. This is also a great way to sample authentic local dishes.

Use Public Transit

Renting a car when traveling may be freeing, but it can also be very expensive. If you're heading to San Juan, don't be afraid to take advantage of regional transportation options. They're also a great way to see the locale for a small fee. Get on a bus and watch the streets of San Juan unfold right in front of you. Keep the car for areas that are more out of the way. You'll save money getting around and get to know the locals even better.

Hit the road today and bring your dreams of being part of a global community to full fruition.

Puerto Rico Solves a Worldwide Coffee Problem

 

Our Story

After hurricane Irma and Maria devastated the island on September 20, 2017, my family and I decided to move to Puerto Rico, work the land and help the island get back on its feet in any way that we could. We were coffee lovers back then and understood that the coffee industry is one that would not exist were it not for the coffee farmers that work day to day to give us that hot cup of coffee. So we decided to become coffee farmers. Did you know that it takes about three years for a farmer to be able to harvest coffee from a seedling? From the time a farmer plants the coffee to harvest, he or she has about three long years before being able to sell their coffee. This can be a problem for some coffee farmers, especially after a disaster.

The Problem for The Coffee Farmer in Puerto Rico

After the devastation, many farmers abandoned their farms, quit or left the island entirely. With all the damage done to the existing coffee trees, Puerto Rico as whole, was left with little to no coffee cherries on its trees. This created a major dilemma in the coffee industry for the island that only a few initiatives and organizations attempted to mend. Some donated coffee tree seedlings and others offered some funding to rebuild farms and replant trees. But there was still an underlying problem left unanswered. How would the farmers feed their families while waiting for the next harvest in October 2019?

The Unknown Problem For The Coffee Lover Worldwide

There is a trend on the rise within specialty coffee culture of the need to know where its coffee is coming from. We want to know if its fair trade, we want to know if the farmer is paid fairly and what conditions they must endure to grow our coffee that we love so dearly. For new coffee lovers and seasoned coffee lovers alike, we have all thought about the harsh realities a coffee farmer must face to produce the coffee we enjoy. We have our favorite coffee brands, our coffee roasters, our quaint little coffee shops and we partake in a culture that seems set aside for a special type of coffee connoisseur. But how many of us within this "type" truly seeks to know the coffee farmer? I mean, truly wants to experience this process from seed to cup? However, if you are among those who want to know, then you will find this problem difficult to resolve.

The Solution For Everyone Involved

We have created a way, an answer for both coffee farmers to provide for their families while they wait for harvest and coffee lovers to share in the unique experience of their coffees production from seed to cup. You can now witness, first hand, what it takes to grow your coffee. You now have the opportunity to adopt your very own coffee tree, and become part of the solution for the rebuilding of a coffee industry and the betterment of the coffee farmer. Finally, an answer to the problem for both sides of the culture.

About the Program

We are a select network of small specialty coffee farms that grow high quality, arabica coffee. We pick, process and roast our coffee ourselves and we only pick ripe, red cherries. We have the unique opportunity to be highly selective with our cherries because of how direct we are to our consumer. Once harvested, processed and roasted, you receive your coffee within days instead of months like the traditional method. Most coffee farms are forced to pick everything from green to red cherries because of the high demand and high quantity they must process to meet demand order size. Sadly, with the tradition method, it takes many months before you even get to drink it.

We are the next level of specialty coffee for the true coffee connoisseur.

Your Help Changes The Coffee Supply Chain

The usual coffee supply chain looks like this:

Farm → Private trader → Processing plant → Local exporter → Importer → Roaster → Retailer → Consumer

Our supply chain, looks like this:

Farm → Our Program → Roaster → Consumer

Support The Puerto Rican Coffee Farmer

 

Get closer to origin and become part of the process from seed to cup. Adopt a coffee tree in the mountains of Puerto Rico and drink coffee harvested from your very own adopted tree. Your coffee tree adoption helps farmers continue working their land and providing for their families while they wait for harvest. For $60 a year you can adopt a coffee tree, get quarterly updates from the farm on how your tree is doing and receive the highly awaited for pound of coffee from your very on tree.

One of our founding adopters and the founder of the Guiness Book of World Records biggest coffee expo of its kind states, regarding our program, "Our coffee industry is in a position that any bit can be very helpful. Adopting, planting and maintaining a coffee tree, can be that small thing we can do that can change the whole game." - Paul Gonzalez Mangual, Founder of the Coffee & Chocolate Expo.

Visit www.cafeartesano.com and adopt your coffee tree today. Please share this article as much as possible so we can get all of our trees adopted! You can also follow @VivalafincaPR on Facebook and Instagram to see updates about our farm and get to know my family. Thank you for your support!

 

Website https://www.cafeartesano.com
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Things to Do in Caguas

 This Article appears courtesy DiscoverPuertoRico.com. It originally appeared  here

 

A colorful trolley in Caguas' town square Plaza Santiago Palmer.

Known as the “Center and Heart of Puerto Rico”, Caguas takes pride in keeping tradition alive. A vibrant city, rich in culture and soul, you can choose to visit one of its many museums or stroll around its beautiful botanical garden.

Walk around beautiful gardens, learn about endemic species, stroll the ruins of an old sugar mill, and more. This town is revitalizing its town’s square, with several new spots, eateries, and events.

Caguas History Museum

A building that once served as the town’s City Hall now hosts one of the most important museums of this municipality. Due to its highly architectural importance, the building now belongs to the National Historic Sites of the United States. The place sets a mirror into the past as it narrates the uprising of Puerto Rican identity. The walls and the many rooms depict the Taíno settlement, the Spanish conquest, and the North American invasion that shaped the island for a better understanding of the present Puerto Rican culture.

