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

Puerto Rico’s official language is Spanish. Spanish is widely spoken throughout the island, and you’ll find that most locals communicate primarily in Spanish. However, English is also spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, making it relatively easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate and navigate.

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

Rental Car: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Puerto Rico, especially if you want the freedom to travel at your own pace. There are numerous car rental agencies available at the major airports and cities. Just be sure to have a valid driver’s license and be prepared for driving on the right-hand side of the road.
Public Buses: The public bus system, known as AMA (Autoridad Metropolitana de Autobuses), operates throughout the island, providing an affordable means of transportation. Buses are available in most towns and cities, and they are a convenient option for short-distance travel. However, be aware that the schedules may vary, and it might take longer to reach certain destinations.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Puerto Rico, particularly in tourist areas and major cities. You can either hail a taxi on the street or find them at designated taxi stands. It’s recommended to use licensed taxis with meters or negotiate the fare before getting in. It’s always helpful to carry cash for taxi rides.
Publico: Publicos are shared vans or minibusses that operate on specific routes. They are a popular and affordable mode of transportation, particularly in rural areas and smaller towns. Publicos usually have fixed routes, and you can catch them at designated stops. They can be a great way to interact with locals and experience the authentic local culture.
Ferries: If you plan to visit Puerto Rico’s nearby islands like Vieques or Culebra, ferries are available for transportation. Ferries depart from various ports, and schedules can vary, so it’s important to check the timetable in advance. These islands offer stunning beaches and natural beauty, and ferries are a convenient way to access them.
Walking: Exploring on foot is a fantastic way to discover Puerto Rico’s cities and towns, especially in historic areas like Old San Juan. Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, explore charming streets, and stumble upon hidden gems. Just be prepared with comfortable shoes and stay aware of your surroundings.

Visa Policy

As Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, the visa policy for tourists is aligned with that of the United States. Visitors from many countries can travel to Puerto Rico under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) or by obtaining a visitor visa (B1/B2 visa).

Under the Visa Waiver Program, citizens of the following countries can enter Puerto Rico for tourism or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and Vatican City.

For citizens of countries not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, a visitor visa (B1/B2 visa) is required to enter Puerto Rico. This includes citizens of countries such as China, India, Russia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, and many others.

It’s important to note that the visa policy for Puerto Rico follows that of the United States, and the list of countries eligible for the Visa Waiver Program or requiring a visitor visa is subject to change. It is advisable to check the U.S. Department of State website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on visa requirements and eligibility based on your country of citizenship. Additionally, individuals with certain criminal records or other immigration violations may be ineligible for entry into Puerto Rico or the United States, so it is crucial to review the specific requirements and restrictions before planning your trip.