Beach at Culebra Island, Puerto Rico Photo credit: Hmalaret
Puerto Rico is simply paradise, replete with pristine beaches lined with coconut palms, azure oceans and topped off with a gorgeous tropical climate. A Caribbean island with a difference, Puerto Rico's unmistakable Spanish colonial heritage mixes with its status as a United States territory. Its American customs dovetail nicely with its rich traditional Latin American culture, typified by the fact that hamburgers are as endemic as such island dishes as sancocho.
The second thing that makes Puerto Rico different from other Caribbean holiday Meccas is that it remains largely underdeveloped except for its coastal region around the capital, San Juan. The island's beaches are magnificent and mostly non-commercialised, meaning there's a chance for a more rustic island getaway. They're easily reached from San Juan and its myriad large resorts thanks to the island's relatively compact size.
Exploring Puerto Rico's coast
and interior is a delight. Roads are excellent and there are numerous interesting attractions and unrivalled experiences, from one of the world's largest radio telescopes to the magical experience of swimming at night among tiny phosphorescent creatures on the offshore island of Vieques.
Puerto Rico, like many other Caribbean islands, was originally inhabited by Taino Indians until the arrival of Christopher Columbus and the instigation of Spanish rule and settlement. The island's capital and larger towns have preserved their Spanish heritage as tourist attractions, full of old charm and interest.
Along with its breathtaking scenery and wonderfully laid-back island atmosphere, Puerto Rico is a hybrid of old and new, which makes it an intriguing cultural destination rather than just another tropical island paradise.
Key Facts
Language:
Spanish and English are the official languages of Puerto Rico.
Passport/Visa:
All passport holders must have an onward or return ticket and documents necessary for further travel. Entry requirements for Puerto Rico are the same as for the United States of America. When arriving from mainland USA there is no immigration control. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency:
The United States Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency, which is divided into 100 cents. It is often referred to as the 'peso' in Puerto Rico. ATMs and bureaux de change are freely available and all major credit cards and travellers cheques are generally accepted. Banking hours are 9am to 3.30pm.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin flat attachment plugs are in use.
Travel to Puerto Rico
Overview
Puerto Rico is a paradise in many a tourist's mind, and for good reason. A tropical Caribbean destination with cultural interests and lots of character thrown in, Puerto Rico certainly delivers on all fronts.
For those with a penchant for the outdoors, Puerto Rico will not disappoint. The country makes for a brilliant natural playground, offering beautiful islands, undeveloped beaches, caves, and a mountainous region to explore, as well as quaint villages and towns. Surfing and scuba diving are popular choices in areas such as Vieques's bioluminescent bay or on the western shores, while adventuring through the caves in the Camuy Cave Park is thrilling.
Apart from the obvious sun-soaking at the likes of Isla Verde or the Rincon shoreline, holidaymakers will also get the chance to indulge in Puerto Rico's interesting history. The fortress of San Felipe del Morro, built in 1540, makes for a great cultural
excursion.
The historic San Juan, with its fascinating colonial architecture dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, will delight history lovers. For those looking for art and culture, sculptures are a common sight in San Juan and there are wonderful museums such as Puerto Rico's showcase art gallery, Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico.
Home to a diverse and vibrant nightlife scene, as well as many fine restaurants offering memorable fusion cuisines, a night out in Puerto Rico's San Juan will offer tourists some good fun and fantastic gastronomy. What's more, the tropical temperatures in Puerto Rico mean that visitors can enjoy its offerings all year round.
Climate in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico enjoys a warm, tropical climate with temperatures of around 82ºF (27ºC) throughout the year. The temperature in the south is usually a few degrees higher than the north and temperatures in the central interior mountains are always cooler than the rest of the island.
The dry season is usually from November to May but short showers can be expected throughout the year. The hurricane season is between June and November, but generally there is plenty of warning.
Health Notes when travelling to Puerto Rico
There are no vaccination certificates required for travel to Puerto Rico. Cases of dengue fever occur annually and mosquito protection measures are essential, while it's best to drink bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. Medical services are good but can be expensive so travel insurance is advised.
Safety Notes when travelling to Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is still recovering from Hurricane Maria with regular power and communication outages and unstable buildings.
Visits to Puerto Rico are usually trouble-free but travellers should take sensible precautions to avoid petty theft.
Many travel and health authorities classify Puerto Rico as having a high risk of Zika virus transmission. Visitors are advised to seek advice from health professionals before travel.
Customs in Puerto Rico
Social etiquette in Puerto Rico is typically Latin American, with some North American influences such as a stronger sense of female independence, and a toning-down of the machismo ideal. Western visitors to the country should feel comfortable in most social situations.
Hygiene, cleanliness, and personal appearance are viewed as matters of self-respect, so travellers who've been on the road for a little while might consider neatening up their beards or trimming their hair, especially if they want to make a good first impression.
A final, important aspect of Puerto Rican social life, is the concept of relajo. Generally shy of direct confrontation and open criticism, relajo refers to the gentle, joking manner in which Puerto Ricans will bring up uncomfortable issues around each another. Visitors should be aware of this technique, as they may, on occasion, be required to read between the lines to discover what locals are really
trying to express.
Duty Free in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's customs regulations are the same as those for the United States. Visitors over 21 may bring in the following items without paying duty: 200 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 2kg of tobacco; 1 litre of alcohol; and gifts valued up to US$100.
There is a long list of restricted and prohibited items which may not be imported or imported only under license, ranging from fireworks and matches to pre-Columbian sculpture and Cuban cigars. If in doubt, consult your nearest US Embassy for advice. Any merchandise from embargoed countries (Afghanistan, Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Serbia and Montenegro and the Sudan) may not be brought onto US soil.
Doing Business in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory although the resemblance is closer to Latin America. English is understood by many on the island, but Spanish may also be the language in which business is conducted. Dress codes will vary according to different sectors, but suits are favoured on very formal occasions. Shaking hands is common for both men and women. Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, with an hour taken at lunch.
Communication in Puerto Rico
The international access code for Puerto Rico is +1 787 and +1 939. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom). The outgoing code is not needed for calling the US, Canada, and most of the Caribbean. Mobile phones work throughout the island and local operators use CDMA networks that are not compatible with GSM phones, as used outside North America. Internet cafes are available in most towns and resorts.
Tipping in Puerto Rico
Some restaurants and hotels automatically add a 10-17 percent service charge to the bill. If not, a 15 percent tip is expected. Taxi drivers and bar staff also expect tips.
Passport/Visa Note
All passport holders must have an onward or return ticket and documents necessary for further travel. Entry requirements for Puerto Rico are the same as for the United States of America. When arriving from mainland USA there is no immigration control. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
Valid passport or passport replacing documents are required. Visa not required.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens require a passport valid for period of intended stay. No visa is required.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens require a passport valid for period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens require a passport valid for period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens require a passport valid for the period of intended stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for the period of intended stay. A visa is not required for touristic stays up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans must hold a passport valid for period of intended stay and a visa is also required, unless holding a valid US visa.
