Rincon Puerto Rico

 There is a surfer’s paradise on the northwest corner of Puerto Rico where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean collide. There lies the city of Rincon, famous for its stunning beaches, surfable waves, and laid-back ambiance. While the area is a popular vacation destination throughout the year, the city really comes to life during the November – April surfing season when surfers from all over the world converge on its beaches.

Rincon Puerto Rico, named after 16th century landowner Don Gonzalo Rincon, gained global attention in 1968 when the World Surfing Championship was held there for the first time. Since then, the city been a part of the international surfing scene and has grown its surfing industry to include surf camps and surf lessons for all skill levels. Visitors to the city will quickly find themselves immersed in the unique culture of surfing Puerto Rico.

From the downtown waterfront, Rincon’s beaches stretch north along eight miles of the beautiful Caribbean coastline. The best beaches for surfing are located along the North Coast, where the deep offshore trenches and strong trade winds create swells that can be as high as six feet tall. The most challenging conditions are at Tres Palmas, which is recommended for experienced surfers. Domes Beach is known for smooth rides and consistent waves, while Maria’s Beach has gentle waves perfect for beginners.

Beginners to the sport have plenty of options for surf lessons in Rincon. There are companies that provide group lessons and solo private lessons, while some resorts in the city offer lessons as part of their all-inclusive packages. There are also many places that rent surfing equipment to tourists and their employees will help you pick the right equipment for your needs.

Surfing is not the only thing Rincon Puerto Rico is known for. The area is also one of the best spots in the world for whale-watching. From December to mid-April, humpback whales migrate to the Caribbean’s warm waters through the Mona Passage, located just off the coast of Rincon. The Punta Higuero Light House, set above Domes Beach, offers a spectacular view of the coast to watch for these majestic animals. The best time to see the whales is around dawn and dusk.

For those interested in swimming and sun-bathing, the South Coast of Rincon offers pristine beaches with calm, clear waters. Rincon is also a great place for year-round sport fishing, with fishing charter companies offering deep-sea, bottom, live bait, trolling, and kite fishing options. Scuba diving enthusiasts can find one of the region’s best dive sites 12 miles off the coast of Rincon at the uninhabited Desecheo Island.

Rincon Downtown Plaza Central is the place for most activities in the town. Here you will find unique bars, restaurants, and museums showcasing the local culture. The Galeria del Surfing, a museum dedicated to surfing, can be found nearby, featuring vintage surfboards and other surfing paraphernalia. Accommodation options in the city include resorts, hotels, villa-style apartments, guest houses, and vacation rentals.

Rums of Puerto Rico

 

Puerto Rico is called the “rum capital of the world” because of the long history of rum production on the island. Its rum distilleries produce large amounts of spirits for local consumption and export all over the world. This Caribbean island is responsible for more than 70% of the rum sold in the United States, which is consumed straight, over ice, or in mixed drinks like mojitos and pina coladas. So what makes the rums of Puerto Rico so special?

Rum has been an integral part of the Puerto Rican economy since the mid-1600s. Rum production began as a way for sugarcane plantation owners to use molasses waste. Throughout the 17th century, the rum industry grew and became a business of great tradition. Today, rum is a big part of the island’s history.

The process of creating Puerto Rican rum is fairly straightforward. Molasses is mixed with water and allowed to ferment. The fermented mixture is distilled using a continuous process to separate the alcohol from the rest of the concoction. The fresh distillate is aged for a minimum of one year in a white-oak barrel before it is bottled and sold to the masses.

Rum is so important to the economy of Puerto Rico that the island’s government created an organization to enforce laws to ensure that all rums under its umbrella meet high quality standards. This organization, founded in 1948 and aptly called Rums of Puerto Rico, issues a seal of quality to rums that meet its qualifications for high quality molasses, a continuous distillation process, and proper aging in a white-oak barrel. These standards ensure that the flavor and quality of the final product is superior to that of many other spirits.

Rum can be created in a variety of strengths and flavors. The most popular type is Light Rum, also known as Silver or White Rum, which is the preferred rum for cocktails and mixed drinks because of its subtle flavor. Gold or Amber Rum has a brown hue and a stronger flavor. Dark Rum is aged for years in barrels that are heavily charred, giving it a much stronger flavor and a strong molasses overtone.

There are five primary brands of rums overseen by Rums of Puerto Rico: Bacardi, Ron del Barrilito, Don Q, Palo Viejo, and Ron Llave. Bacardi, the world's most popular rum, originated in Cuba in 1862 but has been made in Puerto Rico since 1936. The distillery, located across the bay from Old San Juan in Cataño, offers free tours for visitors to learn more about the company and its products.

Ron del Barrilito was the first rum brand established in Puerto Rico. Created in 1871 by Pedro F. Fernández, the brand sells a blend of rums that have been aged for six to 10 years in heavily charred barrels. This brand is highly esteemed and the company only produces 10 to 15 thousand cases per year, so it can be difficult to find outside of the island.

Don Q is the top-selling rum brand on the island and is made at the island's second largest distillery. Established in 1865, the brand is named after the famous literary character Don Quixote and sells several varieties of rum aged from one and a half to five years. Palo Viejo is manufactured by the same distillery. While the distillery is not open to the public, visitors can learn about the history of sugarcane and rum during a guided tour of the Serrallés Castle Museum nearby.

Puertorriquena

 

Puertorriquena!!! Who sleeps in the cradle of life?
Whose canopy are those eternal star's?
Radiant queen standing fearless in a land of brave Lords
Bearing passion in her soul
And fire in the depths of her eyes
Who is this sweet smelling flower in this garden of beauty?
Puertorriqueña…. Water for parched lips in an arid tierra
In a dry and scorched land searching for waters in your clear pristine beauty
Where I Long to make my dwelling in the presence of your desires
And drink from your fountains which keeps me revived and in spirit
Please keep me stranded on this island of enchantment
As I walk through the tunnels of your soul
I touch the ancient writings of your spirit
Like Petroglyphs written in stone
Carved tales of natural wild written through the panorama of time and space
the essence de tu vida proclamar
Stories untold of passion, pain, rhythm, joy, sadness, love and hate
La Vida fuerte
La vida bella
La vida apasionado
Es una vida dios tiene unas palabras para... pero bueno
Puertorriqueña… With eyes like diamonds, Hair that flows like the rivers of El yunque, lip of a
goddess, face of an angel, small of fresh Rose garden
Never wake me from this dream come true...

Poem submitted by Angel Rodriguez
Angel can be reached by email: rangel933@yahoo.com

Old San Juan Puerto Rico

 Old San Juan is the most visited destination in Puerto Rico and one of the most popular places for tourists in the Caribbean. The city is known for its rich history, being the second oldest city established in the New World. The Puerto Rico tourism bureau cites interesting attractions, a wide variety of hotels, superb cuisine, and unique shops as reasons to visit the city.

