Falling in Love with Puerto Rico... Again!

My Wish for 2012

2011-12-31T13:34:00.000-08:00

2011 will most definitely live in our memories as a particularly challenging year. In the midst of what is sometimes dramatically called a “Global Economic Depression”, we saw contrasting attitudes toward life and making ends meet that most of the current Baby Boomers and Generation X have never seen.

While unemployment in Puerto Rico reached an all-time high, we still saw how many major companies in the U.S. either declared bankruptcy or closed out and trimmed their operations nationwide and abroad, except here. Could it be that at the face of a so-called Depression- which is sometimes inaccurately compared to the Great Depression of the 1930s- we either remain oblivious of our financial responsibilities? Or that our economy is not really driven by what drives the economy at other places? Maybe there is an underground economy that really drives it all and we, the law abiding citizens, are completely unaware of. Whatever the case may be- and this is always open for debate among those who think they know what they’re talking about- the fact remains that while some of us may not really understand the causes, we do see the symptoms, the consequences, the behaviors, and the pain.

Murder- whether drug related or not, whether among murderers or against bystanders, whether premeditated or of passion- has reached levels never seen before in this beautiful island of mine. 2011 marks the most violent year in the history of Puerto Rico. Over 1,100 killings this year, compared with the previous record of 995 killings in 1994. This makes me very scared and very sad.

I do not know what will become of my Island. I love where I come from. I love where I live. I love who and what I am, Puertorriqueño. I am ashamed nevertheless at what we have become. I am ashamed at what we have allowed ourselves to become.

I do not know the solution. I do not know up to whom it is to resolve it. I do not know who has the blame or the influence and power to fix our current situation. But I do know it is a dire one and it will not go away by itself. Some say that “desperate” times call for “desperate” measures. This means that equal force should be used to repeal an equally adverse action. I don’t know if this is the way to go. In every conflict, whether it is war or a simple couple’s argument, retaliation with equal force only leads to escalation of the conflict, until someone wins, another loses, someone dies, and very often casualties of war will be inevitable. I believe it was Mahatma Ghandi who said “An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind”. So do “Desperate” times call for “Desperate” measures? …Maybe. I’d like to think that “Desperate” times call for “Deliberate” measures; measures that are well thought-out and that are enacted with purpose; measures that are methodical in nature, and have a definite and identified purpose, at the same time that they are well-communicated and transparent to all involved so they can own these and act upon them.

I am not one to make New Year’s resolutions. I find these to be empty, clichéd, and peer-driven. A resolution is made out of conscience and at any given time of the year. The resolution made by a person will only work if it comes from conviction that it is achievable and of extreme value, not because we have culturally agreed to do some by a certain time.

But since many around this time of the year are talking about resolutions, I would like to invite us all to take on one meaningful resolution for 2012:

“HELP STOP THE VIOLENCE”

Violence in any shape or form; whether domestically, at work, on the street or elsewhere; violence is violence, and violence begets violence. A key to help stop the violence is to increase our level of TOLERANCE and PATIENCE. It is not about understanding; it is not about who is right and who is wrong. While “understanding” may not always be achievable, I think it is more about “accepting”. Accepting that what is important for you may not necessarily be important or of value to others. One of the most amazing characteristics of being human is our diversity. The diversity that allows us to be unique and special, also creates contrasts in our ways of living, thinking, and behaving. Unless we increase our own tolerance level we will not be able to ask others to do the same.

Now, that is what I ask of you to do for yourself. Then there is what you can do for others. You and I alone cannot influence the necessary change. By ourselves we are not strong enough, let’s face it. But we all know somebody who is. Pray to or for, that someone you believe in. Pray so that someone gives us the strength, the wisdom, the understanding to do what is right.

If praying is not your strong suit, take on a movement, create a movement, talk to someone, write to someone, do something. But deliberately do something. Do not wait for others to do for you what you must do yourself. I don’t label myself an optimist or a pessimist. But a good friend of mine, when I asked her “How can you go about seeing what you are seeing wrong and knowing what you know that can be done yet is not being done, and remain so full of energy and optimism?” she said, “I will stand on the side of optimism until others are ready to meet me there.” It wasn’t until years later that I understood her words. I cannot control what others do. I can only help influence their actions with my own and hope they will act accordingly. It is about staying on the course and not giving up just because you don’t see a light at the end of the tunnel.

My intent is not to get you depressed. My intent is to get you hopeful and to act. It was Mahatma Ghandi who also said:

"When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants and murderers and for a time they seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall — think of it, always."

Betters days will come. Our humanity always prevails over evil. Our sense of survival will always ensure that even over our differences we unite in collaboration and achieve magnificent things. Change will come, and we will survive. It is inevitable. The question is “when?” not “how?”. We will always find a way. Many will suffer on the road to better days. You or your loved ones may be among those. Know you are not alone. Do not despair. There will always be someone there to help you through it and carry you while you are able to fend for yourself. You just need to look, and you will find.

The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

He leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul:

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name' sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil: For thou art with me;

Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;

Thou annointest my head with oil; My cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever.

