Being here in Puerto Rico, I’ve noticed that it is very similar to the resorts that I’ve stayed in while visiting Mexico. The hotels put on a great show that depicts a very different place than the country that is only a few blocks away.
I imagine it is pretty common in countries where tourism brings in so much revenue, but while here at our hotel, I find staff who speak perfect english, restuarants that I recognize the name of, drinks that I like and gorgeous pools and beaches that are limited to other guests like myself.
Against the recommendation of those who are here, we took a walk down the street into town from the hotel and the stores are crammed with day laborers, construction, littered streets, graffiti and people begging for money — none of which, I’m sure, would be permitted anywhere near the hotel we are staying at. So what’s going on here? It’s a simple matter of money and attaction.
Some of the poorest countries and areas on the world are home to the most gorgeous beaches, landscapes and rainforests in the world and these countries have figured out that they have to paint a certain picture to attract the type of business and money they so desparately need. But you don’t have to wander too far to get the full picture.
I wonder how many of the visitors to Cancun, Puerto Rico and similar places how close they are to extreme poverty and how it might change their perspective if they thought it about between cocktails…
We noticed this last year when we were in Belize for our honeymoon. Getting over the initial shock and guilt was difficult, but decided that one way to help the locals out was to ‘over’ tip every person who helped us out in any way. It might have only helped dim our guilt, or off set other tourists who are bad tippers, but I am sure that most people in need appreciate a big tip to a small one.
I like that approach, I shall take it as well. =)
I am a resident of Puerto Rico and I can honestly say Puerto Rico isn’t going through extreme poverty or anything of that sort but like everywhere in the world, there are zones in which you will encounter yourself with graffiti, beggars, littered streets, etc.
It’s not a matter of Puerto Rico being an illusion but it’s like NY and Brooklyn. A country is never going to be perfect in its entirety.
If I happened to misinterpret something please let me know I’m actually interested in knowing more about your point of view.
Interesting blog. Kudos. I actually enjoy a little controversy in blogs. LOL