Puerto Rico Takes Another Hit

ABC News reports:

SAN JUAN -- More than 2,000 people in shelters. Nearly one million without power. Hundreds of thousands without water.

The aftermath of a 6.4-magnitude earthquake that killed one person, injured nine others and severely damaged infrastructure in Puerto Rico’s southwest coast is deepening as the island’s government says it is overwhelmed.

Many in the affected area are comparing the situation to Hurricane Maria, a Category 4 storm that hit in September 2017, as hundreds of families who are unable to return to their damaged homes wonder where they’ll stay in upcoming weeks and months as hope fades of electricity being restored soon.

“We have to remain outside because everything inside is destroyed,” said 84-year-old Brunilda Sánchez, who has been sleeping outdoors in a government-supplied cot in the southwest coastal town of Guánica. “We don’t know how long we’ll have to stay here.”

U.S. President Donald Trump declared an emergency in Puerto Rico several hours after Tuesday’s quake hit, a move that frees up federal funds via the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency for things ranging from transportation to medical care to mobile generators. But some local officials worry the help won’t arrive soon enough.

“FEMA is a very bureaucratic agency and it moves very slowly. So slowly that we're still waiting for federal funds from Maria,” Daniel Hernández, director of generation for Puerto Rico’s Electric Power Authority, told The Associated Press.

Airlines cap prices following complaints. Read more HERE

Rumming Through the Caribbean

If you consider yourself an aficionado of fine rums here is some info you can use to check out some of the Caribbean's best!
The new Martinique Rhum Awards is July 4-7, featuring a rum tasting event at La Case Thai restaurant, a bartender competition at Ti Sable, distillery tours, a banquet and much more. Click HERE for more info.

Don Pedro Fernandez would carry his rum around in a small wooden barrel under his arm, giving a taste to those who wished to try it. He had studied the art of brandy distillery in France and returned to Puerto Rico with a copper pot still in 1871, soon producing the islands first rum. Today Ron del Barrilto also has a two-star and three-star variation. You're probably familiar with Bacardi brands, but no trip to PR is complete without a bottle of "Barrilto." Tours of the old plantation house and distillery are available.

And finally, from the DR-
Participate in rum tastings, lectures and workshops, concerts, cocktail contests and gastronomic tastings, among other events, that are part of the 2nd Dominican Rum Festival set to be held 19-20 July 2019 in Puerto Plata. In its second year, the organizers have chosen the impressive panoramic setting of the Puerto Plata Amphitheater.

Puerto Plata boasts the two leading options for touring rum factories – Brugal and Vinícola del Norte, both with outstanding excursion options including tasting and buying opportunities.

https://www.facebook.com/DominicanRumFestival/

sources- DR1.com, caribjournal.com

Historic Hilton Reopens

By Alexander Britell

When it opened its doors in 1949, it was the first Hilton outside of the continental United States.

And for decades, the Caribe Hilton was one of the Caribbean’s signature places to stay, how Conrad Hilton first sent San Juan into the jet-set era and defined Puerto Rico’s glamorous side.

And now the iconic Caribe Hilton is making history again, ready to unveil a dramatic $150 million transformation project when it reopens this week.

San Juan Sights & Sounds

Filling the air in this historical city are the varied sounds of musica latino (DJ's in clubs and live singers in restaurants), waves against the shoreline, red snapper and other fish being seared at sidewalk cafe's, the banter of friends and lovers as they stroll along beaches and streets of Condado, Ocean Park and Old San Juan. 

Whether you visit for business, romance, family or friends, there is one thing for certain- San Juan is up and running and awaiting your tourist dollars! There is a plethora of activity in Old San Juan, with its teeming ports full of docked cruise ships, streets buzzing with tourists and locals alike enjoying various culinary offerings as well as the many festivals and parties in the area. Visit during the day, then in the evening for a delightfully different experience.

The hip and the chic flock to Condado and Ocean Park where it's not uncommon to see a new Bentley SUV or Range Rover pulling into one of the posh hotels or restaurants. Think Miami Beach, but with less attitude. Here you will find many gay and gay-friendly establishments to help you feel right at home.

Most surely check out Punk Burger, 1129 Ashford Avenue, for one of the best burgers anywhere, and at reasonable prices in a colorful, casual setting. Yes, they're open late night as well. If you want something with a bit more ambience and live entertainment for dinner you should definitely visit Ropa Vieja Grill, 55 Condado Avenue (corner of Ashford Avenue). The chicken stuffed sweet plantain au gratin is amazing!

