Why You Should Invest in Puerto Rico Real Estate in 2023

 

The year 2023 is right around the corner. Therefore, many of us are more than ready to make some New Year resolutions. One of those could sound a bit like this: I want to find an excellent real estate market to invest in in the upcoming year. If you've recognized your thoughts somewhere between those words, you're in for a treat. That's because we've prepared a neat little article on why you should invest in Puerto Rico real estate in 2023. Once you're done reading it, you'll quickly notice no place left for hesitation.

What's so special about Puerto Rico real estate market?

Let's go through the basics first. It's only natural for us to pose the following question: why's Puerto Rico's real estate market so special? Many folks say that the island in question is something you'd call a one-of-a-kind destination. Puerto Rico is a tourist paradise with its beautiful sandy beaches, fantastic all-year-round climate, and attractive architecture. That's only the beginning.

Here's the thing: as you might know, Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States. Therefore, US citizens are not restricted from buying property on the nearby island. Also, US citizens don't have to go through customs while traversing between the island and the US mainland. That's, among other things, why folks from the US see Puerto Rico as a phenomenal business opportunity and a place to go on a vacation.

Lastly, since the country emerged from bankruptcy this year, there's been a boom in the local real estate market. In the following paragraphs, we'll show why investing in Puerto Rico real estate might be pretty profitable!

If you're a US resident, you'll enjoy the closeness of this island country

Reason #1: There's a demand for affordable housing developments

Okay, so according to the folks over at the US Interagency Council, many Puerto Rico citizens face homelessness. Various natural disasters (most notably - hurricanes Irma and Maria) have done some good damage to local architecture and housing. If you're into numbers, 250 000 houses were damaged in this way or another. Around 70,000 were completely devastated. There hasn't been much improvement since the crisis began regarding affordable housing. There's still an enormous market demand for affordable housing developments all around the country. That could be your shot to build such projects, say the folks over at brightfuturestreatment.com! As addiction treatment experts, they know how the lack of housing can affect a person's mental health and lead to substance abuse.

Reason #2: Legal protection and currency

As we've already mentioned, the island of Puerto Rico is a so-called unincorporated territory of the US. Its affiliation with the US enables investors to take advantage of certain benefits. Folks looking to relocate their companies to the island will enjoy some perks, too. For instance, the US dollar is the island's official currency. It's not hard to transfer capital in and out of Puerto Rico. Another thing: since Puerto Rico is a US territory, it facilitates official processes based on the US system under Federal Law. Therefore, (potential) investors will enjoy much greater legal protection than in other neighboring countries (not counting the US, of course).

The official currency is USD, making it easy to invest in Puerto Rico real estate

Reason #3: Tax incentives

We should've mentioned this as one of the first reasons to invest in Puerto Rico real estate. The country's government has made tax incentives under Act 60 to persuade and encourage (real estate) investors to establish their residences and business in Puerto Rico! Since the market flopped due to the natural disasters and the accompanying consequences mentioned above, the prices haven't risen for years. However, that all changed recently due to the tax incentives given by the island's government. You could say that right now is the perfect time for investing in Puerto Rican real estate market. Many foreclosures and distressed portfolios that "gathered dust" on the market have been sold. Don't waste this unique opportunity to earn a profit while the prices are still on the rise.

Reason #4: Perfect location

This one goes without saying: Puerto Rico enjoys a fantastic strategical location. Here's some info to back up that statement: due to its strong ties to the United States, there are direct flights from Puerto Rico to most major cities in the US. Let's try this: you'll need to fly 2.5 hours to Miami and a 3.5-hour flight away from NYC. Also, there are many international flights to various places around the world like Madrid, Frankfurt, London, etc. That's one of the reasons why many folks around the world (especially from the US) see Puerto Rico as an ideal holiday destination, and the demand is getting stronger. You could easily make some good money by obtaining a rental property there.

Reason #5: Puerto Rico has an infrastructure more sophisticated than its neighbors

As a United States territory, the island reaps benefits from a sophisticated infrastructure that's more or less lacking in other neighboring countries in the Caribbean. As always, let's provide some information to back that up. In addition to having the busiest airport in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has eleven seaports, 24k miles of highways, and the first rapid transit system in the Caribbean, the one that serves the San Juan metro area. Additionally, the island has high-speed broadband internet and a robust landline, wireless, cloud, ethernet, and other services.

Puerto Rico has better infrastructure than the neighboring countries (not counting the US)

#6: Quality of life

Nowadays, Puerto Rico is one of the top destinations in the Caribbean. That's because it enables its residents to have a high quality of life—the country's home to some of the best hotels in the world. Most have world-class golf courses (Sugarcane Course at Dorado Beach, for instance). Speaking of this lovely sport, Puerto Rico is dubbed "the golf capital of the Caribbean." One can do many other activities on the island besides golfing (shopping, dining, entertainment, etc.). That means that Puerto Rico is booming at this very moment, and you need to take advantage of such a boom. The upcoming year might be when you venture into obtaining a property in Puerto Rico.

Closing thoughts: Invest in Puerto Rico real estate

Okay, folks, that's all we've prepared on why one should invest in Puerto Rico real estate during the upcoming year. As you could've read, the island's thriving real estate market is currently in a phase where things still haven't reached their maximum. That's an excellent opportunity to buy a property while the prices are still low and profit later.

5 Puerto Rican Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss on a Miami Food Tour

 

Travelling is probably one of the most pleasant activities. It takes us of the monotony, providing with the chance to try different things and meet people from different cultures. Furthermore, travel give us the opportunities to learn about other cultures and their way of living.

Aside from visiting a city’s main attractions and enjoying the nightlife, taking food tours is an excellent way of getting an insight into a place’s customs. According to the World Food Travel Association (WDTA), “food tourism is the act of travelling for a taste of place in order to get a sense of place”.

Food tourism is a growing business globally, since many have discovered that it combines two pleasant activities, such as travelling and eating. Therefore, almost every touristic destinations in the world have a food-related activity for visitors to enjoy the local cuisine.

Miami is one of the most important touristic destinations from the United States and the world. Aside from the beaches and the sunlight, Miami is a multicultural community within which population from many different backgrounds.

Puerto Rican are a huge community, so you while visiting Florida, you can enjoy a Miami Food tour and enjoy the most delicious dishes right from the island of enchantments.

Tasting Puerto Rico while in Florida

Many Florida Food Tour is worse trying. In addition, within the capital city, there are also amazing Miami Food Tour through which you can enjoy traditional dishes from old Caribbean Heritage.

The large Puerto Rican community in the city provides a great opportunity to taste the food from the island without leaving the United States.

Most of Miami Food Tour offer a combination of visiting different shops where you can taste some of the most representative dishes of the local cuisine.

If you love Puerto Rican culture and would like to taste some of the most traditional dishes, read the list below to learn about which dishes you should not miss.

Puerto Rican dishes

Also known as, the island of enchantments, Puerto Rico is a Caribbean Island incorporated to the United States.  Its culinary traditions are mixed with Caribbean heritage. Plantains, pork, and sofrito are the main ingredients used, along with some exquisite combinations.

Below, there is a list of the five most traditional dishes that you should not miss.

1.     Empanadillas

Even though empanadillas clearly come from Spanish traditions, in Puerto Rico they were reinvented. Puerto Rican empanadillas are usually filled with ground beef and potatoes and can be fried or baked, depending on the chef preferences.

One of the most particular things about empanadillas is that they are seasoned with sofrito and achiote.

Sofrito is made of browned onions, pepper and garlic, while achiote is a sweet nutty spice, which provides a unique taste.

2.     Rellenos de papa

Appetizers are a hit in Puerto Rican Cuisine, and rellenos de papa is one of the best of then. It is a mashed potato croquette filled with pork and, in some cases, ground beef. Rellenos de papa are also seasoned with sofrito, to provide an excellent snack to start lunch or dinner.

3.     Tostones and Maduros

As we mentioned before, plantains is one of the most important ingredients in Puerto Rican cuisine. The tostones are crunchy snacks made of fried green plantains. They can be served with a sprinkle of salt and garlic sauce. While the maduros are the plantains ripe, which is fried to provide the perfect sweet counterpart of tostones.