Tourist Offices
The Puerto Rican Tourist Company, Old San Juan: +1 787 721 2400 or http://www.gotopuertorico.com
Puerto Rico Embassies
In Canada:
United States Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 5335.
In the United Kingdom:
United States Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7499 9000.
In Australia:
United States Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6214 5600.
In Ireland:
United States Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 668 8777.
In New Zealand:
United States Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 462 6000.
In South Africa:
United States Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 431 4000.
Foreign Embassies in Puerto Rico
Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Puerto Rico): +1 (202) 682 1740.
British Embassy
British Consulate, San Juan: +1 787 850 2400.
Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Puerto Rico): +1 202 797 3000.
Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Puerto Rico): +1 202 462 3939.
New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Puerto Rico): +1 202 328 4800.
South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Puerto Rico): +1 202 232 4400.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Puerto Rico (U.S.)
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Puerto Rico, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Puerto Rico. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Puerto Rico, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Puerto Rico
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Puerto Rico, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Puerto Rico. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Puerto Rico, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Puerto Rico
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Note: Zika is a risk in Puerto Rico. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Puerto Rico. Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Puerto Rico, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Puerto Rico. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Puerto Rico include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Puerto Rico. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Puerto Rico’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Puerto Rico may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Puerto Rico, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in Puerto Rico. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the CaribbeanNovember 14, 2017Beginning on September 6, 2017, Hurricane Irma crossed the Caribbean, followed on September 16 by Hurricane Maria. These storms caused severe damage in a number of countries and territories, including Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique, Puerto Rico, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, Turks and Caicos, and the US Virgin Islands.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The United States Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency, which is divided into 100 cents. It is often referred to as the 'peso' in Puerto Rico. ATMs and bureaux de change are freely available and all major credit cards and travellers cheques are generally accepted. Banking hours are 9am to 3.30pm.
Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
0.93EUR Euro
0.80GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
152.99JPY Japanese Yen
1.37CAD Canadian Dollar
0.91CHF Swiss Franc
1.52AUD Australian Dollar
39.40UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
443.91KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
93,075.00LBP Lebanese Pound
4.86LYD Libyan Dinar
6.86BOB Bolivian Boliviano
0.00NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.00OMR Omani Rial
0.00QAR Qatari Rial
1.35SGD Singapore Dollar
10.82SEK Swedish Krona
0.00TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
58.11DOP Dominican Peso
0.00HRK Croatian Kuna
16.95MXN Mexican Peso
610.53XOF West African CFA Franc
0.00PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.00BSD Bahamian Dollar
0.00FJD Fiji Dollar
0.00HNL Honduran Lempira
133.87DZD Algerian Dinar
0.00MMK Myanma Kyat
0.00BWP Botswana Pula
3.72PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
938.44CLP Chilean Peso
386.84AMD Armenia Dram
23.29CZK Czech Koruna
17.63MDL Moldova Lei
139.89ISK Icelandic Krona
12,582.40UZS Uzbekistan Sum
3.72ILS Israeli New Sheqel
0.71JOD Jordanian Dinar
0.00KWD Kuwaiti Dinar
38.15UYU Uruguayan Peso
0.00MUR Mauritian Rupee
0.00NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
10.88NOK Norwegian Krone
4.03PLN Polish Zloty
3.75SAR Saudi Riyal
0.00LKR Sri Lanka Rupee
36.79THB Thai Baht
3.66AED U.A.E Dirham
5.09BRL Brazilian Real
4.63RON Romanian New Leu
7.81HKD Hong Kong Dollar
610.53XAF Central African CFA Franc
25,405.70VND Vietnamese Dong
878.36ARS Argentine Peso
0.00XCD East Caribbean Dollar
0.00GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
10.06MAD Moroccan Dirham
0.00BHD Bahrain Dinar
1.00PAB Panamanian Balboa
1.70AZN Azerbaijan Manat
3,920.00COP Colombian Peso
88.42KGS Kyrgyzstan Som
362.00HUF Hungarian Forint
10.89TJS Tajikistan Ruble
16,073.70IDR Indonesian Rupiah
47.95EGP Egyptian Pound
1,358.84KRW South Korean Won
7,456.52PYG Paraguayan Guaraní
4.74MYR Malaysian Ringgit
508.31CRC Costa Rican Colón
1.67NZD New Zealand Dollar
277.87PKR Pakistani Rupee
91.39RUB Russian Rouble
18.51ZAR South African Rand
3.13TND Tunisian Dinar
0.00BBD Barbadian Dollar
1.82BGN Bulgarian Lev
32.33TRY Turkish Lira
57.28PHP Philippine Peso
32.31TWD New Taiwan Dollar
1,164.84NGN Nigerian Naira
0.00XPF CFP Franc
0.00GHS Ghanaian Cedi
0.00JMD Jamaican Dollar
0.00ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder
0.00BND Brunei Dollar
108.90RSD Serbian Dinar
7.24CNY Chinese Yuan
6.94DKK Danish Krone
3.49TMT New Turkmenistan Manat
83.42INR Indian Rupee
Exchange Rate for Euro to U.S. Dollar
1 EUR = 1.07 USD
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 CAD = 0.73 USD
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar
1 GBP = 1.26 USD
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 AUD = 0.66 USD
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 NZD = 0.60 USD
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to U.S. Dollar
1 ZAR = 0.05 USD
San Juan International (SJU) Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport http://www.aeropuertosju.com
Location: San Juan The airport is situated seven miles (12km) east of San Juan.
Time: Local time is GMT -4.
Contacts: Tel: +1 787 253 2329
Transfer between terminals: The terminals are all connected and can be reached on foot.
Getting to the city: Bus stops are located on the departure level of Terminals A, D, and E. The AMA bus service and the airport shuttle connect the city and airport. Taxis are located outside the baggage claim arrivals areas of Terminals A, B and C.
Car rental: Car rental agencies Budget, Enterprise, Avis, Thrifty, National, Alamo, and Hertz are represented at the airport, amongst others.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available.
Facilities: Facilities at the airport include a bank, ATMs, restaurants, bars, and shops (including duty-free). Disabled facilities are good; those with special needs should contact their airline in advance.
Parking: Parking is charged at $5 for the first hour, $7.50 for two hours, $9.75 for the third hour, up to $26.75 for the first day and $18 per day thereafter. There is a separate cell phone lot that allows up to 45 minutes of free parking for drivers who remain in their vehicle.
Overview of the Attractions in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a paradise in many a tourist's mind, and for good reason. A tropical Caribbean destination with cultural interests and lots of character thrown in, Puerto Rico certainly delivers on all fronts.
