"Take me down to the paradise city where the grass is green and the girls are pretty" okay Axl Rose, welcome to Puerto Rico. It is not a surprise that many people don't really know what Puerto Rico is. However, if they do know what it is, their perspective of what it actually is is far from accurate. Trust me, as a Puerto Rican studying in the United States I've been asked some VERY ridiculous questions such as if we move around in canoes. I mean, our ancestors definitely used that method of transportation but please, we are in the 21st century. We have cars like everyone else. It is sad that many people do not take time to actually learn about Puerto Rico because it is definitely a hidden treasure that needs to be discovered. Here's five reasons why Puerto Rico means the same thing as paradise.
1. From one adventure to another, there is no time to get bored.
For all those adrenaline craving people Puerto Rico is your place to be. Take a journey to El Yunque Tropical Rainforest, see beautiful distinctive animals and plant species you can't see anywhere else. Take a hike with your family and friends and finish off the day by relaxing around huge waterfalls. Also, you can visit places like Fajardo or Vieques where you'll be able to embark on an incredible journey kayaking around bioluminescent bays.
2. Hundreds of breathtaking beaches.
Sorry, but I need to brag about this. You are probably blown away by this photo. Well picture yourself visiting beautiful beaches like this one on a daily basis. Imagine waking up to this amazing view and spending an entire day in the warm sand swimming around in this crystal clear water while enjoying the hot Puerto Rican sun. I swear you'll never want to leave.
3. It's always summer.
Winter? Snow? What is that? In Puerto Rico it is ALWAYS Summer. While for many people Winter Break means staying at home because it is too cold or there is a huge snow storm, for us Puerto Ricans means we get to appreciate this hot weather even more. Girls get your cute rompers and sundresses ready and boys go ahead and rock those shorts with V-Neck or Polo t-shirts. No need to worry about wearing huge coats and long boots because you don't need them!
4. The food is INCREDIBLE.
Yes, I have to use caps lock to describe the food. That's how great it is. If you love food (who am I kidding who doesn't love food?) you'll suffer from a severe crisis of food-coma every time you visit Puerto Rico. Puerto Rican food is truly one of the best things I have ever tried in my life (and I'm not saying this because I am Puerto Rican). Trust me, visiting different restaurants all over the island will become your new hobby... Even though you'll probably be visiting the gym more often. Eat a mofongo with arroz y habichuelas or some sorullitos de maiz with empanadillas. Bless Puerto Rican food, or how we Boricuas call it comida criolla.
5. The party never stops.
One thing about Puerto Ricans that is true is that we know how to party. Boricuas never fail to get together and celebrate our unique culture since we always find a reason to celebrate. And just saying, our drinking age is 18 so more people get to join the fun.
If you made it through this article and you're still not convinced that Puerto Rico is the golden ticket of the Caribbean, then I truly encourage you to visit this enchanted island because it will leave you breathless. To all those Boricuas out there, be proud of our little treasure because there is absolutely nothing like it. Enjoy PRadise people.