The once popular Oceano nightclub is no longer. It is now a restaurant with traditional hours so don't plan on a late night meal here. However, it is located beachfront so it's quite popular.
There are several bars & clubs on and around the Ashford Avenue area in Condado. Other night spots are a good stroll or short Uber ride away. If you like a good drag show then Scandalo-The Club, 611 Calle Condado, features several RuPaul's Drag Race contestants. VIP lounge is right nextdoor and several others line the street.

Yes, hurricane devastation is still prevalent, but in the outlying areas. The tourist districts are beautiful and fully powered and serviced. If you arrange for one of the tours to the rain forest or to Pinones or other destination, you will more than likely see the effects of Maria.

Otherwise, I highly recommend you enjoy a trip to the island.
Update 3/18/19: Many of the live cams are back up. Look in our links section for one at the Isla Verde Beach.

It's That Time!

I'm excited about our return to the islands. Now, let's see what San Juan serves us! Stay tuned!

Here We Go Again

Back to San Juan. It's been awhile since our first inquiry, or cry for help, when planning a trip to Puerto Rico eight years ago. Considering things have no doubt changed since then we are reaching out for updated information and suggestions. We will be in San Juan in March and would like your input on what to do, where to stay, etc.

Given some of the island is still recovering after the hurricane in 2017 please keep that in mind when providing your input. As usual, thanks so much for your feedback and your continued support of the blog! 

Boricuan Athlete

Puerto Rico Is Best

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico -- Puerto Rico has been voted the number one US Island in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Travel Award Contest. Puerto Rico tops the list, beating such destinations as Kauai, Hawaii, and Amelia Island, Florida.

"We are delighted that the readers of USA Today ranked Puerto Rico as the premier island in the United States," said Ingrid Rivera Rocafort, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. "With daily flights from a range of US cities, no passport needed, and no customs lines to navigate, Puerto Rico offers US citizens an accessible and affordable five star vacation." 

Just one visit to Puerto Rico reveals why the island came out on top in the 10Best Contest. The ALL-STAR island delivers a unique mix of cultural influences, with a tropical atmosphere of beaches, rainforests and mountains. Whether you're exploring the historic, colonial beauty of Old San Juan, hiking in the stunning El Yunque National Forest – the only tropical rainforest in the US Forest Service – snorkeling in the submarine kingdom of coral reefs, or shopping in the designer boutiques of Condado, Puerto Rico has something for everyone. And getting to Puerto Rico is now easier than ever with no customs inspections, no passport required for US citizens, and direct flights available from more than 15 major continental US airports.

A Gift From The Islands

Hump Day

Hector Camacho Brain Dead

Sad news to report out of Puerto Rico. According to Yahoo! News the famed boxer Hector "Macho" Camacho is brain dead following a shooting.

AP-Hector ''Macho'' Camacho is clinically brain dead, doctors said Thursday, though they said family members were disagreeing on whether to take him off life support.

Dr. Ernesto Torres said doctors have finished performing all medical tests on Camacho, who was shot in the face Tuesday night.
''We have done everything we could,'' said Torres, who is the director of the Centro Medico trauma center in San Juan. ''We have to tell the people of Puerto Rico and the entire world that Macho Camacho has died, he is brain dead.''
He said at a news conference that the family expects to say by Friday if Camacho should remain on life support.
Torres said Camacho's father has already indicated that he wants the boxer taken off life support and his organs donated, but one of his sisters opposes the idea.
''This is a very difficult moment,'' he said.
Ismael Leandry, a longtime friend and former manager, told reporters that Camacho's mother also is wavering on taking her son off life support and would like more time with him. He said the family is waiting for Camacho's oldest son to arrive Thursday night before having a family reunion and making a decision.
''Let's remember him as a good man,'' Leandry said. ''He was a good father, a good son.''

UPDATE Nov. 24, 2012- Hector went into cardiac arrest earlier this morning and was taken off life support. R.I.P. Champ!

Obama's New State?

On the heels of President Obama's re-election  comes this interesting news out of Puerto Rico. Will there soon be a 51st state?

A slim majority of Puerto Ricans sought to change their ties with the United States and become the 51st U.S. state in a non-binding referendum that would require final approval from Congress.

The two-part referendum asked whether the island wanted to change its 114-year relationship with the United States. Nearly 54 percent, or 922,374 people, sought to change it, while 46 percent, or 786,749 people, favored the status quo. Ninety-six percent of 1,643 precincts were reporting as of early Wednesday.