--Psalm 23

***SPANISH TRANSLATION***

Mi deseo para el 2012

El año 2011 vivirá definitivamente en nuestros recuerdos como un año particularmente difícil. En medio de lo que a veces ha sido denominado como una "Depresión Económica Global", vimos contrastantes en nuestros modos de vida y las maneras de conseguir nuestro sustento nunca vistos por los "Baby Boomers" y la “Generación X”.Mientras que el desempleo en Puerto Rico alcanzó récords nunca antes vistos, vimos aún así grandes empresas de los Estados Unidos que se declaraban en quiebra o cerraron operaciones excepto aquí. ¿Es posible que en la cara de una denominada “Depresión”- a veces comparada erróneamente con la Gran Depresión de la década de los 1930 – nos mantenemos ignorantes de nuestras responsabilidades financieras? ¿O que nuestra economía no está realmente impulsada por lo que impulsa la economía en otros lugares? Tal vez exista una economía subterránea que realmente impulsa todo, y nosotros los ciudadanos que obedecemos la ley, no estamos completamente entendidos de su existencia. Cualquiera que sea el caso lo cierto es que mientras algunos de nosotros no podemos comprender realmente las causas, sí vemos los síntomas, las consecuencias, los comportamientos y el dolor.

Los asesinatos – ya sean relacionadas al trasiego de drogas o no, ya sea entre ellos mismos como criminales o contra transeúntes, premeditada o de pasión -han alcanzado niveles nunca antes vistos en nuestra hermosa isla. El 2011 marca el año más violento en la historia de Puerto Rico. Más de 1,100 asesinatos este año en comparación con el récord anterior de 995 homicidios en el 1994. Esto es algo que me pone muy triste y temeroso.

No sé qué va a ser de mi isla. Amo de donde vengo. Amo en donde vivo. Amo lo que soy, Puertorriqueño. Me avergüenza no obstante en lo que nos hemos convertido. Me avergüenza en lo que nos hemos permitido convertir.

No conozco la solución. No sé a quien le toca resolverlo. No sé quién tiene la culpa o la influencia y el poder para solucionar nuestra situación actual. Pero sí sé que es una situación aterradora y no se solucionará por sí sola. Algunos dicen que en momentos de "desesperación" se requieren medidas "desesperadas". Esto significa que debe utilizarse igual fuerza para derogar una acción igualmente negativa. No sé si este es la solución a seguir. En cada conflicto, ya sea guerra o un simple argumento de pareja, represalias tomadas con igual fuerza sólo conduce al escalamiento del conflicto, hasta que alguien gane, otro pierda, alguien muera, y muy a menudo, las víctimas de guerra suelen ser inevitables. Creo que fué Mahatma Ghandi, quien dijo " Ojo por ojo y al final el mundo acabará ciego". ¿Es prudente entonces decir que en momentos de "Desesperacion" se requieren medidas "Desesperadas"? …Tal vez.

Me gustaría pensar que momentos de "Desesperación" se requieren medidas "Deliberadas"; medidas que están bien pensadas y que se promueven con propósito; medidas metódicas en su naturaleza, y que tienen un propósito definido e identificado, y que al mismo tiempo que son comunicadas efectivamente y que se transmiten transparentemente a todos los involucrados para que puedan tomar propiedad de estas y actuar sobre las mismas.

No soy partidario de hacer resoluciones de año nuevo. Encuentro estas vacías, cliché, e impulsadas por presión cultural. Una resolución se hace de conciencia y en cualquier momento del año. La resolución hecha por una persona sólo funciona si nace de convicción, de que es posible hacerlo y de que tiene valor, no se hace solo porque hemos acordado culturalmente hacerlas.

Pero dado que muchos en esta época del año hablan de resoluciones, me gustaría invitar a todos nosotros a tomar una resolución significativa para el año 2012:

"AYUDEMOS A DETENER LA VIOLENCIA"

La violencia en cualquiera de sus formas; ya sea domestica, en el trabajo, en la calle o en cualquier lugar; la violencia es violencia, y de la violencia se engendra violencia. Una pieza clave para ayudar a detener la violencia es aumentar nuestro propio nivel de tolerancia y paciencia. No se trata de tener más comprensión o entendimiento; no es acerca de quién tiene razón y quién no. Mientras que la "comprensión" o el “entendimiento” no son siempre posibles, creo que se trata de nuestra habilidad de "Aceptar". Aceptar que lo que es importante para uno, no necesariamente es importante o de valor para los demás. Nuestra diversidad es una de las características más sorprendentes del ser humano. La diversidad que nos permite ser únicos y especiales, también crea contrastes en nuestra manera de vivir, nuestros pensamientos y nuestro comportamiento. A menos que trabajemos en nuestro propio nivel de tolerancia no podremos pedir a otros que hagan lo mismo.