4.     Pasteles

Another platain dish is Pastel. This dish is steamed in a banana leave, which provides a unique flavor to the vegetables and meat inside. Pasteles are usually seasoned with yuca and served with pumpkin or potatoes.

5.     Pernil

Finally yet importantly, Pernil is a classic roasted pork shoulder characterized for a slow roasting that provides a unique taste and texture to the meat. Pernil is usually seasoned with garlic, pepper, oregano, along with other spicy ingredients. One of the highlights of Pernil is that, thanks to its cooking process, the meat is so tender that it can be eaten with just a fork, which makes it the perfect choice for making sandwiches.

Countries Every Surfer Needs to Visit

 

Surfing is one of the best pastimes to adopt if you live near a beach. While your local beach may be great for learning, once you are confident in your skills, it can be a fun experience to travel and visit some of the best beaches around the world to test your skills and make new friends. You may even find your new favorite vacation spot while exploring these beaches.

South Africa

While South Africa may not be the first place that comes to mind when it comes to surfing, it has some of the best beaches in the world. The long coastline and proximity to the low water temperatures of Antarctica create swells that are ideal for great surfing. 

The water is very cold, so make sure you are prepared with a quality wetsuit to keep from freezing, but the consistency of the waves and the long surfing season make up for the cold. Jeffrey’s Bay, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth are all some of the top spots to visit.

Mexico

The Pacific coastline of Mexico is prime surfing real estate. Its proximity to California makes it a popular destination, but if you head further south, you will find beaches that are just as solid for surfing, but without the popular resort crowds. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, you can also find resorts that are perfect for your surfing trip. 

Punta de Mita resort in Mexico has many great places to surf. Mexico is a great place for your first surfing trip. It has more challenging spots if you want to stretch your skills, but plenty of the beaches offer beginner-level areas so you can get your feet under you in a new area.

Australia

Australia is well-known for its surfing. Just like South Africa and Mexico, it has a large amount of coastline, and the temperate waters make for regular swells that make up a good surfing beach. Bondi Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in the world, but it is also very crowded because of that. There are endless beaches, so choose where you want to go based on the experience you want to have while not in the ocean, not because of the waves. Additionally, because of the different weather patterns around the continent, no matter when you visit, you are bound to be able to find an area with beaches that have solid waves. Just make sure you pay attention to the weather and wave reports. If the local reports say it isn’t safe to surf, don’t go out. It can be incredibly dangerous.

Surfing can take you all around the world and give you the opportunity for amazing experiences. As you continue to develop your skills, make sure you make time to get to know the other surfers around you. While surfing may seem like a more solitary sport, there is an amazing community out there that you really should become a part of.

 

Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more: Top Destinations to See in Puerto Rico

Comite Noviembre Puerto Rican Artisan Fair

 

Come One, Come All!

To our Holiday Artisans Fair on

Saturday, December 17th, 2022 10AM to 5PM

White Plains Public Library @
100 Martine Ave (2nd Floor Gallery)

Support our artisans and give a unique, one of a kind hand made gift to loved ones and friends!

FREE EVENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

The White Plains Puerto Rican Cultural Committee has teamed up with PRIDA (The Puerto Rican Institute for the Development of the Arts) & Comité Noviembre to host this FREE, Family-Friendly event!

Support your local artisans this Holiday Season! 🎄

*Please Note- Masks Are Required

info@prida.org

Coffee Haciendas in Puerto Rico You Cannot Miss

 

When thinking about the top famous coffee locations, you probably think of Colombia. However, did you know that Puerto Rico is also famous for these magic beans? This fantastic island has perfect conditions for growing coffee plants, which is why you can find many coffee haciendas all around it. This guide is for all coffee lovers out there! So, let's explore the best coffee haciendas in Puerto Rico that you should visit.

History of coffee in Puerto Rico

Coffee arrived on the island in the 1730s, during Spanish Colonial rule from Martinique. The development of coffee production increased dramatically over the next century, reaching over million pounds of coffee production in one year. The island was one of the top producers in the world and constantly improved the quality of the coffee. Even though the numbers were not as high after the USA took over, Puerto Rico is still one of the places known for high-quality coffee beans.

Puerto Rico has a rich culture, and it’s known for its high-quality coffee beans.

About Puerto Rico coffee

The island specializes in coffee arabica. It's the main species you can find here. However, there are several varieties of this type, that include Catimor, Bourbon, Pacas, and Typica. When it comes to coffee brands, there are several of them. Still, the most popular ones are Volcanica from Hacienda San Pedro, Café Yaucono Puerto Rican, Alto Grande, and Café Rico.

In Puerto Rico, cafes usually offer just a couple of coffee types. You can choose between espresso (pocillo), cortadito (an espresso shot with some steamed milk, similar to macchiato), and café con leche. In general, coffee serving is similar to Italian, as espresso is often served in small cups.

Beans that turn into your favorite cup of joy.

Where to try the best coffee on the island – coffee haciendas in Puerto Rico

Visiting a hacienda, also called a plantation, is undoubtedly one of the top attractions for tourists. Coffee lovers enjoy visiting these places to dig deeper into the coffee culture and learn more about the island's history. At the same time, you can enjoy some breathtaking views and experience the rural atmosphere. Visiting a hacienda is usually a part of an organized group tour, but you can also go on an adventure by yourself. Just be sure to check the working hours and contact the desired hacienda to see if they accept visitors at the time. Now it's time to help you with the itinerary – here are the best coffee haciendas in Puerto Rico you should include in your island exploration. 

Hacienda Buena Vista (Hacienda Vives)

This historical place was a coffee plantation started by Don Salvador De Vives in 1833. The plantation is located in Ponce and is surrounded by picturesque nature. This visit will show you the connection between coffee, mountains, water, and the people who lived there at the time. It's also marked by a period of slavery and presents an important historic spot on the island. You'll see machines that date from such a long time ago and still work without problems. This is a place worth visiting, so book your tour as soon as you arrive at the island. 

Hacienda Muñoz

Just a short ride away from Old Town in San Juan, you can find this fantastic hacienda that produces some of the highest-quality coffee on the island. You can go on a one-and-a-half-hour tour around the plantation, see the whole process of coffee production, and learn so much about the cup of joy you have each morning. The coffee produced here won many awards at international expos, so it's a place worth visiting. You can go on a tour on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and you don't need to make a reservation. 

Hacienda Pomarrosa

If you're looking for a place to go deep into the Puerto Rican mountains – hacienda Pomarrosa Coffee Lodge is the best spot. It's a perfect getaway from all the hustle and bustle of the city, where you can enjoy the owners' hospitality and incredible views. And, of course, learn all about coffee making. Staying at this bed and breakfast is a great way to have a unique experience of Puerto Rico and see what it's really like to be on the island. Coffee tours are available every day except Sunday, and you'll need to make a reservation beforehand.

Coffee haciendas in Puerto Rico show you the steps of the coffee-making process. 

Hacienda Tres Picachos

This family-owned hacienda is undoubtedly one of the places you shouldn't miss when visiting Puerto Rico. It's located in Jayuya, and you can reach it by driving through the picturesque mountains of Puerto Rico. With over 150 acres of coffee field, this plantation also includes a small antiquities museum, a water mill, and even a hanging bridge where you can take some Instagram-worthy photos. 

Love Puerto Rico?

Exploring coffee haciendas in Puerto Rico and the island may give you second thoughts about your current home. You'll be surprised how many people fell in love with the island and decided to move here. Being surrounded by nature and this unique culture, and with too many possibilities for remote work, many people chose to make this amazing island their new home. Experts from golansmoving.com recommend you should be careful, though. Moving can be challenging if you don't take the process seriously and ensure every step of the way is secure and planned. Just be sure to trust professionals when it comes to moving your belongings, finding a home, and sorting out documentation, and you'll soon call Puerto Rico your new home.

