When we think about the US as a whole, we usually only think about the 50 states. However, there is something beyond that: US Territories. These beautiful areas are extremely vibrant and full of culture that deserves to be appreciated for what they offer. Over the next few blog posts, I want to look at US Territories: what they offer and why they are the perfect destination for college students. Today, I will be looking at San Juan, Puerto Rico.
As I have mentioned in my recent passion blog posts, a cost-friendly travel location that provides a fulfilling experience is the kind of vacation all college students need. San Juan is perfect for that- they have several student-friendly hostels that go down to nearly $15 a night. Another benefit is that since it is a US territory, you don’t need a passport to go. Some college students don’t have passports and getting one can be difficult depending on the situation you are in. The best benefit is you can step into an entirely new world, without having to go too far from home.
San Juan is an amazing place for those who crave adventure. San Juan has opportunities for horseback riding, rock climbing, snorkeling, zipline, and rainforest exploration. And even if you don’t like adventure, opening your mind up to new experiences allows you to grow as a person and learn more about yourself because you might possibly find a new hobby! San Juan is also the perfect place for those who like historical artifacts. They have many structures that date back hundreds of years, and all of them have a rich story behind them that is worth learning about. I am personally a fan of the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista in Old San Juan. The architecture is unlike anything I have seen before- the design is so simple yet so powerful. When you walk in, it feels like you have been transported back in time, so instead of just learning about history, it feels as if you are experiencing it.
(https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/catedral-de-san-juan-bautista/8041)
(https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.expedia.com%2FCatedral-Basilica-Menor-De-San-Juan-Bautista-Old-San-Juan.d502599.Vacation-Attraction&psig=AOvVaw0-Ng6SYJC9C6n7_kWijFiP&ust=1697158229557000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBAQjRxqFwoTCNjP5Zyl74EDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAg)
Puerto Rican food also differs from what we consider “American” food. Instead of jello, you have Tembleque (coconut pudding). Instead of eggnog, you have a coquito, a drink made of coconut milk and spices. Instead of chili, you have Caldo Santo, a fish stew. Puerto Ricans like to use what is around them: they have taken their resources and created a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Food always brings people together, and Puerto Ricans have taken that to heart, so everyone should experience that joy.
There is a rich culture hidden away in US territories that I think everyone should explore. Puerto Rico provides you with a cost-friendly vacation that allows you to gain the same experience as if you had traveled to another country, sometimes even more.
I really enjoyed this post, and liked your take on bringing light to an overlooked destination compared to the 50 states. Your details of the adventure opportunities and architectural sites compelled me to learn more about this. I also really enjoyed your comparison of the different foods – as that is what I write my passion blog about! You talked about opening up minds within this post and you definitely opened mine to prospect of a new travel destination! Amazing read as always, and I can’t wait to read your next post!
Hi Rhea,
I really liked you post about Puerto Rico! The structure of you essay was very well done. I liked how you introduced your topic at the beginning by talking about US territories and then narrowed that scope down to Puerto Rico itself. You then targeted your audience, college students on a budget, and explained to us why we should go from a financial and practical perspective. Finally, the way that you talked about what Puerto Rico has to offer, from unique food to historic artifacts, really draws the reader into your message about the greatness of the island. You good usage of photos to emphasize your current topic also helps the reader see for themselves the some of what Puerto Rico has to offer. Overall, you had a fantastic post!