 

Museo del Tabaco

The only establishment dedicated to the history of tobacco in Puerto Rico is situated in Caguas. Located in a neoclassical, colonial-era building, the museum showcases the development of a historic industry in the island. Pay a visit and discover how Cubans used to buy the tobacco cultivated in Puerto Rico to blend with theirs. Learn about the industry and its meaning to Puerto Rico, and observe replicas of old tobacco ranches. The educational experience is highlighted by local artisans that craft artisanal cigars for visitors.

Jardín Botánico y Cultural de Caguas William Miranda Marín

Caguas’ real gem is the Jardín Botánico y Cultural de Caguas William Miranda Marín. A testament of history, this theme-park is designed to educate the public and elevate the relationship between culture and nature in a tropical setting. Its 60 acres of land are made up by gardens and the remains of Hacienda San José — a 19th century sugar plantation.

The garden offers guided tours, walking trails, and various specialized exhibits (like the African and Taíno Ancestral Grove, Forest Heritage, Riverside Corridor, and Tropical Wetlands) for you to wander. Explore the rich history of the ancient sugar mills of Caguas, the ecological significance of the town, an in-depth look at agriculture of Puerto Rico; and more. Learn about the indigenous archeological findings on site, the century-old sugar mill ruins, and the centennial slave barracks. Take a closer look at the roots of the Puerto Rican creole identity to understand something deeper about the island.

Museo de las Artes Populares

Lovers of folk art, skilled artisans, and local culture should make this a stop to learn more about several of the island’s prominent craftspeople. The museum pays homage to artists such as Zoilo Cajigas and Celestino Avilés, two wood carvers dedicated to creating religious figures, as well as saints and musical instruments. Some of their works are featured permanently at the museum. Elpidio Collazo and Emilio Rosado also have rooms dedicated to their craft, carved birds. Other artists that worked on leather, ceramic, and toys are showcased as well. A second showroom exhibits traditional figurines by a cagüeño teacher named Edwin Báez.

Paseo de las Artes

One of the main attractions in Caguas is the Paseo de las Artes, a space that turns into an outdoor festival highlighting local artists. Be ready to walk, eat and drink, dance, and appreciate the works of Puerto Rican and international makers that have made this space their workshop. Another event that takes place at the Paseo de las Artes is the Al Fresco Culinary show. This event gathers people to savor creole food and creative presentations of local and international fusions at different food stations, food trucks, and stands.

Exploring Puerto Rico as a Female Solo Traveler

 Puerto Rico is totally open for business. As your might already know, Hurricane María hit Puerto Rico in September 2017 and the damages were uncountable. Fortunately, we were able to overcome all the struggles that the hurricane bring when it comes to deliver to our visitors. There are many things that you can do if you are a female solo traveler and if you really want to make a difference in your visit to the island.

Food Tours

If there is something that Puerto Rico has not lost even in the darkest times post hurricane is the flavors and the seasoning of our traditional dishes. A great way to explore many of these flavors are food tours. In San Juan, you can find an amazing option such as Flavors of San Juan.

Flavors of San Juan is a company that is making tours in the area for a few years. Their Old San Juan Food Tour is the #1 ranked food tour in the island on TripAdvisor. This food tour around the Old City gives an insight on the local tradition and culture through an authentic culinary experience. If you take one of these tours, don’t forget to mention about any diet requirement of allergies you might have.

New cuisine concepts

Food trucks, and conceptual cuisines are some of the new ideas rising in the island. You can find amazing places where to experience locally grew ingredients and fusions. In Santurce, you will find places like Lote 23 and new restaurants in the area of Miramar such as 6.21 Cocina Libre or Musa,  which have brought new concepts to the dining scene that are definitely worth trying.

Local Guest

Looking to explore Puerto Rico and also make a difference during your visit? Then Local Guest  is the answer! Local Guest is a women’s powered company that co-create community based touristic experiences. Some of their experiences include helping local farmers and exploring their farms or a Bomba dance lesson after helping with the Community Center. If you are interested on learning more about their experiences and how you can help and explore different communities around the island, feel free to write to hello@localguest.com to find out more.

Authentic Lodging Options

Before and after Hurricane María, many different lodging options have been emerging in the islands. Hostels, glamping sites, b&b, among others are available to make your stay in the island a lot more memorable. Depending where you want to go or what you want to do, there are options such as Santurcia Hostel, Pitahaya Glamping or Casa Isabel. Definitely, these are options that will have a positive impact in the Puerto Rican economy if you choose to stay in one of these.

Things to be aware while being a Female Solo Traveler

In general, Puerto Rico is a safe place for female solo travelers. What I would say is the biggest challenge for any traveler in Puerto Rico is transportation. Puerto Rico is not the best place to try hitch hiking as a way to move around so, I would not recommend that. The safest bet to move around the island is renting a car. If you are planning to stay in the San Juan area, Uber and public transportation works to move around and using your common sense on certain places will lead you to have an amazing
experience.

I hope this guide help you to explore the best of Puerto Rico while traveling solo and also, to really help our economy as our visitor.

Brenda G. Mejia
Blogger/ Editor
Traveleira
w: www.traveleira.com
currently in: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Health Benefits Shown for Outdoor Vacations in Puerto Rico

There are over 1.4 million national and international visitors to national parks in Puerto Rico each year, proving just how rich the natural history of this island really is. This is great news for those looking to reap the health benefits of heading outdoors and enjoying a natural vacation. That’s right, it’s actually good for you and your health to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you take a cruise to begin your journey to a happier, healthier you or simply head out into one of the country’s national parks, forests or beaches, enjoying an outdoor vacation in Puerto Rico certainly has its health benefits.

Vacations in Green Spaces Increase Your Health

If you’re planning on taking advantage of one of Puerto Rico’s national parks, then you’re in luck. Studies show that living near or spending time in green spaces actually increases your health. Simply visiting a natural park such as El Yunque National Forest can increase your health, with studies showing that women who visited "greener areas had a 41% lower death rate for kidney disease, a 34% lower death rate for respiratory disease and a 13% lower death rate for cancer". This makes planning a visit to natural, green spaces in Puerto Rico a great idea, especially if you can snag a deal at one of the island’s coveted log cabins or tropical treehouses.

