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Tag Archives: Puerto Rico

Hugging in front of a mural

Culturally sustainable tourism

I want to give a little attention to the idea of culturally sustainable tourism. Tourism can be culturally destructive. We all know what a tourist trap feels like – an area that’s adapted itself to tourists so much, the original culture no longer dominates. A tour director friend describes it as, “genetically modified to appeal to tourists.” Generally, you see cultural destruction on a grand…

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Matt January 11, 2013
Flan in a bakery showcase

Cheese flan – easy, fast, delicious.

I’m a food lover. You already know that if you’ve been reading the blog… or examining my travel photos… or if you’ve been on a tour with me. So one thing I do while traveling is look for new foods to try… or just the latest version of a classic. With flan, you can do both. Every restaurant has its own take on the classic…

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Matt November 20, 2012
Jackie shows off her ring

My first marriage proposal

So while we were in Puerto Rico earlier this month, a couple on my tour got engaged! I’m thrilled for Caleb and Jackie, and I’m delighted they had such a special moment on our trip. I didn’t know at the time because they kept it a secret. They wanted to tell some people before others, and somehow I wasn’t at the top of their list….

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Matt October 28, 2012
Orlando Cruz with Matt

Meeting Orlando Cruz!

So there I was at a gay bar in San Juan, singing karaoke and minding my own business, and who should walk in but Orlando Cruz? He’s the Puerto Rican boxer who made headlines earlier this month when he came out of the closet – the first openly gay boxer in history. He’s explained his decision in terms of being true to himself and doing…

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Matt October 24, 2012
A to-go container of roast pork

Puerto Rico’s roast meats

There’s plenty here in Puerto Rico for vegetarians to love. Pescatarians too. But carnivores are especially in luck! This photo shows how a number of restaurants and roadside stands roast meat. From the left, you can see sausage, blood sausage (known in these parts as morcilla), pork shoulder (pernil), chicken, and pork ribs. The meat gets displayed behind a window or showcase, sometimes while it’s…

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Matt October 9, 2012