Unfortunately, I forgot to pack my paper collage materials — but there’s inspiration all around me, so I’ve decided to make digital collages for the rest of my vacation.

Sun-kissed and loving it. This is my first time visiting the island, and first impressions are lasting impressions: I like it. It’s hot and humid, the people are friendly, the food is delicious, and the culture is rich.

Island life in the Caribbean has always appealed to me. I love beach vacations, or simply being near water — listening to the waves crash along the shore and marveling at the ocean’s powerful movement is soothing.

The city sights feel familiar and unique at the same time. San Juan is densely packed; people live in vibrant neighborhoods where homes, condos, and businesses all sit close together. Yet there’s something about this tropical urban landscape that looks and smells entirely its own. It’s not like other densely populated US cities. Shout out to Humboldt Park community back home in Chicago, a proudly Puerto Rican neighborhood with a rich history and strong connections back to Puerto Rico.