Puerto Rico
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Rico Vacation rental listings
Many believe that Archaic Indians from South
America first came to Puerto Rico around 4500 B.C. Several other groups of
people would migrate to Puerto Rico over the next 6,500 years, bringing with
them unique cultural influences that have shaped the spirited people and the
vibrant heritage of the Caribbean port that greets visitors today.
Columbus discovered Puerto Rico on his second voyage across the Atlantic in
1493. The island, with resources such as gold, was immediately claimed for the
Spanish, and Juan Ponce de León founded the first settlement in Puerto Rico at
Caparra. The Spanish and some 50,000 Taino Indians indigenous to Puerto Rico
soon became embroiled in conflicts. Even though the Spanish virtually decimated
the indigenous population, remnants of their heritage and folklore have
persisted in the culture of Puerto Rico.
Other influences, namely African and American,
have combined with the Spanish and Taino culture to create the unique and
charismatic melange that makes up the modern day culture of Puerto Rico. Neither
American nor Spanish, Puerto Rico has a proud heritage and population that is
unique in the Caribbean and the world.
Vacationers who visit the island will experience firsthand the energy and spice
of Puerto Rico and its people. The flavorful cocina criolla unique to Puerto
Rico will provide the spice at the dinner table, while salsa dancing spices up
the nightlife. Visitors will find luminous beaches, adventurous eco-tourism,
intriguing art, and much more when they visit Puerto Rico.
Whether you're dreaming about spectacular surfing waves, a challenging golf
course, or the perfect sunbathing beach, Puerto Rico offers the active traveler
a tremendous array of opportunities. Surfing and golf compete with tennis,
fishing, kayaking, SCUBA diving, and horseback riding, not to mention
windsurfing and parasailing, for your active time. Our perpetual summer weather
begs you to enjoy the sport of your choice!
Puerto Rico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and its
hundreds of miles of coastline harbor an almost endless selection for the beach
connoisseur. Beaches come in every size, color, and form, from the pure white
dunes of Isabela to the black volcanic sands near Punta Santiago. You can find a
beach for any level of seaside activity, from a stroll in the shimmering shallow
waters at Luquillo to a thrilling ride in the boisterous surf of Rincón.
With our year-round warm weather and hundreds of miles of coastline along the
Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, most outdoor activities take place in, on, or
around the water. You can bring your own equipment or rent it from the many
dive, golf and tennis shops. You can adventure on your own, or arrange to join a
group of like-minded visitors through tour operators. Whatever you choose, bring
plenty of suntan lotion and be ready for great summer fun, regardless of the
season it may be at home!
Puerto Rico has a major international airport and many travelers find that the
speed and ease of flying into the island is unparalleled. Of course, some
vacationers may prefer to take a little more time and arrive at one of the major
marinas by cruiseship. Experienced visitors are also welcome to sail in on a
private vessel. One thing is certain, however: no matter how you arrive, once
you get here you'll never want to leave.
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