For those with a penchant for the outdoors, Puerto Rico will not disappoint. The country makes for a brilliant natural playground, offering beautiful islands, undeveloped beaches, caves, and a mountainous region to explore, as well as quaint villages and towns. Surfing and scuba diving are popular choices in areas such as Vieques's bioluminescent bay or on the western shores, while adventuring through the caves in the Camuy Cave Park is thrilling.
Apart from the obvious sun-soaking at the likes of Isla Verde or the Rincon shoreline, holidaymakers will also get the chance to indulge in Puerto Rico's interesting history. The fortress of San Felipe del Morro, built in 1540, makes for a great cultural
excursion.
The historic San Juan, with its fascinating colonial architecture dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, will delight history lovers. For those looking for art and culture, sculptures are a common sight in San Juan and there are wonderful museums such as Puerto Rico's showcase art gallery, Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico.
Home to a diverse and vibrant nightlife scene, as well as many fine restaurants offering memorable fusion cuisines, a night out in Puerto Rico's San Juan will offer tourists some good fun and fantastic gastronomy. What's more, the tropical temperatures in Puerto Rico mean that visitors can enjoy its offerings all year round.
Bioluminescent Bay Fajardo
When disturbed, the waters of Mosquito Bay sparkle like a starry sky due to the massive concentration of bioluminescent plankton living beneath the surface. Vieques's Puerto Mosquito holds the Guinness World Record as the brightest of similar bays found elsewhere on the plane. A trip to Bio Bay, as it's locally known, is one of the best tourist attractions in Puerto Rico and well worth the excursion from San Juan. Several tour companies offer kayaking and snorkelling in the magical water, creating a genuinely dreamy environment of ethereal romance. The bioluminescence is at its brightest during the full or near-full moon, and this is considered the best time to visit.
San Germán Ponce
A historic town with a colourful past, San Germán was the second city founded in Puerto Rico by the Spanish. Its mountainous location made it an ideal escape for artists, poets and revolutionaries, and present-day San Germán still carries that lively spirit. It has a number of pretty buildings dating back to the 16th century, including the Porta Coéli (Gate of Heaven) Church and the San Germán de Auxerre Church. Because of these, the town is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. There are also a few interesting museums, including the Lola Rodríguez de Tió Museum and the Ramírez de Arellano y Rosell Museum. San Germán also hosts several religious and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Old San Juan San Juan
Encompassing about seven blocks, this area dates back about 500 years to the Spanish occupation when it served as a military stronghold that even withstood Sir Francis Drake's armies. The original cobbles on the streets are blue-tinged and were originally used as ballast on Spanish ships. More than 400 restored 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings fill Old San Juan, drawing thousands of tourists who walk the narrow, steep streets every day. The old town is enclosed by thick, high walls and features numerous attractive plazas bearing sculptures and memorials.
Fort San Felipe del Morro San Juan
Opening time: 9am - 6pm
Built in 1540, the mighty six-level fortress of San Felipe del Morro towers 140 feet (43m) above the sea on San Juan Bay, its 18-foot thick (5m) walls having proved a worthy defence against many an invasion. One of the largest fortifications in the Caribbean, it is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, lookouts and ramps, offering spectacular views from atop its ramparts. In Old San Juan, stands El Morro's partner in defending the city, Castillo San Cristobal, built in the 17th century to a confusing and intricate modular design.
Website: http://www.nps.gov
La Fortaleza San Juan
La Fortaleza was built in 1540 as a fortress to guard the entrance to the San Juan harbour, but later became the official residence of the governor. During the following centuries, the original structure has been remodelled and expanded, with a neoclassical façade being added in 1846 to lend a certain palatial trait to the place. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the oldest administrative mansion still in use in the New World.
Address: Fortaleza Street, Old San Juan
Museo de Arte San Juan
Puerto Rico's showcase art gallery is housed in a former city hospital in Santurce and offers a permanent and visiting exhibition. The aim is to highlight the island's heritage through the work of local artists, such as Francisco Oller, who studied in France with Cézanne, and Jose Campeche, a late 18th-century classical painter. The museum has been described as a living textbook of Puerto Rico, providing an overview of the island's history through the medium of art. The museum also hosts events such as concerts and festivals throughout the year.
Address: 299 De Diego Avenue, Santurce
Website: http://www.mapr.org
Caribbean National Forest (El Yunque) San Juan
The Caribbean National Forest, 35 miles (56km) east of San Juan, is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Park system and was named El Yunque by the Spanish. Its 28,000 acres contain about 240 different species of tree and numerous other plants, from tiny, delicate wild orchids to gigantic ferns. Visitors can start their visit at the El Portal Tropical Forest Centre where there are films, exhibits and interactive displays. Maps are available of the dozens of walking trails through the forest, graded according to difficulty. Nearby is Puerto Rico's best beach, Luquillo Beach, famous for its soft white sand and towering coconut palms.
Website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/caribbean
Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve Fajardo
Located on three promontories on the extreme northeast corner of the island, Las Cabezas reserve is one of the most beautiful and biologically diverse natural areas in Puerto Rico. The reserve is close to Fajardo, a major marina, snorkelling spot and diving resort, located about an hour's drive from San Juan. The reserve contains seven different ecological systems, including coral reefs, sandy beaches, lagoons, mangroves and dry forest. It is also home to several endangered species. Boardwalk trails provide easy access to the different natural sites. A restored 19th-century lighthouse, El Faro, is situated on one of the headlands and offers incredible views of its gorgeous surroundings.
Ponce Art Museum Ponce
The Museo de Arte de Ponce contains one of the largest art collections in the Caribbean. It's housed in a building designed by renowned architect Edward Durrell Stone, who designed the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The impressive building comprises seven interconnected hexagons topped with glass cupolas. Inside its walls are more than 1,000 paintings and 400 sculptures covering classical, ancient and contemporary works. Among the prizes of the collection are works by Velasquez, Rubens and Rodin, as well as a celebrated assemblage of Pre-Raphaelite works and Puerto Rican pieces.
Address: 2325 Avenue Las Americas
Website: http://www.museoarteponce.org
Coffin Island Ponce
On weekends, a ferry carries visitors from the pier at La Guancha on the Ponce waterfront to Coffin Island, a tiny uninhabited island five miles south of the city. The island, also known as Dead Man's Chest, is part of the Reserva Natural Caja de Muertos natural reserve, thanks in part to its native turtle traffic. There are five pristine beaches, including Playa Ensenada, Playa Larga, Playa Blanca, Playa Chica and the blue flag-designated Playa Pelícano. Beaches on the east side of the island are roped off during turtle-nesting season. What's more, there are a number of spectacular hiking trails throughout the interior of the island and visitors can also explore the 19th-century lighthouse at Caja de Muerto.
