Dolls of the World Puerto Rican Barbie Doll 1996 Mattel 16754

Hola (Hello) I'm Puerto Rican Barbie! I live in Puerto Rico, a beautiful place often called the Island of Enchantment. My country was discovered in 1493 by Christopher Columbus who claimed it for Spain. Until 1521, my island was called San Juan Bautista, but now everyone knows it as Puerto Rico.

Many people come to visit Puerto Rico. We have a rich and luscious countryside, warm trade winds and an ocean that is a wonderful 81 degrees for perfect swimming. In the northeast, the mountains are covered in a tropical rain forest with tree ferns, orchids and mahogany trees. In the southwest, there is cactus and little grass. So you see, there are several different environments to see and enjoy.

There are no large mammals here, but we do have one little tree frog that lives no where else in the world. The coqui, a tiny brown frog with splayed toes for climbing, sings his loud, clear song at night. During the day, you might see some iguanas and lots of lizards. We also have some very lovely flowers. like the hibiscus; a small tree whose blooms open during the day and close tightly at sunset.

We love good food in Puerto Rico. Seafood like squid, shrimp. and codfish is a popular choice and often mixed with rice and pigeon peas beans in a rich dish called arroz con gándules. You might try a plantain, or plátano, which looks like a large, green banana. It can be roasted, boiled or baked and is often served as a side dish at many meals.

I hope you like the special white dress I am wearing. It is very typical of a dress I might wear to a festival or party. The white color keeps me cool in our warm climate which is usually between 70 and 80 degrees, all year-around.

Spanish is the official language in Puerto Rico. We are a freely associated commonwealth of the United States with a non-voting representative in the U.S. Congress. Puerto Rico was granted permission to write our own constitution in 1952 and since then we have governed ourselves.

Tourism is a very significant part of our economy. Many cruise ships dock in the harbor of our capital city, San Juan. Long ago, pirate ships used to dock here too! Today. people from all over the world come to enjoy our beautiful country, delicious food and friendly people. I hope you will come and visit us soon. Adios (Good-bye)!

Barbie Collectibles - Collector Edition - Doll stand included. - Contents: Barbie Doll, Dress, Hair Decoration, Jewelry, Shoes, Labeled Doll Stand, Hair Brush - Ages 3+

Brand new. Box has some visible wear. Doll is pristine and NRFB. From a clean, non-smoking environment. We ship fast and pack with care at We-R-Toys!