The second question asked voters to choose from three options, with statehood by far the favorite, garnering 61 percent. Sovereign free association, which would have allowed for more autonomy, received 33 percent, while independence got 5 percent.

President Barack Obama earlier expressed support for the referendum and pledged to respect the will of the people in the event of a clear majority.

It is unclear whether U.S. Congress will debate the referendum results or if Obama will consider the results to be a clear enough majority.

Big For Boxing!

This is big news for the world of boxing and for sports in general. Thanks to Rod 2.0 for the heads-up!

Puerto Rican featherweight champion boxer Orlando Cruz has come out and become the first openly gay, active fighter in the sport's history. The 31-year-old Cruz represented Puerto Rico in the Sydney 2000 Olympics and boasts a strong professional record of 18-2-1.

Cruz said that he hopes to become a "role model" for youth, reports USA Today.

"I’ve been fighting for more than 24 years and as I continue my ascendant career, I want to be true to myself. I want to try to be the best role model I can be for kids who might look into boxing as a sport and a professional career. I have and will always be a proud Puerto Rican. I have always been and always will be a proud gay man."

US Voting Rights?

Puerto Ricans chances of winning a right to vote in US elections are as close now as at any time in American history.

A First Circuit Court of Appeals decision has set up the conditions needed for the Supreme Court to review the possibility of voting rights for Puerto Rico's four million people.

The issue has arisen previously in the federal courts but never when there was a Supreme Court justice of Puerto Rican ancestry and presidential candidates were working so hard to win hispanic votes.

Puerto Ricans hold American citizenship and can vote in presidential primaries, but not in general elections. There is a Puerto Rican delegate to Congress now but he cannot vote on legislation.

President Obama has pledged to support "a clear decision" by the people of Puerto Rico on statehood. About half of Puerto Ricans support statehood. Most others prefer commonwealth status to protect their cultural identity.

Tom Ramstack for AHN

Sunny San Juan

My friends and I are planning a trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico later in the year. I would greatly appreciate feedback from readers living in San Juan, or those who have frequented the island. All suggestions (or warnings, LOL) will be considered.

Here is what I've found out so far...

The island of Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States. Therefore, the currency is the US dollar and passports are not necessary for US citizens. The island continues to hold to its spanish heritage, but the english language is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas.

Attitudes toward gays are becoming more tolerant, but discretion is appreciated and expected.

Ocean Park has a gay-friendly beach, Condado Beach is THE beach and also has a visible gay scene with clubs, cafes and beach hideaways. The Santurce area is a nice district for gay activity as well.

It is recommended that one use metered cabs only and make sure the meter is turned on!

Ambiente.us is the LGBT publication for San Juan. They provided information on gay social life. Circo Bar has themed nites and is open Tuesday-Sunday. Club Lazer is open weekends, has 3 levels and is located in Old San Juan. Club Eros/Krash Club is open Wednesday-Sunday and located in Santurce. The common theme is strippers on Saturdays. There is also a sauna (bathhouse) called Steamworks in Old San Juan that is popular with locals and tourists.

Accomodations are often gay-friendly and many people like the San Juan Beach Hotel.

Any recommendations on affordable hotels close to gay activity or any tourist activities that are a must-do?

Puerto Rico On Sale

For less than it normally costs just to get to Puerto Rico, CheapCaribbean.com is offering a four-night stay at the 4-star InterContinental San Juan with roundtrip air for $289 per person. Guests will also receive a room upgrade to a deluxe pool/garden view room (based on availability at check-in during Sept./Oct. only).

The InterContinental San Juan is situated beachfront and just a short drive from the airport. In addition to a large free-form pool, the resort has a casino and several dining options

Departures are valid on select dates through Dec. 20 from the following cities:
Add $0 from Miami
Add $40 from Detroit and Ft. Lauderdale
Add $50 from Atlanta
Add $60 from Philadelphia
Add $80 from Boston, New York City, Tampa and Washington D.C.
Add $100 from Chicago
Add $110 & up from dozens of other cities; see Web site below for details

IMPORTANT: When booking online or by phone, be sure to use promo code 100PR. The pricing above already reflects this discount -- just enter the promo code at checkout.
Book by Aug. 19: Click here to book online.

Maybe you'll see Manual and his friends on the beaches of San Juan.