Ahora, esto es lo que pido de ustedes para hacer por ustedes mismos. ¿Y que podemos hacer por los demás? ¿Los que no piensan o se comportan como tu? Tú y yo solos no podemos logar el cambio necesario, pero lo podemos influenciar. Seamos realistas, solos puede que no seamos lo suficientemente fuertes. Pero todos conocemos a alguien que lo es. Orar a ese alguien en quien tú crees. Oremos a ese alguien para que nos de la fuerza, la sabiduría, el entendimiento para hacer lo que es correcto. Si la oración no es su una de tus virtudes, toma algún movimiento, crea algún movimiento, habla con alguien, escríbele a alguien, pero haz algo. Deliberadamente haz algo. No esperes a que otros hagan por ti lo que tú debes hacer ti mismo. Yo no me autodenomino como optimista o pesimista. Pero cuando le pregunté a una buena amiga en algun momento, "¿cómo puedes continuar viendo lo que estás viendo incorrecto, sabiendo lo que sabes y que se puede hacer mejor y aún así no se hace, y sigues estando tan llena de energía y optimismo?", ella dijo, "siempre me mantendré en el lado del optimismo hasta que los demás estén listos para encontrarse conmigo allí." No fue sino años después que entendí sus palabras. No puedo controlar lo que los demás hacen. Sólo puedo ayudar a influir en sus acciones con mis propias acciones y esperar que estos actúen de igual manera eventualmente. Se trata de mantenerse en curso y no rendirse porque no se ve una luz al final del túnel.

Mi intención no es que te deprimas. Mi intención es darte esperanza para actuar. Fue Mahatma Ghandi, quien también dijo:

"cuando me encuentro en momentos de desesperación, recuerdo que a lo largo de la historia, la verdad y amor siempre han triunfado. Ha habido tiranos y asesinos, y durante un tiempo parecen invencibles, pero al final, siempre caen. --piensa en esto, siempre. "

Vendrán días mejores. Nuestra humanidad siempre ha prevalecido sobre el mal. Nuestro sentido de supervivencia siempre garantizará que aún con nuestras diferencias nos unamos en colaboración para lograr cosas magníficas. El cambio vendrá, y sobreviviremos. Es inevitable. La pregunta no es "Cómo?", la pregunta es "¿Cuando?". Siempre encontraremos una forma. Muchos van a sufrir en lo que vemos días mejores. Puede que entre estos estés tú o alguno de tus seres queridos. Sabes que no estás solo. No te desesperes. Siempre habrá alguien allí para ayudarte y que te cargará hasta que seas capaz de valerte por ti mismo. Sólo necesitas buscar y lo encontrarás.

El Señor es mi Pastor; nada me faltará.

En lugares de delicados pastos me hará descansar;

junto a aguas de reposo me pastoreará.

Confortará mi alma; me guiará por sendas

de justicia por amor de su nombre.

Aunque ande en valle de sombra de muerte,

no temeré mal alguno, porque Tú estarás conmigo;

tu vara y tu cayado me infundirán aliento.

Aderezas mesa delante de mí en presencia

de mis angustiadores; unges mi cabeza con

aceite; mi copa está rebosando.

Ciertamente el bien y la misericordia me

seguirán todos los días de mi vida, y en la

casa del Señor moraré por largos días.

--Salmo 23

Puerto Rico’s Wild Wild West!

2011-12-26T19:57:00.000-08:00

Okay… so maybe it is not so wild. But, it definitely holds some of the most naturally, wild, and beautiful sights in all of the Island of Enchantment.

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company labeled it “Porta del Sol” which means “Port of the Sun” …in ITALIAN, not Spanish. I guess they did so in hopes to lure more tourists to the west side of the island by making it sound sexier or European-like. I guess that when you use European-sounding words everything sounds more interesting; like “Crème Brûlée” which literally means “Burnt Cream” in French, but I guess Burnt Cream doesn’t sound as appealing. In any case, the area as delineated by the Company and labeled Porta del Sol (I really don’t like the name), covers the municipalities of Quebradillas, Isabela, San Sebastián, Moca, Aguadilla, Aguada, Rincón, Añasco, Mayagüez, Las Marías, Maricao, Hormigueros, San Germán, Sábana Grande, Guánica, Lajas and Cabo Rojo.

In the next few weeks I will be posting about some of the experiences I’ve had in the western region of PR. I will write about Surfing events, Cave Diving, Historical sites and just pure beautiful scenery. I hope you like it, so stay tuned.

Pirates, Exotic Beaches and Adventure... It's not a Movie, It's Culebra Island!

2011-06-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

It was Father’s Day Weekend 2009. By that time the Off Road Xpeperience Scout Team had already camped out together a few times. A friend of ours had made it a tradition to camp out at Flamenco Beach in the island of Culebra on Father’s Day weekend for a few years now. During our last camp out together at another site he extended an invitation for us to join him on his next visit to the island. In the past he had done it alone. I guess that until now he had not found a group of friends that shared his taste for adventure.

Camping in Culebra requires a little bit more of planning than it would to camp elsewhere on the main island of Puerto Rico. But before I give you some tips about camping in Culebra let me share some facts about this beautiful Island Town.

A FEW HISTORICAL FACTS

Roberto Cofresí (1791 - 1825).
Puertorrican Pirate
(Cabo Rojo Monument)

Culebra Island’s original name was “Isla Pasaje” (Passage Island). This name may have been given due to the fact that this island served as a refuge for pirates for over three centuries. In order to protect the island and stop the protection it gave to pirates, in 1875 the first governor of the island was announced, a Black Englishman named Stevens, who was assassinated later that same year. A BLACK Governor? On a Prirate Infested Island? In the 1800s? Murderded? How did that happen?