The city is actually an islet that is connected to the main island by three bridges located on the southeast corner. It is divided into seven square blocks, with the residential area on the northern side of the city and the commercial and tourist section situated in the southern part of town. The temperature hovers in the mid-’80s during tourist season and the cooling trade winds makes the weather even more pleasant.

Founded in 1519 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, Old San Juan is an exquisite example of Old World elegance with its Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque designs. Many of the 16th and 17th century constructs were restored to their original architectural beauty in the 1940s. Some of the buildings are now considered part of the San Juan National Historic Site and are administered by the National Park Service.

One of the greatest things about the city is nearly everything is within walking distance. Its blue-toned cobblestone streets are lined with brightly colored buildings with beautifully decorated balconies, lively plazas, and shady parks perfect for a quick rest. The seaside offers a stunning view of the San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. For those who prefer to be transported to the different areas of town, there is a free trolley that stops at many of the most popular attractions.

The city’s architectural and historic treasures make it quite distinct from the rest of the island. Many of the oldest buildings now house museums filled with fascinating artifacts and detailed accounts of the history of the area. Cultural events are held throughout the year, enticing both locals and visitors with their festive atmosphere.

The massive fortresses of Old San Juan are among the most visited attractions in the city. At Castillo de San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristobal, visitors can view the cannons, ramparts, and layered defenses that have protected the city for centuries. The beautiful La Catedral de San Juan Bautista, a cathedral founded in 1542, is still open daily for services. Visitors can also tour La Fortaleza, or “The Fortress”, a defensive structure that has been repurposed as the governor’s mansion.

Fortaleza Street is the Restaurant Row of the city, hosting some of the best restaurants in town as well as a biannual culinary festival. The city is also known for an active nightlife scene that includes multi-level discos, stylish lounges, and trendy bars. The island is also a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, with a multitude of romantic spots, intimate restaurants, and luxury hotels for couples to enjoy.

As one of the most historically significant destinations in the Western Hemisphere, the city is a place unlike any other in the world. According to the Puerto Rico tourism bureau, no visit to the island is complete without seeing the enchantment and exuberance of this uniquely authentic community. Visitors can choose to explore it on their own or enlist the services of a tour guide knowledgeable about the rich history of the islet.

Vieques Island Puerto Rico

 Vieques Island is part of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. It is part of an island group often referred to as the Spanish Virgin Islands. While the island was once used by the U.S. Armed Forces as a military target range, protests against it led to the departure of the Navy in 2003. The military land was reclaimed as a national wildlife refuge, some of which is now open to the public and Puerto Rico tourism.

This wildlife refuge offers much needed sanctuary to many species of sea turtles, including the green sea turtle. While many of these species have used Puerto Rican beaches for nesting sites, the advent of modernization was having a negative impact on them. The wildlife refuge offers a haven for them and many other native species.

While the military has gone, over 9,000 people still remain on the island. Most of them live in Isabel Segunda, on the north side, which is where ferries from Cieba dock. There are several hotels and restaurants in the area. A smaller community, Esperanza, faces the Caribbean Sea on the southern side of the island.

Esperanza caters to tourists with a strip across the street from its charming waterfront. The strip contains guest houses, shops and eating establishments tailored for foreigners. Many of these come to the island for its beaches.

These are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, known for their pure white sand and pristine azure waters. During the days of military presence, these beaches were a well-kept secret. They include Playa Caracas, Pata Prieta, Punta Arenas and Playa La Chiva. Thanks to being late to the tourist scene, many are remote and free of commercialism. They provide a unique, private experience for visitors.

In addition to the beaches, tourists can visit the unique Bioluminescent Bay. It is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the brightest of its type in the world. Its vivid blue-green glow is due to micro-organisms that move through the water. For first time visitors to the island, a tour of the bay is a must.

Those who are interested in history might find the Vieques Conservation and Trust’s museum worth visiting. Here they can learn about the cultural history of the island as well as its ecological system. They might also enjoy visiting the Hombre de Puerto Ferro archeological site. Built by the original inhabitants, the Taino Indians, it was where the skeletal remains of an ancient man were found. Surrounded by boulders, these remains were discovered to be 4,000 years old.

Another unique feature of the island is its population of wild horses. Many decades ago, horses were turned loose by their owners to roam, and, as time passed, they began to spread out and reproduce. They are a charming tourist attraction, as many modern people have never encountered the joy of having a horse come up to them on the beach or in town.

Yet, due to the limited resources such as fresh water that are available, it was decided that the population must be controlled. In 2015, the Humane Society of the United States therefore teamed up with the island’s government. One program that has helped is the administration of contraceptives. Not only has this proven effective, it’s also had health benefits for the treated mares.

As you can see, there is much to recommend beautiful Vieques Island for Puerto Rico tourism. It provides visitors with many unique opportunities and experiences.

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el Yunque Rain Forest

Planning a trip to Puerto Rico? If you are a nature lover or just want to be able to really relax, make sure to schedule a visit to El Yunque National Forest. Its name refers to Yuke , which meant “white lands” in the native language of the indigenous Taíno people that lived in the area.

It has the distinction of being the only rain forest within the United States’ national forest system. While it’s on the smaller side, at 29,000 acres, it is biologically one of the most diverse. It’s considered a national treasure, and is a popular tourist site for visitors to the island. You can either drive there yourself, or join one of the many tours that will take you there.

This gorgeous gem of a park offers visitors many beautiful hiking trails. After working up a sweat, you can cool down near the scenic waterfalls and swim in the natural pools beneath them. The scenery will astonish you. There are 240 plant species that are endemic to Puerto Rico, as well as many unique animals. One of the most famous is the coquí frog, the national emblem of Puerto Rico. For bird watchers, the park offers some of the best opportunities on the island. Sit quietly by the trail and you might see woodpeckers, green mangos and the elusive Puerto Rican parrot.

El Yunque opens at 7:30 in the morning. To get the most out of your visit, you’ll want to be there right when it opens to beat the crowds. There is a visitor center at the entrance to the rain forest, where you can pick up a map if you haven’t already printed one out.

One of the best trails for beginners is the La Mina Trail. Well maintained and mostly paved, the trail is only about a mile and a half round trip. Along the way, you can take breaks to swim in the beautiful river, or you can wait to take a dip when you get to La Mina Falls. These are exquisite waterfalls that drop 35 feet. If you decide to swim in the pool beneath, be aware that the rocks are slippery.

Obviously when hiking in this park, you’ll want to wear non-slip, waterproof footwear. You may also want to bring a rain poncho, as the average rainfall in the region is 120 inches a year. There is a good chance you will get wet, one way or another!

For a slightly longer hike that will give you the chance to fly out over a lagoon on a rope swing, you can try the 2.5 mile El Angelito Trail. For a more difficult but truly beautiful experience, there is La Coca trail.

While visiting the park, you should also climb one of its two observation towers. The Yokahu tower was constructed in 1963 and provides an elevation from the top of 1,575 feet. While it sits lower than the other tower, Mount Britton Tower, it actually often provides a better view since there is less chance that cloud cover will interfere. It is also more accessible, since there is a nearby parking lot, while Mount Britton Tower is located in the center of the rain forest.

