The Big List of Cities

Author: dangreen.com

  • St Thomas, Virgin Islands

    📍 Location & Geography

    St. Thomas is one of the three main islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands, an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is located in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 1,100 miles southeast of Miami, Florida. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and mountainous terrain. The capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie, is located on St. Thomas.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for St. Thomas are approximately 18.3 degrees North latitude and 64.9 degrees West longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    St. Thomas is part of the Caribbean region. It covers an area of approximately 32 square miles, making it the second-largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The island is divided into three large districts: East End, West End, and Northside.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, the population of St. Thomas was approximately 51,634. The island is known for its diverse culture, with residents of African, European, and American descent. The majority of the population speaks English, though Spanish and Creole are also spoken by some residents.

    🏛️ History

    St. Thomas was originally inhabited by the Ciboney, Carib, and Arawak tribes. Christopher Columbus sighted the island on his second voyage to the New World in 1493. It was later colonized by the Danish in the 17th century and served as a major center of the Atlantic slave trade. The United States purchased the Virgin Islands from Denmark in 1917.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    St. Thomas is known for its rich biodiversity. The island is home to numerous species of tropical plants, birds, and marine life. Coral reefs surround the island, providing habitats for a variety of fish and other sea creatures. The island’s climate is tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 77 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

    🏫 Education

    Education on St. Thomas is overseen by the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education. The island has several public and private schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools. Higher education is offered by the University of the Virgin Islands, which has a campus on St. Thomas.

    🚧 Transportation

    St. Thomas is served by the Cyril E. King Airport, the busiest airport in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The island also has a well-developed road network, with both public buses and taxis available for transportation. Ferries provide transportation to the other Virgin Islands and to the British Virgin Islands.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    St. Thomas is known for its vibrant culture and hosts several annual events, including the St. Thomas Carnival, one of the largest festivals in the Caribbean. The island is also home to Blackbeard’s Castle, a national historic landmark said to have been used by the infamous pirate. Additionally, St. Thomas is a popular destination for cruise ships, with hundreds of ships docking at the island’s port each year.

  • Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Juana Diaz is a charming city located in the southern part of Puerto Rico. It is nestled between the cities of Ponce and Villalba, and is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the south. The city is divided into 12 wards, with the downtown area, known as “Juana Diaz Pueblo,” serving as the administrative center of the city. The terrain of Juana Diaz is predominantly hilly, with the northern part of the city being more mountainous due to its proximity to the Cordillera Central mountain range.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Juana Diaz are approximately 18.05 degrees North latitude and 66.5 degrees West longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Juana Diaz is part of the Ponce Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is one of the key economic areas in Puerto Rico. The city spans an area of about 109.93 square miles (284.72 square kilometers), making it one of the larger municipalities in Puerto Rico.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Juana Diaz has a population of approximately 45,000 residents. The city is predominantly Hispanic, with a mix of cultures that include Taino, Spanish, African, and other influences. Spanish is the primary language spoken in Juana Diaz, although English is also widely understood and spoken.

    🏛️ History

    Juana Diaz was founded in 1798, and it is named after Juana Diaz, a local woman who was known for her generosity and hospitality. The city has a rich history that includes sugar cane farming and the production of rum. It is also known for its traditional Puerto Rican music and dance, particularly the “Danza,” a popular dance style that originated in the city.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Juana Diaz is home to a variety of natural attractions. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, particularly Playa de los Ponceños, which offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The city also has several parks and green spaces, including the Juana Diaz Forest Reserve, which is home to a variety of local flora and fauna.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Juana Diaz is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools that offer education from kindergarten through high school. There are also several colleges and universities in the nearby city of Ponce, including the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico and the University of Puerto Rico at Ponce.

    🚧 Transportation

    Juana Diaz is well-connected by road, with the Puerto Rico Highway 1 and Highway 52 passing through the city. Public transportation in Juana Diaz is provided by the Puerto Rico Transportation Authority, which operates bus routes throughout the city. The nearest major airport is the Mercedita Airport in Ponce, which is about 15 miles (24 kilometers) from Juana Diaz.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Juana Diaz is famous for its annual Three Kings Day celebration, which is one of the oldest and most celebrated traditions in Puerto Rico. The event, which takes place every January, attracts visitors from all over the island and beyond. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and art festivals taking place throughout the year.

  • Barranquitas, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Barranquitas is a small, inland town located in the central region of Puerto Rico. It is nestled within the Cordillera Central mountain range, providing the area with a hilly and rugged terrain. The town is divided into seven barrios and has a land area of about 34 square miles. The climate in Barranquitas is tropical, with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, even during the driest months.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Barranquitas, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.18 degrees latitude and -66.31 degrees longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Barranquitas is part of the Barranquitas Municipality in Puerto Rico. It is situated in the central part of the island, surrounded by the municipalities of Comerío, Naranjito, Corozal, Orocovis, Aibonito, and Coamo. The town covers an area of approximately 34 square miles.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 census, Barranquitas had a population of around 30,318 people. The population is primarily made up of Hispanic or Latino individuals, with a majority identifying as Puerto Rican. The town has a balanced age distribution, with a significant proportion of young people and families.