Visiting coffee haciendas – be careful with caffeine intake

Coffee lovers might want to visit all the coffee haciendas in Puerto Rico quickly, tasting every kind of coffee they offer. However, this is where you should be careful – drinking more than 4 cups of coffee per day is not advised, as Puerto Rican coffee usually has high caffeine levels. Taking too much caffeine can result in headaches, insomnia, and nervousness. All of which you want to avoid on this memorable trip to Puerto Rico. Choose your cups wisely and enjoy them soaking up the beauty of nature around you.

Lenses Every Photographer Should Bring on Vacation

 [caption id="attachment_15958" align="alignnone" width="800"] Are you headed on a vacation over the upcoming holidays? If you’re planning on bringing your photography gear, make sure that you’re bringing the best lenses to capture some of the beautiful views on vacation. Here are a few lenses that every photographer should bring on vacation. [/caption]

A Standard Prime

First off, make sure that you’re bringing a standard, dependable prime lens. A standard prime lens has a fixed focal length with an average aperture. This type of lens can help you to get a shot with great optical quality and a focused, but slightly more shallow depth of field. With some standard prime lenses, you might need to bring a few different lenses to cover all of your photography bases. 

They might not have as extensive of a zoom feature, but you’ll love the beautiful shots that a standard prime lens helps you to achieve. Standard prime lenses also aren’t as expensive as other camera lenses, so this is a great option if you’re trying to get beautiful photography on a budget. 

A Versatile Zoom

Next, make sure that you pack a versatile zoom lens for your traveling. A versatile zoom lens will help you to get complex, close-up detail shots as long as ultra-wide shots. Anything 24mm or wider is an ideal choice for wide shots. 

Ultra-wide zoom lenses will help you to take beautiful shots that have a stunning panoramic look. There is no better way to capture a large, beautiful landscape than by using a versatile zoom lens. 

A Telephoto Lens

Finally, you should make sure that you have a telephoto lens in your arsenal for your photography vacation. Even if you’re not getting super serious about travel photography, a telephoto lens will help you to get some beautiful landscape shots. This will help you to dabble in some beautiful, detailed shots of some of your favorite travel landscapes and destinations. Telephoto lenses can help you to capture a wide angle of beautiful views while still bringing certain focal points into focus. You won’t ever regret bringing a telephoto zoom lens with you on your vacation. 

So, if you’re preparing to take a trip soon and are wanting to take some beautiful pictures of your destination, remember these lens tips. Make sure that you’re packing a standard prime, a versatile zoom, and a telephoto lens with the rest of your photography gear. This will help you to capture the most beautiful, unforgettable moments of your vacation.

Here’s more to read: The Best Products to Buy to Help Puerto Rican Small Businesses

Puerto Rico 1965-1990: A Quarter Century of Highlights, Hope, Status and Stasis

 ] 

Puerto Rico 1965-1990: A Quarter Century of Highlights, Hope, Status and Stasis

by Robert Friedman
friedmanro@gmail.com

Through his own newspaper articles and recollections of the time, Robert Friedman shows readers in this vivid and nostalgic memoir what it was like living in Puerto Rico from the mid-1960s through the 1970s and 1980s, the years he spent there as a journalist for the San Juan Star. The book is far from an encompassing history, but rather a personal timeline of the era, a journalist’s-eye view of life in the U.S. quasi-colony, whose island-born residents are U.S. citizens but who do not have all the rights of fellow citizens living in the States.

Friedman gives readers an understanding of the humane, colorful, and difficult life lived by the island’s residents, as it was when he was there, and which, from all accounts, remains the same today. While much of the material deals with the U.S. - Puerto Rico relationship —political, social, and economic — also featured are portraits of island visitors over those years, such as Leonard Bernstein, Muhammed Ali and Norman Mailer, who give, among other things, their take on Puerto Rican and "Americano" life on the island and in the states. The author presents in this book both the first draft of history, as good journalism is called, and a vivid, human picture of the Caribbean Island and its people.

Robert Friedman was born and raised in the Bronx, NY. He spent more than 20 years living in Puerto Rico and working as a reporter for the English-language San Juan Star, special correspondent for the New York Daily News, an as a Washington correspondent for the Puerto Rico newspaper.

“Friedman's stories are the more immediate glimpses of life on the island as seen by a Bronx ‘ex-pat’ who shares the absurdities, the disappointments, the joys, and frustrations with the fondness of one who chose to make it his home for many years… It is also a reflection of how the Island is connected to world events.”

  

INSTAGRAM | TWITTER
@byBobFriedman
WEBSITE
byRobertFriedman.com

Other Books by Bob Friedman

	Ulysses in San Juan, the third and concluding novel follows the relationship between Wolf, a concentration camp survivor who has come to Puerto Rico to try to build a new life, and Carmen, a drug addict. Set in 1980, the novel takes the reader on a trip into the San Juan underworld, as well as to other island sites, to meet crooked and upright and deeply human characters. The survival theme is extended to Stevie Diaz, a young Newyorican who has recently returned to the island and is searching, through his writing, to find out where he is truly at. Ulysses in San Juan Published by Brown Posey Press Paperback, April 2, 2019 Purchase from Amazon Purchase from Bookshop
	The Defining Sea, book two of the Puerto Rico Trilogy, is a coming-of-age novel that follows the misadventures of Richie Peréz, a 20-year-old University of Puerto Rico student. Richie’s girlfriend is killed by police during a campus protest against the Navy for its decades-long bombing exercises on the offshore Puerto Rico island of Vieques. In order to raise money for a scholarship in her name, Richie becomes a drug runner between the island and the states, learning hard truths along the way about life, love and loss. Editor’s note: The second book in the trilogy was published earlier, then rewritten somewhat and had its title changed from The Surrounding Sea to The Defining Sea. The Defining Sea Publisher ‏by Brown Posey Press Paperback, April 2, 2019 Purchase from Amazon Purchase from Bookshop
	In the first book, The Odyssey of Pablo Camino, a well-known Puerto Rican artist goes on a search for the truth of the possible murderous past of his dead father, Cornelius Rhodes, an Americano doctor sent to the island for research. The doctor claimed in a letter that he purposely killed eight of his patients because of his disdain for the “natives.”  Personal obsessions and public events collide as the novel’s characters grapple with lies, false identities, puzzling connections, U.S. wars and colonialism. Editor’s note: The first book in the trilogy was published earlier, then rewritten somewhat and had its title changed. The Odyssey of Pablo Camino was previously titled called Shadow of the Father.  The Odyssey of Pablo Camino Published by Brown Posey Press Paperback, April 2, 2019 Purchase from Amazon Purchase from Bookshop

A Caribbean Honeymoon Vacation In Puerto Rico At The Horned Dorset Primavera

 

For a Luxury Vacation in Puerto Rico or a Caribbean Honeymoon resort you need not look beyond The Horned Dorset Primavera.

Puerto Rican Honeymoon

A tiny, very secret near perfect Puerto Rico honeymoon vacation spot is a very good description for the world class Horned Dorset which is to be found on the quiet as yet undeveloped west coast of Costa Rico, situated in 8 acres on a hillside. Many people believe that not only is the Horned Dorset’s restaurant the finest in the Caribbean, but the guest rooms rate amongst the finest as well.

You will find 22 villas all whitewashed scattered around the tropical gardens in such a way as to guarantee privacy, and also done in such a way as to resemble a Meditteranean village. The villas retain their privacy even whilst you are swimming in your own private plunge pool or relaxing outside, where the views of the sunset are remarkable, and contribute in no small way to the acceptance that Horned Dorset is the most luxurious Puerto Rican hotel. In fact probably at the very top end of luxury hotels in the whole of the Caribbean.

No children under twelve years of age contributes to the ambiance, as does the sheer quality of the furnishings in each of the two story suites, from hand carved mahogany tables to four poster beds, to the marble bathrooms with a tub big enough for two. By the way there is a second bath downstairs to get the sand off, after a beach walk.

When you add no radio or television then you can see why the Horned Dorset Inn is such a romantic Caribbean honeymoon spot.