Museum of Puerto Rico Music Ponce
The Museo de la Música Puertorriqueña is dedicated to documenting the rich tapestry of the island's music history and pays tribute to Puerto Rican musicians. The museum explains the significance of the romantic danza music style, and the African-inspired popular forms of bomba and plena. It also features displays of Indian, Spanish and African musical instruments, and memorabilia of local composers and performers, all housed in the attractive former residence of the renowned rum-producing Serralles family. Displays are in both English and Spanish.
Address: 50 Isabel Street
Museo Castillo Serralles Ponce
Perched above the city of Ponce on El Vigia Hill is the restored residence of the Serralles rum-producing family. Designed by Pedro de Castro and built in 1930, the multilevel Spanish-revival hacienda is a beautiful example of the island's post-World War I architecture. The mansion surrounds an elegant courtyard featuring fountains, and is renowned for its splendidly carved dining-room ceiling. The mansion is set in magnificent terraced formal gardens with breathtaking views, making for a wonderful day-trip destination from Ponce.
Address: 17 El Vigia
Culebra and Vieques Fajardo
Dubbed the 'Enchanted Isles', Vieques and her smaller sister Culebra are found off Puerto Rico's east coast, accessible from San Juan by air and from Fajardo by ferry. The two islands' chilled and peaceful populations live lives that enrich rather than impact the islands' natural beauty.
Vieques consists largely of the biggest wildlife sanctuary in the Caribbean, containing beautiful beaches with azure clear waters and pearly white sand. Visitors to Vieques should stay overnight to experience its premier attraction: Bio Bay. On moonless nights, the bay glows with bioluminescence radiating from microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates.
Smaller Culebra is renowned for the clarity of its waves lapping at its shores, thanks to the island having no rivers or streams that may cause runoff. This quiet, unspoilt island offers unrivalled snorkelling and scuba diving in its magnificent encircling reefs, as well as kayak
expeditions, hiking trails and bird-watching trips through the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge.
Casa Bacardi Visitor Centre San Juan
Undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico, a trip to the Casa Bacardi Visitor Centre is a must for travellers to San Juan. Following exile from Cuba in the 1950s, the Bacardi founders moved to Puerto Rico and set up a small rum distillery on the outskirts of San Juan. It now produces a jaw-dropping 100,000 gallons of rum per day and 21 million cases per year. Tours of the Casa Bacardi Visitor Centre last about an hour, as tour guides show visitors around a variety of exhibits and vintage rum stills, as well as explain the company's history. It culminates in a visit to an on-site, classically-styled bar, where a bartender will show you the proper methods of preparing Cuba libres and mojitos.
Address: Bay View Industrial Park
Website: http://www.casabacardi.org
Isla Verde San Juan
Isla Verde is San Juan's trendiest area and home to many of its best beach resorts and upmarket hotels. The area's name is inspired by the colour of the water in its bay: a rich green, turquoise hue that proves irresistible to swimmers and divers. The beautiful beach boasts soft sand and the shade of tall palm trees, while visitors can also enjoy world-class spa treatments and a vibrant nightlife. Isla Verde is home to two of the island's best casino hotels and a wide range of raucous clubs and bars with live music. A natural base for well-heeled travellers to San Juan, Isla Verde makes for a luxurious home away from home during your holiday in Puerto Rico.
Mayaguez Zoo Ponce
Also called the Dr Juan A. Rivera Zoo, the Mayaguez Zoo is found off the beaten tourist track in Mayaguez on the east coast of Puerto Rico. It's a world-class establishment and well worth a visit for animal lovers and those passionate about wildlife conservation. Its growing collection of rare and exotic animals include lions, tigers, jaguars, hippos, giraffes and rhinos, as well as many species of tropical birds and large and varied collections of butterflies, amphibians and snakes. Central to the zoo's growth has been a focus on conservation and several native species, including the Andean condor and the Puerto Rican crested toad.
Address: Mayaguez
Golf
A links-lover's paradise, Puerto Rico is home to more than 20 golf courses, almost all of which could be considered championship-level design. Puerto Rico's luxury resorts offer some of the best 18 holes on the island. Note that many clubs may still be recovering from the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria.
The Royal Isabela is a firm favourite, the links looking out onto the beautiful waves of the islands northwest coast. Over on the east coast, the white shores of Coco Beach offer two courses designed by American golf stalwart Tom Kite. It also boasts the status of being the venue for the Puerto Rico Open.
Tee off at the luxurious Bahia Beach, with palm trees shading fairways that run alongside saltwater lagoons and residences just a short walk away from sea. Lastly, the globally-acclaimed courses of Dorado Beach are found on the north of the island. A memorable setup of luxury and opulence, its East Course,
Pineapple Course, and Sugarcane Course are considered PGA Tour standard.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving and snorkelling, for beginners and experts alike, is the reason why Puerto Rico is often called the Caribbean's best-kept underwater secret. Off the southwest coast, from the village of La Parguera to the city of Ponce, lie some of the island's most extraordinary dive sites.
These include the Black Wall, home of the Caribbean's rarely seen black coral, while another noteworthy spot off the west coast of Puerto Rico is Isla Mona. Known as the Galapagos of the Caribbean, it is home to sea turtles, dolphins and various species of rare marine life.
Puerto Rico is regularly seen as one of the top five destinations for shore diving and the island is a mainstay in lists for best overall diving expeditions. For visitors looking to get close to but not necessarily submerged in the water, Puerto Rico offers various other water sports such as world-class surfing, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking and deep-sea
fishing.
Public Holidays in Puerto Rico
2020
2021
Memorial Day
Sat. May 25
Fri. May 31
Easter
Fri. April 12
Thu. April 4
Emancipation Day
Fri. March 22
Fri. March 22
New Year's Day
Mon. January 1
Mon. January 1
Martin Luther King Jr Day
Sat. January 20
Thu. January 18
President's Day
Sat. February 17
Thu. February 15
Epiphany
Sat. January 6
Sat. January 6
USA Independence Day
Thu. July 4
Thu. July 4
Constitution Day
Thu. July 25
Thu. July 25
Labour Day
Sat. September 7
Fri. September 6
Columbus
Sat. October 12
Fri. October 11
Veterans Day
Mon. November 11
Mon. November 11
Discovery Day
Tue. November 19
Tue. November 19
Thanksgiving Day
Tue. November 26
Mon. November 25
Christmas Day
Wed. December 25
Wed. December 25
Port of Call - Old San Juan
Old San Juan Port Photo credit: Tomás Fano
San Juan is the most important cruise hub in the Caribbean, welcoming over a million cruise passengers yearly. The modern side of Puerto Rico's capital sits comfortably alongside its five centuries of history as one of the oldest cities in the western hemisphere.
Passengers delight in the magical Old Town, with its many outstanding restaurants and unique shops. New San Juan also has its charms, and the natural attractions on the city's periphery are also worth exploring.
