How Puerto Rico is like a Spanish Florida

If you are a travel enthusiast who loves to explore new cultures, then Puerto Rico is one of the places you can’t afford to miss. Not only is it a beautiful island with stunning beaches, but it also has a rich history and culture that is worth experiencing. However, many people don’t realize that the island has many similarities to Florida, particularly the Spanish-influenced areas in the southeastern part of the state. In this blog post, we’ll explore how Puerto Rico and Spanish Florida share many similarities in culture, history, and architecture.

Puerto Rico and Spanish Florida share a cultural mix of Spanish, African, and native Taino influences. For instance, Puerto Rico’s Ponce Carnival is a festival traced back to the pre-Columbian era, while Florida’s Carnival of Miami also bears many similarities. Likewise, Spanish Florida’s cultural heritage is evident in the architecture of St. Augustine, with its narrow streets, wrought iron balconies, and Spanish-style houses reminiscent of Puerto Rico’s Old San Juan. The Spanish influence is also apparent in both Florida and Puerto Rico’s music, with salsa, reggaeton, and flamenco being popular genres in both regions.

The history of Puerto Rico and part of Florida are inextricably linked, as the island was a crucial stopover for Spanish ships traveling to and from Florida. This link has resulted in a shared history between the two regions, with the Spanish colonization, the African slave trade, and the destructive impact of hurricanes being some of the standard historical features. For instance, both Florida and Puerto Rico were struck by natural disasters like Hurricane Maria, devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, and Hurricane Andrew, which hit Florida in 1992.

Elements of Spanish Colonial and Moorish Revival styles characterize Puerto Rico and Spanish Florida architecture. For instance, the El Morro Fort in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that combines neo-classical and Gothic architectural styles with a mix of Spanish influence. Similarly, the Castillo de San Marcos, a star-shaped fortification in St. Augustine, Florida, has defensive walls and bastions reminiscent of the Spanish military architecture of that era. Also, Florida’s Coral Gables Biltmore Hotel and Puerto Rico’s El Conquistador Resort share the same Mediterranean Revival architectural designs that give them a unique and luxurious look.

While both have tropical climates that provide nature enthusiasts with endless opportunities for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and nature walks, both Puerto Rico and Florida have some incredible and unique ecosystems. For example, Florida’s Everglades and Puerto Rico’s El Yunque National Forest are both UNESCO World Heritage sites known for their unique biodiversity and beauty.

Puerto Rico’s cultural, historical, architectural, and natural similarities to a Spanish Florida make it an excellent destination for anyone who wants to experience the Spanish influence in the US. From the lively salsa music to the rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture, Puerto Rico is a perfect place to visit, particularly for budget travelers. So, suppose you have been looking for a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. How about one that makes you feel like you just entered Florida without the long drive? In that case, Puerto Rico is a must-visit place that will satisfy your thirst for adventure and give you a glimpse of island life.