Puerto Rico Travel Guide

Puerto Rico is an indulgent location for a traveler. The plethora of options available is just amazing.

Whether you want to feel the beach sand between your toes or hike the mountains, there’s something for you here. This Caribbean island is an American territory, located east of the Dominican Republic.

When you first step onto the threshold of the island, you will find it strikingly different from the other fifty US states.

The Spanish have left their influence on Puerto Rico. Its capital is San Juan. There is a story behind it as well. When Christopher Columbus first found the island in the fifteenth century he named it San Juan (after St. John). Hence, the capital retains this name to this day.

Things To Do In Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a dream island for those who fantasize about vibrant sandy beaches. The gorgeous vegetation backed by old colonial towns makes it a stunning destination.

You can surf on the treacherous waves or just stroll around Medieval Spanish towns. The Caribbean island has Spanish culture with a modern American twist of its own.

STROLL AROUND OLD SAN JUAN

It is a World Heritage site which has been preserved to the best. When you stroll around the Old San Juan, you will be taken back to medieval times. The Colonial architecture, the lingering Spanish culture backed by Caribbean landscape is a joy to experience.

Many structures like the San Juan Cathedral, Castillo de San Cristóbal, and Fortaleza, are well preserved.

You can have a great holiday while you stay at the Spanish colonial buildings and savor unique Spanish- American cuisine with Caribbean ingredients.

SURFING IN RINCÓN

Rincón was a secluded part of Puerto Rico till it hosted the World Surfing Championships. It became known to surfers around the world. This surfing town is a quiet spot for travelers. The high and uproaring waves are a source of adrenaline for surfers

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If you are not into that, you can go for whale watching tours. The appropriate time to do it is from January to March. Clear blue waters kiss the soft white sands of beaches. It makes beautiful scenery for photography.

STAR GAZING AT OBSERVATORIO de ARECIBO

Puerto Rico offers you thrilling activities to do. As a tourist, you can do sightseeing of old colonial buildings, sunbath at the Caribbean beaches, water sports in high waters. But there are many quirky things you can do here as well.

Observatorio de Arecibo is the place where you can watch the night sky. If you are an astronomical freak, you can take your time to drive up to Arecibo Radio Telescope. There you can see the celestial bodies and learn about them.

CAVING AT RIO CAMUY

The Rio Camuy cave system covers a massive area of around 270 acres. Stepping into the deep caves you can feel like you have been transported to the Neanderthal era. These exotic caves used to homes to indigenous people.

Now you can visit the various rooms which have rivers streaming besides them. The unique natural beauty of the caves is enhanced by the looming stalactites and stalagmites.

There are many swanky golf courses in this region to entertain you as well. Trekking in the El Yunque mountain range will take you through the lush rainforests of Puerto Rico.

Lajas and Fajardo are bioluminescent bays where you can enjoy a dip after sunset. Caving in Camuy will be an exciting adventure. You will never run out of activities in Puerto Rico.

Vieques and Culebra

Around Puerto Rico, there are smaller islands. For instance, Vieques and Culebra.

Vieques is a popular destination with beautiful beaches. The busy cities are San Juan (the capital), Ponce, Carolina, and Caguas. The sprawling mountains give in to the gorgeous coastline. Geography enhances the scope of exciting outdoor activities.

You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, horseback riding, or hiking.

KAYAKING AT MOSQUITO BAY (Vieques)

Far away from the mainland, you can have nature all to yourself. Just book a room at a luxurious hotel. Take some time off sightseeing and do shopping. The quirky art galleries display modern art pieces. You can have a look at the emerging talents of Puerto Rico.

You are here; you should not miss the world famous Bioluminescent Bay. This natural wonder occurs in many parts of Puerto Rico. But in Vieques, you can go kayaking or boating at dusk and see the bay glitter. You will like you are in fantasy land. It will be an incredible experience, worth treasuring.

Getting Around In Puerto Rico

As a tourist, you can get around in a rental car or Público (shared taxi). Public transport like buses and trains are unreliable; they are best to be avoided. Taxis are readily available in San Juan; you can hire them at the airport, hotels and major tourist sites, or hail them on the street.

Be sure to ask whether the driver is charging a set rate (and what the rate is) or using a meter.

In other cities, you usually need to call a taxi. Taxi safety varies considerably; not all vehicles are new, nor do all taxis have seatbelts. Taxi drivers expect a minimum of 15% tip.

You can also hire a car for getting around at the airport and city agencies. Most companies require a minimum age of 25, although some go with 21. Cars drive on the right side of the road here. Roads are in reasonable condition. 

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

Super- luxurious hotels like Ritz- Carlton, Westin are available here. Boutique hotels are in full flow. If you want to be on a budget, there are no hostel options. But you can rent an apartment for a temporary period.

The sunny ambiance of Caribbean beaches coupled with delicious Thai food is a winning formula. You will walk away with some treasured memories at this place.

Money & Currency

The currency in use is the US Dollar. You can exchange other foreign currencies at banks and at major hotels, though it is best to arrive with US Dollars and avoid exchange altogether. All major international credit cards are acceptable and ATMs are available widely across the island.

Electricity & Plug Type

As for electricity, Puerto Rico uses type AB sockets. Check out the above-linked page to see the photos and other useful information. The standard voltage is 120V. 

September 3, 2016 11:31 am Published by Staff Writer 3 Comments