Cruise ships dock in Old San Juan, although during busy periods overflow ships dock at Frontier Pier or Pan-American Pier, both around 15 minutes away from the Old City. The port facilities are outstanding, allowing for a seamless transition between cruise ship and city attractions. Over 28 cruise companies are based in San Juan, making it the largest home-base port in the world.
Shopping in Old San Juan
San Juan is a bargain centre plus no tax is levied on purchases. Plazas Las Americas is the largest mall in the Caribbean with over three miles (4.5km) of shops. The Condado and Isla Verde neighbourhoods have good designer boutiques, while the Old Town has numerous family-run stores selling traditional crafts such as the collectible santos(carved religious idols).
Dining in Old San Juan
Escambrón - a local classic off the beaten track; near hotel Normandie
Barrachina - inventor of the Piña Colada; great Puerto Rican food
Morton's - one of the best steakhouses in the world
Things to do in Old San Juan
Take a night trip to Vieques Bioluminescent Bay and see the luminescent sea
Go see Arecibo Observatory, the world's largest radar
Some might say anytime is the best time to visit Puerto Rico on a cruise, but there are variables that can influence your decision of exactly when you might want to go. Weather changes are slight, but factoring in the number of cruise ships visiting Puerto Rico
Coarse gravel crunches beneath my boots as I stroll along a pathway that weaves through a canopy of towering trees in El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. Forest System, located near the northeastern edge of Puerto Rico. I hear the familiar croaking of
Travelers seeking a vibrant Caribbean getaway can easily find it in Puerto Rico, approximately 1,000 miles off the coast of Florida. The island boasts a burgeoning contemporary arts scene, a delectable local cuisine (think: green banana escabeche, yucca fritters with blue crab), and
I used to love traveling. With my best friends by my side, I was nearly swept away by the Reynisfjara waves in Iceland, spun like a princess outside of the Royal Palace of Madrid, rock-climbed Las Tetas de Cayey in Puerto Rico, and danced nights away on Havana streets. But
One of the Caribbean's most popular destinations is going to be seeing some major investments that will benefit every passenger coming ashore. Port infrastructure in San Juan, Puerto Rico will see a significant investment from Global Ports Holding, the largest
The scenery starts to change when you leave the tall hotels and tapón (traffic jam) of San Juan behind. Head south on Route 52, and you will start seeing the lush green mountains of Cordillera Central. As you approach the southern coast, the dense vegetation
From Rincon to Ceiba, Ponce to San Juan, Puerto Rico is as rich in the exuberant creativity that emerges from its local queer voices as it is in tropical landscape. Boricuan pride is about celebrating that culture, cherishing individualities and respecting the
Puerto Rico has been growing in popularity among travelers in recent years as the ultimate destination for a tropical island getaway. This Caribbean island, which is a territory of the United States, saw a record-breaking 5.1 million tourists in 2022 — a massive increase from the
Everyone seems to be talking about Puerto Rico, and for good reason. When asked for Caribbean recommendations, I often find myself saying that Puerto Rico is the perfect place to start. With no passport needed for American citizens and no
A Carnival cruise ship rescued 24 people in the Caribbean this week who were stranded on a small boat. Carnival Spirit was sailing in the Caribbean near the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico when a small boat with 24 people in distress were spotted. The crew
If we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that some of the best things are in our own backyards. For Americans, that includes Puerto Rico and the three major territories of the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix). Although all of these places have great
On this day in 1513, Ponce de Leon set sail from Puerto Rico to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. Caribbean Indian legends spoke of magical waters, a drink of which would guarantee a life free from the worries of old
Congestion is a part of life in Puerto Rico, where everyone and their grandmother owns a car, and driving is the predominant mode of transportation. Puerto Rico is also a large island with a dearth of public transportation and many far-flung destinations. Driving, it seems, is the easiest
Puerto Rico is one of the hottest destinations in the Caribbean right now for American travelers. This island, which is a territory of the United States located in the Caribbean, welcomed 5.1 million visitors in 2022, a new record surpassing even pre-2020 travel numbers
If you’re looking for an escape this winter that’s easily accessible, has tropical weather, amazing food, and rich Black history and culture, look no further than Puerto Rico. Immerse yourself in Black Boricua culture by visiting the town of Loíza. Located just a few minutes outside the
I can’t pinpoint the first time I said to myself, “I want to travel the world,” but I do remember the first time I felt awakened by the possibility of a life beyond my home in Puerto Rico. When I was 12 years old, my parents took my brother and me on a big family trip to Spain and France. I
Frontier Airlines is expanding its Caribbean service. Beginning this May, the low-cost airline will add new direct routes from 7 U.S. cities to beautiful Puerto Rico. Frontier is also launching a service to Ponce, Puerto Rico for the first time. The new flight additions mean Frontier will soon
When it comes to ecotourism, the Caribbean is rife with iconic destinations, ranging from Puerto Rico’s lush El Yunque rainforest to the verdant hills of Dominica. However, one tiny island tends to fly under the radar for seasoned outdoor adventurers. Perched off the coast of Venezuela, the island
When it comes to ecotourism, the Caribbean is rife with iconic destinations, ranging from Puerto Rico’s lush El Yunque rainforest to the verdant hills of Dominica. However, one tiny island tends to fly under the radar for seasoned outdoor adventurers. Perched off the coast of Venezuela, the island
ive years ago, Puerto Rico gained international acclaim when the hit song “Despacito” reached the top of the Billboard charts. For the first time, it seemed like all eyes were on this small island in the Caribbean, approximately 100 miles long by 35 miles wide
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) just had its 40th edition of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace in San Juan, Puerto Rico. During the event, CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig introduced recent data from the travel analytics company ForwardKeys, revealing the top
All of the major U.S. airlines are waiving changes and cancellations for numerous flights to and from the Caribbean as Hurricane Fiona landed in the Dominican Republic on Monday after wreaking havoc in Puerto Rico over the weekend. After operations were suspended at San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín
Puerto Rico, which has maintained some of the strictest Covid-19 measures in the United States during the pandemic, announced Tuesday it's relaxing travel restrictions.
On this day in 1513, Ponce de Leon set sail from Puerto Rico to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. Caribbean Indian legends spoke of magical waters, a drink of which would guarantee a life free from the worries of old age
Atlas Obscura has trips for adventure seekers. For food lovers and history buffs. For art, biology, and nature enthusiasts. Because exploration is for everyone
More than 600 travel industry members—representative of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam— urging immediate action on near-term federal policies to restore and grow the U.S.