Discover the Benefits of Mental Clarity

There’s no doubt that being surrounded by nature and being far away from the hustle and bustle of a big city like San Juan provide you with an opportunity to really clear your mind. Studies have actually shown that people experience a reduction in stress from being around greenery, and that counts as a mental effect that translates into physical benefits. Taking the time to declutter your mind can leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and even re-energized in order to take on life and responsibilities with more passion and enthusiasm. As an added benefit, engaging in outdoor adventures and heading into nature to de-stress is a great way to increase your overall health.

Naturally Boosting Your Health

Beautiful, natural settings abound in Puerto Rico and range from beachy retreats to rich, dense forest getaways. All of these outdoor options can provide you with space you need to heal your mind, body, and soul. Taking advantage of green spaces near or far from you is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer while also exploring different areas and activities you might not normally participate in.

Ramon Ortega Certified Public Accountant

 

Ramon Ortega is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Florida and Puerto Rico. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Accounting with over 20 years of managerial experience in government and private sector. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Puerto Rico Certified Public Accountants

Ramon Ortega CPA, PA is a Certified Public Accountant firm located in Weston, Florida. We are licensed in Florida and Puerto Rico and we are committed to provide a complete professional accounting, tax and consulting services to business owners and clients. 

We are QuickBooks Online Advanced Certified ProAdvisor and Patriot Software Certified Advisor.

Our Mission

To exceed our clients expectations and be seen as partners in the development of their financial goals.

Our team is dedicated and motivated to serve you.

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Four Reasons to Plan a Vacation to Puerto Rico

 this Article originally appeared on DiscoverPuertoRico.com

Written by Karinna D. Sostre

Planning a vacation soon?

Puerto Rico should be at the top of the places to consider. The combination of history, diverse culture, scenery, attractions, warm people and fascinating cities, make this Caribbean gem a world-class destination.

We can list many reasons why you should plan a trip to the island, but here are only four to get you started.

Indulge in the Culture

Puerto Rico’s rich and vibrant culture derives from a mix of the indigenous Taínos, the Spaniards and the Africans. This integration is reflected throughout the island’s colonial architecture, spirited art, powerful literature and dynamic music.

Dance and music are essential when describing the vibrancy of the islanders. From the most traditional sounds like bomba, plena and the décima (or trova) to the urban sounds of reggaetón, the fusion of races comes through in every beat. One of the most breathtaking and folkloric demonstrations of our heritage become alive in the bomba, an Afro-Caribbean rhythm played by two or more drums led by the footsteps of the dancer. The respect with which it is carried out captivates the mind of every spectator.

Other traditional sounds of Puerto Rico are the plena and the trova. Usually heard during Christmas time, these genres elevate popular instruments such as el cuatro and pleneros. Just like the corrido in México, the narrative of the songs details the struggles and burdens of the countryside and coastal communities. Puerto Rico is also known for its flavorful salsa singers and reggaetón artists. These two genres will surely make you swing your hips and lose yourself to the rhythm of the music.

Another manifestation of the captivating history of Puerto Rico and how it has evolved can be appreciated by just walking down the streets of Old San Juan where you will see monumental fortresses, pastel-colored buildings, blue cobblestone roads, and elaborate wall carvings.

You can find museums and galleries all over the island that reflect the Puerto Rican cultural heritage and evolution. Ancient artefacts, pre-Columbian paintings, contemporary pieces and even street art can be found by those with a trained eye and even the self-taught amateurs.

Be Captivated by Nature

In terms of beauty, Puerto Rico is astonishingly diverse. With over 36 nature reserves, 19 state forests and five wildlife refuges, travelling across the island easily brings the opportunity to enjoy the contrast of scenery and get back in touch with nature.

You can appreciate the marine life diversity across the nearly 300 beaches along the 272 miles of coastline. With different characteristics – like colors, sand textures and wave flow – each area has a distinctive quality and varied marine life.

If you’re seeking eco-friendly experiences like no other, Puerto Rico is the place to go. The island has three of the world’s bioluminescent bays. The fluorescent waters are the result of a delicate ecosystem made up by single-cell organisms that release energy when agitated, giving the effect of “glow in the dark” water. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is currently the brightest bioluminescent ecosystem in the world, so – to make the most of your visit- be sure to avoid full moon nights.

Puerto Rico also has El Yunque, the only subtropical rainforest in the U.S. Forest System where it rains at least four times a day. Within its 28,000 acres, you can find over 240 species of plants, rare endangered fauna, several rivers, streams and waterfalls. El Yunque is the most ancient area designated as a natural reserve in the Western Hemisphere.

The karstic zone is one of the most precious non-renewable resources because of the special ecosystems that developed there, such as the largest riverine estuaries, fossil deposits and an extensive cave system with over 2,000 caverns and the world’s second largest river.

The beauty of Puerto Rico? You can enjoy all its diversity in a single day.

Go on an Adventure

If “unforgettable” is how you want to describe your vacation, Puerto Rico should be your destination. The tropical weather and distinct typography make the island a perfect setting for unique and extraordinary ventures. From bird-watching to canyoneering, kayaking and ziplining, the island has something for everyone.

Hitting the turquoise waters of Puerto Rican beaches is one of the many reasons millions of tourists visit each year. There is a wide range of activities to choose from like sailing, snorkeling, deep-diving, surfing, kayaking, whale spotting or simply relaxing.

If you’re in for an adrenaline rush, go ziplining over lush trees, valleys and rivers in El Yunque or Toro Verde. You can also get off the beaten path and have a canyoneering adventure, climb, rappel and scale to the top of vigorous mountains or hike the fascinating trails these forests have to offer.

