Discover Puerto Rico’s Rich Heritage
Welcome to Puerto Rico – Through Our Eyes Discover the heartbeat of Puerto Rican culture with curated videos that showcase the island’s vibrant traditions, music, art, and stories. From the rhythms of salsa and reggaeton to the lush landscapes of El Yunque, explore Puerto Rico like never before.
Source: Discover Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's Natural Wonders
Puerto Rico is home to a breathtaking variety of natural beauty that makes it an ideal destination for adventure, relaxation, and awe.
- El Yunque National Forest: The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque is a magical escape into lush greenery, with hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and panoramic mountain views.
- Bioluminescent Bays: Kayak through one of the world’s brightest bioluminescent bays in Vieques or Fajardo and witness the glowing waters lit up by microscopic organisms.
- Beaches: From the famous beaches of Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island to the surf-friendly Rincón to the idyllic Isla Verde, Puerto Rico boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
- CuevaVentana: Explore the island’s stunning caves and cavesystems like CuevaVentana, where the view of the valley below through the cave opening looks like a natural window to the world.
Explore Puerto Rican History
Puerto Rico’s history is a rich tapestry woven with Taino, African, Spanish, and American influences. It is a history marked by resistance, adaptation, and resilience.
- Old San Juan: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history comes alive. Visit the ancient Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, two forts that have stood the test of time and were built by the Spanish to protect Puerto Rico from invaders.
- Ponce: Explore Ponce, the island’s second-largest city, known for its stunning colonial architecture, museums, and the Parque de Bombas, a historic firehouse that’s now a museum.
- La Fortaleza: The Governor’s Palace in Old San Juan, La Fortaleza, is the oldest executive mansion still in use in the Western Hemisphere. Visit to learn about the island’s governance and its role in Puerto Rican history.
- The Taino Legacy: Puerto Rico’s indigenous Taino roots are still present in the island’s art, language, and traditions. Explore museums and archaeological sites to learn more about the first inhabitants of the island.
Culture and Traditions
- Music and Dance: Puerto Rican music is world-famous, from the passionate rhythms of salsa, bomba, and plena, to the modern sounds of reggaeton and trap.
- Salsa: Enjoy the energetic beats of salsa at a local club, or learn the steps in a traditional dance class.
- Bomba& Plena: Experience traditional Afro-Puerto Rican rhythms performed by drummers and dancers.
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican food is a flavorful mix of Spanish, African, and Taino influences.
- Mofongo: A must-try dish made from fried plantains, garlic, and pork, often served with shrimp or beef.
- Arroz con Gandules: A rice dish made with pigeon peas and pork, often the centerpiece of family meals.
- Festivals: Puerto Rico is known for its lively festivals, where music, dance, and community celebrations bring people together.
- Fiesta de la Calle San Sebastián: One of the biggest cultural celebrations in Puerto Rico, held in Old San Juan, featuring music, parades, and vibrant street life.
- Carnaval de Ponce: A colorful, energetic festival in Ponce, known for its traditional vejigante masks and costumes.
Puerto Rican Art and Creativity
Puerto Rico’s artistic expression spans from traditional crafts to cutting-edge contemporary art.
- Vejigante Masks: These traditional masks are crafted from papier-mâché and often worn during festivals like the Carnaval de Ponce. They are an essential part of Puerto Rican folklore and culture, representing the spirit of celebration.
- Puerto Rican Artists: From Francisco Oller, the father of Puerto Rican modern painting, to contemporary artists like José R. Buscaglia and Myra Figueroa, Puerto Rico has a thriving art scene. Visit galleries such as the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and Museo de Arte Contemporáneo to view both historic and modern works.
Street Art: San Juan is also home to vibrant street art, particularly in areas like Santurce, where murals and graffiti express both political and social themes. Explore the SanturceEs Ley art festival to witness some of the best local street artists at work.
Source: Discover Puerto Rico
Life, Politics & People
Puerto Rico’s modern identity is shaped by its status as a U.S. territory and its ongoing discussions about political status, cultural preservation, and economic development.
- Statehood or Commonwealth?: Puerto Rico’s political status has been the subject of debate for decades. Learn about the island’s history as a U.S. territory, its local government, and the current statehood movement.
- The Resilience of Puerto Ricans: Despite challenges like Hurricane Maria in 2017, Puerto Ricans have shown incredible resilience, rebuilding their communities and continuing to thrive in various industries, from tourism to technology.
Travel Tips & Practical Information
- Getting Around: Puerto Rico is easily accessible by air, with flights from most major U.S. cities. Once on the island, rental cars, public transportation, and taxis are readily available.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Puerto Rico is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny.
- Safety: Puerto Rico is generally a safe destination for travelers. As with any travel, be mindful of your surroundings, especially in urban areas at night.
- Currency: The official currency is the U.S. dollar.
- Language: Both Spanish and English are official languages, though Spanish is predominantly spoken on the island.
Source: Discover Puerto Rico
Puerto Rican Cuisine
- Cooking Mofongo: A Puerto Rican Classic
Description: Watch as a local chef prepares mofongo, one of Puerto Rico’s most beloved dishes. Get step-by-step instructions and learn about its origins and variations across the island. - Coquito: The Puerto Rican Holiday Drink
Description: In this video, a grandmother shares her traditional coquito recipe, a holiday favorite in Puerto Rican homes. Learn the family secrets to making this delicious coconut drink.
