Close

You know you’re fluent when…

Ok, as my faithful readers know, I’m a linguist. And I’ve posted before about how to measure fluency in a foreign language. But I skipped one really validating measure of fluency, which is when someone mistakes you for a native speaker! I don’t often get mistaken for a native speaker, or not for very long. All it takes to give me away is one awkward…

Read More
Jackie shows off her ring

My first marriage proposal

So while we were in Puerto Rico earlier this month, a couple on my tour got engaged! I’m thrilled for Caleb and Jackie, and I’m delighted they had such a special moment on our trip. I didn’t know at the time because they kept it a secret. They wanted to tell some people before others, and somehow I wasn’t at the top of their list….

Read More
Orlando Cruz with Matt

Meeting Orlando Cruz!

So there I was at a gay bar in San Juan, singing karaoke and minding my own business, and who should walk in but Orlando Cruz? He’s the Puerto Rican boxer who made headlines earlier this month when he came out of the closet – the first openly gay boxer in history. He’s explained his decision in terms of being true to himself and doing…

Read More
A to-go container of roast pork

Puerto Rico’s roast meats

There’s plenty here in Puerto Rico for vegetarians to love. Pescatarians too. But carnivores are especially in luck! This photo shows how a number of restaurants and roadside stands roast meat. From the left, you can see sausage, blood sausage (known in these parts as morcilla), pork shoulder (pernil), chicken, and pork ribs. The meat gets displayed behind a window or showcase, sometimes while it’s…

Read More