Bienvenida

Cayo

Jul 10

Humacao, Puerto Rico

Un poco ansiosa, I have laid my eyes on the crisp blue ocean, and felt the warm tropical air consume me, as I work my way out of an airport that will later feel like home.

I am no stranger to this island. In 2016, I had the privilege of working in Tibes the Indigenous Ceremonial Center in Ponce as my first archeological experience. I developed an admiration for Puerto Rico, her history, and the people that make the island as warm as the sun that resides here. Of course, it’s easy to feel more at home when I am able to speak the language, and grew up with the delicious cuisine both Puerto Rico and Republica Dominicana culturally share (with some variations of course).

Stepping out of the airport in San Juan it was easy to note that the air feels different than it did before. It has been a year since Huracán Maria wreaked havoc on the lesser Antilles. She grew in favorable warm conditions, intensified quickly, and holds the record as the most powerful and destructive storm to hit this region.

It’s hard to not see her remnants, to not feel the overwhelming loss.

It is also impossible not to see the sense of community, resilience, and healing.

The salty humid air

plátanos maduros

radiant sun

Welcomes me to Punta Santiago, Humacao.