Though not quite as popular as San Juan, the eastern reaches of Puerto Rico are home to idyllic beaches, towering mountains, delicious food, plenty of historical attractions, and more
Despite 2020's challenges, the "isle of enchantment" continued to — no surprise here — enchant T+L readers, who were attracted to its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and the ease of traveling to the nearby, no-passport-required United States territory
Switzerland and Puerto Rico are now among the highest-risk destinations for travelers, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s regularly updated travel advisories list
Tourism is ramping up in Puerto Rico, with several changes to its Covid-19 travel guidelines going into effect this week. For starters, all local curfews in effect since March 2020 have been lifted as of Monday
Authorities recently closed the Chichen Itza Maya ruin site in Mexico after police complained of tourists without masks, while police in Puerto Rico have handed out a number of fines for non-compliance. So why are so many tourists seemingly ignoring the rules around mask wearing
On this day in 1513, Ponce de Leon set sail from Puerto Rico to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. Caribbean Indian legends spoke of magical waters, a drink of which would guarantee a life free from the worries of old age. Ponce de Leon had served with Christopher Columbus on his second voyage and became the governor of Puerto Rico, earning a fortune in the slave trade. He later lost the position and requested permission from
In recent research shared by Discover Puerto Rico, last week’s Coronavirus Travel Sentiment Index Report from Destination Analysts shows that consumers’ receptiveness to travel inspiration is at a pandemic high
A new lifestyle hotel is coming to the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, and now more details have been revealed on the Preferred Hotels property. It’s called Palacio Provincial, and the 43-room hotel will be set in an historic building in San Juan’s charming historic district
A hip new boutique hotel has opened its doors in the Condado district of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Caribbean Journal has learned. The hip new 26-room hotel is the product of a $1 million
Traveling for the holidays may be a little different this year due to the pandemic, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have advised would-be travelers to say home, but some folks are still packing up
A rather dramatic video has surfaced on social media reportedly showing a fight that broke out on a Spirit Airlines plane in Puerto Rico. According to the comments online, the fight broke out over an argument about wearing face masks onboard. The fight escalated until police used a taser to subdue a passenger. Here’s everything we know.
Peru, Bahamas and Puerto Rico are the latest destinations to use the world's first ever global safety and hygiene stamp, launched earlier this year by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) granted its Safe Travels Stamp to the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC), making the island the first U.S. destination to be included in the international organization’s certification program. Tourism Co. Executive Director said the recognition “promotes the island’s image as an attractive, forward-thinking destination
Royal Caribbean International has announced a number of upcoming changes in itineraries and homeports to its summer 2021 cruises. Highlights of the updated summer cruises for 2021 include new four- and five-night Mediterranean getaways from Barcelona, and more time in the Caribbean with ships sailing from additional U.S. cruise ports next summer including Tampa, Fla. and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico has implemented new testing protocols for those looking to visit. All travelers flying to Puerto Rico must now arrive solely through San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, with documentation of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.
Puerto Rico will open its tourism sector to all travellers from July 15. Currently, the destination's popular attractions and tourist locations are open for Island residents who can enjoy the natural beauty and the hospitality of the travel industry with certain restrictions.
Puerto Rico wants you to know it can’t wait for you to come back when the time is right. And, to inspire your wanderlust for the gorgeous island destination, it’s offering up one of the most unique virtual tours available during quarantine. In April, Discover Puerto Rico launched its brand-new guided tours via Google Earth. However, these aren’t just any tours, but rather, they’re live guided expeditions hosted by
Let’s not beat around the bush: Your weekends have been looking a little lackluster these days. Us too. And as of late, your version of a trip entails traveling from the kitchen to the living room and back again. Us too. Thankfully, all of that is about to change. Discover Puerto Rico is inviting those confined to their home to spend this weekend on the island — virtually, of course. From March
On this day in 1513, Ponce de Leon set sail from Puerto Rico to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. Caribbean Indian legends spoke of magical waters, a drink of which would guarantee a life free from the worries of old age. Ponce de Leon had served with Christopher Columbus on his second voyage and became the governor of Puerto
Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, best known by his stage name Bad Bunny, is hard to miss. The Puerto Rican artist is as well known for pioneering the Latin trap genre—an evolution of reggaeton that draws on hip-hop and trap music—as he is for his loud, gender-bending street style (think Matrix-inspired sunglasses, loads of Supreme, and bold manicures). But as he has skyrocketed to fame on the mainland
The body of a man who fell from the 10th-story deck of a cruise ship docked in Puerto Rico has reportedly been recovered by rescue divers. The passenger went overboard from the deck of the Oasis of the Seas ship, at around 7.40 p.m. local time on Wednesday, CBS News reporter
Though Puerto Rico is located in an active earthquake zone, the island has rarely experienced massive earthquakes. Prior to 2019, the last major tremblor on the island was the 1918 quake that killed 116 people and left thousands homeless. In the last quarter of 2019, the island, still recovering from the extensive damage of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, began experiencing a series of
Puerto Rico nonprofit tourism organization Discover Puerto Rico is urging tourists traveling to or within the territory to check with travel providers, hotels and local businesses in the wake of a series of earthquakes that have rattled the island. A 6.4-magnitude earthquake rumbled across Puerto Rico on Tuesday, killing at least one person and knocking out power to virtually the entire island
Cruises are continuing to call on San Juan, Puerto Rico in the wake of two earthquakes that struck the island. The latest quake, a 6.4-magnitude earthquake, caused widespread power loss on the island, with the local power plant designed to shut off at the first sign of vibrations in the earth. Much of the damage is centered on the southern edge of the island and primarily affects the
Carnival Cruise Line has issued a statement regarding their cruises to Puerto Rico and recent earthquakes that have hit the island. Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador John Heald posted the following statement earlier today on his Facebook page: “We are closely monitoring the situation in Puerto Rico following the earthquakes that were reported and are in touch with local authorities and the U.S. Coast Guard
The parents of an 18-month-old who fell to her death from an open window on a Royal Caribbean Cruise ship in July are expected to announce Wednesday a lawsuit against the cruise line over the accident that they contend is the company’s fault. Alan Wiegand and Kimberly Schultz Wiegand, of South Bend, Indiana, were on a Royal Caribbean Cruise ship in Puerto Rico when their daughter, Chloe
An Indiana man charged with negligent homicide in his granddaughter’s fatal plunge from a cruise ship docked in Puerto Rico insists he didn’t realize an 11th-floor window was open before the 18-month-old fell. Salvatore Anello told “CBS This Morning” that Chloe Wiegand fell to her death in July after he lifted her to a window on the Royal Caribbean’s Freedom
Parents of the 18-month-old girl who fell to her death from a cruise ship window in Puerto Rico are standing by the girl's grandfather after he was charged with negligent homicide. Salvatore Anello is facing three years in prison for the death of Chloe Wiegand after Puerto Rico’s Justice Department ordered his arrest Monday. Anello, called Sam by his family, is married to Chloe’s maternal grandmother. Michael Winkleman, an
Two years after Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico, the small island remains in recovery. As it continues to bounce back, post-hurricane tourism has started to grow. The island sees more than 4 million visitors each year, according to Discover Puerto Rico. Tourism makes up 6.5% of Puerto Rico's GDP and supports nearly 83,000 jobs directly and indirectly. “We're thrilled to report that Puerto Rico's tourism is the strongest
