A Hidden Beauty: “Haunted Mansion”

We came to Puerto Rico about a week ago and since then every day has been appointments, errands, rental unit showing, (unsuccessful) car shopping, and driving. Lots and lots of driving, around the whole Island.

I mean that literally, one day we had to get up at 6 am and drive from our hotel in Humacao to meet our real-estate broker in Isabella by 11 am. Then drove to Rincon and proceeded south, stopping at car dealerships along the way until we found ourself finally back to our hotel.

The whole first week was early morning, errands, driving, stress, etc.

The point I want to make it that no matter how busy or stressful your day might be, remember to appreciate the little things. Stop and smell the roses.

I wanted to share a few photographs of an abandoned mansion a.k.a Castle Villa del Mar on the beach in a town called Naguabo, PR, on PR-3. Directions

Entering Castle Villa del Mar from PR-3

With its construction dating from 1917, this breathtaking example of late Victorian architecture has 18 columns and hexagonal roofs that give it a sticking appearance.

Its location on the Caribbean sea made it an axis of the Antillean trade. It was used by its owners to export sugar and other products to nearby islands.

Rumors of rum smuggling shared among the locals, and the rich and mysterious history should not be forgotten. We didn't know any of it when we stumbled upon the villa.

The facts and information I briefly noted above are from this article, and I encourage you to read more about it.

Its ruins are probably passed countless times a day, but I wonder how many stop to appreciate the mystery and take in the often overlooked beauty in a deteriorating structure.

Right next to the abandoned villa is a beautiful beach and boardwalk.

We didn't have time to explore those on that trip but it an excellent reason to visit again!

I hope to inspire you to look beyond whats in front of you and find beauty in imperfections.

With Love,
Sonja