Savor the Flavors

With an explosion of flavors and a wide variety of dishes that aim to please and comfort even the most picky-eaters, Puerto Rican cuisine can be best described in three words: diverse, complex and familiar. Whether it is a snack, a drink, some street food or a high-end meal, every chef on the island has the same goal: take care of people and showcase the culture through the food.

The constant evolution of the Puerto Rican kitchen brings a combination of traditional and trendy savors that promise to make you feel at home with every culinary experience. One ingredient you will find in almost every plate is sofrito, a blend of peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs that gives any dish that extra Latino flavor we all love. And, even though we encourage our visitors to try our staple dishes – such as mofongo, tostones, roasted pork and maybe some mamposteao – Puerto is so much more than rice and beans.

In recent years, there has been a movement by local chefs to elevate Puerto Rican flavors through eclectic infusions of other cultures to accommodate the palate of all our visitors, while highlighting local products to maintain that Caribbean essence.

Puerto Rico has a share of James Beard Award nominee chefs that are ready to entice your taste buds and take you on a gastronomical journey.

This Article originally appeared on DiscoverPuertoRico.com

Skincare for the Caribbean Weather

 [caption id="attachment_7054" align="alignleft" width="276"] Maria Donis Bonito Beauty Products[/caption]

Hello and welcome to this new beauty section! I am so honored to be writing this piece on skincare products for Boricua.com and its readers as it is my first piece for another page. My name is Maria Donis, and I own Bonito Beauty Products which is an online beauty store. I live in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, and I developed this site as my first business. I love seeking out the latest beauty trends and apply them to my current living situations. My current obsession is binge-watching Korean dramas and playing with my cats. I've been selling skincare products since 2018, and I am excited to mark my first anniversary with the start of the Health and Beauty section of this fantastic page.

Living in the Caribbean might mean to some beaches and sunshine, but to me, it means dealing with humidity and the harshness of the environmental exposures on the skin. Keeping up with the warm weather and your skin can be a hard thing to do for some, but with a simple skincare routine inspired by Korean skincare techniques, you can achieve an easy to maintain healthy look.

Now keep in mind that your skin is the largest organ of your body, and whatever you put into it will feed directly to the bloodstream, so it matters how much attention you put to your skin. Building a good skincare routine allows you to keep that youthful appearance for longer, and with a healthy lifestyle, you will feel you're very best.

You may ask how do I pair Korean skincare with Caribbean weather? I prefer to use Korean skincare products because of their use of serums as a way of keeping your skin hydrated. Having water-based serums help keep your moisturized throughout the day without any oily residue. This type if a product is especially beneficial if you suffer from breakouts because of sweat and other dirt clogging your pores. If you suffer from irritated skin, serums can help you calm the redness with their gentle ingredients.

In my favorites, I must confess that I adore Tony Moly and Etude House packaging, they are the cutest! However, I fell in love with Missha skincare line with their sophisticated approach to skincare products. Compared to Clinique, this brand offers gentle options for every type of skin. But what is the difference? Missha maximizes the hydration levels of your skin with the gentlest ingredients available for a younger supple look.

Even though skin care can be complicated, I stick to five simple steps anyone can follow with their own choice of products: I wash, tone, treat, moisturize and protect. My secret is the Korean products I use because they tend to work without harsh alcohols, parabens, sulfates or even gluten.

I start by cleansing my face with Missha Green Tea Super Seed Foaming Cleanser because the green tea will help me deal with the redness and the acne-causing bacteria hiding in my pores as well as keep my skin hydrated without an oily residue. I then tone my skin with Missha Near Skin toner because it is alcohol-free and gentle to my skin. I also use Missha Super Seed Aqua Serum because it lightweight and I can use under my makeup. I then pair it with an organic sunscreen to protect my skin from the sun's rays and electrical lighting.

Another Korean trend that I enjoy in adding to my routine is the use of sheet masks as the cooldown and restore hydration to your skin. I use them after a long night out, a stressful week, and even after long exposures to the sun. They come with many beneficial ingredients, and you can get one specifically to your skin problems. I pop mine in the fridge for an extra cooling sensation. You can use a jade roller on top of them to ensure maximum skin absorption.

If you go to my shop (bonitobeauty.com), you can find all the products mentioned above and even enjoy the 1st Anniversary Sale where items will be at $1.00 each for a limited time, and for the benefits of Boricua.com readers we will be extending this sale all through February and March 2019. Join us on your favorite social media platform to receive the latest deals and product arrivals. We will be launching a Spring line in March so subscribe to our newsletter on our website.

For more information follow these links:

Website: www.bonitobeauty.com
Instagram: instagram.com/bonito.beauty
Facebook: facebook.com/bonitbeautypr
Twitter: twitter.com/bonitobeautypr
Phone: 518-368-7588
Email: bonito-beauty@outlook.com

 

 

New Beach Home Away from Home

 

New Beach Home Away from Home less than 100 yards to beach

2 bedroom 2 bathroom a few yards to la playa Anasco, close to Rincon surfing

Brand new home for rent just steps from the beach in La Playa Anasco, 401 to KM 2 in Tres Hermanos.

Water views from just about every room in the house.

Amazing views, tropical calm water, scenary, beach treasures up and down the beach.

This home boast all the amenities of home.

Please feel free to email me or call me to ask anything. This home is built to last, fully furnished, queen master with full bath and spare bedroom with full over full bunk and full bathroom.

All brand new furnishings. The home is only a few miles to Rincon and surf beaches, Town of Rincon and amazing restaurants. Walk the beaches and find your sea treasures. Quiet dead end street, safe and tranquil.

Centrally located to Anasco town, Rincon, Route 2 to Mayaguez, KMart, Home Depot, Walmart, mall, medical buildings, restaurants, and easy ride to Cabo Rojo, Aguada, Aguadialla and so much more the whole island has to offer.

You do have to leave when your time is up - because I know you are going to want to stay a life time.