Horned Dorset Primavara

The Horned Dorset Primavara is a combination of luxury, exclusivity and fine dining, and that would probably summarize this unique Caribbean Honeymoon resort better than anything else. If you want an amazing beach, nightly entertainment, a local town with restaurants then don’t come here for your luxury Puerto Rico Vacation Package.

If you are hesitant to book your Caribbean Honeymoon Vacation at a place that includes all meals then don’t be, for the meals you will eat at The Horned Dorset at Restaurant Aaron will surpass even your wildest expectations. Breakfast is served al fresco in The Veranda overlooking the Caribbean , on the terrace of the Blue Room or in your suite, and Room Service is available throughout the day.

The Horned Dorset is just a world away from your typical Caribbean Resort, and completely lacks any hustle and bustle. In fact there is nothing organized at all for you to do, so you can entertain yourself as you wish, although of course if you are on your Caribbean Honeymoon Vacation then this will probably be exactly what you want.

You can swim in the pool, walk on the beach, although not at high tide when it ceases to exist. You can enjoy the beautiful grounds or ask reception to arrange for most things from golf to deep sea fishing, to visiting an old coffee plantation.

In reality The Horned Dorset is specifically designed for couples who want to be alone together for either a romantic Caribbean honeymoon or just away from the bustle of the real world.

The Best Street Food In Puerto Rico

 

No matter how excited you may be to visit a new place, one fear often remains: will you like the local food? That is not a silly concern either since getting used to a new cuisine can be challenging. It is possible to ease the transition if you know what delicious local food to choose, though! Having said all that, let’s look at the best street food in Puerto Rico you are guaranteed to like!

Empanadilla

Empanadillas are the first entry on our list of the best street food in Puerto Rico, and their popularity earns them the spot. The treat might initially seem like a relatively basic combo of dough and fillings, but the local street vendors' endless variety and expert skills make it shine. Furthermore, they are easy to eat on the move, letting you explore more of Puerto Rico while enjoying a great snack.

Alcapurrias

Alcapurrias are one of the most representative examples of the best street food in Puerto Rico. They are generally one of the most beloved street foods locally, and their taste lives up to the hype splendidly. They are, basically, fritters. The fried dough contains a unique mixture called masa—a filling made of yautia, green plantain, beef, and sofrito. The combo is fantastic; you can’t miss out on trying it if you get the opportunity.

Arroz con Gandules

Next on our list, we have one of Puerto Rico’s national dishes in Arroz con gandules. That is a rice-based dish, which includes pigeon peas, sofrito, and pork. It might be an odd street food, considering it takes a container and some utensils to eat correctly. Still, it is popular locally, and vendors are developing exciting solutions to the eating puzzle. One thing’s for sure: you won’t regret ordering it if you have the chance.

Jibaritos

Jibaritos are a unique take on sandwiches. Not only are they not made out of bread, requiring fried plantain instead, but they are also much more substantial meals. They are typically topped with meat and cheese in more significant amounts than you’d expect. Not to mention that the meat is rarely a plain boring cold cut. Instead, you can expect your street vendor to serve you juicy barbeque or similar! Since the moving experts from Four Winds KSA recommend keeping your diet robust before, during, and after a move to deal with exhaustion and stress, jibaritos are a perfect option for once you’ve arrived in Puerto Rico.

[caption id="attachment_15903" align="alignnone" width="640"] The size of jibarito portions makes them very filling.[/caption]

Pernil Asado

Another more ‘substantial’ street food option is pernil asado. That roasted pork dish is unique in that it can take days to roast properly. The result is a vibrant taste. And its divinely soft texture makes it feel like the meat melts in your mouth. The food can be purchased as is, or you can find it as part of other street food. For example, in the jibarito, we just covered. Consider this if you are looking for a satisfying meal after a romantic day in Puerto Rico.

Rellenos De Papa

If you like potato-based food, then out of all the best street food in Puerto Rico on our list, you’ll like rellenos de papa the most. The dish is potatoes stuffed with minced meat. The butter coating on the outside and the decadently spiced meat on the inside make this food stand out!

[caption id="attachment_15902" align="alignnone" width="640"] You can always improvise a vegetarian version of this dish at home.[/caption]

Pinchos

Pinchos are, basically, grilled chicken meat skewers. While it may come with some unique seasonings and combinations, the familiarity with the dish still makes it a safe choice if you are still getting used to the local cuisine. If you had stressed over things to do before moving abroad to know what you should do once you’ve arrived and aren’t feeling very experimental, this is a great food to opt for, too.

[caption id="attachment_15900" align="alignnone" width="640"] Pinchos are considered one of the best street food in Puerto Rico[/caption]

Piononos

One of the most interesting entries on our list of the best street food in Puerto Rico, and one which might surprise you if you’re not familiar with their cuisine, are Piononos. This simple yet delectable treat is fried sweet plantain stuffed with minced beef. The result is curious yet still delicious, sweet, and sour. The taste might be a bit odd initially, but it draws you in to try more. Before you know it, you will enjoy munching on these. And the way they’re sold makes it easy to carry them around to satisfy your munchies!

Arroz con Dulce

One of the few examples of the best street food in Puerto Rico of the sweet variety is arroz con dulce. The dessert has a rice base, to which you add various spices and raisins. You can find plenty of street vendors selling this particular treat. And while it can be a bit hard to maneuver eating it on your feet, it's well worth the hassle. It is sure to improve your day, not to mention cleanse your palate a little after indulging in all the savory food you’ve gone through on our list already.

Coquito

Coquito treads a fine line between a drink and a treat, which earns it its spot on our list of best street food in Puerto Rico. It is, in essence, the local variation of eggnog. However, it’s typically made with relatively high alcohol content and should not be offered to children. You can specify that you want a version for kids made, but it is not the default. The drink is unique in its use of coconut milk and cream, adding an extra kick and making it very rich and sweet.

Final comment

With our list of the best street food in Puerto Rico, you will surely find some dishes to fall in love with. We hope this will make your visit, or the start of your life here, a lot more enjoyable!

World Premiere of Puerto Rican Art Song Cycle “Que tus ojos no se cansen de brillar”

 

The Americas Society will host the world premiere of a new art song cycle by the young Puerto Rican composer Gabriel Bouche Caro and the legendary Puerto Rican poet Giannina Braschi on December 9^th 2022 in New York City.

“Que tus ojos no se cansen de brillar” is a new chamber music work for clarinet, violin, flute, cello, percussion, piano, and soprano. This art song cycle focuses on the idea of “puertorriqueñidad” or what makes someone Puerto Rican.

“The style of the music is, at its core, influenced by traditional Puerto Rican music, but it purposefully does not portray these elements clearly. It includes tonal and atonal elements, a variety of textures, and a rich rhythmic structure. The idea behind my work is to represent the wide cultural variety that exists inside the Puerto Rican and Caribbean experience. In this project, it will be evident because of the sonic qualities of the work and also through the variety of styles in text,” said Bouche Caro.

The world premiere will take place as part of the Music of the Americas Series in New York City, directed by Argentine composer Sebastian Zubieta. The chamber music work was commissioned by The Americas Society, a cultural organization founded in 1965 by David and Nelson Rockefeller, to fosters an understanding of the contemporary social, cultural, and economic tides in Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States.

“I want to not only expand the vocal repertoire but to broaden the artistic representation of my generation, who has been faced with the culmination of more than half a millennium of colonialism and oppression—to speak for myself and a generation that has felt excluded, abandoned, and even forcibly ousted and to make something that can give back to where we I come from. My collaboration with Giannina Braschi is also an ongoing one that has allowed me to see some of my ideas about identity clearly represented in text. This has led to a series of compositions (both vocal and instrumental) based on her work,” said the composer.  He selected lyrics from Braschi’s epic poem “El imperio de los suenos” (Empire of Dreams) and the classic Spanglish novel “Yo-Yo Boing!”.  Braschi, in turn, curated a selection of famous Puerto Rican poems for the composer to work with, including works by Julia de Burgos, Pedro Pietri, and Angelamaria Davila.