After your fun-filled day in the park, you can head over to the nearby seaside town of Luquillo for a delicious meal at one of the many family-owned eateries there that use a North American Bancard payment processing companies. So what are you waiting for? You can't get there from here, you've got to book your next vacation to Puerto Rico.

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Culebra Island Puerto Rico

Located 18 miles east of mainland Puerto Rico, Culebra Island is the epitome of a tropical paradise. Unlike many other Caribbean destinations, the island has no high rise hotels, casinos, or chain restaurants. Instead, the greatest attractions of the island are ones that nature created.

With an area of roughly 25 square miles, Culebra has numerous natural areas and pristine locations to explore. A large portion of the island is a natural refuge, originally protected by Theodore Roosevelt in 1909 and now administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The area is an important nesting site for three species of sea turtles, a home to numerous species of sea birds, and a protected area for some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Caribbean.

Founded in 1880 by Cayetano Escudero, Culebra Island has a rich history. The island served as a U.S. Naval base from 1903 until 1975. During its time as a gunnery and bombing practice range for the U.S. Navy, a considerable amount of military equipment was transported to the island. Some of the equipment too large to move after the closure of the base can still be seen along the island’s coast, now decorated with bright splashes of color to make them into pop-art pieces. The old ammunitions warehouse has been turned into the Culebra Historical Museum, holding archeological artifacts, historical maps, and depictions of life on the island during the 1880s.

Today, visitors flock to the island to enjoy its natural beauty. It is considered one of the best places in the world for snorkeling and diving for both beginners and those with experience. Around the island are more than 20 cays with lively underwater scenery teeming with spectacular coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Carlos Rosario Beach and Tamarindo Beach have been tagged by visitors as the best snorkeling areas.

The island is also home to Flamenco Beach, one of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world according to many travel guides. The beach features soft white sands, bright blue skies, and crystal clear water. A government-run campground is located on the north shore of the beach, allowing visitors to camp after securing advance reservations. While the island has no major hotel chains, visitors can also book accommodations at one of the numerous guest houses, villas, and vacation rentals on the island.

There are two ways to reach the island. Visitors who want to arrive swiftly can take an Air Culebra plane for a short commuter flight from San Juan's Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport to Culebra's small airport. Travelers should book these flights early as tickets quickly sell out during the busy season. There is also a ferry that leaves from Fajardo for Culebra twice a day, departing at 9:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. This scenic ride takes longer, but is much cheaper than taking a flight.

A trip to Culebra Island is good for a long vacation or a special weekend escape. In addition to water-related activities, there are numerous hiking trails that lead to breathtaking locations and sightseeing opportunities in the residential and commercial areas. If you are looking for a peaceful escape, this secluded paradise off the east shore of Puerto Rico may be the perfect place for you.

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The Arecibo Observatory - A Stunning Structure Worth Exploring

Contrary to what most people believe, an observatory is more than just a telescope, or a group of telescopes, that people use to observe the stars. In fact, an observatory provides astronomers with the equipment needed to perform functions they wouldn’t be able to as individuals.

Central to modern observational astrophysics, an observatory provides the perfect space and opportunity for astronomers to make and evaluate discoveries. Where observatories are concerned, there’s no better observatory to carry this out than the Arecibo Observatory.

Located on the island of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean Sea, the Arecibo Observatory was built in the early 1960s and is, today, the largest single-dish telescope in the entire world. The brainchild of William E. Gordon, a professor at Cornell University, the telescope was primarily developed to study the scattering of radio waves of molecules and atoms in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. However, it is now used for astronomical purposes.

Due to its large size, the dish at this observatory operates slightly differently than other radio telescopes because it’s fixed in the ground and doesn’t move. Instead, it can access the sky’s regions above it through a moveable detector 150 meters above the dish’s base.

The platform weighs 900 tons and is supported by eighteen cables and electric motors that can move it with millimeter precision. This way, the dish receives signals from approximately a quarter of the visible sky. Moreover, the Earth rotates every 24 hours, the Arecibo Observatory can access a massive portion of the sky through night and day.

This observatory has conducted a wide range of astronomical observations through the course of its life, such as discovering pulsars, measuring the rotation rates of planets, and searching for signs of extraterrestrial life.

Since it’s one of the most renowned observatories in the world, it’s natural that a few significant discoveries have been made here. Most recently, in fact, the observatory is accredited for locating the first planets outside the solar system and measuring the planet Mercury’s rotation rate.

 

The Arecibo Observatory was also featured in Hollywood movies and, this way is more recognizable to younger generations. In fact, the antenna was shown in the movie adaption of Contact where Jodie Foster used it to locate alien signals. Apart from this, the massive telescope was also featured in the final scene of the James Bond movie, GoldenEye.

An awe-inspiring location, the Arecibo Observatory is a stunning place for anyone who wants to explore the stars and find out what lies beyond. Its large structure makes it a popular attraction for people of all ages and nationalities and ensures that anyone will be able to enjoy it.

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A Stay At Old San Juan In Puerto Rico

 One of the most used departure ports for cruise ships in the Caribbean is San Juan in Puerto Rico. We decided to arrive a day early to San Juan in order to see some sights before our cruise ship departure. San Juan, known as 'La Ciudad Amurallada' (the walled city), was founded in 1521 and is the oldest city under the US flag. During the 16th century, the Spanish used it as a point of departure for expeditions to the New World. Fortifications in the Old San Juan section of the city repulsed numerous attacks from the English and the Dutch during those years. Today, Old San Juan is a charming seven square block commercial and residential area with cobblestone streets.

The cruise ship terminal is actually located near the south side of Old San Juan so instead of booking a hotel in the beach resort area of San Juan, we decided to book one right in the old section for close proximity to the terminal as well as the local sights. The $17 US taxi ride from San Juan's airport to Old San Juan was about half an hour. During the ride, I was impressed by how developed the city was compared to many other cities I've visited in the Caribbean. The beach high-rise hotels along the north side of San Juan were visible from the highway. Our stay for the night was at the Hotel Milano which is right on Calle Fortaleza, which is one of the major commercial streets in Old San Juan. The hotel was clean and comfortable but not luxurious which was okay with us as the price was very affordable. Its quality was probably comparable to a Travelodge or Days Inn. A very pleasant surprise was the free continental breakfast at the hotel's rooftop restaurant. It gave a nice view of the neighborhood from the top.

We spent the day and evening walking the many cobblestone streets and alleys in the area. There are over 400 restored colonial buildings from the 16th and 17th century here. There were also several plaza squares and parks. One of the nicest services offered in Old San Juan is a free shuttle bus which covers two different routes through the district. There was a bus stop about 1/2 block away from our hotel which was very convenient. Riding on the shuttle buses through both routes gave us a good overview of Old San Juan. We were able to stop off at several points of interest including the huge El Morro fort. After our visits to each attraction, we just had to wait for the next bus to come by to continue our tour. In the evening, we did get lost while walking since many of the streets look very similar. But with our map, we eventually found our way back to the street where the Hotel Milano was. We decided to dine at one of the nearby restaurants for authentic Puerto Rican cuisine and were not disappointed. My lady especially adored the two different plantains we ordered.