Royal Caribbean has announced that pop rock duo Hall & Oates will join the company’s 50th Birthday President’s Cruise aboard Symphony of the Seas this November. Departing November 2, 2019 from Miami, this special cruise features calls on Philipsburg, St. Maarten; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and an extended 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay. The commemorative cruise celebrates the 50th
A 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck 49 miles off the northwest coast of Puerto Rico late Monday evening. No immediate damage from the earthquake has yet been reported nor is there a tsunami alert, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). The earthquake struck while Puerto Rico prepares for the potential impact of Tropical Storm Karen. The storm is expected to hit the island on Tuesday, bringing risk
Tropical Storm Karen, which appears to be heading toward Puerto Rico and the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, is causing some cruise ship itinerary changes. The National Hurricane Center is forecasting the storm could arrive at the Virgin Islands by Tuesday, September 24. A tropical storm watch, with accompanying heavy rainfall, tropical storm force winds and flash
Over the past several years, chef José Andrés and his non-profit, World Central Kitchen, have been working to feed people in times of crisis. They were on the ground in Southern California this summer preparing meals for residents and first responders in the wake of earthquakes; when Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, Andrés famously prepared giant vats of paella that served 5,000 people
Passengers due to fly into the path of Tropical Storm Dorian may be able to reschedule their flights for free. Several US airlines are offering travel waivers to customers with scheduled flights to the eastern Caribbean as the storm travels through the Caribbean Sea. The National Hurricane Center issued a tropical storm warning and a hurricane watch for Puerto Rico on Tuesday morning. It's
Tropical Storm Dorian, brewing in the Caribbean and aiming toward Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic, has already prompted several cruise ship itinerary changes. The storm has prompted a hurricane watch for Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic from Isla Saona to Samana, and tropical storm warnings for Martinique, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Graphical projections
Royal Caribbean is bringing what was once the world’s largest cruise ship up to speed with a $116 million overhaul with plans to keep it sailing the Southern Caribbean from Puerto Rico. Freedom of the Seas was once the Guinness World Record holder before the wave of Oasis-class ships, but it’s still a massive offering at 154,407 gross tons. The ship that debuted in 2006, and had its last major overhaul
If there is one overarching effect of hurricanes Irma and Maria, which devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, it is that Puerto Ricans are different now. “We’ve changed since the hurricanes,” my friend, a photographer who lives in San Juan, told me. “We’re not putting up with any b.s. any longer.” After months without electricity, the loss of 3,000 lives, the continuing sting of $90 billion in damage, government negligence and
In the wake of Hurricane Maria in 2017, many of Puerto Rico's hotels and businesses shuttered—some for good, others for a recovery period before what has become a grand comeback. It's been less than two years since, but Puerto Rico is officially back as a
Several cruise lines have canceled port stops in San Juan ahead of planned protests Monday in Puerto Rico, aimed at forcing the governor to resign. "Due to the planned protests scheduled for today in San Juan, Puerto Rico, we have cancelled Celebrity Equinox’s call (a charter cruise) to San Juan," Royal Caribbean spokesman Owen Torres told USA TODAY in a statement. "Equinox
Civil unrest in Puerto Rico is forcing multiple cruise ships to alter their itineraries. Royal Caribbean canceled stops in San Juan on at least two of its cruises, affecting passengers on Empress of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas. Some passengers took to Twitter to complain, while others praised the cruise line for taking the safety of their passengers so seriously. Residents in Puerto Rico, still
Royal Caribbean International has canceled a planned call in San Juan, Puerto Rico, amid protests against the embattled governor in the capital of the U.S. territory. "In light of current unrest in San Juan, Puerto Rico, we have canceled today’s call to San Juan," Owen Torres, spokesman for Royal Caribbean, said in a statement to USA TODAY. "We continue to monitor the situation closely and will make
Authorities investigating an 18-month-old Indiana girl's fatal fall from an open window on a cruise ship in Puerto Rico said Thursday they are considering many options, including the culpability of the cruise line.
As Chloe Wiegand's family accompanied the toddler's body home to Indiana, Puerto Rico's Public Security Secretary Elmer Román said "multiple angles" are being looked at in her death, including possible negligence by Royal Caribbean Cruises.
A 19-month-old girl died after falling off the deck of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship docked in Puerto Rico over the weekend. The toddler fell from the 11th floor at a height estimated to be about 150 feet. She fell onto the concrete Pan American dock II in San Juan. She was rushed to the hospital, where she was declared dead a short while later, according
Passengers reportedly watched as a man desperately tried to swim back to their cruise ship after possibly going overboard on purpose. The incident occurred on Saturday morning near San Juan, Puerto Rico. The man was traveling on the Carnival Fascination ship and was successfully rescued from the waters. According to a statement from a spokesperson for
Puerto Rico continues to punch far above its weight in its ongoing recovery efforts. Today, the government of Puerto Rico kicks off a three-day summit hosted by disaster-relief initiative Tourism Cares. The summit is expected to connect more than 150 travel professionals to exchange best practices for sustainable tourism, attend exhibitions where local entrepreneurs
The piña colada is a cocktail synonymous with the beach. But have you ever wondered which beach? The Caribe Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the birthplace of the famous mixed drink. And 2019 is proving to be an auspicious year at the property. After being damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, the Caribe Hilton is back open for business, with a sleek new look and a
Jetblue gained its youngest customer ever after a baby was born during a flight from Puerto Rico to Florida. The US airline said it wants to rename the aircraft after the baby following the birth on flight 1954 on Saturday 17 February. The event aptly occurred on a plane named “Born to be Blue”, which flew from San Juan to Fort Lauderdale. “We’d like to thank the crew and
If this is a Monday night, it’s hard to imagine what Friday looks like. About 300 people are spilling out of a club onto Avenida Eduardo Conde in the Santurce district of San Juan. The space I’m in has limited seating, but the stools are empty anyway because everyone is standing. One window sells fluffy, fist-sized empanadillas and stacks of lightly salted tostones while
A little over five years ago, sitting from my dark, cold cubicle in New York, I couldn’t stop thinking about Puerto Rico. Though I’ve always been adventurous by spirit, my bank account didn’t allow me to truly indulge in my wanderlust until I turned 25. Since then I’ve made up for lost time — stamping 31 countries (and counting) on my passport. With visions of sandy beaches
A Norwegian cruise ship smashed into the docks in Puerto Rico, sinking the pier. Video shows the Epic cruise liner veering towards the San Juan docks, destroying two mooring points in the process. The vessel departed from Port Canaveral in Florida on 9 February for a seven-day cruise around the British Virgin Islands. However, technical issues onboard meant the ship had
Nearly a year and a half after Hurricane Maria, stories of hope and progress are emerging in Puerto Rico, just as the island’s tropical vegetation is flourishing once again. While there is still much work to be done, and some rural areas might not fully recover for years, the capital of San Juan has been humming along for months. With a few exceptions, shops, hotels and
After a long road to recovery post-Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico is ready for visitors. The lights are on, our favorite hotels are open (with extensive remodels that have left many even better than before), and the island is buzzing at a slightly higher frequency, eager to welcome travelers back. We can't wait to visit this year—we even named it one of our 19 places to go in
A year and a half after Hurricane Maria slammed into this United States territory and other Caribbean islands with devastating force, Puerto Rico is on the rebound. The number of daily flights is still below normal, but tourism officials say that cruise ship traffic is healthy, hotel room occupancy is climbing back to pre-hurricane
The US Coast Guard suspended its search on Thursday for a 20-year-old British cruise ship entertainer who went overboard from a Royal Caribbean cruise ship on Christmas Day. Arron Hough, who was working on the Harmony of The Seas, went overboard 267 miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, the Coast Guard said in a statement. The search was suspended at around 2:30 p.m. Thursday.