Culebra was later named “San Idelfonso’s Island” in the1880s after San Idelfonso de La Culebra, Bishop of Toledo. So you’ll see, although “Culebra” literally means “snake”, the current name of the island may have nothing to do with snakes at all. I did some research and I found out that the name Culebra may have been given due to the wavy appearance the island gives as you sail toward it. Although the actual contour of the island as seen from above does not resemble anything like a snake, sailors from that era as they came from the main island may have seen it as such.

A female Puerto Rican racer
(nominate race, Borikenophis portoricensis prymnus)
raises its head and flattens its throat in a threat.
Guanica State Forest, south-western Puerto Rico.
(Photograph courtesy of Mr. Mel Jose Rivera).

There is a snake mostly endemic to the islands of Mona, Culebra, Culebrita and Vieques, which has also been found in the U.S. Virgin Island and the Island of Hispaniola. The Puerto Rican Racer (alsophis portoricensis richardi). A small snake known to use venom to subdue lizard prey, but whose relatively small size and hesitation to bite are the primary reasons it is not considered more of a hazard to humans. (see Biological and proteomic analysis of venom from the Puerto Rican Racer (Alsophis portoricensis: Dipsadidae) by Caroline L. Weldon, Stephen P. Mackessy). No research I’ve done has led me to believe that the island may have been named after this snake. More than likely it is due to its appearance.

For such a small piece of paradise, (10.8 sq mi) this island does have its share of history and struggle. In 1939, Isla Culebra witnessed the U.S. Navy beginning to use the island as a bombing practice site as a preparatory step for the United States' involvement in World War II. After decades of bombing practices, the Culebra folk initiated a series of protests in 1971 that ultimately led to the U.S. Navy moving its operations to nearby Vieques Island in 1975. An action that led to a long struggle which made the neighboring island of Vieques internationally known as the site of a series of protests and civil disobedience against the U.S. Navy's use of the island as a bombing range and testing ground, which eventually led to the Navy's departure in 2003.

THE BEACHES

Culebra has some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire planet:

• Flamenco Beach

• Brava Beach

• Las Vacas Beach

• Larga Beach

• Pueblo Español

• Punta Soldado Beach

• Resaca Beach

• Tamarindo Beach

• Tortuga Beach

View Larger Map
Flamenco Beach, which I believe to be among some of the most beautiful, pristine beaches I’ve ever visited, is the only place in Culebra where you are allowed to camp. The Flamenco campsite is located on the northwest shore of the island. It is operated by the Autoridad de Conservación y Desarrollo de Culebra (government). Nestled between mangroves, pines and the ocean sounds and breezes, the campground offers an exceptional site to pitch your tent that will allow you to relax and enjoy this precious moment with your friends and family.

TRANSPORTATION

Before you set sails to this little piece of Caribbean Paradise, there are a few things that you should know in order to prepare. Getting to the island could be an adventure by itself. You can get there three ways:

• Take a flight from Fajardo

o Air Flamenco (787) 724-1818

o Isla Nena (877) 812-5144, (877) 812-5144

o Island Birds (284) 495-1988

o Culebra Air (787) 427 4808

o Vieques Air Link (787) 741-8331

• Get on the Fajardo Ferry

o Culebra (787) 742-3161

o Fajardo (787) 863-0705, (787) 863-0852, (787) 860-8618

• Or charter a boat

o Ocean Safari Kayaks (787) 379-1973

o Carousel Custom Charters (787) 396-3650

o Liberty Sail Charters (443) 831-1911

o Island Cruisers Power Boats (787) 717-2000

o Culebra Boats (787) 360-9807

o Guilin's Water Taxi (787) 742-0575

o Culebra Boat Docking (787) 742-3559

o Culebra Water Taxi (787) 360-9807

o Tanamá Glass Bottom Boat (787) 501-0011

o Culebra Water Toys (787) 742-1122

So let’s say you decide to fly. It is not that expensive, about $105 round trip. You do need to consider the fact that the flight will be in a fully FAA Certified Twin Rotary Engine Piper Navajo or Britten Norman Islander type. These are excellent aircrafts, very well maintained and flown by highly experienced pilots. But, if you have an issue with hairy landings you may want to consider the ferry. By hairy I mean that, on its final approach before landing at the Culebra Airport, the aircraft has to bank left between two hills, go below the tops on a semi dive and then quickly level, just seconds before it touches down. So, if you are not into roller coasters, this may not be the landing for you.

Then there is the Ferry. The Fajardo-Culebra Ferry is managed by the Autoridad de Transporte Maritimo de Puerto Rico on the Culebra II ferry for passengers and the Cargo Ferry if you decide to take your vehicle. (see schedule)

The Fajardo-Culebra Ferry has an arrangement where it gives residents of Culebra island preference on boarding. You need to make sure that you are at the Ferry dock well ahead of time to reduce the possibilities of hassles. If traveling by Ferry, plan well ahead and don’t be in a rush. It’s not the fastest process there is.

WHERE TO EAT

For such a small island, there are definitely a variety of choices to choose from when looking for different dining experiences.