    🏛️ History

    Barranquitas was founded by Antonio Aponte Toro and Francisco de Quiñones in 1803. The town’s name is derived from the indigenous word “Barraquitas,” meaning “Little Huts,” which refers to the modest homes of the early settlers. The town is known for being the birthplace of two significant Puerto Rican figures: the poet and journalist Luis Llorens Torres, and the statesman and former governor, Luis Muñoz Marín.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Barranquitas is known for its natural beauty, characterized by its lush mountains and green landscapes. The town is home to the San Cristóbal Canyon, the only canyon found in Puerto Rico. The canyon is a popular spot for hiking and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The town also hosts the annual Festival Nacional de la Hamaca, a celebration of the traditional Puerto Rican hammock.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Barranquitas is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The town has several public and private schools that cater to all levels of education, from elementary to high school. For higher education, the Inter American University of Puerto Rico has a campus in Barranquitas offering various undergraduate and graduate programs.

    🚧 Transportation

    Given its mountainous terrain, transportation in Barranquitas primarily relies on roads. The main highway serving the town is Puerto Rico Highway 152, which connects Barranquitas to other nearby towns and cities. Public transportation is limited, so most residents rely on private vehicles for commuting.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Barranquitas is known for hosting the Festival Nacional de la Hamaca, an annual event that celebrates the traditional Puerto Rican hammock. The festival features artisans showcasing their skills, food stalls, music, and dance performances. The town is also famous for being the birthplace of Luis Muñoz Marín, the first democratically elected governor of Puerto Rico. His childhood home, known as Casa Museo Luis Muñoz Marín, is now a museum and a popular tourist attraction.

  • Humacao, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    Humacao is a city located on the eastern coast of the island of Puerto Rico. It is nestled within the Humacao county and is the largest city in the region. The city is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and is surrounded by the municipalities of Yabucoa to the north, Las Piedras to the west, and Naguabo to the south.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Humacao are approximately 18.1497° N latitude and 65.8274° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Humacao is located in the eastern region of Puerto Rico. It covers a total area of approximately 45 square miles (117 square kilometers). This includes 10.3 square miles of water and 34.7 square miles of land.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2010 U.S. Census, Humacao had a population of approximately 58,466 people. The population density was approximately 1,687.6 people per square mile. The city is diverse, with a mix of people from different ethnic backgrounds. The majority of the population is of Hispanic or Latino origin.

    🏛️ History

    Humacao was founded on April 2, 1722, and was originally a town before being officially designated as a city in 1899. The city was named after a local Indian chief, Jumacao, who was known for his bravery and resistance against the Spanish colonizers. Over the years, Humacao has grown and developed into a significant commercial and cultural hub in Puerto Rico.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Humacao is known for its beautiful beaches and natural attractions. The city is home to the Punta Santiago Nature Reserve, which is a popular spot for bird watching and exploring the local flora and fauna. The city’s coastal location also provides opportunities for water sports and fishing. Humacao is also home to the Humacao Wildlife Refuge, a protected area that serves as a habitat for various species of wildlife.

    🏫 Education

    Humacao is home to several public and private schools, providing education from elementary to high school level. The city also houses the University of Puerto Rico at Humacao, a public university offering undergraduate programs in various fields including natural sciences, business administration, and humanities.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation in Humacao is facilitated by a network of roads and highways, including Puerto Rico Highways 3, 30, and 53. The city is also served by the José Aponte de la Torre Airport, which is primarily used for general aviation. Public transportation services are provided by the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Humacao is known for its annual Carnaval Mabo, a cultural event that features music, dance, and parades. The city is also the birthplace of several notable figures, including professional baseball player Danny Garcia and actress Johanna Rosaly. Additionally, Humacao is home to the Palmas Athletic Club, the largest tennis facility in the Caribbean.

  • La Plata, Puerto Rico

    📍 Location & Geography

    La Plata is a city located in the county of Aibonito, in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. The city is situated in the central mountainous region of the island, providing it with a unique terrain and climate compared to the coastal regions of Puerto Rico.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for La Plata, Puerto Rico are approximately 18.14° N latitude and 66.26° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    La Plata falls under the Aibonito county, which is part of the mountainous region in the heart of Puerto Rico. The city is nestled amongst the hills and valleys, providing a picturesque landscape. The ZIP code for La Plata is 00786.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As La Plata is a small city within Aibonito county, specific population and demographic data may vary. However, the county of Aibonito itself has a population of approximately 25,000 residents. The population is predominantly Hispanic, reflecting the overall demographic makeup of Puerto Rico.

    🏛️ History

    The history of La Plata, like much of Puerto Rico, is rich and diverse. The island was originally inhabited by the indigenous Taíno people before the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 15th century. The city’s name, “La Plata,” translates to “The Silver” in English, though the origin of this name is not clearly documented.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    La Plata is surrounded by lush greenery and mountainous landscapes, which are characteristic of central Puerto Rico. The region is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. The climate is tropical but slightly cooler than the coastal regions due to the city’s elevation.

    🏫 Education

    Education in La Plata, as in the rest of Puerto Rico, is overseen by the Puerto Rico Department of Education. The city has several public and private schools offering education from kindergarten through high school. For higher education, residents often travel to larger cities or the capital, San Juan.

    🚧 Transportation

    La Plata, being a smaller city, primarily relies on road transportation. The city is connected to other parts of Puerto Rico through a network of highways and roads. Public transportation options are limited, and most residents rely on private vehicles for commuting.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every year, the county of Aibonito, where La Plata is located, hosts the Aibonito Flower Festival, which is the largest plant and sale show in Puerto Rico. This event attracts visitors from across the island and beyond, contributing to the local economy and community spirit.