The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for a crew member who went overboard from the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Harmony of the Seas some 267 miles off Puerto Rico. The agency said in a news release sent from Miami on Wednesday that 20-year-old Arron Hough of the United Kingdom went overboard on Christmas Day.
Tres Sirenas, one of Puerto Rico’s most stylish and intimate boutique hotels, has come up with a creative way to bring the community together post-hurricane, and it involves the incorporation of a versatile ingredient — cannabis — into its programming.
When taking a cruise, you have the option of leaving from cruise ports all around the country. However, one of the most overlooked and best cruise port to take a cruise to the Caribbean from is San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Condado neighborhood of San Juan, Puerto Rico has quietly become one of the Caribbean’s capitals of cool in recent years, with a diverse but uniformly sophisticated hotel offering and a modern, urban energy that’s largely unique in the Caribbean.
When hurricanes Irma and Maria hit in back-to-back succession last fall, they had a profound impact on high-season traffic in a handful of the hardest-hit Caribbean islands, including Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and St. Maarten/St. Martin
Hurricane Maria did a job on El San Juan Hotel, the storied property in Puerto Rico where Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra and Liza Minnelli once crooned. Water seeped into the lobby and guest rooms, and high winds ripped off awnings and tossed around a stainless-steel sculpture like an inflatable beach ball. The 60-year-old grande dame could
Thousands of passengers aboard the Norwegian Jade cruise ship will have to fly back to Miami from San Juan, Puerto Rico cutting their 10-day Caribbean vacation short. The ship left from Miami on Friday and arrived in San Juan on Sunday. Late Sunday evening, about an hour before the ship was supposed to leave the port, the captain announced
When it made its debut in late 2014, the historic Condado Vanderbilt immediately set a new standard for hotels in Puerto Rico: this was a globally-competitive luxury hotel with the food, ambience and service to match. And that’s still the case today — the Condado Vanderbilt is an
Disney and the bayou! On Thursday, Disney Cruise Line announced new cruises setting sail during early 2020. In early 2020, Disney Cruise Line will establish a new home port in New Orleans. The cruise line also announced a highly anticipated return to the Hawaiian Islands; cruises out of Puerto Rico; and popular itineraries to tropical
Puerto Rico’s ecosystem is still recovering from the devastating hurricanes that struck last fall. The environmental organization Para La Naturaleza provides free volunteer activities year-round for travelers who want to make a difference. The deal: You can craft your own DIY volunteer tour with the help of the organization that features many opportunities to travelers who want to help.
Eight months ago, Puerto Rico was devastated by Category 4 Hurricane Maria. But since then, much of the island—especially the capital of San Juan—has come backß strong, even as some areas are still struggling to get back to full health. We urged you not to forget Puerto Rico in March, because the island's "best shot at recovery comes from tourism."
Flavors food tours focus on connecting people – residents or visitors – to local restaurant owners, which provides a complete snapshot of a place’s history and culture through food
Puerto Rico still has a long road of recovery ahead, but tourism officials hope they can bring back visitors by December. José Izquierdo, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, said the primary focus is on rebuilding right now, but he hopes the island will be open for tourists by December 20
Officials with Carnival Corp. and Royal Caribbean International as well as Florida-Caribbean Cruise Assn. announced a multimillion-dollar marketing campaign to encourage vacationers to book cruises into the hurricane-hit Caribbean
Royal Caribbean International is canceling a planned sailing for a worthier cause: rescue and humanitarian efforts in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
The Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport is normally a bustling and happy place, full of vacationers and warm family reunions. Since Hurricane Maria, however, the airport, the Caribbean’s busiest, has been a place of concentrated anxiety, with limited power and services and no air-conditioning
With San Juan and the surrounding area still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Maria, Royal Caribbean late Sunday canceled a sailing out of the city scheduled for Wednesday
Puerto Rico held a referendum at the weekend to determine whether or not the Caribbean archipelago should become part of the US. The result was unequivocal: 97 per cent of eligible voters said they were in favour of their land becoming the 51st state of America
You know things are going pretty well when the big family argument is over whether to splash in the rain forest waterfall or loll around on the white-sand beach. You know things are even better when you realize you can do both
On this day in 1513, Ponce de Leon set sail from Puerto Rico to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. Caribbean Indian legends spoke of waters, a drink of which would guarantee a life free from the worries of old age
Developers and local officials eager to improve the economy want to transform the area into a more traditional tourism destination, bringing a hotel and villas to a place largely untouched since Christopher Columbus landed
Prosecutors in Puerto Rico have smashed a ring of current and former U.S. Transportation Security Administration workers that allegedly smuggled 20 tons of cocaine worth as much as $100 million into the U.S. over more than a decade
The neighborhoods on Chicago’s near northwest side are an invigorating blend of reflection and reinvention. Families from Ukraine, Poland and Puerto Rico settled here, and today expressions of their cultures can be found in museums, churches and cafes serving traditional dishes
That's what a lot of families are asking themselves as the Zika virus continues to spread through the Caribbean , including Mexico , Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands , the Dominican Republic and Jamaica , among others -- all popular spring break destinations for families, as well as their college students
Viking Ocean Cruises will venture into the Caribbean for the first time when Viking Star heads south in October this year on a cruise from New York to San Juan in Puerto Rico. Visits will be made along the American coastline and the Turks and Caicos, Antigua and St Thomas
When the US navy was kicked off the Puerto Rican island of Vieques, it left a Caribbean idyll. Now a new flight from London to San Juan means tourists can enjoy its solitary beauty
