Travels in the 2nd half

I have traveled to Puerto Rico many times. It is where the Amazing Ms. D is from, so visiting family is a frequent activity. It has given me the opportunity to really explore some parts of the island. We spend most of our time in the San Juan metropolitan area, and Old San Juan is one of my favorite places. When most people think of San Juan, it is Old San Juan that they picture. The oldest part of this area are the city walls, which were built in the 16 th century to protect the settlement from British and Dutch invaders. Most of the original walls are still standing, surrounding Old San Juan on three sides. Touring the length of the walls is an easy and beautiful walk. Start at Plaza Eugenio María de Hostos , across from the U.S. Customs House. This square, with its ancient Ceiba tree, was a market place in the old days. Farmers and crafts-people would come from surrounding areas to sell their goods. Today the headquarters of Banco Popular towers over the plaza, and...

C.O.P.I. Last week I wrote about Piñones and Loíza as places to visit for sun, sand and great food. However, these towns are also home to artisans and artists carrying on many Afro-Puertorican traditions. They are wonderful places to explore this aspect of the artistic history of the island. C.O.P.I. – The Corporacíon Piñones se Integra (C.O.P.I.) serves many roles in Piñones. Its headquarters, on Calle Arturo Schomburg, just east of bridge from Isla Verde, is a place where visitors can rent bicycles and kayaks to explore the beaches and mangrove forest of the area. After hurricanes Irma and Maria, C.O.P.I. was a base for the distribution of food and needed materials in the area, and as an advocate for the residents of the community.   Bomba class It is also home to Majestad Negra, a folkloric dance company that specializes in bomba , a traditional Afro-Puertorican dance style. The music for bomba is provided by a group of drummers playing barriles, drums ma...