Puerto Rico has long been famous for its rich culture and its natural reserves. Old San Juan, whose foundation dates back to the time of Christopher Columbus and the conquistadors, has long held an important role in Caribbean commerce.
Today, its old quarter draws tourists from around the globe who come to see the cobble-stone streets, historic architecture and beautiful beaches. The city is characterized by an old-world feel infused with a spicy Caribbean flavor. Within this breath-taking city, one can visit many restored colonial sites, several UNESCO locations, and a 500-year-old fort with incredible views of the Atlantic.
However, Puerto Rico draws more than just the history buff. Its natural preserves, especially el Yunque National Forest, attract nature-lovers from near and far. Puerto Rico is home to several species of flora and fauna that depend on the natural reserves found on the island- including 23 species of trees that are only found in Puerto Rico. El Yunque is currently the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System and has also been named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. While El Yunque undoubtedly holds great value, Puerto Rico boasts many other natural reserves, including Reserva Natural Laguna Tortuguero, Guajataca Forest and Guanica State Forest, all of which are habitats to plants and animals only found in Puerto Rico.