When it was time to go to the cruise ship terminal, we just took a short five minute ride from our hotel. Our short stay in Old San Juan was definitely worthwhile and hassle free. A stay in Old San Juan is highly recommended for those who will be taking a Caribbean cruise with San Juan as the departure point. The only disappointment I had with San Juan was that I was hoping to do some scuba diving in the area but from the reports I read, the waters off the city are quite murky with limited marine life to see. This is likely the result of San Juan being such a busy port. The decent scuba diving sites are about 2 hours east of San Juan. So perhaps in a return trip to Puerto Rico, I will plan to make a trip to the east part of the island.

And if you really want to enjoy your stay, don't forget to try some Puerto Rican Coffee and brew it in an Anthonys Espresso machine. Check out Bonds Express for all your surety bonds.

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Puerto Rico in the News

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Luquillo Beach - One of the Best Beaches in Puerto Rico

 Luquillo Beach is a beautiful public beach boasting more than a mile of shimmering sand along the northeast coast of Puerto Rico. The beach is considered one of the best places for Caribbean vacations due to the numerous amenities available to visitors. Luquillo Beach is very popular with both locals and tourists during the summer months and on weekends, so it is best to arrive early if you want to secure a good spot.

One of the best features of Luquillo Beach is its gentle waves, making it a great spot for families with younger children. The beach is protected by a large reef that breaks the waves before they can get close to shore. The water is very clear with little seaweed obscuring the view until you get close to the shore’s edge, where small waves continuously kick up the fine sand. Farther out, the reef is an excellent place for snorkeling and diving.

The private company taking care of the beach grooms and cleans the sand regularly, making it one of the cleanest beaches available. Many mature coconut palm trees grow along the sandy crescent to supply ample shade during bright days. Chairs and umbrellas are available to rent if guests are unable to bring their own.

There are many food options available at the beach. Parallel to Luquillo Beach along PR-3 highway are the Luquillo Kiosks, which serve local cuisine and cold beverages along with souvenirs and beach gear. Parking for the beach is available in a gated lot for a small fee. During the summer months, the parking lot is manned 24 hours a day.

Luquillo Beach has lifeguards on site and offers showers, restrooms, changing rooms, and lockers for visitors. The beach also has access for disabled people. A camping/picnic area is located on the walk from the parking lot to the beach. While a permit is needed for overnight camping, the fee is relatively inexpensive.

The beach is technically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, along with major holidays, but that only applies to the facilities and the parking lot. Visitors can still park near the kiosks and walk in to the beach across the sand. It is important to pay attention to the flags that indicate the condition of the water on the day of your visit. Red and yellow flags indicate that the water is not safe for swimming at that time.

The 28,000-acre El Yunque National Forest, formerly the Caribbean National Forest, serves as the backdrop for the beach. This stunning rain forest is currently the only tropical forest in the United States National Forest System. Touring companies in the area offer walking and horseback tours, while those interested in making their own adventure can explore the numerous hiking trails on their own.

With so many things to do, it is no surprise that Luquillo Beach is one of the most well-liked beaches in Puerto Rico. Located about 33 miles from San Juan, it is great location for both day trips and longer Caribbean vacations. This website has more information about things to do this summer, even if it's not in Puerto Rico. And if you are not interested in the Carribean and you prefer the colder weather, make sure you have your water lines protected with products from heatline.com.

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6 Must-See Destinations To Visit in Puerto Rico

 You have a long weekend coming up. You want to use that time to take in a different culture and see a new part of the world you’ve never been to. The problem is, your passport isn’t current and you need a destination you can visit within days, not weeks or months. That means places like Mexico, France or Australia are off the table.

Even with that, you have a lot of interesting options. One such option is a trip to the beautiful and bustling islands of Puerto Rico. Because it is a U.S. territory, you do not have to have a passport as a U.S. citizen traveling to or from Puerto Rico. Here are some of the many attractions it offers for you to choose from.

1. Golf Where the Pros Do

If a peaceful game of golf is a core feature you crave during vacations, Puerto Rico offers one of the best fairways. The Coco Beach Golf Resort in Rio Grande has hosted the Puerto Rican Open — an official event of the PGA Tour — every year it has been held since the Open’s inception in 2008. Play the same course as some of the greats, with pristine grass cutting like a rolling velvet wave and water lapping at the nearby ocean shores.

2. Hike in El Yunque National Rainforest

For another way to enjoy the outdoors, perhaps with a bit more rugged appeal, visit El Yunque National Rainforest. It is a tropical rainforest, and the only one the U.S. National Forest System manages. Hike miles of recreational trails, or up to the Mount Britton Observation Tower to take in all you can see.

3. Surf and Sightsee at Rincon

This beautiful seaside town offers an array of fun activities to choose from. Watch the whales, surf the waves or shop the handcrafted items made by local residents. Rincon is gorgeous enough that it has even claimed a high rank among lovebirds looking for a Caribbean wedding.

4. Trek Through El Morro

Along the outskirts of Old San Juan towers a coastal fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Officially named Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, but colloquially known as El Morro, this impressive fort was erected to protect San Juan from attacks that arise by sea. Remarkably, that purpose has been fulfilled: El Morro has never been taken by sea. In the present day, El Morro’s defensive capabilities have been put to rest and it serves as a public attraction.

5. Tour Castillo San Cristóbal

Like El Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal was built along the edges of Old San Juan to defend against attacks, though in this case by land. While perhaps less famous than its sea-shielding neighbor, Castillo San Cristóbal is no less impressive. Construction began on it in 1634 as an answer to the 1625 battle of San Juan when Dutch forces took control for a brief period of time.

The long, rich history of Castillo San Cristóbal’s defense has made it a fascination for tourists to rival the surrounding intrigue of Old San Juan. In fact, in recognition of the area’s value, UNESCO added Castillo San Cristóbal, El Morro and the whole of Old San Juan to the roster of World Heritage Sites in 1983.

6. Take in the City of Ponce

If you’re interested in architectural beauty and historical significance, Ponce is a wonderful place to visit. There you will find a long list of attractions. You may enjoy seeing Parque de Bombas, Ponce’s first fire station and a unique vision that easily stands out even in contrast to the array of unusual architecture across Puerto Rico. Stop by Museo de la Historia de Ponce if you are interested in learning about the city’s heritage. Look out over the city in the Cruceta del Vigía, a 100-foot tower in the shape of a cross, featuring panoramic views of the city.

These are but a few of the scenic, often stunning settings Puerto Rico offers its visitors. You may find that your long weekend isn’t nearly enough time to see all you want to, so plan on returning again soon!

Puerto Rico Plans Sports Betting Legalization to Drive Economic Growth

 

Puerto Rico is following the United States by embarking on a new era of legal sports betting. Legislative cogs are moving and punters on the Island should be able to visit sportsbooks in the near future.