Book Your Vacation in this Beautiful Beach Home in Puerto Rico

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5 Historical Buildings in Puerto Rico

 Puerto Rico (Rich Port in Spanish) is an unincorporated territory of the USA, and is located southeast of Miami, Florida. It is in the northeastern Caribbean Sea and is basically made up of a collection of the most exotic, breathtakingly beautiful islands. Its capital and largest city is the beautiful city known as San Juan and the US dollar is the official currency. The official language is Spanish due to the long colonization by the Spanish which can be found in both their culture and their structures, but because of its affiliation with the USA, however, most of its citizens speak English and are very nice and welcoming. Puerto Rico has almost perfect weather conditions with plenty of sunshine, over 200 gorgeous tropical beaches, beautiful gardens, historical buildings, uniquely diverse ecosystem, great landscaping and amazing views. You can take unguided tours around the city if you want to make a few detours and you won’t be disappointed, most locations are just 2-3 hours away. There are a lot of hotels in Puerto Rico, but for extra comfort and flexibility, property management services in Puerto Rico are top notch and you can find accommodation cheap and easy if you decide to use their services. Locating tourist attractions or beautiful places to see can be easily gotten from the natives, but this article’s aim is to quell regrets (imagine visiting Paris for the first time, having a great time but when you get back home you realize you didn’t visit the Eiffel tower). These are five of the most historic buildings in Puerto Rico; they are tourist attractions and have been made very accessible and accommodating to visitors.

1. Castillo San Felipe del Morro

The Castillo San Felipe del Morro (aka El Morro or Morro Castle) was first started in 1539 and completed in 1589 on a rocky point and protected the passage to San Juan Bay. Towering 140 feet above the sea and 74 acres, its 18-foot-thick wall was a formidable defense that fell just once, in 1538, to a land assault launched by the Earl of Cumberland's forces. The fort is the result of about 250 years of consistent effort by the Spanish Engineers in that era and is one of the largest fortifications in the Caribbean; it’s a six level fortification consisting of a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, outposts, ramps and a lighthouse with excellent view of the San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Numerous restorations and expansions have contributed to the imposing structure that it is today. The area was declared a National Historic Site in February 1949 and by the United Nations in 1983 with 74 total acres.

Flanking either side of a quarter-mile walkway linking the city to the fort is a sprawling, magnificent green esplanade. Though it is mostly filled with families flying kites, the space reminds visitors how intimidating the fort was to attacking soldiers, who had to cross the wide-open field under heavy fire to reach its walls. So much of the initial artillery, the casements and chapel are still present today and can be visited. El Morro is considered the most iconic location in Puerto Rico.

2. Castillo San Cristobal

While The Castillo San Cristobal and the Castillo San Felipe del Morro are two separate fortresses however, they are connected by less than a mile of city wall. Together, they defended the Old San Juan against attacks for centuries and made San Juan a strategic military stronghold. Built after several land-based attacks on the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, the Spanish began fortifying the hill to the east. San Cristobal was mainly built over the course of 25 years starting in the 1760s. Though not as famous as El Morro, The Castillo de San Cristobal is the largest fortification ever built by the Spanish in the New World. Declared a World Heritage site in 1983, this massive castle which covers 27 acres is where the first shots of the Spanish-American War on Puerto Rican soil occurred. The intricate castle-like structure features five units connected by moats and tunnels, Explore creepy dungeons, ancient soldier barracks and military-based exhibits throughout the fort's history-rich nooks and crannies. One of its best attractions, the stunning views from the upper battlements features views of the Old San Juan's landscape and the expansive Atlantic. Peering down at the shore from behind a massive cannon and you almost imagine the storied battlegrounds. Keep an eye out for the devil’s sentry box.

The San Cristobal Castle is located right next to the El Morro attraction

3. La Fortaleza

La Fortaleza was the first military fortification built in San Juan and was constructed from 1533 to 1540. This structure was Old San Juan’s original defensive fortification before the construction of the El Morro; its original design was of a huge circular tower and four massive stone walls. In 1846, La Fortaleza was extensively remodeled, enlarged to resemble a mansion and the appearance of the streets were modernized. La Fortaleza was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Invaders plundered the fortress only two times in its history: first, by the English in 1598, and then by the Dutch in 1625. It used to be the designated official residence of the Spanish Captain-General in Puerto Rico but from 1640 onwards, it has served as both official residence and office for over 170 governors of the island. The original tower, is now called Torre del Homenaje ("tower of homage") still exists; its name comes from an island tradition whereby the resident governor climbs to the top of the tower to pledge a solemn oath of courage and loyalty during dangerous times.

4. Cathedral of San Juan Bautista

 The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is the second-oldest cathedral in the Western Hemisphere. It was the first cathedral church (Archdiocese of San Juan de Puerto Rico) in the Americas, also the first diocese of the new world in 1511. It was originally built from wood in 1521 but was destroyed by a hurricane and the rebuilt structure completed in 1540. The stark, gothic façade that can be appreciated presently is the result of later restoration efforts, but inside it there are several rooms and architectural elements that can be traced back to 1540, it is one of the few genuine examples of medieval architecture to be found anywhere in the Americas. The church houses the tomb of Ponce de Leon (Spanish explorer and settlement founder), whose remains were moved there in the 19th century; and a shrine to the first Puerto Rican or Caribbean born layperson in history to be beatified, Blessed Carlos Manuel Rodriguez Santiago. It also houses the beautiful wooden image of the Virgin de la Divina Providencia which was created in 1920 and can be seen behind the altar.

