Travel

Puerto Rico With No Politics

August 25, 2019 6Comments

Puerto Rico has been a rather popular subject over the past couple of years but unfortunately often not for good reasons.

First the devastation from Hurricane Maria, in which the island certainly is not close to fully recovered. Secondly the fiasco in their government from nearly top to bottom.

Incredibly still issues with power in isolated parts of the island and traffic lights are still not replaced in parts of San Juan

This post however is just about Puerto Rico. The island, the people, the culture, food and it’s natural beauty. I’m not going to get into politics here but I do want to say, on this my fourth visit since Maria, the overall mood of the people seems less tense and a bit more spirited and confident that they are coming back strong.

As I approach my two year anniversary with my beautiful Puerto Rican girlfriend I have obviously become more aware of the trials and tribulations of this commonwealth. More importantly what I’ve become increasingly aware of is the amazing beauty and culture Puerto Rico has to offer.

Enjoying the sun and beautiful water of Gilligan’s Island. No joke, that’s the name of this tiny island off the south coast near the town of Guanica

During my first couple of trips I spent much of the time in San Juan and old San Juan with some day trips to Fajardo and some other local towns in and around San Juan.

Steinway Piano Bar at Cannon Club. A must see in Old San Juan

This go around my girl friend promised to take me to see much more of the island. To me, in no deference to the city, but San Juan seemed like a tired tourist town stuck in the 70’s or 80’s. The one thing that did stand out was the amazing and innovative food scene that was being spawned. Food often as good as or better than anything in most NYC restaurants and usually at a much lower price.

This multi flavored multi textured dish as served up at Jose Enrique’s newest restaurant in Condado. Another not to be missed culinary jewel is Santaella in Placita Santurce.

However, once again I deviate from the purpose of this blog. From raw and tropical to beautiful mountains and spectacular quiet beaches. So many coastal towns with their own special appeal.

I often feel that pictures speak louder than words so I hope you take the time to enjoy this little photo album I’ve put together with notes of interest as I hope to shine a light on Puerto Rico………Without the Politics!