Realizing my Heritage! My Journey to Puerto Rico by Quinn Bunting https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7 Discover the vibrant colors, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine of the Old San Juan district of Puerto Rico through the eyes of a first-time visitor. From savoring local delicacies to strolling along cobblestone streets, immerse yourself in the culture and charm of this enchanting city. Join me on a journey you won't soon forget! en-us 2023-05-08 17:06:29 UTC 2023-05-08 17:48:57 UTC hello@padlet.com Puerto Rico has always held a special place in my heart. Given my family's history, I'd always dreamed of visiting the island and experiencing the culture firsthand. So, when I finally got the chance to visit the Old San Juan district, I was very excited. As soon as I stepped off the plane, I was greeted with a warm breeze and the refreshing smell of the ocean. The district was full of life and energy, with vibrant colors and sounds that filled the streets. My first stop was at a small local restaurant where I had my first taste of mofongo. buntingq https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582415210 Mofongo is a Puerto Rican dish made from mashed plantains and served with a variety of different meats or seafood. The plantains were perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the shrimp on top was juicy and vibrant in flavor. It was a running start to my culinary acquaintance with the culture of Puerto Rico.]]> 2023-05-08 17:13:41 UTC https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582415210 The next day, I took a stroll through the streets and came across a bustling food market. There, I tried a popular street food called alcapurrias. buntingq https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582430811 These are fried treats made from a mixture of plantains, yucca root, and ground beef. They were crispy on the outside, but soft and savory on the inside. I couldn't get enough of them.]]> 2023-05-08 17:25:22 UTC https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582430811 One of my favorite experiences in Old San Juan was exploring the colorful buildings and historic forts. buntingq https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582439293 The city is filled with vibrant hues that make for a bountiful feast for the eyes. I spent hours wandering the streets and learning about the rich history of the area. The forts were especially impressive, with incredible views of the ocean and the city.]]> 2023-05-08 17:30:30 UTC https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582439293 As my next day began, and I continued to roam through the streets with gratitude and awe, I couldn't resist the smell of fresh fried empanadillas coming from a street vendor. buntingq https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582445292 These crispy, doughy pockets filled with savory meat and cheese were the perfect snack to keep me energized on my adventure. I even went back for seconds that night on the way back to the hotel!]]> 2023-05-08 17:34:58 UTC https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582445292 One of the most mesmerizing experiences I had during my time in Old San Juan was visiting the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. buntingq https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582453252 The breathtaking views from the fort were unforgettable, and the history behind it was equally fascinating. The incredible weight of the perspective that I could view this building 5 centuries after its creation was astonishing. I spent hours exploring the different levels and rooms of the fort, imagining what life must have been like for the soldiers who once knew the place as their home.]]> 2023-05-08 17:40:41 UTC https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582453252 My last day ended by visiting La Fortaleza, a historic mansion that serves as the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico. buntingq https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582460356 Built in the 16th century, this impressive structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest buildings in the New World. As I explored the various rooms and courtyards of the mansion, I couldn't help but feel like I was stepping back in time. The stunning architecture and heavy history made it a truly unforgettable experience. ]]> 2023-05-08 17:45:56 UTC https://padlet.com/buntingq/io6yghprrh2kesi7/wish/2582460356