Travel Puerto Rico • The Caribbean | She is Wanderlust Travel Blog

Located in the northeast of the Caribbean Sea, and known as the “Island of Enchantment”, Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States. The archipelago is famous for its interesting history and diverse heritage, with colonial architecture, beautiful landscapes and warm locals that will take you out to dance.

Travel Guide

Attractions

Dining

Why Visit Puerto Rico

HISTORY & ARCHITECTURE

Puerto Rico has a rich culture and history. The country is a mix of of Spanish, African and Taino (one of the largest indigenous people of the Caribbean). The colonial period influenced the country greatly, which can be seen through the colonial architecture scattered around, with structures that date back to the 1500s, especially in San Juan.

LANDSCAPES

Puerto Rico has unspoiled and diverse nature, with jungles, waterfalls, mountains, underground caves and one of the most impressive natural phenomenons: the bioluminescent bay. The country also boasts some of the best beaches in the world, with over 270 miles of coastline.

LOCALS & NIGHTLIFE

Puerto Ricans are warm, hospitable and friendly. They love to share their vibrant culture, and won’t hesitate to take you out to dance or to try their amazing rum. The Bomba and the Danza, two popular Puerto Rican dances, were invented on the island hundreds of years ago.

RUM

Puerto Rico is famous for its Rum, the world’s second-largest producer. 80% of the rum consumed in the United States hails from the island. Famous brands include: Bacardi, Don Q, Ron del Barrilito and Caliche.

FOOD

Puerto Rican cuisine is nothing but mouth watering. It offers a blend of flavors, a mix between Spanish, Caribbean, and African. Popular dishes include the famous “Mofongo” (meat or seafood-filled mound of plantains), the “Lechon”, and “arroz con gandules”.

Why Visit Puerto Rico

HISTORY & ARCHITECTURE

LANDSCAPES

LOCALS & NIGHTLIFE

RUM

FOOD

Name: Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
Unincorporated territory of the United States
Capital: San Juan
Official Languages: Spanish – English
Currency: United States dollar
Time Zone: UTC−4

Name: Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
Unincorporated territory of the United States
Capital: San Juan
Official Languages: Spanish – English
Currency: United States dollar
Time Zone: UTC−4

Bucket List

What to expect

LANGUAGE

English and Spanish are both the official languages of Puerto Rico, however spanish is the dominant language. In tourist attractions or big cities almost everybody will speak English and you can survive without a word of Spanish. It is recommended to learn some basic phrases if you are visiting remote areas.

ELECTRICITY

In Puerto Rico the standard voltage is 120 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. That’s the standard voltage in the american continent; If you are traveling from the EU you will need an adaptor.

CURRENCY

Puerto Rico uses the american dollar as the official currency, as it is a commonwealth country of the United States. Foreign currencies like euros are not accepted. Credit cards are widely accepted. It is encouraged to exchange it in a bank or withdraw it directly from the ATM if you are flying in with another currency than american dollars.

CLIMATE

Puerto Rico has a Tropical Marine climate with an average temperature of 80 °F (26 °C). Temperatures can drop up to 70 °F (21 °C) in January. Puerto Rico enjoys warm, sunny and humid days most of the year.

SAFETY

Puerto Rico is relatively safe, although some neighborhoods can have a higher crime rate than others, especially at night. Pickpockets are common in touristy areas and on public transportation, so be aware and exercise your common sense.

How to get around

By plane: There are a couple airlines offering domestic flights in Puerto Rico. Both domestic and charter flights are available.

By Car: Renting a car wouldn’t be recommended unless you are willing to explore the entire island, as public transportation is really good. Be aware of some extra expenses like toll roads and parking.

By Bus: Buses are called guaguas in Puerto Rico. The bus network has extensive routes throughout the island, with set rates and consistent schedules. $1.50 is the base fare.

By Taxis: Taxis are popular in Puerto Rico, with set rates per zone or meters depending on the taxi and where you are getting it. Uber is also available.

By Boat: Ferries are commonly use to reach the small islands, like Vieques and Culebra. They sail from the Ceiba (the ferry port) from San Juan. Expect long wait times on the weekend and holidays.

Visa Policy

Passport and visa requirements for entering Puerto Rico are the same as for entering the USA. Citizens of the EU, Chile, Japan, Korea, Singapore and Taiwan can enter the US with the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA), that allows them to stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, though it is recommended that travelers apply as soon as they begin preparing travel plans or prior to purchasing airline tickets. Citizens of every other country must first obtain a U.S. visa.