
Imagine a place dripping with culture. Where salsa notes serenade the streets, neighbors take care of one another, and the weather is always sunny-around 83 degrees. A place where a lush rain forest complete with gushing waterfalls and cool springs is situated only minutes from picture perfect beaches with soft white sand. Think of a place where the ocean is so crystal clear that you can see your toes through shoulder deep water; where the population is so diverse that colors blend and everything and anything is beautiful. And imagine being able to go to this place without ever leaving the United States; no passport necessary.
This place is Puerto Rico, and I think I am in love. Going there, I was prepared for a typical, touristy, tropical spring break. I assumed I’d see an island overrun by luxurious resorts full of visor wearing, Hawaiian shirt sporting American visitors. (they were there) But what I found was so much more than your average island destination. Puerto Rico may be a US territory but it couldn't’t be further from what we think of as “American”. It is the home of a genuine Latin culture and for that Puerto Rican’s are extremely proud. It is probable that the Puerto Rico I saw was not what the everyday tourist might see. I was fortunate to stay with my good friend Deborah and her family who live in the metropolitan area of Condado, San Juan. Along with Deborah, her family, and some of her closest friends I got to see the real PR; both good and bad. I witnessed the poverty, the corruption, and the simplicity of life. But I also saw the art, felt the passion, and observed the family dynamic that exists even between friends. I was enveloped in the beauty of the landscape and was entranced by the musical influences. The island of Puerto Rico is truly magical. I cannot wait to go back.
This place is Puerto Rico, and I think I am in love. Going there, I was prepared for a typical, touristy, tropical spring break. I assumed I’d see an island overrun by luxurious resorts full of visor wearing, Hawaiian shirt sporting American visitors. (they were there) But what I found was so much more than your average island destination. Puerto Rico may be a US territory but it couldn't’t be further from what we think of as “American”. It is the home of a genuine Latin culture and for that Puerto Rican’s are extremely proud. It is probable that the Puerto Rico I saw was not what the everyday tourist might see. I was fortunate to stay with my good friend Deborah and her family who live in the metropolitan area of Condado, San Juan. Along with Deborah, her family, and some of her closest friends I got to see the real PR; both good and bad. I witnessed the poverty, the corruption, and the simplicity of life. But I also saw the art, felt the passion, and observed the family dynamic that exists even between friends. I was enveloped in the beauty of the landscape and was entranced by the musical influences. The island of Puerto Rico is truly magical. I cannot wait to go back.
1 comment:
nos vemos pronto! ;)
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