Puerto Rico has a rich history of supporting gambling. Indeed, the company has long allowed casino betting and lotteries. In contrast, the United States has lagged. Only now are states embracing online casinos and lottery games. In the US, giving yourself the best platform to play lotteries remains important, which is why getting a Michigan Lottery promo code is something most people do.

However, in terms of legal sports betting, the U.S. is now ahead of Puerto Rico. Due to the removal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018, individual states have already introduced sports betting frameworks. According to Governor of Puerto Rico Ricardo Rossello, the country will soon follow suit.

Rossello says a new bill will legalize sports betting, including the ability to wager on online video games. Stateside, it is predicted legal sportsbooks will add $3 billion to the economy each year by 2023. In Puerto Rico, the government is hoping for the same kind of economic boost.

Indeed, Rossello believes sports betting could generate between $44 million and $66 million in annual revenue from online sports betting alone. That’s money the country’s shaky economy could use and will likely be a factor in passing the legal sports betting bill.

Of course, Puerto Rico already has a rich network of casino resorts. Some have expressed concerns the introduction of online gambling could harm these locations. However, the governor’s office has dismissed these concerns and says online betting will target different demographics. For example, resort casinos are typically used by tourists.

Among the notable aspects of the legislation for sports betting is the use of operating licenses and taxes on prizes to add revenue. Currently, the proposed tax rate for individual bets is a 6 percent in person and 11 percent online. It is worth noting these rates would make Puerto Rico’s gambling taxes the lowest in the United States.

Elsewhere in the bill, Puerto Rico sports betting would also allow gamblers to place bets on fantasy sports, or eSports. For example, people would be allowed to wager on video games like Fortnite and Call of Duty. Rossello makes it clear the country wants to tap into the 400 million people who play electronic games. He wants Puerto Rico to become a hub for eSports, potentially including as a host for events.

So far, it is unclear when the bill could be passed but it’s certain Rossello wants a quick process to allow sports betting to be up and running soon. To oversee the legalization of sports betting, Puerto Rico will form a new Gambling Commission that will regulate sports betting, horse racing, and eSports betting.

The Financial Institutions Commissioner’s Office (OCIF) will continue to be in place and will oversee the new Gambling Commission.

How Puerto Rico’s Lottery Continues to Set a Standard for US Lotteries

 

For lottery fans, the Puerto Rico lottery (Loteria Tradicional de Puerto Rico) is something of a hidden gem. It somehow flies under the radar when compared to other lotteries in the United States. However, this game is definitely worth checking out and has plenty of history behind it.

Some of the best US online lotteries have a lot to thank the Puerto Rico Lottery for. This is the oldest modern lottery game in the United States. In other words, this is genesis for the lottery games we know and love around the country, including the top US online lotteries. In this post, we’ll look at the history of the Puerto Rico lottery and why it remains a great game today.

First established in 1934, the Loteria Tradicional de Puerto Rico has been available for people on the Island and those in the United States since. Since that initial game, the portfolio of lottery games available has changed dramatically.

Indeed, these days there are several games to choose from. Players can buy tickets for daily “Pick 2”, “Pick 3”, and “Pick 4” games. Furthermore, the weekly regular multi-million-dollar jackpot game is held 50 times a year and is drawn on a Wednesday. Some special annual draws to look out for include the Mother’s Day and Christmas specials.

• Loto Plus and Doble Revancha – These two games are connected. When you buy a Loto Plus ticket you are automatically entered into the Doble Revancha draw. However, you only participate in Revancha if you do not win playing Loto Plus.
• Instant Scratch games – Several scratch cards are also available that allow players to pick up instant prizes. These games have been part of the Puerto Rico Lottery portfolio since 2010.
• Powerball – This is the latest game to be added to the portfolio. The game was added in 2014 and is currently available from 100 locations. Powerball jackpots are usually extremely high, as much as $20 million.

Below is a table of all lottery games available in Puerto Rico:

Game	Prize	Numbers
Pega 2 Dia	Top Prize	2 from 0-9
Pega 2 Noche	Top Prize	2 from 0-9
Pega 3 Dia	Top Prize	3 from 0-9
Pega 3 Noche	Top Prize	3 from 0-9
Pega 4 Dia	Top Prize	4 from 0-9
Pega 4 Noche	Top Prize	4 from 0-9
Loto Plus	Jackpot	6 from 1-40
Doble Revancha	Jackpot	5 from 1-40 + 1 from 1-15
Powerball	Jackpot	5 from 1-69 + 1 from 1-26

 

Lottery machines in Puerto Rico are supplied by Scientific Games Corporation. In an interesting development several years ago, legislators in the country found businesses were trying not to pay sales taxes by avoiding giving customers receipts. To combat this, lawmakers started printing lottery numbers on sales receipts in 2011.

By doing this, customers became more likely to demand receipts for a purchase, pushing business owners to declare their sales and pay taxes. While exact figures have not been given, the government has since claimed the project was a success.

How Puerto Rico Became the Premier Las Vegas Alternative

 

Over the decades when casinos (both online and offline) and sports betting (both online and offline) were illegal across U.S. states, Las Vegas became a mecca for gambling. Nevada was the only state that had a robust legal betting framework and the city benefited. However, during that same time, Puerto Rico also supported casinos and became a low-key alternative to Vegas.

In this article, you can read about how Puerto Rico is the casino destination you should think about. Furthermore, we’ll also discuss how the Caribbean island is also exploring online sports betting and casinos in a way that could boost the economy. Because of its embrace of online casinos, venues like Cherry could soon be available to customers in Puerto Rico, allowing access to casino games like roulette and slots online.

For the last 25 years, casinos and sports betting in the United States has been limited by the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). While PASPA was lifted in 2018, the country’s gambling framework remains nascent. During all this time, Puerto Rico has taken a different stance.

While the country is an American commonwealth, its laws are independent and the message on gambling has been clear: Puerto Rico is open for business. People who live on the island or visit it could head to casinos legally, and over the years Puerto Rico has become an often overlooked casino jewel.

While gambling is legal, it has been regulated under some clear rules. All betting lines in Puerto Rico must be handled by a resort or hotel, all casinos are non-smoking venues, and all players must be 18 or older to gamble.

As you might expect, the capital city of San Juan is the best place for casinos. Indeed, the city is home to some of the top resorts in the country, but there are also smaller hotels and casinos that are worth checking out. Certainly, for the casino aficionado, San Juan is a good place to base yourself in Puerto Rico.

However, the city should not be you only port of call. Other destinations, such as Ponce, Caguas, Rio Grande, and Mayaguez have resort casinos that are interesting choices. It’s also worth remembering that the betting market is a major boost to Puerto Rico’s often struggling economy. Therefore, the country has been actively exploring online sports betting.

Online casinos were introduced via a new bill that was launched by then Governor Ricardo Rossello. Through online sports betting alone, the country believes it will make between $44 million and $62 million in annual revenue. Not only are online casinos available but select venues will soon be able to provide online sports betting to customers.

