I Visited Bad Bunny's Residency Twice – But Puerto Rico Had More to Offer

A Journey Through Puerto Rico with Bad Bunny

For many people living in New York, Puerto Rico feels like a part of their daily life. The island’s influence is evident in the music, the food, and even in the neighbors who know every word to Hector Lavoe’s songs. For nearly 16 years, I’ve lived among Nuyoricans, and my partner is one of them—his roots are firmly planted in New York, but until this trip, his feet had never touched the island’s soil.

Bad Bunny’s residency provided the perfect opportunity for us to make the journey happen—to witness the world’s biggest star performing in his homeland. The first night of the show on July 11 was nothing short of spectacular: a mix of perreo energy, salsa, and Taino traditions that felt like they were pulled straight from Benito’s dreams. The Puerto Rican fans were filled with pride and excitement, creating an atmosphere that was unforgettable.

But the trip went beyond just the music. It was my chance to explore the island for the first time and to experience the place that has given so much to the world. As someone who isn’t Boricua (I’m Mexican American), I felt the weight of this moment deeply. I knew I occupied a space that many couldn’t. Being at the show felt like being invited to witness something special, especially on a night reserved for residents of Puerto Rico. I didn’t take that privilege lightly, knowing how many people would have loved to be there.

What I realized was that the significance of the event wasn’t just about being in the stadium. It was about the connection it created—between culture, identity, and the people of Puerto Rico, both near and far. And yes, for visitors like myself, it was a rare opportunity to be on the island during such a historic moment.

The anticipation was palpable when the lights dimmed at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot on opening night. While I’ve been to large shows before, Bad Bunny’s residency felt personal. This was identity on full display. At the height of his global fame, the artist stood before thousands of his people and gave everything he had for them.

After the high-energy opening night, Saturday morning brought a different kind of joy. I found myself riding through Juncos in a caravana with Toñita, the owner of the legendary Caribbean Social Club in Brooklyn. The line "Un shot de cañita en casa de Toñita, PR se siente cerquita" played on repeat as we drove through town like a moving celebration of culture and homecoming. Alongside racing motorcycles, we partied and drank Medalla Light, the beer brand that recreated a replica of her club at Benito's residency.

Later that evening, I headed to Coliseo de Roberto Clemente to experience another side of Bad Bunny’s legacy—the impact he has on the sports world. His basketball team, the Santurce Cangrejeros, was playing a critical playoff game. The energy in the arena was electric, and the team dominated, advancing to the semifinals. Fans roared as the team charged forward, and moments like these reminded me how deeply Benito has woven himself into the island’s culture.

The next day, I experienced a completely different thrill: flying through the mountains of Orocovis on one of the longest zip lines in the world. The views of the island’s green valleys and rugged terrain were breathtaking, and the experience was both thrilling and unforgettable.

Back at the Coliseo for the third night of the residency, I caught Bad Bunny’s performance with special guests Jowell y Randy. The show was celebratory in every way, with Benito leaning into the PR-NYC connection. His '70s salsa attire and aviator shades were a nod to the style that New Yorkers will see when the show opens to international audiences on August 30.

After a whirlwind weekend of concerts, caravans, and experiences, Monday offered a chance to slow down. We stayed at 352 Guest House in Old San Juan, where every detail added to the intimate charm of the stay. Walking through the city felt like stepping into a painting, with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings that made every turn magical.

By Tuesday, I thought I had seen everything that could be seen of Bad Bunny’s residency. But Benito had one more surprise: a pop-up event called “Seguimo' Aquí” at Plaza Las Américas. The immersive experience celebrated Boricua culture, with details that brought Bad Bunny closer to his fans’ everyday lives.

Puerto Rico offered more than I could have imagined: music, history, adventure, and a connection that felt alive at every turn. Bad Bunny’s residency was the catalyst, but the real star was the island itself. No me quiero ir de aquí tampoco.