More about the Boricua Composer

Gabriel Bouche Caro’s chamber music has been featured in the Havana Contemporary Music festival, sound SCAPE, and New Music on the Point festivals. He has been commissioned by the Baltimore Classical Guitar Society, the Canva sounds Collective, and the Massachusetts International Festival of the Arts. His authored “Ni Fú, Ni Fa: Los Cuentos de Siempre”, based on the postcolonial novel “United States of Banana” by Giannina Braschi about Puerto Rico’s future. His music has been performed by various ensembles and soloists including the JACK Quartet and Evan Runyon. He is the recipient of the Randolph S. Rothschild Award in Composition (Peabody Institute) and the Augusto Rodriguez Prize for musical achievement (University of Puerto Rico).

More about the Boricua Poet

Giannina Braschi is a trailblazing force in Boricua arts and letters. She writes cross-genre literature in English, Spanish, and Spanglish.  The North American Academy of the Spanish Language (ANLE) honored her earlier this year with the Enrique Anderson Imbert Award." Her prolific career, which extends from groundbreaking research on Hispanic classics to her spectacular work as a renowned and award-winning creator, places her among the most innovative and influential voices of Hispanic letters in the United States. She is a pioneer," stated the Academy’s Director Carlos E. Paldao. Her Latinx philosophy and poetry has inspired adaptations to theater, music, short films, painting, sculpture, and industrial design.

For more on Puerto Rican song cycle “Que tus ojos no se cansen de brillar”, click here: https://www.as-coa.org/events/gabriel-bouche-caro-que-tus-ojos-no-se-cansen-de-brillar

Beware of Hurricane Damaged Vehicles!

 

Hurricane Damaged Cars

Nearly a half million cars were destroyed by two of this past season’s biggest hurricanes, Katrina and Rita. Some of these cars may not have received much apparent damage but they were totaled nevertheless because of water, mud, and debris which flooded engine bays and the interior. Damaged cars are supposed to make their way to the junkyard for scrap, unfortunately some unscrupulous parties are gaining a hold of the vehicle titles and turning around and selling damaged cars to the public. Should you be concerned? Absolutely! Read on to learn more about this problem and what you can do to avoid being stuck with a vehicle that is certain to be a lemon.

Let me just say this: it is not illegal for weekend mechanics to buy a salvaged vehicle, repair it, and sell it to you. What they must disclose to you is this: you are buying a salvaged vehicle. This is where most of the problems begin: the dishonest purveyors are not sharing this information.

Flood Damaged Vehicles

Only 22 states require that the titles of flood damaged vehicles [which were totaled by insurers] be stamped with that information. So, if you live in any one of the 28 other states, be extremely cautious about buying any used car [check your local laws to see which group you belong to].

One organization is doing its part to help fight the problem. The National Insurance Crime Bureau [NICB] this past summer and fall sent teams to flood damaged areas in affected states to work with local police authorities. What the teams did was try to catalog all of the flood damaged vehicles and enter that information in a database, which is accessible online. Because of their diligence, nearly 200,000 car identification numbers are now available for car buyers to search at www.nicb.org

Car shoppers should always invest in obtaining a car history report from an independent company, such as Car Fax, as a back up source to verify information about a vehicle. Although the information supplied by these types of companies isn’t always 100% accurate, it can usually reveal whether a car has been salvaged, rebuilt, is a lemon, or has been flood damaged. Some guarantee their information so check the individual contract/agreement before you use their services to see what recourse you would have in the event a lemon sneaks by them and you purchase one.

So, how can we know for sure that there will be problems? Well, if Hurricane Floyd is a measuring stick then the potential for fraud is huge. In 1999, nearly 80,000 cars were damaged by Floyd and taken off of the roads due to storm damage. About half of that number were repaired and resold, many to unsuspecting consumers.

You don’t have to be a victim, so get informed. If a car is priced well below book value that can be a big clue that a problem exists, however don’t rely on price, instead do some research first before buying your next used car.

What to Do Before Moving to Puerto Rico

 

Puerto Rico is a beautiful place, and many Americans are choosing to move there for a variety of reasons. Before you make the move to Puerto Rico, it is a good idea to take care of some groundwork to ease the transition. That way you are ready for the cultural differences that you will experience, and you are in a good position to make your home there.

Decide Where to Live

The first thing you need to do is figure out where in Puerto Rico you want to live. There are a variety of different kinds of areas that can provide you with very different living experiences. For example, you could live in a city, a more rural area, or on the beach. To figure out where you want to live, you should think about your lifestyle and why you are moving to Puerto Rico. That will put you in a better position to make the right choices for your needs. Make a list of what you want, and use that to help you find the right location and home for yourself.

Sell Your Home

You also need to make sure that you have your affairs in order with your current home before you leave. Selling your home can help you to free up some cash, which will allow you to have more options when you get to the island. It can take a while, though, so you need to start the process of selling your house as early as possible. You should also think about the kind of buyers you want to look into because they each have their benefits that you can potentially take advantage of. For example, cash buyers let you sell fast and without paying commissions.

Understand Your Financial Situation

Some people choose to move to Puerto Rico because they can work remotely, and they would rather do that work in a tropical location. Before you decide to make a move like this though, Before you go, you should understand the costs of that decision. You should look into the cost of living and any tax rules that you will need to abide by with your work. Also, make sure that you feel confident you can have all of your needs met in your new locale. Taking the time to do this before your move will help you to have a more positive experience.

Moving to Puerto Rico can be an amazing experience, but you want to make sure you plan it out well first. Once you have a plan in place, you can work towards your goals in your new location. Take your time, and plan out an amazing new life for yourself in a totally new location.

Check out this article on how to stay healthy when traveling!

5 Things You Didn’t Know about Puerto Rico

 

When someone mentions Puerto Rico, two things come to mind – beautiful women and dreamy beaches. In fact, for most people, that is enough to want to go there immediately. Yes, it is true that the beaches of Puerto Rico are everybody’s vision of paradise and that this country has provided the winner of the Miss Universe pageant the miraculous five times. Nevertheless, some very interesting things you didn’t know about Puerto Rico will make you put it on your travel wish list. Here is our choice of five such things we find most interesting.

1.     Puerto Rico has uninhabited islands

Puerto Rico consists of many islands, of which only three are inhabited. The others that do not have any permanent residents offer so many opportunities to explore nature’s best-off works. Out of so many, each a story on its own, you should start with the following that is the most popular.

             Palomino Island

To start with the most relaxing and family-friendly one, Palomino Island is our first suggestion. To access it, you need to be a guest of the El Conquistador Resort. It offers the absolute perfection of a beach with calm, shallow water and soft, white sand. And if you were wondering whether this place would bore you, well, it won’t. There is a range of activities to do there, such as snorkeling, horseback riding, and every other sporty activity you can do in the water. Kids will have a blast there, and so will you.

            Monkey Island

This one is technically not uninhabited, as a colony of monkeys is living here. In the 1930s, monkeys were brought to this little island to be studied. Today their monkey community is strong, and it even managed to survive Hurricane Maria, which seriously damaged this primate’s home and nearly killed them all. But thanks to their cleverness and survival instinct, the monkeys made it, and people are now helping to rebuild their home island. Unfortunately, only scientists can step onto this unusual monkey land, but there are boat trips that allow tourists to observe it.

             Isla de Mona

A go-to place for all adventures, especially of a snorkeling and scuba diving type, Isla de Mona attracts many visitors each year. An interesting fact is that this island has a limit regarding the number of people that can be there at any given time – 100.

            Desecheo Island

They call it the diving paradise. And by “they,” we mean a huge number of people writing in superlatives about this island after visiting it. People are not allowed to step onto the island, but the diving locations near its coast are the utmost dream of diving and snorkeling professionals. The rave reviews this island is getting online make it well worth visiting.

One of the things you didn’t know about Puerto Rico is that it includes many uninhabited islands, some of which are ideal for diving.

