Ponce

Ponce is the second largest city of Puerto Rico and is located near the Caribbean coast of this island nation. The topography of the city is mainly flat, interspersed with many mountains. There are a number of rivers in the region, the main one being the Rio Portuguese. The climate is tropical with average temperatures touching the thirties. Ponce has a population of 195,000 people. Most of the population is of mixed Spanish origin. There are also many descendants of Africans, Amerindians and Asians. The culture is a unique and vibrant mix of the various ethnicities. The major cultural influences are Spanish, Amerindian and American. Puerto Ricans are known all over the world for their unique identity and traditions.

San juan

San Juan was founded in 1521 on a small island connected to the mainland of Puerto Rico by a series of bridges and a causeway. The Spanish, in order to protect the transportation of gold and silver to Europe, built here a series of strong fortifications. In 1595 and 1598, and again in 1797, the British attacked the city, and in 1625, the Dutch laid siege, but each time its defences proved too strong. In 1898, as part of the Spanish-American war, Americans bombed and occupied San Juan and took control of Puerto Rico, which has remained a territory of the United States of America ever since. During the 20th century, the city expanded beyond its old walls to incorporate the greater metropolitan area, and today has three distinct districts: the Old City; the beach and resort area; and other outlying communities including Río Piedras, Hato Rey, Puerta de Tierra, and Santurce.

Fajardo

The city of Fajardo is located on the eastern part of Puerto Rico, on the Atlantic coast. This area is one of the most ecologically diverse regions on the planet and has been declared a protected area by UNESCO. The topographical features include the Fajardo River, lush green forests, mountainous gorges, beaches and coral reefs. The climate is tropical and average temperatures are in the mid-twenties with not much seasonal variation. The population of the city is approximately 40,800. Most of the population is of mixed Spanish origin. Other ethnic groups include the descendants of Africans, Amerindians and Asians. The culture is a vibrant mix of the various ethnicities. The major influences are Spanish, Amerindian and American cultures.