• Barbara Rosa's (787) 397-1923

• Café del Puerto (787) 671-4467

• Club Seabourne (787) 742-3169

• Coconut's Beach Grill (787) 671-4467

• Dakity Restaurant (787) 742-0535

• Dinghy Dock (787) 742-0581

• Heather's Pizza (787) 742-3175

• Juanita Bananas (787) 742-3855

• Mamacita's Bar & Restaurant (787) 742-0322

• Shipwreck Bar & Grill (787) 742-0535

• Susie's (787) 742-0574

• The Spot (787) 742-0203

During this visit we got to dine and drink at Mamacita’s Guest House. Mainly because before we got to the Island of Culebra, we had already been recommended that we cannot say we went to Culebra if we didn’t have a Bushwalker at Mamacita’s. (See Recipe on comments below) I must agree with that recommendation and must then pass it forward. Do not go to Culebra without a stop at Mamacitas, eat their fine food and have a Bushwalker ~~or their signature drink, the Culebrita~~. (Culebrita no longer available)

Another place we were recommended but didn’t get to go was Dinghy Dock. I’ve been told that Dinghy Dock’s breakfast is the best on the island. So if you are at Culebra and you feel like getting of bed or the tent early, do like I will next time, and judge Dinghy Dock’s breakfast for yourself.

WATER ACTIVITIES

The reason I specify “Water Activities” instead of generalizing just “Activities” is because everything about this island says, “GET IN THE WATER!”.

You will not find a big surfing spot in Culebra. The waters surrounding Culebra were mainly designed by the hand of God to tell you, “Sit Down! Shut Up! and Enjoy the View!” Its beaches are just gorgeous. But if you must get off your lounge chair and find something to do, I recommend Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, SCUBA Diving or Snorkeling.

You’ll find plenty of places to get the gear you need to do any of these upon arrival. If you are into the latter two, SCUBA and Snorkeling, let me tell you, Culebra is the place to do it. The coral reef near the island received a beating during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, but the good news is that nature is just too strong, and the coral reef in this area is full of life. 30 years of US Navy bombings on the island did more than any hurricane could have ever done, but life has replenished since. With its proximity to the Puerto Rico Trench, its depths, its walls, in short; the whole particular underwater landscape created by the scars left by this sad but true part of Culebra’s history, make for an amazing experience that will be engraved in your minds forever.

IF CAMPING, HERE IS A HELPFUL PACKING LIST

**Items with two asterisks are highly suggested items.

FOR THE TRIP

• Wallets & Purses

• Debit/Credit Cards**

• Cash

• Medicines (Prescription & Over-The-Counter)

• Are the pets being taken car off?

• Transportation Arrangements**

o Land?

o Sea?

o Air?

SHELTER FOR THE CAMPSITE

• Tent**

• Broom and Dust Pan

• Sleeping Bags or quilt**

• Foam Padding roll (for Sleeping Bags)

• Sheets (if you take an air mattress)

• Air Mattress, Air Pump & Repair Kit

• Pillows

• Extra Tent Pegs

• Hammer

• Lanterns or Flashlights**

• Rope

CLOTHING

• Bathing Suits**

• T-Shirts**

• Underwear**

• Sandals ó water-mocs**

• Hat

• Socks

• Waterproof Ponchos**

• Light Coat or Sweater**

• Laundry Bag

HYGIENE PRODUCTS

• SunBLOCK**

• Brush and Comb**

• Toothbrush**

• Toothpaste**

• Shaving Razor

• Shaving Cream

• Soap**

• Toilet Paper**

• Shampoo and Conditioner

• Afterburn Lotion**

• Q-Tips

• Nail Trimmer

• Feminine Hygiene items**

• Bath Towels

• Deodorant**

ELECTRONICS

• Digital Camera & Memory Card

• Cell Phone and Wall/Car Charger

• Batteries**

• Travel Alarm Clock

• MP3/Music Players

• Walkie-Talkies

COOKING

• 5 Gallon Water Jug**

• Ice Cooler (With Ice)**

• Propane Stove**

• Extra Propane Gas Bottles**

• Can Opener**

• Matches/Lighter**

• Charcoal**

• BBQ Grill**

• Dining Ware**

• Flat Ware**

• Utensils**

• Pam**

• Condiments**

• BBQ Utensils**

• Kitchen Ware**

• Dish Washing Soap**

• Trash Bags**

MISCELANEOUS

• Bug Repellent

• Compass

• Whistle

• Snorkeling Gear

• First Aid Kit

• Binoculars

• Duct Tape

• GPS

• Canteen/Camel Back

• Hand Wipes/Hand Sanitizer

• Radio

• Pocket Knife

• LOUNGE CHAIR**

Visit Culebra and enjoy it like it should be enjoyed… SLEEPING UNDER THE STARS!!!

Camping at “Monte del Estado” in Maricao. BRRRRRR!!!!

2011-05-24T21:27:00.000-07:00

Camping: I believe that The Coleman Company said it best when they referred to it as “The Original Social Networking Site”. Although I had been in the military for many years and an outdoor enthusiast for many more, my family itself never did develop the taste for camping until I pushed them toward their very first experience.

Puerto Rico is well known for its beaches, nightlife and touristic areas. But one thing even us locals very seldom do is to explore the inner regions: the mountains. We may drive by these, and see them from out far, or stop by a rural establishment and have a nice lunch or dinner; all very nice for a day trip. But to experience these magnificent areas, in the way they should be experienced, is something a very low percentage of our population do at all. So, for our first experience I chose one of the best known, and different from anything they’ve ever seen, campsites in all of Puerto Rico: Monte Del Estado.

