A Remembrance―Puerto Rico's ecotreasures

A Greater Discovery than You Could Ever Think Of

By: N. Michelle Rodríguez Amadeo

Issue: March 2021

[Editor’s Note: In this issue, we render tribute to the magazine’s first publication by republishing it as we are celebrating ecotreasures magazine’s fifth anniversary. We are very happy and grateful for having been able to share our experiences, findings, and learnings during our journey so far.

Enjoy the remembrance as we go back through time to honor our first feature article about Puerto Rico.]

“Puerto Rico’s ecotreasures”, article published in February 2016 ecotreasures ® issue:

Puerto Rico, the destination explored as part of our journey for this issue of ecotreasures magazine, is a tropical island in the Caribbean and part of the Greater Antilles. Two bodies of water surround this island: the Atlantic Ocean on the north side of the mainland of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Sea on its south side.

This destination, a U.S. territory with a commonwealth status, comprises 78 municipalities. Two of these municipalities are located in the islands of Vieques and Culebra found near the Southeast of the mainland. Also, Puerto Rico’s geographical territory includes various islets.

Puerto Rico offers much more to discover than you could ever think of. Besides its famous beaches all around the mainland, Vieques, Culebra and islets, Puerto Rico is surrounded by many other ecotreasures to delve into, such as its mountains, natural reserves, forests, rivers and streams, reservoirs, wetlands, bays, and historical and culture-oriented sites.

This island’s amazing nature and ecosystem allow its local people and travelers to enjoy a multitude of adventures, recreations and activities where nature leads the way and enables a magnificent experience. Kayaking, hiking, caving, rappelling, canyoneering, diving and surfing are among the outdoor sports and adventures that you may engage in at Puerto Rico.

One of the most fascinating amenities of Puerto Rico is that you may enjoy being near its coastline and countryside on the same day. Likewise, you may be on the northern side of the mainland in the morning and later that day be admiring the sunset on the western side of the island. To put you into perspective, it takes around two and half hours to drive from San Juan, the capital city, to the western side of Puerto Rico.

Besides nature, other main attractions of Puerto Rico involve its historical and culture-oriented sites. For instance, you may learn about Puerto Rico’s history and mixed heritage and roots at Tainos indigenous ceremonial centers, African heritage museum exhibitions, and famous Spaniards’ fortifications mainly located in Old San Juan.

Puerto Rico’s deep-rooted history is shown or reflected in Puerto Rican’s culture such as its music, festivals and gastronomy. You may read about Puerto Rico’s history and culture in related articles in the Culture section of ecotreasures magazine.

Besides enjoying the benefits of Puerto Rico’s nature and ecosystem, and learning about its history and culture, another main attraction in this island is Puerto Ricans per se.

I must say from my experience and with a self-forced unbiased viewpoint, that generally speaking, Puerto Ricans are friendly and cheerful people who love to enjoy themselves. Puerto Rico’s tropical climate, nature-oriented amenities all year round and cultural heritage may be influential factors for overall Puerto Ricans behavior and festive mood.

Some Puerto Ricans have passion for water sports. Others take advantage of recreations and adventures in forests, mountains and rivers, or deeply appreciate the countryside sightseeing views and climate. In addition, Puerto Rican families and friends enjoy festivals and gatherings where you may dance to the beat and rhythm of salsa or other traditional music such as plena and bomba.

Though Puerto Ricans preferences may vary for purposes of leisure and entertainment activities, there is one thing that most, if not all, have in common: respect and pride for their history and culture. Again, that is my opinion from my experience and with a self-forced unbiased viewpoint as a result of residing in Puerto Rico, basically, most of my life.

Get ready to read more about Puerto Rico as ecotreasures magazine uncovers this destination’s ecotreasures.

Photograph by Carlos Esteva

*****

UPDATED INFORMATION: Remember to be responsible and follow the required protocol and recommended precautions in view of COVID-19 pandemic (e.g.: wearing a mask, washing hands, social distancing) while exploring Puerto Rico. In general, people in Puerto Rico are required to keep a minimum of 6 feet between people who are not from the same family unit. However, people visiting any Puerto Rico beach are required to keep a minimum of 10 feet between people who are not from the same family unit whether they are at the sand or body of water.

While COVID-19 pandemic exists, some Puerto Rico’s festivities, events and gatherings are prohibited or restricted so check updates about local government’s protocol for purposes of Puerto Rico residents and visitors’ safety and health. Currently, Puerto Rico’s traditional festivals and festivities and any other event, activity or gathering that tends to be crowded by people and promotes mingling among strangers without any control are prohibited in Puerto Rico in view of COVID-19 pandemic.