5. Camuy Caves

These incredible structures are not the product of human ingenuity or buildings in their own right; The Camuy Caves were first discovered in 1958, documented in 1973 and they can only be described as one of nature’s best works. A 268-acre park was built around the site of these great subterranean caverns carved out by the Camuy River more than one million years ago and is regarded as one of the world’s largest cave networks. The caves are one of the largest underground formations in the Western Hemisphere, and only ten miles of these series of limestone caves have been explored fully. Seventeen entrances and about 220 caves have been explored so far. Tours are available where visitors are guided through the caves, yawning cathedral-caverns and sinkholes and sights include fine examples of stalactites, unique formations, stalagmites and be warned, some caves full of bats. The park contains numerous picnic areas, walking trails, food shops, exhibition hall and a souvenir shops etc. Visitors must be in good physical conditions to walk through some of the caves especially the sinkholes. A good example is the spiral sinkhole and cave; it has 205 steps and as this will be strenuous for people in poor physical/health condition. However, if you are willing to brave the stairs, the cave below is absolutely breath taking.

The fancy stalactite and stalagmite formations are aesthetically arranged to enhance the quaint beauty of the cave surroundings. The camuy caves are absolute with the visit.

Honourable Mention: San Juan Gate

These massive wooden doors served as the front entrance to Old San Juan and the date 1749 is boldly engraved on the doors. In the old days, People arriving by sea passed through the gate up the Caleta de San Juan to the cathedral to give thanks for a safe voyage. Those who didn’t arrive before the gate was shut in the evening had to spend their night outside the walls of the city.

One fact that stands out is how properly these structures have been maintained over time to prevent decay and dereliction. This has been due to the proper application of property management in and around these facilities. Historic property management melds modern systems management with preservation maintenance with modern systems. Vacant historic buildings are at greater risk of damage; a few of these historic buildings listed above usually have sections that can be rented. Property management refers to the handling or management of residential, commercial and/or industrial real estate, including apartments, detached houses, condominium units and shopping centers usually on behalf of the owner to maintain the property’s value while generating income. Property management companies are licensed by the local real estate board in their states and it is advised you confirm their legitimacy before doing business.

Property Management is a staple of Puerto Rico and would be perfect for situations where you visit with your family or you are in need of private secluded locations to stay while touring, you can get the best service with an emphasis on guest satisfaction. Benefits include comfortable accommodation depending on what locations you’d love to visit while in Puerto Rico, housekeeping, security (surveillance), repairs and maintenance. These vacation homes are uniquely tailored to customer taste and offer the ease and comfort of home that isn’t found in a hotel room.

Alternatively, If you own a home around these tourist attractions and would love to rent your property, you can get full value and care of your home by employing a professional property manager. The advantages include meticulous maintenance: regular inspections and safeguarding of your properties, professional management of your assets while maximizing your time and income. Your home will be properly advertised and Potential guests screened to ensure their suitability.

Whatever your needs, welcome to Puerto Rico! Our teams of professionals are well grilled at providing the best comfort, guides, ease of living and security advice while you are here. We aim to please and ensure that at the end of your stay, your only question would be, “When can I come again?”

The art of Obed Gómez Original Art & Prints

The art of Obed Gómez Original Art & Prints

 

Puerto Rican contemporary artist Obed Gómez expresses himself in a variety of media, including acrylic on canvas, watercolor, pencil, ink and pastel. As a Latin American artist his passion for life and art is vividly depicted in his colorful pieces.

Obed was born on October, 1966 in Santurce, Puerto Rico. From a very early age he demonstrated interest in drawing. He studied at the League of Art of San Juan where he expanded his knowledge in drawing and painting. He also attended art classes at the Andrés Bueso Academy of Arts and earned a B.A. degree in Visual Art at the University of Sacred Heart in Santurce, Puerto Rico. He lived in Puerto Rico until he relocated to the United States in 1995 with his family.

Obed’s rich ethnic background - Hispanic, Taino Indian and African - as well as his love for nature, influence his work which has been exhibited in the USA, Europe and the Caribbean.

Art Prints

All limited editions digital prints are printed on high-resolution glossy paper. Each print is individually signed by the artist. They are also matted with acid free material ready for framing. The total size with mat included is 11" x 14", they are mailed in a box for protection.

Below are some samples of Obed's work. Click on the images to learn more about his work or you can learn more by visiting his website www.ObedtheArtist.com.

Puerto Rico Fast Becoming Favorite Foodie Destination

Tourism in Puerto Rico is increasing steadily, with more than 3.7 million people visiting the country in 2016. Even after the onslaught of Hurricane Maria, visitors are still flocking to the Isle of Enchantment. There are countless reason why international visitors flock to the Caribbean island. Not only does the country boast a rich history and culture, but it is also home to some of the most enjoyable traditional music and rum in the entire world. It is also affectionately known as the ‘Dining Capital of the Caribbean’, promising locals and visitors alike a delicious array of exotic food and drinks that will appease even the most fastidious foodie.

Puerto Rican Coquito Recipe - Coquito de Puerto Rico

 

Coquito de Puerto Rico

Everyone knows that a Latino Christmas celebration is full of cheer and delight, good music, delicious foods and original and traditional punches. The Christmas dinner -- where family and friends come together to celebrate -- is an ancient Roman tradition that began before the Christian era. It was not until 354 AD that the Roman Bishop Liberius officially declared that Christmas be celebrated on December 25th.

There is no other time for you to really get a chance to savor all the delicious holiday punches very popular among Latin American countries. According to historians, ancient Persian villagers consumed a very similar beverage that consisted of a mixture of water, lemon, herbs, sugar and rum called "panch." That custom made it's way to Europe where it underwent several changes and eventually evolved into what we call punch, and later became "ponche" in Spain.

Today, we still enjoy these traditional drinks with our own particular touch -- hence a variety of punches. Fruit punches are among the most popular, but in several countries punches are prepared with different ingredients including milk, sugar, eggs and rum.

Without a doubt, milk is a key ingredient thanks to Carnation Evaporated Milk. It's the component that makes the most notable change -- it adds flavor and a rich and creamy consistency. Since 1899, Carnation Milk has been the favorite ingredient of the Latino housewife when preparing her best holiday beverages.