The Monte del Estado Ecological Park. Although officially established as part of the town of Maricao in 1919, its 10,264 acres include 3 municipalities: San German, Sabana Grande and Maricao. It sits at 1,388 feet, (407 meters) above the sea level, and although it is not the highest peak in the Island of Puerto Rico, it does provide an amazing view of the Central Ridge, “Cordillera Central”, and all the other peaks that make up the same. On an island which average yearly temperatures range between 70 ˚F to 90 ˚F, at this height, the temperatures have been known to drop to nearly 60 ˚F or below at night. Needless is to say that this could be one of the coldest places to be in this tropical island. It is especially cold when all you have is four walls of synthetic fabric to shelter you. This is not one of the incentives my family was looking forward to during that weekend.

Map to Monte del Estado

View Larger Map

My wife called some friends and family and I did the same on my side. Before we knew it there were about 15 of us. Out of these 15, maybe 3 or so had actual previous camping experience; the rest, well, in some circles the may have been called “city slickers”, “suburban dwellers” or something to that effect. We bought some equipment; we borrowed some, and at the end we looked as if we were getting ready to climb Mt. Everest. One month of planning for one weekend. This was just two nights folks! But I have to say that for their first experience of being eased away from their sheltered comfortable beds and homes, it was worth all the preparation. We truly had a simple, yet amazing time together.

The road to the site is extremely narrow and curvy at times, but nothing some cautious driving and a couple of stops here and there for those who tend to get dizzy won’t remedy. The site is managed by the state “Compañía de Parques Nacionales”, (National Parks Company). Before entering the site, the first place you have to go to is the Park Rangers’ station and pay for the previously made reservations. There, they show you a layout of the forest, its trails and the campsite itself, as well as mention some of the rules of the site. The actual site is composed of two areas: The Cabin Area and the Tent Area. The Cabin Area facilities are very nice and well kept, but of course these were not our destination. Once you get to the Tent Area, the first thing I noticed is how clean, groomed and freshly painted everything was. Not to complain, but I was actually hoping for something more rugged. The good thing is that the sight of this actually alleviated some of the bad expectations some may have had about how rough we were going to have it.

Before unpacking my Jeep, we explored and looked for our assigned site. Something that caught my attention was how everything was very well marked and labeled. But what amazed me the most was the screen like material that paved the trails and the actual tent lots. I have no idea what you call it, but it seemed that it was meant to prevent erosion from the rain or people from slipping on the mud and falling; it had some sort of traction. I don’t know. I just wasn’t expecting that. I do have to say, if you are thinking of going to sleep on it on a sleeping bag, without a mat or an air mattress, don’t. This screen thing is hard, it does not give and you will feel it on every bony part of your body as you sleep.

We set up camp. We put up tents, lit up a fire on the well constructed designated fire pit, and sat to have lunch. That day was acclimatization day; very nice. Some nice conversations by the fire, but not much activity, except for some amazing star gazing and scenery watching from the two viewing decks at the campsite. There are some truly amazing views of the southwestern coast and the Cordillera Central.

The day after, we did a little hike up to the Torre de Piedra, (Stone Tower). A watch tower built on the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps; Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Green Army”. The views from this spot were even more amazing than those from the viewing decks at the campsite.

After that little hike we then decided to go and explore more, but this time we mounted up on our Jeeps and headed toward “El Salto de Curet”, (Curet’s Plunge). The road to this waterfall is mostly paved up to a certain point. But after that you have two choices: activate the 4X4, or hike it. We went for the 4X4. But we could only do this for just part of the trail, (most of it, really), the hike up river was a little bit challenging. The terrain was highly uneven and slippery. Some good water mocks or slip resistant hiking shoes are a must for this t

How We Survived a "Tromba Marina" at Sea!!!

2011-05-16T06:42:00.000-07:00

My wife, some friends and I, stayed as guests at a property on a private island on the eastern shore of Puerto Rico over the weekend of May 13th until May 15th 2011. We had a truly amazing time. It was an experience that we will not forget any time soon.

One of the highlights of this weekend trip was how we survived a “Tromba Marina”, (Sea Waterspout or Tornado). Although it's still being discussed whether it was a Tromba or not. Some weather experts argue the fact that it could have been a "Supercell", pretty much like the one they claimed went through the Mayagüez area on 2010 during the inaguration of the XXI Central American and Caribbean Games. This claim is done considering the fact that no-one ever witnessed the characteristic flute like formation of a Waterspout. In fact, this cloud formation was highly electrically charged and would very easily fit the description of a Supercell. Regardless of what "it" was, I can tell you it looked, it sounded and it felt very scary.

After spending an awesome, very sunny morning at the beach with a beautifully calm sea on Saturday the 14th, a mysterious cold front covered the entire area all of the sudden. Sometime after 2:00pm a very heavy shower made visibility very difficult and the sea became extremely choppy and unstable. Some sources reported that waves were up between 12 and 15 feet high and that winds reached 60 miles per hour,(mph).