Below are the legal online casino destinations in Puerto Rico:

Casino	City
Embassy Suites Dorado del Mar	Dorado
Holiday Inn Tropical Casino Mayagüez	Mayagüez
Embassy Suites Hotel & Casino	Carolina
Westin Rio Mar Beach Resort, Country Club & Casino	Rio Grande
El San Juan Resort & Casino, A Hilton Hotel	Carolina
Ponce Hilton & Casino	Ponce
Holiday Inn and El Tropical Casino	Ponce
Casino Doral Resort at Palmas Del Mar	Humacao
Ritz-Carlton San Juan Hotel & Casino	Carolina
Mayagüez Resort & Casino	Mayagüez
Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino	Ponce
San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino	San Juan
Hyatt Dorado Beach Resort & Casino Country Club	Dorado

The Best Puerto Rican Recipes that You Should Try

 Puerto Rico is mainly known for its delightful beaches – almost everyone reading this article would love to spend their next holiday listening to traditional Puerto Rican music on one of the country’s beaches.

However, real Puerto Rico fans know that the country’s food is also something worth dying for – delightful beaches and delicious dishes!

If you want to know/learn more about Puerto Rico and its cuisine, then you’re in just the right place, as we’re about to introduce you to the best Puerto Rican recipes that you should – in fact, must – try!

Piononos

Piononos will probably become your children’s favorites – mainly because the rolls look so cute and delicious! 

To make piononos, you have to pick a tender plantain, fill it with some tasty beef, and then roll it up. You can eat them anytime you want throughout the day – this makes Piononos the perfect replacement for any unhealthy snacks. 

Serenata de Bacalao

Although Serenata de Bacalao is mainly a salad – it is not your usual salad. It combines a variety of unusual ingredients – tomatoes, bell peppers, eggs, and so on -, as well as the country-specific salted cod.

The latter element does a great job of providing the salad with an intense flavor that not everyone may be fond of!

Pastelon

At first sight, people may believe that this dish is simply a color-less lasagna. However, it is a bit more.

This recipe consists of ground beef layered on top of plantains. Basically, you take a lasagna and switch the pasta sheets with plantains. The best thing about this dish is that it can satisfy/feed the entire family!

Alcapurrias

The next recipe on our list can make for a great snack between any two meals – just like the aforementioned piononos.

To make the Puerto Rican fritters, you take the now-common plantain and cook it together with some taro root. The fritters are then accompanied by the fillings of your choice.

The multitude of fillings makes the alcapurrias everybody’s favorite dish!

Arroz con Gandules

Now, let’s take a look at yet another dish that can satisfy an entire family! Arroz con Gandules is basically pork, sofrito, and peas cooked together with rice.

Due to its consistency, this dish makes the ideal base for any toppings that you could think of, from the traditional Puerto Rican seafood/pork to your country’s traditional toppings as well. 

The Bottom Line

Even though some of your country’s recipes may resemble some of the above, it goes without saying that no other country prepares food like Puerto Rico! As such, be extremely careful when following a Puerto Rican recipe so that you get the best result – and ideal taste!

If you find yourself on a Puerto Rican cuisine rampage and start feeling a little heavy, you can try complementing your dishes with some premium hemp CBD oil as it promotes overall body wellbeing, as well as a healthy appetite – so that you can enjoy even more Puerto Rican dishes!

8 Places to Visit in Puerto Rico with Kids

Long are gone the days when you lived alone and could travel wherever you want. Now you have kids, and you should choose travel destinations and plan your trips wisely. For organizing an enjoyable family vacation, you should take into account not only your liking but also the preferences of your spouse and children.

Have you chosen Puerto Rico as your next travel destination? That’s a great place to visit with kids! Here you can find various historic attractions, natural wonders, as well as family entertainment centers.

Are you building your travel itinerary? Here are a few travel ideas for you.

Flamenco Beach

Every family who comes to Puerto Rico wants to spend time on a beautiful beach. Flamenco beach is one of those marvelous beaches with soft white sand and turquoise water that are worth visiting. It’s a great place to swim, take sunbathes, and try out diving.

Flamenco Beach is a flat beach with shallow water. No matter whether your kids are good swimmers or not, they will be able to explore this place.

The beach itself is located at the Culebra Island. You can get there by airplane or by ferry.

San Juan National Historic Site

Do you want your kids to learn more about the history of Puerto Rico? Take them to the San Juan National Historic Site. Show them the island’s famous Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, la Puerta de San Juan and the Fort San Juan de la Cruz.

Your kids will be impressed to know that it took 200 years to build this spectacular fortress. They will enjoy listening to the stories about how the fortress successfully defended the island from devastating attacks for decades. You can be sure that a tour to this historic site will encourage your children’s interest in history.

La Bombonera

Do you want to treat your kids with local sweets? Visit La Bombonera, a restaurant with more than 100-years history. Here you can drink delicious café con leche (espresso and hot milk), and your kids can taste the dessert called mallorca. The dessert is made of sweet dough with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Museo Del Nino

Museo Del Nino is a modern children’s museum filled with interactive, hands-on, and passive-learning activities. If your kids like to visit museums and are curious by nature, they will love this place a lot. Here your kids will see a volcano that “erupts”, investigate real jet, and learn more about how planes work.

Are you planning to spend most of your vacation outdoors and do not really want to visit museums? Well, it may happen that weather will ruin your “outdoor plans”, so you will have to entertain your kids indoors. Therefore, we highly suggest you add a visit to Museo Del Nino to your trip itinerary as an “option B”.

El Yunque Rain Forest

Do your kids like hiking? Would they like to explore a rain forest? If so, you should visit a magnificent El Yunque Rain Forest.

This forest is famous for its biodiversity – it’s home to more than 400 amazingly beautiful plant species. And it’s a perfect place to visit with kids in Puerto Rico.

El Yunque Rain Forest has more than a dozen maintained trails where your children can walk safely. Also, there are picnic pavilions where your family can enjoy a tasty lunch while admiring the beauty of the tropical landscape.

Cayo Santiago

Cayo Santiago is a small island that is entirely inhabited and controlled by over 2000 macaques. It’s a must-see for travelers with kids. You can visit this place by ordering a kayaking tour or cruise.

To make it clear, you will not be allowed to step on the island and interact with monkeys. But you and your kids will be able to watch wild animals in their natural habitat from a close distance.

This unique travel experience will inspire your children and boost their creativity. Probably, they will want to become scientists to save animals from extinction. Or, maybe they will want to become storytellers and work for the best writing companies.

Parque de Bombas

Parque de Bombas is an old fire station that has become one of the island’s most photographed landmarks. The chances you have seen this place on your friends’ photos, in travel magazines, and travel booking websites.

You can bring your kids here to take beautiful pictures that later will remind you about your family vacation in Puerto Rico. Parque de Bombas is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on business days, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Coqui Water Park

Would you like to spend a day in a water park during your stay in Puerto Rico? Visit Coqui Water Park that is located along the banks of the Caribbean and overlooking the Atlantic.

