Puerto Rico: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

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Puerto Rico: Trip Preparation & Destination Information

About Puerto Rico

Overview

Puerto Rico, a tropical paradise in the Caribbean, is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful beaches, such as Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, and the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay. The capital city, San Juan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with its historic Old San Juan district, characterized by colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of activities, from exploring the lush El Yunque National Forest to experiencing the lively nightlife and authentic cuisine. The island's unique blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino influences is evident in its music, dance, and festivals, creating a rich cultural tapestry that captivates Travelers seeking a memorable and immersive experience.

Capital City: San Juan

Population: 3.264 million (2021)

Currency: USD

Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4)

Emergency Number: 911

Outlet: Type A/B

A waterfall in El Yunque Rainforest, Puerto Rico.
A person's hands holding coffee beans in Puerto Rico.

Packing List

Speak The Language

Language: Spanish. A large portion of the population speaks English as a second language. 

 
  • Hello - ¡Hola! (O-la)
  • Goodbye - ¡Adios! (AH-dee-ohs)
  • Thank you - Gracias (GRA-see-as)
  • Do you speak English? - ¿Habla inglés? (Ab-la in-GLAYS)
  • I (don’t) understand - Yo (no) entiendo (yo no en-tee-EN-doh)
  • How are you? - ¿Cómo está? (KOH-moh eh-STAH)
  • I’m fine, thank you - Bien, gracias (bee-EN, GRA-see-as)
  • What’s your name? -  Cómo te llamas? ((KOH-moh te ya-mas?))
  • My name is… - Me llamo… (May ya-moh… )
  • Where is... -  ¿Dónde está… (DON-day es-tah...)
- The bathroom - el baño (el BAH-nyo)
- An ATM - un cajero (un kah-HEH-roh)
 
Google Translate: Download the Google Translate app or click here  
Mosquito Island and sandbar in Vieques, Puerto Rico.

Fun Facts

  • Puerto Rico's rich history begins with its indigenous Taino people, whose influence is still evident in the island's culture. Discover Taino petroglyphs and artifacts, connecting with the roots of Puerto Rico's heritage.
  • The Spanish colonial era left an indelible mark on Puerto Rico, seen in the cobblestone streets and colorful architecture of Old San Juan. Explore historic forts like El Morro, guarding the entrance to San Juan Bay since the 16th century.
  • El Yunque Rainforest is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system.
  • Puerto Rico is home to three of the world's brightest bioluminescent bays, including Mosquito Bay in Vieques.
  • Puerto Rico has a rich agricultural history, with coffee and sugar cane being historically significant crops. Coffee plantations, particularly in the central mountains, showcase the island's agricultural traditions.

Tipping

Tipping Suggestions: Tips for Guides, drivers, and restaurants are not included. Tips provide supplemental income, and, while not mandatory, are greatly appreciated. If the local teams have added to the experience, please reward them.

Guides USD $8-10 per person/per day
Drivers USD $8-10 per person/per day
Restaurants (full service) 

Follow the same rule of thumb as US 15-20% of the bill. Some establishments include the tip in the bill so make sure to check.
 
 

FAQ

Where can I find information on travel safety? Click here for the most up-to-date information on safety while traveling.

 

Is the water safe to drink? Tap water in Puerto Rico is drinkable and, in many areas of the country, quite good. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, it is recommended to refrain from drinking tap water in most beach destinations. To play it safe, visit any supermarket and buy bottled water. 

 

Do I need a passport? US citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico as it is a U.S. territory. For more information, click here.

 

What about vaccines? For vaccination information, click here.

 

Do you recommend travel insurance? While not required, we highly recommend all Travelers get travel insurance for their trip to protect themselves from the unknown!

 

How much should I pack? As we will be using shared transfers and spaces throughout our tour we recommend all Travelers pack as lightly as possible. Please take a look at our luggage restrictions below.

 

What does public transportation look like? There are many ways to get around Puerto Rico. Taxis are affordable and convenient, but be careful to only hire licensed taxi drivers. 

 

Is Uber or Lyft available? Uber is available in some cities, but Lyft is not.

Luggage Restrictions

Luggage Restrictions purple
Luggage restrictions purple – mobile – 1

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