I had the opportunity to meet Carmen on one of my visits to the island post-Hurricane Maria. Carmen is one of the co-founders of Local Guest, a tour company that develops and curates authentic tourism experiences by working hand in hand with local communities and entrepreneurs to build a new tourism ecosystem based on sustainable development practices. One of their focuses is placing a spotlight on places that are lesser known and ensuring that the local citizens of those communities benefit from tourism.
About Local Guest
Local Guest connects responsible travelers with locals who have a passion for Puerto Rico and all that the island has to offer. Carmen and her team have placed a lot of effort into the center of the island, which was severely damaged by the hurricane. She shares her favorite spots:
What are your favorite spots of the center of Puerto Rico?
The town of Orocovis brings culture and gastronomy together. You have the “Ruta de la Longaniza,” a route lined with restaurants which specialize in this local, handmade sausage. In the center of the town, you have many artisans who have their studies in their homes.
Orocovis is also considered the “true center” of the island of Puerto Rico. I love the beautiful landscapes of Toro Negro, a state forest. Hike along the trails of Toro Negro, take a dip in the famous Doña Juana Falls and take in the stunning views from the center of the island.
In the neighbor town of Morovis, you have a unique ecosystem called “Las Cabachuelas.” The extensive cave system is a connection to our Taíno heritage as you can see indigenous hieroglyphs inside many of the 60-plus caves that connect. You can also experience more of the native culture by meeting local artisans who still create Taíno pottery.
What are some of your favorite places to eat in the Center?
I recommend Los Naranjos, a cozy restaurant on route PR-155. Everything they serve is delicious. It also has some of the most beautiful views of Orocovis. Another recommendation in Morovis (in route to Orocovis) for breakfast and traditional sweets is Panaderia La Patria. This bakery is one of the oldest on the island, it has been around since 1862. Everything they make is delicious but what makes them famous is “El pan de la patita echá,” which looks like crossed legs.
Veganism has become more and more popular on the island. A restaurant at the forefront is Pueblo Sano in the Plaza of Orocovis. If meat is your thing, the ribs at Cabañas de Doña Maria (near Toro Negro) are a must visit, with some of the best BBQ ribs on the island.
What are you three top places to see in the Center of Puerto Rico?
Toro Verde: this ecoadventure park places nature first. It’s stunning views lend to one of the longest zip lines in the world. There’s plenty to see and do for the whole family.
Toro Negro: This state park is a must see for those who love nature and adventure. It has excellent hiking trails, and you will encounter spectacular waterfalls. Be sure to schedule a hiking tour with Amigos del Bosque de Toro Negro, a community-based tourism organization that provides walking tours of their forest and community.
Yauco: This is “el pueblo del café” (town of coffee). Explore the many coffee plantations throughout the town. Most of the coffee farms suffered a lot after the hurricanes, but farmers have created a trekking and bird watching program so visitors can enjoy the coffee route differently.
Check out Local Guest’s tours on their website & follow them on Instagram.
This interview is also featured in the upcoming book, Dining Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico. Release date: March 2019.
