12 Travel Tips for Puerto Rico
It was no secret was Puerto Rico was my late husband’s favorite place. He was always looking at real estate listings because he was determined to move us there at least part time. The island is quite intoxicating really. A rich culture, warm locals, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes…..well it is no surprise that Puerto Rico is a vacation hotspot.
There are quite a few misconceptions about Puerto Rico including the need for American citizens to have a passport to visit. Puerto Rico, while not a state, is a territory of the United States. No passport and no visa for US citizens required!!!
I have a trip to Puerto Rico coming up so I thought it was the perfect time to share some helpful tips for visiting Puerto Rico. Its really no mystery though. Just a lot of common sense.
HELPFUL TIPS
Visit more than San Juan. Yes, San Juan has so much to do and see BUT there is a whole island plus Culebra and Vieques accessible by ferry. Don’t limit the adventures you can have in Puerto Rico!
Take the ferry to Vieques or Culebra. Vieques is known for the bio bay at Mosquito Bay but you will need to plan to spend the night. The ferry runs at various times throughout the day to both islands and you can rent golf carts, scooters, jeeps, and cars to get around. You can also grab a cab if you prefer. You can take advantage of public transportation but it may not get you to all of the places you want to visit.
Weather and Packing: Puerto Rico has a tropical climate with a daily average temp of 80 degrees (F). It is best to pack lightweight, breathable clothing and don't forget your swimsuit, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Language: While English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, Spanish is the dominant language. Knowing some basic Spanish phrases will be very helpful and appreciated by locals.
Currency: Puerto Rico uses the United States dollar, so no need to worry about currency exchange.
Transportation: I absolutely recommend renting a car because it is a great way to explore the island. You can easily pick up a rental car at the airport but you will want to make sure you reserve a car. Public transportation is also available in the metropolitan area.
Local Cuisine: Please, please, PLEASE try traditional Puerto Rican dishes such as mofongo, tostones, lechón asado., tembleque, arepas, and of course coquito. You definitely don’t want to miss out on local coffee and rum. I promise you…..you WON’T be disappointed.
Safety: As in any destination, you should pay attention and be mindful of your surroundings and belongings. Always follow any local advisories or warnings.
Attractions: OMG Puerto Rico has no shortage of attractions and points of interest. It has beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests, historic Old San Juan, and the bioluminescent bays that you don’t want to miss.
Etiquette: Embrace the local customs and be please respectful of the culture, whether visiting a historic site or interacting with locals. It has been my experience that the locals are very welcoming of visitors and are very willing to help with recommendations or suggestions.
Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and the location of the nearest embassy or consulate. Also, having travel insurance is always a good idea.
Responsible Tourism: Support local businesses, respect the environment, and take the time to learn about the history and heritage of the island.
TOURS & ACTIVITIES
Need help figuring out tours for your visit to Puerto Rico? I have curated a list of tours and activities that I think you will love. Just be sure to read the fine print to make sure they are appropriate and suitable for your activity and fitness level. There’s plenty to more to see and do in Puerto Rico but this list will give you a start.
Puerto Rico offers a fabulous combination of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most of your experience exploring this enchanting island. Be sure you check my social media channels for photos and videos of my return to Puerto Rico. I will be staying at a historic hotel that was once a convent from the 1600s!
Make this beautiful day count!
Annette