Some of the witnesses said to have felt hail rain as it was reported at the Marina of Puerto Chico in Fajardo and other areas like Trujillo Alto and Cupey. Some boat operators commented that it was the first time that a phenomenon of such type had ever happened in the area. These boat operators, some of whom had more than 20 years of experience at sea denied to have ever seen a storm of such magnitude. In fact, some said that they are alive only through the grace of God.

The worst part of the storm lasted about 10 minutes. After these very stressfull minutes passed by, we could see how some 20 to 30 boats were stuck on the sandbar and on the island's shore. One of these vessels, which was about 30 feet long, got stuck underneath the wharf and ended up with some serious damages, some even say their boats went vertical.

Gladly enough, although people were shocked by the whole situation, no serious injuries were reported. Just some minor cuts and bruises, and of course, some material loss.

Some of these pictures were taken by my great friend Luis, as he was overlooking the western shore and I was doing the same at the eastern shore. We couldn't take any pictures of the actual flute like formation, but looking back at the whole situation, and with all the running for cover, it may have not been such a good idea to stick around for that picture. After all, the storm actually formed almost right on top of us.

Being who we are, and understanding how safe and sheltered we were on that island, we thanked God and we took advantage of the situation. Considering the shortage of water in the island at the time, some of us decided to bathe ourselves with the remaining showers of the waterspout. I have to admit, this was the most fun I’ve had while taking a shower with my clothes on… just thought I should share. ;)

How It All Got Started… Mud, Trails, Beaches and Cows!

2011-04-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

It all got started with a Jeep. In 2008, my wife got me a 2007 Jeep JK Wrangler Unlimited for a present, (actually she gave me permission to buy it). The 4 door type.

The thing about Jeeps is that it gives you this automatic feeling of freedom and adventure the minute you sit on one. The other thing about Jeeps is that almost automatically starts exponentially increasing your Social Network base. People want a ride on the Jeep. People want adventure and get off the beaten path, even if it is for a little while. Also, you start making acquaintances with other people who also have Jeeps.

And so it was my case. Soon after I purchased my Jeep, I made some awesome friends I still have to this date, and have become my partners in some of the most awesome adventures I’ve had in many years. I’m not sure how exactly it happened, but we gave ourselves a name, and even a Logo. The Off Road Xperience Scout Team. (ORX for short). Through networking we heard of a group called 4x4 Puerto Rico who had been hosting an event called Camino de las Vacas, (“The Cow’s Trail”). So we decided to enroll on the next event which turned out to be Camino de Las Vacas IX and was to be held on some trails on the beautiful area of Cabo Rojo and Boquerón. ORX was going to have its first structured Off Road Xperience ever.

Cabo Rojo would definitely have to be one of my favorite places in Puerto Rico, and quite probably in the whole wide world. The name Cabo Rojo, (Red Cape) comes from both the reddish color of its salt-flats and the reddish tint that characterizes the seaside cliffs along its southern coast. It is located at the most southwestern tip of the main island. At 18° 5′ 12″ N, 67° 8′ 45″ W .

View Map

People from Combate are known as mata con hacha, ("those who kill with axes"), based on an old folk tale about a fight over the Salinas, (Salt-Flats), where those from Cabo Rojo fought with axes against people from the adjacent town of Lajas. The latter apparently fought back by throwing stones and are thus known as tira piedras, ("those who throw stones"). But don’t let the mata con hacha nickname fool you. The Cabo Rojo folk are among the warmest, gentler, laid back and most serviceable people I know. The whole western and southwestern region people are well known for this characteristic.

One of the most amazing sights, and among the most visited places on the southern coast of Puerto Rico is the Cabo Rojo Light House, known as Faro Los Morillos, adjacent to La Playuela, (Little Beach), and Playa Sucia, (Dirty Beach), but the name has nothing to do with the quality of the waters. The name is given because during the winter season, an extraordinary amount of kelp is accumulated on its shores, but it doesn’t take anything away from the natural, wild and magical beauty of this place. Playa Sucia is one of the best beaches in the southwest of PR. It is a little hard to get to, since the roads aren’t paved. But most SUVs don’t have problems getting to it. It is part of the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, which in turn is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Among other well known places at Cabo Rojo are:

• Bajura.
• Boquerón Village.
• Cabo Rojo Pueblo.
• Guanajibo.
• Llanos Costa.
• Llanos Tuna.
• Miradero.
• Monte Grande.
• Pedernales.
• Betances.
• El Combate.
• Buye.
• Puerto Real.
• Joyuda.

But one little known place is an area called Los Pozos Beach, (The Wells). This is where ORX was going to meet its maker. Los Pozos is an area known mostly by its locals. It’s an arid high ground on a predominantly flat town. On its western most slopes you’ll find a beautiful and pristine pebbly beache. And its high grounds are mostly visited by Mountain Bike, (MTB), hiking and All Terrain Vehicles, (ATVs) enthusiasts.

The Camino de Las Vacas IX event was going to start the next morning. The day prior, I was introduced to Tato and his family. And one thing I must say is, that it was love at first sight with this lovely bunch. We’ve been in quite some adventures together.