Puerto Rican Deal

For $249 per person, stay 4 nights at the 4-star Gran Melia Puerto Rico Resort & Villas in a Deluxe Junior Garden View Suite. CheapCaribbean.com's new sale, which also includes air, knocks more than 75% OFF what this package would normally cost.
The resort is located beachfront on the Northeastern coast of Puerto Rico.

Depart from the following cities Aug. 18 - Dec. 20 (+$150 through Aug. 17):
Add $0 from Miami
Add $50 from Atlanta, Orlando and Detroit
Add $60 from Philadelphia
Add $80 from Tampa
Add $90 from Boston, New York City and Washington D.C.
Add $100 from Chicago
Add $120 & up from dozens of other cities

Travelzoo Tip: When booking online or by phone, be sure to use promo code 100PR. The pricing above already reflects this discount (based on double occupancy). This offer is part of a larger CheapCaribbean Puerto Rico sale. For example, stay at the Marriott San Juan for $50 more.
Book by July 22: Click here for more information about the Puerto Rico sale and to book online through CheapCaribbean.com. Or call CheapCaribbean.com at 800-915-2322

Puerto Rican Pick-Up

Here is a great deal for travel to Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico has a nice gay scene. There is active nightlife. Clubs include the Atlantic Beach Bar and Club Eros, but there are several others. Gay-owned accomodations are plentiful throughout the island, including some by the gay-friendly Ocean Park beach. Click HERE to discover more about the country. Many boricuas use ManHunt to meet friends and lovers. Remember, no passport required for US travelers and the US dollar is the currency.

For just $374 per person, spend 4 nights on a beach in Puerto Rico, just minutes from the rain forest. Roundtrip air and stay at the 4-star Wyndham Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa are included. This entire package is less than the normal price of hotel only.

CheapCaribbean.com is also throwing in a $100 debit card and a guaranteed upgrade to an Oceanview Room. Plus, a VIP card is included that provides discounts on a number of resort activities (including golf, tennis, spa, tours and more).

Depart Sept. 1 - Dec. 20 (May-June & August +$60; July +$90) from the following cities:
Add $0 from New York City; Add $10 from Atlanta and Orlando; Add $20 from Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa and Washington D.C.; Add $30 from Chicago; Add $40 from Baltimore and Boston; Add $60 from Philadelphia; Add $70 from Detroit; Add $80 from Dallas; Add $100+ from More than 40 additional departure cities; see Web site for details

IMPORTANT: When booking ANY Puerto Rico package online or by phone through CheapCaribbean, use the promo code PR250 to receive additional savings. The pricing above already reflects the discount (based on double occupancy), but prices as they appear on CheapCaribbean.com's page will not yet be discounted.

Book by May 13: Click here for more information or to book online through CheapCaribbean.com. Or call CheapCaribbean.com at 800-915-2322 and mention you saw this offer on Travelzoo.

HERE COMES THE SUN!!

San Juan Brothas is jumping off bigger, better and hotter than ever! With lots of new partners and friends, San Juan Brothas is going to set it off like it has never been done before.

The brothas in the 2(x)ist fashion show are gonna be HOT. There will be 20 events, live performances, water sports, Caribbean day trips and lots of treats and giveaways.

Don't miss out on what will be the sexist and wildest five days of your life! All of this is set against the backdrop of beautiful San Juan, Peurto Rico.

Note: English is spoken fluently in Puerto Rico and the dollar is used for currency. No passport required since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory.

Memorial Weekend-SAN JUAN

In its sixth official year, sanjuanbrothas ™ continues to play host to more than four thousand of the hippest consumers from across the continental U.S., Canada and the United Kingdom.

With more than 30 Black Gay Pride Celebration and circuit parties taking place across the United States, Canada and South Africa, the sanjuanbrothas program is the first and only destination festival marketed to the African American gay Community. This event continues to break attendance records annually. This five day event includes financial, health, and fitness seminars, concerts, local historic activities, aquatic activities, a film forum and literary roundtables.

“This isn’t the first event of its kind for the Black gay community but it is the most successful" says Williams Marshall, President of sanjuanbrothas Inc.

In the meanwhile sanjuanbrothas 2007 is underway and plans to entertain, educate and unite the hippest and most savvy African American gay traveler on the planet. Flying Cow Marketing and Media is committed to becoming the nation’s leaders in destination travel for the African American gay community.

Visit sanjuanbrothas on the web at: http://www.sanjuanbrothas.com/
Or Flying Cow Marketing and Media at http://www.flyingcowmarketing.com/