2.     Your passport can stay at home when you travel to Puerto Rico

US citizens do not need a passport to come to Puerto Rico, and the reason for that lies in the collective history of these two countries. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated US territory, and all its citizens are US citizens following the same laws and regulations. There are a few differences between a Puerto Rico citizen and a mainland US citizen, such as voting rights. Leave your passport at home, good US people, and enjoy your stay in paradise.

Some enjoy it a bit too much, though, so much, so they decide to stay for good. If you are one of them and intend to relocate from the US to Puerto Rico, don’t worry about the logistics of it. All you need to do is hire the international mover that will get you here with ease and start your new life in this Caribbean paradise.

3.     One of the things you didn’t know about Puerto Rico is that it has its observatory

The last thing one expects to find in such a dreamy place is an astronomy facility. Yet, Puerto Rico is a proud home to one of the world’s largest observatories, the Arecibo Observatory. Unfortunately, in 2020 the largest single-dish telescope in the world in this observatory fell and suffered severe damage. This scientific facility continues with its work and with its constant efforts to inform and entertain its visitors.

4.     San Juan features some of the oldest churches in America

San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and the city fully capable of stealing the hearts of everyone roaming its streets. No wonder most ex-pats choose this city to move to, citing they were enchanted with it, according to the experts in relocation from Los Angeles Transfer and Storage. But, apart from its apparent esthetic appeal, San Juan is rich in cultural terms, boasting some of the oldest churches in America. These churches tell a story about their builders, the times they come from, and the dominant architecture. They are another gem that adds to the sparkling beauty of the capital of Puerto Rico.

San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, has many extremely old churches in its area as well as other cultural monuments.

5.     Puerto Rico is the rum capital of the world

Regardless of whether you a fan of alcohol or not, Puerto Rico has some very cool rum distilleries you must visit. The oldest rum distillery in the world is in Puerto Rico. It is called Casa Bacardi and takes its visitors on a rum-tasting tour. This tour tells a story about the history of rum and the family that founded this distillery. There are some inexpensive souvenirs you could buy here as well. There are a few more distilleries to see in Puerto Rico. They showcase a slightly different production philosophy for those who want to explore this subject in greater detail. These include Hacienda Santa Ana, PitoRico, Destilería Coquí Inc, and others that would make your day.

The oldest rum distillery in the world is located in Puerto Rico.

Conclusion

As you may already know, these 5 things you didn’t know about Puerto Rico are merely part of this county’s exotic charm. If you weren’t convinced before that this Caribbean island group is exactly what you need for this vacation, now you definitely are. And that is true for all types of people regardless of their interests because Puerto Rico has got something for everyone.

Top Destinations to See in Puerto Rico

 

There are so many different things to see and do in Puerto Rico. You'll feel like you are in a different country every time you visit, from the mountains to the beaches, the sights to the food. So whether you're looking for beauty, relaxation, or the opportunity to hike the mountains, you'll find what you're looking for with these top destinations in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico isn't just for the solo adventurer; it's also the perfect spot to enjoy breathtaking and adrenaline-packed adventures, delectable flavors, and immersion in history. It's all just 1,000 miles from Miami, so it's close to home with all the Caribbean vibe, beauty, and history you'll love.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, also known as the El Morro National Monument, offers some of Puerto Rico's best views. This 400-year-old fortress sits on San Juan Island. It's your opportunity to explore Puerto Rico's history while you capture breathtaking photos of the gorgeous seascapes.

It is a fortress in the so-called "walled city," replete with tales of Puerto Rico's colonial days and the Spanish era when the Spanish ruled it. Next, you can explore the Santa Mara Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, the final resting place for well-known Puerto Ricans. Then, walk a few blocks to the Museo de las Américas, a former military barracks, to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Puerto Rico.

Culebra

Culebra is a remote destination where you can experience Flamenco Beach, one of the most popular spots for honeymooners and other visitors. Known for pristine white sands, shallow turquoise waters, and access for swimming and diving, it's a sheltered, horseshoe-shaped bay. 

With the beauty and relaxing waves, it's no wonder Flamenco Beach is often named one of the best beaches in the world. A nearby beach, Tamarindo Beach, offers clear waters that are home to fish, turtles, and rays. Southwest sunsets are best viewed from Punta Melones Beach.

El Yunque National Rainforest

The El Yunque National Forest is unique and memorable, partly because it's the only tropical rainforest among the national forests. Despite its relatively small size of nearly 29,000 acres, it is one of the most biologically diverse. 

It's also a sacred place in Puerto Rican culture, so you get the beauty, history, and immersion in nature. In Luquillo, about 45 minutes from San Juan, there is a series of natural slides and pools called Las Paylas. Walking to the slides takes three minutes from the parking spot.

Gilligan's Island

If you've ever watched Gilligan's Island on TV, you'll want to visit Gilligan's Island, known as Cayo Aurora. It's a tiny island, but it's also part of the Biosphere Reserve of Guánica. So whether you're in the mood for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing, this is a beautiful (and quirky) destination. 

Rio Camuy Cave Park

Rio Camuy Cave Park is famous for its cave system. It is one of the world's largest, with million-year-old stalagmites and stalactites. Beyond the limestone caves, you can explore the world's third-largest underground river, the Camuy River. 

Explore this unique ecosystem. In addition to cave tours, the park houses sinkholes and other geographical features. It's one of Puerto Rico's most popular natural attractions.

Ron del Barrilito

You can tour Hacienda Santa Ana, take mixology classes, and try tastings. Finally, you'll experience Ron del Barrilito, the oldest Puerto Rican rum brand still in production. The 5-star Ron del Barrilito is a collector's edition aged up to 35 years.

Tanama River

The Tanama River in Utuado offers a twist on the traditional lazy river; it'll see you floating into a pitch-black cave. The reward at the end of this adventure is a free facial with river clay. The word "Tanama" is Taino for "butterfly," so expect to see many of them on your visit.

Toro Verde

A trip to the Toro Verde Adventure Park in central Puerto Rico, in the town of Orocovis, nearly 2 hours from San Juan, is a wonderful way to explore the awe-inspiring mountain views. With "The Beast," the longest zipline in the world, you'll strap in for a 4,745-foot drop. You can also experience "The Wild Bull" hanging rope bridges and "Escape If You Can" with ziplines, suspension bridges, and rappels.

Vieques Island

Vieques Island is a popular destination for your honeymoon in Puerto Rico. Take a kayak trip to Mosquito Bay, also known as Bahía Bioluminiscente. In the evening, you'll see its glowing green and blue bioluminescence at night. On the southern coast of the island of Vieques, just east of Puerto Rico, it's a magical and unforgettable experience.

Creative Real Estate Financing

 

Do the creative real estate financing techniques you hear about really work? Yes and no. They likely have all worked somewhere for someone at least once. The important point is to understand the principles involved, so you can find your own creative ways to invest in real estate. Here are ten methods to get you thinking.

1. Use hard money lenders. Ask around or find these online. These lenders specialize in short-term loans at high interest. Typically, you use this type of financing for a "fix and flip." You can get the money fast, and if you make $30,000 on a project, who cares if you paid $10,000 interest in six months?
2. No-doc or low-doc loans. With these loans, no (or low) documentation of your income or credit is required. You can find banks that do these online now. You'll only be able to borrow 70% to 80% of the purchase price or property value. However, if you have 10% in cash, you might be able to borrow the other 10% or 20% from a friend or the seller.
3. Seller financing help. Sometimes a bank will loan you 90%, and allow the seller to take back a second mortgage from you for 5%, leaving you needing only 5% for a down payment.
4. Land contract or "contract for sale." Called other names as well, this just means the seller lets you make payments, and delivers the title upon payment in full. I sold a rental this way for $1,000 down, because I wanted the 9% interest, and the higher price I got.
5. Credit card advances. Suppose a seller will take $10,000 down on a fixer-upper that you expect to make $20,000 on. Why not use credit cards? If your card limits allow for repair money too, this is a true 0-down deal for you, and if you turn the project in six months, you will have paid maybe $1,000 or $2,000 in interest on an 18% credit card. Don't let $1,000 get in the way of making $20,000.
6. Use your retirement accounts. The laws are pretty complex in this area, but you can check with a tax attorney to see how you might borrow from your own retirement account to finance real estate investments.
7. Borrow from friends and family. If you go this route, keep it all business. In any cae, loaning you money at 7% isn't a gift if their money is getting 2% in the bank.
8. Use real estate note buyers. Suppose the seller needs cash. He raises the price, and sells to you for $100,000 with no money down, taking back two mortgages from you for $90,000 and $10,000. He arranged (or you did) for a note buyer to pay him $80,000 cash for the first mortgage at closing, getting him the cash he wanted. You pay two payments now, one to each note holder, but you got in with no money down.
9. Borrow on another property. If you take out a home equity loan for a vacation, and then forget to use it for that, you can later use the money for the down payment on an investment property, without violating the rules of the bank that gives you the primary mortgage. In other words, you got in with no cash of your own.
10. Start partnerships. For bigger projects, you could arrange for five investors to each put money into a partnership, with your share being the management responsibility instead of cash.