This park has many things to offer for families: rapids, waterfalls, a jungle rope bridge, a 40-foot vertical drop, and even a 26-foot serpentine flume body slide. Whether you travel with toddlers or teenagers, you can have a great family time here. The only catch is that this park is open only to guests of the El Conquistador Resort & Golden Door Spa.

Wrapping up

Puerto Rico is beautiful, authentic, and rich for attractions and activities. So whatever places you decide to visit in Puerto Rico, your family will get positive emotions and create sweet memories.

Show this article to your spouse, discuss various activities with your children, and you will build a perfect trip itinerary.

Planning To Travel After Quarantine? Here's A List

 

These unfamiliar conditions that were suddenly forced on everyone have made it harder for many people to stay calm, especially in the regions that were hit hard by the coronavirus. Many therapists have noted that people all over the world are going through a collective trauma due to this pandemic outbreak.

It’s absolutely crucial that we take this virus seriously and pay close attention to all the necessary health measures we need to implement. However, we must also take care of our mental health. We couldn’t think of a better way to prevent being overwhelmed by fear or anxiety than to start planning your next trip after quarantine restrictions are lifted. Other than the hope it could bring you, planning trips can be quite therapeutic. This is why we have put down a list to guide you through your planning process.

Consider A Private Jet

Self-care isn’t limited to skin care routines or doing yoga every morning. While some people view traveling as a luxury, there are others out there who prioritize traveling as an important aspect of the lifestyle they lead. Since commercial aviation has been suffering due to travel bans, many people have been considering more luxurious flying options. In Puerto Rico, for instance, most tourists prefer using private jet charters to get around the popular vacation island. There is a reason why the private jet industry is booming now amid the downfall of many other industries. This option is considered to be much safer than commercial passenger flights due to reduced human contact and limited interactions. 

Pick A Destination

Some people just spin a  globe with a finger pointed at a place to stop it, and that place becomes their next travel destination. For others, choosing a destination involves coming up with an intricate plan and taking many considerations into account. Regardless of your preferences, starting your travel plans by picking the location is a smart move because it sets the tone for your trip. Also, picking a particular place will make your plans feel more concrete and easier to commit to rather than spending all day daydreaming about the time you will be able to travel without any certainty. This might not only lift your spirits, but it will also make the whole planning process much easier. 

Assess Your Group Dynamic

Planning for a trip alone is one thing and having to fit other people in your plans is a whole different story. Are you taking a group of friends randomly without looking at the chemistry between them? Are you traveling with your family members without taking their age differences into account? There is a reason why everyone says that you never really know someone until you travel with them. Traveling reveals a lot about people’s nature and preferences. Some prefer chill laid-back vacations where they lie on the beach all day with a book and a drink in hand. And many would prefer to spend all day swimming and enjoying different beach activities. While others would like to go somewhere where they can party and enjoy the nightlife. Understanding your group dynamic plays a key role in determining many essential factors, including the destination, means of transportation, and accommodation.

Budget And Duration

The duration of your trip and your budget are two important factors that you have to take into account before you proceed with arranging any other details. How long you will be staying for correlates with your budget and the number of days you could take off work. If you are traveling with other people, you must discuss these details with them before determining the duration of your trip.

The next step is to nail down an estimate of the amount of money you will need for the trip including your flight, accommodation, food, transportation, and the different activities you are interested in. This requires that you determine the style of travel you want. All these details might be confusing, but with a simple Google search, you’ll find many online forums that will make it easier for you to know what to expect. Make sure that you always leave a wiggle room in your budget so that you can be prepared for any surprises that might come up.

Creating a Pinterest board of all the places you would like to visit after quarantine is one thing, but putting down a concrete plan for your long-awaited vacation is another. You need to pay close attention to all the details that come into play to avoid feeling overwhelmed and cut down the confusion. All the previously mentioned factors will not only assist you in drawing a solid and detailed plan, but thinking of these details might also help greatly in taking your mind off things, even if it is for a short period of time.

Worried About Your Health While Traveling to Puerto Rico? Try These Three Tips

 

If you are thinking of traveling to Puerto Rico, then you are in for a real treat. There are lots of fun things to do, but you must be aware of your personal space. If you’re traveling to Puerto Rico, here are some good health-conscious tips you should follow.

Common Sense Safety

Wash your hands frequently, or use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol to help stop the spread of germs between yourself, other travelers, and local residents. Do not touch your eyes, mouth, or nose with your hands. Cover all sneezes and coughs with your elbow. While the country is a great place to have a good time, try to keep a distance between yourself and others.

Checking Yourself

There is great medical care available in Puerto Rico. Be aware that most doctors require that your fee be paid upfront. There are also emergency rooms and urgent care facilities available if something unexpected happens.

You may also want to consider seeing a holistic medicine provider. You could even use holistic methods like muscle testing to test yourself on the go. Usually, this holistic medical treatment involves measuring your blood pressure while you are lying down, sitting up, and standing. Your range of motion may also be tested. Pressure points on your body may be pressed on to determine whether your muscles get weak. Treatments may include deep tissue massage, craniosacral therapy, and joint realignments, along with changes to your diet and acupuncture.

Staying Healthy While Still Having Fun

There are many activities in Puerto Rico, so it is easy to find something that everyone will enjoy doing while still staying healthy. Many recreational activities are located outside in Puerto Rico, many of which are good exercise. You may want to visit the unique forests, like the tropical El Yunque and the dry Guánica’s Dry Forest. Great hiking opportunities exist at Hacienda La Esperanza Nature Reserve and at Cabezas de San Juan Natural Reserve.

Puerto Rico is home to many outstanding public beaches, including the white sand Flamenco Beach, the isolated La Playuela Beach, and the family-friendly Crash Beach. You may also want to consider going swimming at El Charco Azul near El Risco. Just make sure that you don’t go into the water if you have cuts so bacteria will not be able to enter your body and make you sick.

Getting good exercise while outside is a great way to take care of your health. The food is top-notch in Puerto Rico. While there are many top restaurants to visit, you may want to consider getting a pork sandwich along the Pork Highway where many small vendors set up roadside stands.

A trip to Puerto Rico can be great fun. Remember to practice safe distancing and good hygiene and to get medical care if needed. There are many outstanding things to do in Puerto Rico, so you shouldn’t let health concerns cloud your trip.

If you’re planning on traveling to Puerto Rico sometime soon, read more here about what you should pack!

Is CBD Legal In Puerto Rico?

 CBD products have been a hot topic in the last few years. Their benefits have been acclaimed by numerous people from different parts of the world. Nonetheless, some various people and countries are against the production, the commercializing, and the usage of such products. 

Because of that, it is very important to know how the law works for every country when it comes to CBD products. In this article, you will have a look at CBD in Puerto Rico, the culture around it, and you will also find out whether or not this product is legal in this country.

CBD Products and Their Benefits

There has been a significant increase in the use of CBD products for medical reasons in the past few years. CBD is a type of cannabinoid that is non-toxic and can be found in cannabis, second to THC. For CBD to be considered a medicinal product, it must come from a plant that contains more than 0,3% THC, rather than from an industrial hemp plant. 