Later on the evening of the day prior, somehow we convinced ourselves, that with an also mutual friend that lived and knows the area well, we could do a night scouting run of the area. And so it was, and ORX was on its first Night Off Road Run. Needless is to say that the levels of expertise were varied in this group. The team consisted of three vehicles for this run; Tato with a supped-up Charcoal Black Jeep Liberty Renegade, “La Prieta”, Yiyo with a Yellow 2007 Jeep JK Wrangler Unlimited, “La Rubia”, and mine a Silver 2007 Jeep JK Wrangler Unlimited, “La Chilla”. At the time the only vehicle who had auxiliary lights was “La Prieta” so it took lead.

The initial trail at night was fine, pretty smooth and manageable, ...until we got to the top of what it seemed a dead-end hill. The GPS Phones came out, we looked at maps, and we scouted the area by foot until we found the trail which would lead us to the other side of the hill. This trail wasn’t really made for large off road vehicles. More than likely, smaller ATVs like 4-tracks or even MTB would easily go down this trail. But we gathered, we planned, we discussed and with flashlights in hand we walked on foot the length of the trail to determine whether it was feasible or not. We decided it was. We lowered the pressure of our tires to gain better traction and once ready we gave the signal for all to mount up. As we started our descent I couldn’t help to start thinking, “Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea”. Previously we had talked about techniques for breaking and steering and I’m glad we did, because we had to use them all. 15 minutes seemed like an hour. As soon as we came down the hill, I got off the Jeep, my legs were trembling, my heart was racing, I was sweating and my head was pounding. I literally kissed the ground, and then, …I looked up. Los Pozos Beach was right there. Lit up beautifully by the light of a full moon and nicely framed by mangrove. It was truly an amazing sight.

We then got back on our Jeeps and trailed, not on, but along the beach. We then came up to what it seemed a wide open area with no defined trail. As I’m trying to adjust my night sight to determine our best approach, I hear the roaring sound of a Jeep Liberty Renegade, taking off like a wild beast and kicking off dirt while doing figure eights on the flats. That person whom I just met, and to whom I entrusted my life and that of my friends and family to a little while back, Tato, was going Off-Road-Crazy. So I followed suit. It was great!!! (What? ...you thought I was going to leave all the fun for him?)

We then reached the northern tip overlooking Bahia Boquerón across to Boquerón Beach and the Boquerón Wildlife Refuge. We couldn’t move forward anymore, so we decided to stay there for a while and enjoy the view… and what a view. Really, ...Words Can’t Describe.

The next day we decided not to go with the 100+ vehicles that were getting lined up for the event. So we went ahead for ourselves, after all, how harder could the route be by day, if we survived by night? Well, the experience was totally different. Not better, Not Worst. Just different. During the day the Los Pozos area hosts some of the most amazing views of the western shore. I must visit again.

This experience baptized ORX by fire, and it set the foundation for an amazing friendship.

Living in Puerto Rico… and forgetting about it

2009-06-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. I’ve lived here most of my life. I know that as children, us puertorricans have visited most of our major landmarks: El Morro, El Viejo San Juan, El Castillo Serralles, El Yunque, so forth and so on. But as we get older, some of us may say “once you’ve seen it once, you’ve seen it twice, why bother visiting again?” So, we no longer care if we ever see it again. But there is so much that we have yet to learn about this little piece of paradise.

Only if we get a visit from a friend or relative from stateside, it is that we actually get to feel proud and say “let me show you my island… let me tell you about its history and about how great we puertorricans are”. But let truth be told… many times we don’t remember how great we are.

These days we are known for Ricky Martin, and Jennifer Lopez among others. They are our current ambassadors and do they really tell the world about the greatness of who we are? Don't get me wrong. I celebrate their accomplishments and their gift to society as a whole. But they tell only one side of the story.

We carry the flags in our cars, in stickers and even tattoos. Yes tattoos; these range from flags, to maps, to even Taino symbols. Yet… do we really know what these represent? Do we know who we are? Where we come from? What we have done?

Don’t get me wrong… this is not a lecture. I’m not claiming that I know these things. To be honest... I don’t. I may just be projecting myself onto some of you, just because I know that you are out there.

It’s not that all of the sudden I have this urge for feeling puertorrican all over again. It’s not that all of the sudden I’m this patriotic being that wants to make up for his lack of knowledge. It’s just that lately I’ve realized that there is a lot that I’ve missed out. Why??? ...Because like many of you I got lost in the daily bustle and hustle. In being a parent, a provider and a professional in an uncertain world, which is driven by politics and economical interests.

My idea of a vacation was leaving the island and going to Disney World or a Cruise Ship, just so I could see, guess what? …other islands in the Caribbean. What an idiot! My island has always been right here. It has so much, and yet, I don’t know it.

Well... that’s all about to change. I will get to visit my own homeland more often, and as I do, I will share with you what I’ve learned. It’s going to be a lengthy process, so don’t rush me :) We still have to work. We still have to make enough money and time to make it happen.

So you may wonder “why, if he is talking to his fellow puertorrican readers, is he writing in English?” Good question! This is not just for my fellow Boricuas… this is also for those who want to learn more about the Island that I love, the Island that I have forgotten.

As I embark on this journey… I would like to invite you to come with me if you feel you are on the same boat, or in the case that you are further ahead in your travels; share it with the rest of us. I’m pretty sure that some of us don’t just want to be told ....We want to see it too.

Thanks, and see you around,
Charlie