Remember, these ten creative real estate financing techniques are just to get you started.

Boriken Restaurant

 

Boriken Restaurant

12800 SW Canyon Rd
Beaverton, OR 97005

HOURS:
Monday: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Tuesday: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Thursday: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Friday: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm *
Saturday: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm *
Sunday: 11am - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm *
* Reservations Highly Recommended

About Us

The name Boriken is the island of Puerto Rico's original name, which is the Taino language. For a good introduction to Puerto Rican food, visit Boriken Restaurant today! We offer a great dining experience of Caribbean cuisine in relaxed surroundings. At Boriken Restaurant it's the customer's satisfaction that matters to us and we strive to never disappoint. We look forward to welcoming you. If you have any questions or require any assistance please call us at 503-596-3571 or visit us at 12800 SW Canyon Rd, Beaverton, OR 97005.

 

Let's Be Honest!

We believe in serving you like you are part of our family. We have a small humble restaurant with only twelve tables to keep your experience authentic and enjoyable! Being that we want you to taste the most authentic Puerto Rican food Oregon has to offer, we take our time preparing your meal which results in longer than average wait time. The reason is because your meal is being cooked to order, no food sitting around waiting to be reheated. We will only serve you the best! Please be patient with us if your food takes longer than you would expect, especially on busy days. Thank you for your understanding! We truly appreciate your business.

The Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary for Solo Travelers

 If you're looking for a taste of the tropics without leaving the United States, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is an absolute must. There is no preparation required for this trip, making it ideal for a solitary adventurer. Americans visiting from the United States need not bother about bringing a passport, learning a new language, or converting currency. I've been to San Juan several times with groups, but I finally had the opportunity to go there on my own and can attest that it's both easy to get around and full of fascinating history. Planning a trip to San Juan by yourself? Here's the perfect Puerto Rico itinerary for solo travelers.

Old San Juan

One of the best ways to start a perfect Puerto Rico itinerary is on a walking tour of Old San Juan, the city's historic center. This once-chaotic town is now calm and quiet, but the crumbling ruins of Castillo San Felipe del Morro show what it was like in the past.

Visiting this breathtaking seaside castle is a popular pastime for many visitors to San Juan. Its history is rife with intrigue, smuggling, and even a brief but bloody insurrection. Aside from that, it's a fantastic spot to sample genuine Puerto Rican cuisine. The sights, sounds, and smells of Old San Juan alone make it worth the trip to Puerto Rico.

Icacos Island

Cayo Icacos is a beautiful island in the Caribbean that is perfect for a day trip. This uninhabited island is right off the coast of Fajardo. It has some of the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico because the water is clear blue, and there are many reefs. You should know how to experience nature when on an island, as seeing Icacos Island is a highlight of any trip to Puerto Rico.

You can't pitch a tent here, and getting about requires you to make your own boating arrangements, which is no easy feat. This tour is a convenient way to reach the island because it uses a sleek catamaran to transport its passengers. One of the best ways to get a feel for the Caribbean, a trip to Cayon Icacos is a must for a perfect Puerto Rico itinerary.

Arecibo, Isabela, and Aguadilla

According to experts from fairfaxtransfer.com, one of the most common reasons people move to Puerto Rico is the beautiful beaches and sea life. From the beach at La Poza del Obispo, where you can see Arecibo's Lighthouse, you can end your morning before heading west to Arecibo, where you can see Cueva del Indio. Drive on to Quebradillas, and have lunch at Carbon y Lea on the way. After lunch, you'll see the famous rock sculpture La Cara del Indio, located just outside Isabela, and the old Guajataca Tunnel, an important railway link.

Keep going westward to investigate what attractions Aguadilla may provide for you. One of the nicest beaches in Puerto Rico is Crash Boat Beach, where you may relax at the end of the day. Visit Survival Beach for a breathtaking sunset if you enjoy surfing, hiking, and sightseeing. The scenery is so beautiful; it will make you want to live there. Dinner can be had at the Food Truck Park in Aguadilla. 

Rincon and Cabo Rojo

Knowing how to pack clothes for travel is important as you will save a lot of time. Packing clothes in this way will avoid wrinkling easily and also save you some time. In the morning, travel to the central center of Rincon, where Café 413 is located, for breakfast. Explore the local shops and Rincon Plaza after breakfast. When you go to the Punta Higueras Lighthouse, you can get a great view of Domes Beach, and, depending on the time of year, you might even catch a glimpse of a whale.

There are several gorgeous beaches along the west coast, but some of them, like Domes Beach, may be too dangerous for swimming. You should instead take a trip to Steps Beach, where stunning scenery and several relaxing natural pools await you. It would help if you tried to get a picture of yourself on the beach's stairway while you're there.

After refueling at The Beach House, keep heading south to Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, where the Pink Salt Lakes and Los Morillos Lighthouse can be found. Once inside the refuge, you're free to explore the entirety of Playuela Beach. Lechonera El Combate serves up a delicious roasted pig as a nightcap. The Boqueron neighborhood is perfect for nighttime exploration.

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque is a popular tourist site in Puerto Rico since it is the only tropical rainforest that is under the care of the US National Forest Service. A stunning 120 inches of rain falls annually on this beautiful forest, which spans 28,000 acres at the island's northwest tip. The coqu frog, an important symbol of Puerto Rican culture and identity, is just one of many animals, insects, and birds that thrive in tropical vegetation.

The natural pools in El Yunque are perfect for a refreshing swim after a day at the beach. The best way to see everything El Yunque has to offer is on tour, so why not book a waterslide and rainforest excursion today? Your vacation wouldn't be complete without doing some of these amazing outdoor activities, however, there are some things that you should avoid doing in Puerto Rico.

Ponce

Ponce, the island's second-largest city, sits on the southwestern shore, opposite San Juan. With its Museo de Arte showcasing works by Puerto Rican and European artists, it is one of the best cities in Puerto Rico for art lovers and museum-goers alike.

Beautiful buildings can also be found in the Centro Cultural de Ponce Sola de Pereira and the Museum of Puerto Rican Music, a repurposed neoclassical home that now exhibits historical instruments. Similarly, housed in a stunning home is the Museo Castillo Serralles. From Ponce, you can go to different coffee plantations, some of which are now museums. Puerto Rico used to be in one of the top 50 coffee exporting nations, so find out what makes the coffee so special in Puerto Rico.

A perfect Puerto Rico itinerary consists of visiting Colonial San German, which may be reached from Ponce in about an hour. San German was Puerto Rico's second city, and it was founded by the Spanish. Historic buildings in this Puerto Rican community include styles as varied as Art Deco, Spanish Baroque, and Edwardian. Visit the red and black cobblestone square of Calle Ruiz Belvis, the town's most impressive cathedral, San Germán de Auxerre, and the Puerto Rican Victorian mansion, Casa Juán Perichi.

Gun Control Under Debate

 

Another Gun Massacre

After the massacre at Virginia Tech, once again the mammoth issue of gun control has been brought up at full force.  Many are highly upset that even after gun control laws have been enacted that the killer in the massacre was approved for a gun and purchased it in less than 30 minutes.  Many have speculated that had there been much harsher guidelines in place, that the sale would not have been completed, and it could have potentially saved all of the lives that were tragically lost in the disaster.

