From Caribbean Business (June 4, 2009): Caribbean Trading Co. expands souvenir shop Located on the corner of Principal Street and PR191 in Luquillo’s Palmer Ward, near the entrance to El Yunque rainforest, Caribbean Trading Co. (CTC) has consistently become a “must stop” for international and local tourists in search of authentic Puerto Rican souvenirs, “made in Puerto Rico, not from China,” said CTC owner Tim Collins, or "Capt. Tim," as he calls himself. “Our core business is working with corporate and incentive group programs held at the major resorts and hotels in the area, providing them with gifts and other services,” Collins explained, adding he chose to establish the Trading Co. near El Yunque, one of Puerto Rico’s most treasured assets and one of the biggest tourism attractions.” Collins also confirmed future expansion plans, including the opening of a restaurant and a small retail complex on the land adjacent to the existing CTC store “all aimed at contributing to both the development of our regional tourism as well as generating new economic activity.” Doubling CTC’s retail size has enabled Collins to become a one-stop shop for tourists, with an extensive merchandise mix that includes fine cigars from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, tastings of a variety of Puerto Rican coffees, a selection of hot sauces and locally made souvenirs, and arts & crafts.
How to Get There
Take Rte. 3 to Rio Grande. At the interestion with the Wyndham Rio Mar on one side, and EL Yunque on the other, go in the direction of EL Yunque. Road will bend around a gas station. Store is 1 minute down the road on the left side, just before taking a left onto Rt. 191 to go to El Yunque.