Remember to prepare your time-honored punch this holiday season. It makes the perfect gift -- you can even present your concoction in a beautiful bottle decorated with holiday paper and a personalized gift tag.

We would love to learn all about your native country's holiday beverages! Visit MiCocinaLatina.com and share your recipes with us. Here you can also find new recipes and obtain loads of information especially related to Latino cuisine.

MiCocinaLatina.com wants to share with you the recipe for the world-famous Puerto Rican Coquito, a tasty holiday beverage that your guests will simply love. Here is to happiness and good health!

Puerto Rican Coquito Recipe - Coquito de Puerto Rico

"COQUITO" PUERTO RICAN PUNCH

Preparation time: 10 minute
Cooling time: 2 hours
Serves: 5

1 cup water
12 cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled
1 can (15 oz.) COCO LOPEZ Real Cream of Coconut
1 can (12 fl. oz.) CARNATION Evaporated Milk
1 cup rum
Powdered cinnamon, (optional)

Place water, cloves, cinnamon sticks and ginger in a small saucepan. Cook at medium heat until boiling. Remove from heat, cover. Let cool 15 minutes. Remove cinnamon, cloves and ginger.

Place the coconut cream, evaporated milk, rum, water and spices in blender, cover. Blend for 30 seconds or until well mixed. Refrigerate in a crystal container or bottle for at least 2 hours or until liquid is very cold. Shake well before serving.

To serve: Serve 2 ounces in appetizer glasses. Sprinkle with powdered cinnamon if desired.

Advice: Drop a cinnamon stick inside the bottle/container for added flavor.

You can also Buy Coquito from Etsy

Related Articles

Puerto Rican Coquito Recipe
Puerto Rican Coffee
Savory Puerto Rican Meat Dishes
Pumpkin: So Poor and Yet So Rich
5 Must-Have Traditional Puerto Rican Dishes
Puerto Rican Recipes - Puerto Rican Food
Preserving our traditional Puerto Rican cuisine
Piragua - Puerto Rico Piragua
Introduction to Arroz con Gandules
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Puerto Rico’s Restaurants Are Changing The Way Locals Eat

  If there's one thing Puerto Rico’s restaurants do well it's creating and serving on-trend dishes. Following last year's hurricanes, more than 10,000 hospitality jobs were lost on the island. In the aftermath of the disaster, just 7% of local food and drink venues permanently shut down and this prompted the rest of Puerto Rico’s food businesses to come back fighting. And, as a result of their efforts, local restaurants have made the following food trends come out on top.

A love for plantains

Puerto Ricans adore plantains and the latest dishes being served across the island continue to utilize this much-loved ingredient. Mofongo is a staple on most menus across Puerto Rico. However, the traditional dish is being mixed up in order to entice customers in and to create something special. Chef, Jose Ortiz, uses lobster tail to crown his mofongo. Meanwhile, he also uses the vegetable to perfume the rice to give it a unique taste. Ryan Hibbert, the CEO of Riot Hospitality Group and owner of the Whiskey Row chain states that “In the hospitality industry you have to differentiate yourself with the environments you create, and the quality of product you serve.” And this is exactly what Ortiz has done by serving traditional Puerto Rican recipes with a twist.

Fish is in

In the last month, meat products have been recalled twice due to a risk of them containing pieces of metal. Therefore, restaurants are rushing to provide alternatives to their customers. Red snapper served with a crispy skin rich flavors, tender grilled octopus and Caribbean shrimp served in a coconut crust are just some of the local fresh fish dishes you’ll find being served in local restaurants to individuals who are currently shunning meat in wake of the scandal.

Generous portions

Despite Statista reporting that 66.6% of the Hispanic adult population in  Puerto Rico are overweight or obese, local restaurants are supersizing their portions. According to The East Bay Express, La Perla,  regularly serves single portion meals which could easily feed two. Order a red snapper main and you'll more than likely be presented with a giant two and a half pound freshly cooked fish with multiple sides. And while eating out may be a luxurious treat, it’s important to note that meals of this size should be consumed scarcely.

Puerto Rico’s restaurants are providing locals with a whole new dining experience. The meals on offer across the island are larger than average. While, the nation’s favorite ingredient, Plantain, has been given a new lease of life. And, with meat off the menu, fish is very much on trend on the island right now.

Puerto Rico’s Energy To Be 100% Renewable By 2050

  

Photo by American Public Power Association on Unsplash

Puerto Rico officials have big plans for the future of the nation’s energy. Senate Vice President Larry Seilhamer and Minority Leader Eduardo Bhati have just proposed regulatory framework and an energy policy bill which promises to ensure that all power generated in Puerto Rico is renewable by 2050.

Currently, just 4% of the nation's power is generated by renewables. This is substantially below America's national average of 15%. Not only will Puerto Rico’s future be brighter as a result, but locals will be able to manage their money better too as the costs of energy are expected to decline. But businesses must back big changes to meet the bill’s requirements.

What the new legislation means for Puerto Rican businesses

The island will aggressively work to become an island which relies solely on renewable power. Under the bill, the use of coal will be prohibited by 2027. Meanwhile, bunker C oil will also be eliminated. By 2025, 20% of Puerto Rico’s energy will come from renewable sources. This will increase to 50% by 2040 and finally 100% in 2050. For the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) big changes are ahead. At present, it largely relies on costly fossil fuels. But, under the new legislation, this will have to change. PREPA failed to meet the renewable portfolio standard (RPS) in 2010, which required them to generate 12% of its energy from renewable sources by 2015 and 15% by 2020. This noncompliance hasn’t led to any consequences for the company. However, should they fail to meet the government’s current plans, the PREB will step in.