The death toll from the massacre has risen to over 30 killed and more than 20 wounded.  This is aside from the emotional damage that has been caused to the hundreds who are left grieving in the wake, and those who experienced first hand the trauma of the event.  How can such events really be avoided?  Is it possible to avoid such tragedy with firmer gun laws?

Cash for Guns

What about the programs that offer rewards in the form of video game systems, computers and even cash in exchange for turning guns into the police?  Are these programs effective?  In order to truly control guns, there has to be consensus around the country where everyone agrees that it is time for a change and the change occurs quickly, and without opposition.  Gun laws are clearly too lax, and our country needs to take action to avoid scenes like those in Virginia from reoccurring.

The chances of something such as this happening are almost impossible.  Neither side of the political arena can agree with the other side about what appropriate gun control is, and with many residents of the United States being avid hunters whom use riffles and shotguns on an almost daily basis, it makes it very difficult to control all of the actions and movements that occur.

Consider that many weapons used in crimes are illegally obtained; it makes it very difficult to determine how effective the stiffer gun laws would really be.  With a new Presidential Primary due to start in the near future, it will seem as if there will be much heavy debate over how to control the flow of guns into the hands of those who are dangerous, or potentially dangerous.

Right to Bear Arms

Facts remain, that while the election is likely to focus on this issue, there is still the issue of preserving the Constitutional right to “bear arms” as long as it is done legally, and those who already have the weapons currently can potentially be just as dangerous as those looking to purchase the guns in the future.  We are left with the task of trying to avoid the tragedy as much as possible.

Colorado stepped up to the plate with a swift action enacting much stiffer gun laws after the Columbine school massacre in which two teenage boys entered their school donning trench coats and heavy weapons leaving a wake of blood and fallen students in the path.  Colorado decided to avoid future incidents and enact the tougher laws.  It is suspected that Virginia will follow in this path.  The fate of the country rests in the hands of those elected to the public offices to help determine exactly how far gun control should go, and how the changes should occur.

Top 3 Active Pound for Pound Boxers from Puerto Rico

 

Despite the relatively small territorial size of the Caribbean island, along with being a sovereign state of the United States, the proud sporting traditions of Puerto Rico are very much our own. When it comes to boxing, this couldn’t be any clearer, having produced numerous pugilistic icons and world champions over the years.

Boxing is an intrinsic part of Puerto Rican sporting culture, which also makes it popular when it comes to backing our favorite fighters, whenever they step into the ring. This also makes it worthwhile seeking out the best betting options available, which SBO aims to provide in great detail, cutting through all the noise to recommend top sites and great value promotions. But as they seek fame and glory, who are the next Puerto Rican boxers we might be backing next?

While there have been many boxing talents born in Puerto Rico, whether for professional or personal reasons, some of them choose to represent the United States. However, our focus here is to highlight those who currently fight under the flag of Puerto Rico, proud to represent the ‘Island of Enchantment’ at the very highest level in the sport, as we look at those currently rated as the top pound-for-pound talents.

Jose Pedraza Gonzales

According to the latest calculations and rankings via BoxRec, 33-year-old José Pedraza is the highest ranked Puerto Rican boxer in the world right now at any weight, based upon their pound-for-pound standings list where he features at #79. He also ranks at #9 in the super lightweight division category, making him one of the leading boxers in the world at his weight.

Pedraza won various medals for Puerto Rico as an amateur, such as the lightweight gold at the 2010 Central American and Caribbean Games, before turning professional in 2011. From then onwards his rise was meteoric, winning the IBO super featherweight title in 2012, followed by the IBF title 2015, before losing it against Gervonta Davis in 2017.

Known as “Sniper” on the professional circuit, Pedraza bounced back and won the WBO lightweight crown in August 2018 against Raymundo Beltrán, but his attempt at unification for the WBA (Super) and The Ring titles failed in December 2018, beaten by Vasiliy Lomachenko. The most recent Pedraza bout was a split decision tie against Richard Commey in August this year, taking his overall fight record to 34 fights, 29 wins, 4 losses, and that one draw.

Subriel Ahmed Matías Matthew

Known as “El Orgullo de Maternillo” and proud of his Puerto Rican roots, Subriel Matías is a super lightweight hungry for title success, which must surely come his way before too long. Regarded by PBC as “one of the most exciting fighters” in his weight division, everyone knows that his ambition is to be the next world champion from Puerto Rico.

Since winning his January 2022 rematch against Petros Ananyan of Russia, who retired early under the insistent pressure from the Puerto Rican boxer, Matías has yet to schedule his next fight. However, everything points towards him finally getting a shot at the currently vacant IBF World Championship title. Ranked as the #2 contender on the IBF list, he would come up against #1 ranked Jeremieas Ponce of Argentina for the belt.

While other options are possible, Matías is further down the pecking order for the other title belts, including #8 with the WBC and #5 with The Ring, while not even in the top ten for the WBA and the WBO. Nevertheless, his fight record is really impressive, having taken 18 wins and just the 1 loss from 19 professional bouts.

Danielito Zorrilla

Although much further down the BoxRec pound-for-pound listings, Danielito Zorrilla is a boxer with plenty of potential to achieve greatness. Born in Toa Baja where he still resides and trains, the 28-year-old recently suffered an unexpected setback, losing the first fight of his previously stellar professional career.

“El Zorro” Zorrilla was up against Arnold Barboza Jr. of the United States, held at the Pechanga Resort and Casino, Temecula, California, fighting for the vacant WBO Inter-Continental Super Lightweight title. However, despite taking his opponent the full distance of 10 rounds, the American was handed victory via the unanimous decision of the judges.

Nevertheless, there was plenty of experience to be gained even in defeat, while Zorrilla will certainly get many other opportunities to continue climbing the fight ladder. Regarded by BoxRec as being within the top 200 pound-for-pound boxers in the world right now, he is also ranks at #20 in his weight division. Despite the recent loss, his fight record remains impressive, with 16 wins and 12 knockouts from 17 bouts.

How to Make Your Retirement to Puerto Rico a Reality

 

It is a goal that can take a lifetime to achieve – but ultimately, you will be able to retire on the island where you’ve always belonged. It’s not going to be easy, but with the right decisions and preparation, it’s entirely possible. If you’re starting to consider retirement, here’s what you need to do.

Find a Place to Live

Finding a location to buy or rent in Puerto Rico can be tricky. It’s a very popular location because of its tropical location and the fortunate tax breaks that all residents can take advantage of since it’s still officially a U.S. territory, and not a state. The vast majority of the island’s population live in San Juan, which is a beautiful city with a whole lot to offer – but there are several other locations with decent housing markets you can look into as well. Unless you’re planning to purchase a property with cash, you’ll need to be pre-approved for a loan before shopping.

Sell Your Current Home

It will be a lot easier to demonstrate the buying power to an agent or a Puerto Rican real estate broker if you have the liquid assets from your home sale. Even if your sale isn’t finalized, it’s a good idea to already have the process in motion when deciding to place an offer on a property. Selling your current home is likely best done with the expertise of a hired agent. However, if you’re in a rush, selling to a cash buyer is a much faster process than using an agent. With that payout, you can then in turn be a tempting cash buyer to a Puerto Rican seller.

Do Your Research

Especially in a place with a high rate of retirees and other people looking to get away from the mainland, it’s not necessarily going to be an easy process. It will be even harder if you don’t have any family on the island who can help you out. You should research and prepare as well as you can long before making a decision. Talk to real estate agents on the island. Use the internet to read about other retirees’ or residents’ experiences with buying property. It never hurts to be too prepared.

Retiring on that beautiful island of Puerto Rico won’t exactly be easy. But with some persistence, hard work, research, and a little bit of luck, you’ll find the home you’ve always wanted. Start looking now for whatever opportunities might turn up!

Check out this article on how to make your humble abode feel like a vacation home!