CBD products are known to have anti-inflammatory effects, they are used to help with anxiety and stress, and even as an analgesics. The most common CBD product is the CBD oil, but you can also find products such as CBD scented candles or CBD infused face creams. 

Medical Marijuana in Puerto Rico

After long debates, medical marijuana was legalized in Puerto Rico in May 2015. Patients suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease, HIV/AIDS, Migraines, Glaucoma, Multiple Sclerosis, and other medical conditions where regular medicine is not effective can have medical marijuana prescribed to them by specialized doctors. 

The first dispensaries where people could buy it opened at the end of 2016 and allowed for tourists from states where medical marijuana was legal to buy it as well. 

At the same time, the personal cultivation of marijuana, be it for medical or for recreational reasons, remained strictly prohibited. Furthermore, failure to do so could result in a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a 5,000$ fine. The same applies for cultivation to commercialize it where the penalties can go even higher.

CBD in Puerto Rico

Most of the CBD available for the consumption at a larger scale comes from hemp plants. This means that the THC levels are under 0,3%. Nonetheless, for a long time, both marijuana and hemp were considered to be cannabis plants with an increasing potential for abuse. It was in 2018 when the US passed the Farm Bill that legalized the cultivation of hemp plants.

This allowed for THC free CBD products to be made and sold without being accompanied by proof of a medical condition. Even so, some standards of cultivation had to be met by the producers. But since the term cannabis has been used differently in Puerto Rico to define just medical marijuana and its derived products, this allowed for CBD to be sold since 2015.

Finally, while the benefits of using medical marijuana and CBD have been in the spotlight for the last few years, it is important to always make sure whether or not they are legal in a certain country, state, or territory.

A Quick Look At Puerto Rico's Bamboo History

 We all have seen or at least heard about bamboo, but do we actually know about its history? No one really does any research on the history of bamboo. If they did, they’ll find that it is a very sturdy and resilient plant with a large root system and high growth factor. In Puerto Rico, bamboos are probably one of the most recognizable trees that grow there. It has been used as a building material for many industries and still is. If you want to know how it gained its popularity in Puerto Rico, then continue reading.

It Was First Introduced in Puerto Rico Late in the 18th Century

You can easily assume that bamboo is one of Puerto Rico’s native trees, but in fact, it isn’t. The Spaniards arrived at the island late in the 15th century, but they introduced the exotic tree to the soil by the 18th century. Back then, it was only one species of the bamboo: the Bambuco Vulgaris, which circulated Puerto Rico. This led to creating 20 new tropical species of bamboo on the island like Bambusa Arundinacea, Bambusa Longispiculata, and Bambusa Tulda.

It Was Thoroughly Studied in 1934

The Federal Experiment Station started studying the bamboo species to utilize it. However, many problems occurred, as many species of bamboo were planted in monoculture environments. Later, their efforts succeeded, and bamboo trees were used for building furniture and houses. Even now, you can see here how bamboo is used to build durable furniture and bed frames that would appeal to all tastes. Because bamboo is very light and stronger than steel, it is the perfect building material for any craftsman. You will rarely find the perfect blend of quality, lightness, and strength in one material, but you will find it in a tree as old as the bamboo tree.

Its Popularity Began to Decline

Several industries started booming in Puerto Rico due to the considerable supply of bamboo used to manufacture furniture, handbags, paper, and lamps. With even more species introduced in the 1940s, the manufacturing of the previous items gained even more success. However, this wasn’t the case for long. This industry lost popularity; hence, it didn’t continue to flourish as it once did. Some even think it was due to the expansion of post-WWII industrialization. Construction materials back then were considered more important than some lightweight trees. Hence, bamboo lost popularity on the island significantly. 

First International Bamboo Conference in Mayaguez Was Held in 1984

When the industry of bamboo lost its glory, bamboo enthusiasts in Puerto Rico persisted and continued trying popularizing bamboo on the island once more. They succeeded when the first International Bamboo Conference was held in Puerto Rico in 1984 and hosted by the American Bamboo Society. In addition to this, enthusiasts such as Albrecht and Sunhi Weiss, Toni Grieb, and Yves Crouzet dedicated much of their efforts in using large portions of the land to plant bamboos, but despite all their efforts in raising interest in bamboo trees again, their work didn’t create the same bamboo popularity of 1940.

Bamboo Trees Served as Protection from Hurricanes

Because bamboo trees are strong and long, farmers began to build bamboo fences around their territories to protect their lands from inclement weather. Due to its highly effective protection, some people use some of the sturdiest bamboo species for building bamboo fences, especially those who live in places susceptible to hurricanes. Yes, purchasing a huge amount of bamboo can cost a great amount of money, but if you think about it, this is one of the most effective and affordable methods to prevent erosion, provide privacy screens and shades, and serve as natural windbreaks. 

It Produces More Oxygen

People in Puerto Rico favored growing bamboo in larger numbers than other trees, as it produces 35% more oxygen, which means it can take in about 12 tons of carbon dioxide per 2.5 acres in one year. Bamboo can grow long in a very short time, which makes it the perfect type of tree to plant. As a result of this, Bamboo can stabilize any environment you grow it in by absorbing the excess of carbon dioxide, which is why it is used today to fight climate change. Inhabitants of the island didn’t have to worry about flooding, as the extensive root system of the plant took care of that problem.

Puerto Ricans Used to Eat It as Well

Back when the industry solely depended on utilizing bamboo, bamboo shoots were produced and consumed by Puerto Ricans. What is good about bamboo shoots is that it contains little fats and calories and is high in fibers. It is also a strong antibacterial, which made it the perfect healthy meal. The shoots were and still are, cut from the young bamboo trees and were added to the food. If you’re thinking of adding them to your diet but still need a stronger incentive, bamboo shoots are consumed by pandas in Asia and it is basically their primary food. Yet, they still manage to weigh 200 pounds.

It Was Used for Its Deodorizing Properties 

Because bamboo is antibacterial and extremely porous, it can absorb bacteria that cause unpleasant odors and dangerous pollutants found in water. Due to this fact, you will find products in the market that use bamboo charcoal in deodorizers, which can be used as an alternative to chemicals and cleaners. 

There still Are Bamboo Enthusiasts Out There

For the last two decades, Jo Scheer has been actively growing and utilizing bamboo trees for all sorts of things. He has a gorgeous house, which he built from bamboo components, and he created many parts of his inner house using bamboo. His house, which he calls a “hooch”, was featured on TV and in many conferences to display how sturdy and well-structured it is. What is even better, Scheer wrote a book in which he discusses several bamboo projects that can be easily executed with the right material.

Now that you had a quick look at Puerto Rico’s amazing bamboo history, you can delve deeper into its different usages and purchase some of the products that utilize bamboo. You might also be interested in projects using bamboo as their main construction material, or even use it for something else entirely. After all, bamboo is the most versatile material you will ever find.