An onus on businesses

The legislation stipulates that all agencies must adhere to energy-saving requirements. Should a business fail to comply with the act, they will be penalized and their budget will be cut by an independent regulator. The Puerto Rico Energy Bureau (PREB) will regulate all energy providers and will “have more money and more teeth,” according to Bhatia. This is because they will have operational and fiscal autonomy. When it comes to reaching a settlement, it's essential that the PREB acts quickly, just as Erik H. Gordon did in 2016. Not only will a fast response show that officials are serious about implementing the law, but it will set an example to every other business in the industry.

The benefits

One of the biggest benefits of making the move to renewable energy is ensuring that whatever weather occurs, Puerto Rican businesses and homes can light their properties, have fresh water, use air conditioning and cook meals. In July, The Christian Science Reporter noted that in areas such as Adjuntas, power is still lost whenever bad weather hits. But, with solar power, locals need never go without again. Following Storm Maria in September 2017, the longest and largest blackout ever to occur in America was recorded. It took the commonwealth 11 months to restore power to the entire island, according to the IBA. This impacted local businesses significantly, with the likes of Jose Saldaña Jr.’s family-run shop, forced to close for five months.

Plans to overhaul the energy system in Puerto Rico are big and bold. However, by making all energy sources renewable, Puerto Ricans can be sure that they need never live through a lengthy blackout again. But, there is a substantial work to be done to ensure that all businesses and relevant authorities meet the government’s ambitious plans.

Favorite Wedding Venues in Puerto Rico

 

Favorite Wedding Venues in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a stunning Caribbean island, with neighbors the Dominican Republic and the United States Virgin Island on its east and west respectively. For couples looking for their ultimate tropical paradise, destination wedding, the island of Puerto Rico is it.

A destination wedding is becoming quite popular with couples looking for a unique way to celebrate their nuptials. In some ways, you can limit the stress, strain and heartache that comes with planning a wedding on your home turf, and also limit the amount of free loading family members that plan to descend on the happy occasion, motivated by free food and plenty of wine.

There are some difficulties involved with planning a destination wedding, most notably the lack of knowledge about the country you plan to get married in. Luckily, the wedding industry in Puerto Rico is one step ahead, and venues and planners have put together lists of tips, ideas and suggestions to help couples plan their perfect wedding.

No matter what you are looking for, what your ultimate vision is, how many guests you plan on having, whether you want to get married in a Church or barefoot on a beach, how big your budget is, whether you want flowers, balloons, candles or fireworks, a Puerto Rico wedding venue will exceed all of your wildest expectations.

Puerto Rico has a number of incredible wedding destinations. Here is a short list of our favorite wedding venues on the island:

Hacienda Siesta Alegre

Right at the edge of the stunning El Yunque rainforest, perched at the very end of the longest white picket fence, brings you the jewel of the island - The Haceinda Siesta Alegre.

Just half an hour outside of San Juan, the striking Spanish Colonial residence is a sublime combination of luxury, romance and rustic, natural surroundings. With seating for up to 340 wedding guests inside, and another 250 outside on the manicured lawns, this is truly one of the most enchanting wedding venues in all of Puerto Rico.

Hosteria del Mar

The Hosteria del Mar is a chic, intimate boutique hotel, just 4 stories high, with 23 luxurious and comfortable rooms, right on the velvety beachfront of the Ocean Park Beach in San Juan. Modern, electric, upmarket and romantic, the Hosteria del Mar is the perfect venue for that ultimate destination wedding, complete with a 3,500 square foot mansion for the ceremony.

Hotel El Convento

In an incredible location, tucked away right in the heart of Old San Juan, the Hotel El Convento is the one of the most unique wedding venues on the island. Indulgent, historic and charismatic, Hotel El Covento is the ideal setting for a small, intimate wedding, with the closest of family and friends. With a selection of seated venues for a romantic wedding reception, you can be married amongst such features as nostalgic black and white marble floors, antique stained glass windows, a 100-year old Nispero tree and lush, tropical foliage.

The St. Regis Bahia Beach

There is possibly no setting that is as romantic, luxurious or breathtaking, as the location of the glamorous and indulgent wedding venue - The St Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico. The enchanting Caribbean coconut plantation provides a dramatic backdrop between the glittering azure waters and the thick tropical rainforests that fringe the shore.

Relax in the epitome of sheer indulgence and opulence, as your personal butler makes sure that you and your loved one have everything you could possibly need. Each of the beautifully appointed rooms, all 139 of them, open out onto intimate and totally private terraces, overlooking the inviting Caribbean sea.

La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort

Get married under the soft, swaying palms, with velvety cashmere Caribbean sand sinking between your toes, as the sun sinks into the glittering turquoise sea behind you. La Concha Renaissance Resort in San Juan offers couples and their guests an exclusive, trendy and quietly sophisticated wedding venue and accommodation. Whether you are after a low key affair, or an extravagant high end banquet, this is one wedding venue that can offer you everything and more.

St Germain Bistro & Cafe

Right off the beaten track in the heart of Old San Juan, you'll find the St Germain Bistro and Cafe. This is the perfect wedding venue for an offbeat, funky wedding, or even a memorable rehearsal dinner. Simple, beautifully prepared dishes made with the finest quality, seasonal farmer's market ingredients are perfect for a small, intimate wedding reception, bridal party lunch, or morning after breakfast.

A more personal experience you would not find on the island, as the creative, attentive, friendly and professional staff and owners, pull out all the stops to make your wedding reception a time to remember forever.

Fajardo Hotel Inn

The Fajardo Hotel Inn provides a full wedding planning service, and will take care of each and every single detail relating to your stay, and your memorable big day. Celebrate your nuptials in a charming and charismatic atmosphere tucked away between manicured gardens, overlooking private terraces out onto the resplendent and intoxicating Caribbean Sea. Organize your wedding with as little as 25 close family and friends, or up to 220 guests at this stunning Puerto Rican wedding venue.

Author Bio:

Guest post contributed by Justin Epley for Marriott.com – see their Savannah Hotels. Justin is a freelance travel writer. He enjoys sharing his travel insights on various travel blogs.