Summer Travel Essentials

As some of you know, this next week I am going to Puerto Rico with my brother! I'm heading out on a 6am flight to San Juan on Wednesday and will be back late Sunday night. This is going to be such a great adventure and we have so many activities planned. We are staying at La Concha hotel which from the reviews sounds like a party spot (awesome!), then we'll go to Old San Juan that is packed with colorful buildings and El Morro fort, we're also planning on snorkeling, zip-lining, and travelling to the surrounding islands. One thing I love about Puerto Rico is that it is so full of history. The first known settlements on the island were of the Ortoiroid people between 3000-2000 BCE, but by the time that Columbus drew aground in the 'New World' the little island was inhabited by Taínos. They quickly died within the next century due to Spanish exploitation and disease, leaving the island to become a important base for European trade and colonization from the 16th through 18th centuries. In 1898 during the Spanish-American war, Puerto Rico came under the control of the United States and has remained a commonwealth since. Throughout the 20th century the islanders gained many civil liberties, including in 1917 under the Jones Act the people became official U.S. Citizens and in 1952 the right to democratic elections was granted. 


Another favorite of mine is the island's natural beauty. It has gorgeous coasts, clean golden sands, and cerulean warm waters. Frankly, I cannot wait to go and I have been challenged by what to pack. I'm not checking any bags so I have to get everything (including my purse) into a backpack and small suitcase. Since it is only for a few days, I'm bringing a lot of versatile items that I can mix and match, multiple swim suits, and mini-sized everything. My bag wouldn't be complete without a fun cover-up, bold sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip stain. I'm planning on picking up a fun sunhat while I'm there! Be prepared for lots of pictures of the coast and bright buildings next week!!

Summer Travel Essentials by historyandhighheels featuring tarte lip stain