Thousands of Puerto Ricans marked May Day by joining a general strike in the capital of San Juan to protest austerity measures, from the closing of public schools to increases in university tuition. When protesters tried to converge on the building where the federal financial oversight board has its offices, police fired tear gas and pepper spray.
Protester Raina Ramírez, a chemistry student, described the violence:
“The police surrounded us. They blocked us from each side, and they didn’t let us through. They began throwing tear gas at us, and I couldn’t get out. I have asthma. And with that and running away, my asthma situation became more difficult.“
Model of the “San Juan” whaler built in 1563, it hit the rocks and soon sank in 1565. Underwater archaeologists have found its remains in the Red Bay in Canada. Also a replica is present at the Albaola Maritime Museum, Pasaia San Pedro, Basque Coast, Spain.
Every year, I daydream about the perfect summer getaway. This year, that destination is Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico is the perfect vacation spot for U.S. citizens because we don’t a passport! That’s right- paradise is just a short flight away. I had the privilege of exploring the island with Discover Puerto Rico. Here are three things you MUST do in Puerto Rico.
F L A M E N C O B E A C H, Culebra
I don’t know about you, but I can spend an entire day (or weekend) by the beach. Culebra is an unspoiled island located 17 miles from the mainland. My babe squad– IG bestie Atsuna, fitness queen Karina Elle, full-time wanderluster Aggie Travel In Her Shoes, free spirit Zoe Laz– and I soaked up the sun on our boat from East Island Excursions. The power catamaran services groups of 12-19; you can also book a private charter for privacy. I think this is such a good deal because East Island Excursions takes you to two beaches and even provides a lunch buffet with unlimited drinks!
The first beach was ideal for snorkeling, the second beach was perfect for lounging around. My favorite is Flamenco Beach. You can’t go wrong with soft sand and crystal waters. If the water is clear enough to see fish, then it’s ranked very highly in my book. After visiting, I know why Flamenco Beach is rated one of the best in the world!
O L D S A N J U A N
Old San Juan is the heart of Puerto Rico- it’s the oldest settlement on the island. The district is decorated with classic, colonial architecture. There is a new photo opportunity at every turn. In fact, each photo (above) was shot at a different location in Old San Juan. The splashes of color radiate through every street, easily making Old San Juan one of the most enchanting places I’ve ever visited.
B A R R A C H I N A
After a day of wandering through the streets of Old San Juan, it’s time to stop for lunch. What’s a vacation without a bit of alcohol? When you’re in Old San Juan, you must visit the birthplace of the Pina Colada: Barrachina. One of the best ways to experience a culture is by eating its food. Barrachina is THE place to go for traditional Puerto Rican cuisine. I opted for mofongo along with a tall glass of their famous Pina Colada.
Life’s A Beach in Puerto Rico
It’s not too late to book a trip to Puerto Rico. You can dive into crystal blue waters from your own boat, discover the origins of the Pina Colada, and experience the warmth of the Puerto Rican people. The turquoise waters of Flamenco Beach and timeless magic of Old San Juan will leave a lasting impression. Puerto Rico is the perfect vacation for families, for a girls’ tip, or a couple’s retreat!
