Puerto Rico Travel Guide (Caribbean/North America)

1	Explore Old San Juan.
2	Visit El Yunque National Rainforest
3	Tour Bacardi Rum Distillery and relax in Luquillo Beach
4	Take a day trip to Culebra Island, one of the most remote islands in Puerto Rico
5	Explore the west coast, including Rincon and Cabo Rojo.
6	Take a bioluminescent night kayak tour in Fajardo
7	Visit the south coast, including Ponce and Guanica

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Rico

Visitors can explore Puerto Rico through its fantastic food and drink. From street stands to fine dining, Puerto Rico has something for everyone.

Must-Try Dishes

Mofongo, mashed plantains often stuffed with meats, seafood or veggies
Arroz con gandules, rice with pigeon peas, and traditionally served during holidays
Lechon, a slow roasted pork dish
Empanadillas, Puerto Rico’s island version of the Latin American empanada
Tostones, twice fried plantains

Local Beverages

Piña Colada, a refreshing cocktail made from pineapple, rum, and coconut cream
Medalla, Puerto Rico’s most popular beer
Coquito, a traditional Christmas drink made with rum, coconut cream, and spices
Sangria, a popular wine-based beverage mixed with fruit

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Puerto Rico offers many lodging options, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the best options.

San Juan Hotels - luxurious options in the heart of the city
Beach Resorts - all-inclusive resorts like the Wyndam Rio Mar Resort in Rio Grande
Paradores - small family-owned inns with a local flavor
Hostels - affordable options for backpackers
Guesthouses - private homes converted to rentable vacation homes

What to Buy in Puerto Rico: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shopping in Puerto Rico is an enjoyable experience. Here are some local products and souvenirs to take home.

Coffee, grown in the central mountains of the island
Handmade Ceramics, symmetrical art pieces for your home.
Panama hats, handmade straw hats that protect you from the sun
Salsa music albums and handmade maracas.
Handcrafted Taíno figurines

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has its unique culture and customs, which visitors should try to understand and respect. Here are some cultural norms to keep in mind.

Puerto Ricans are known for their friendliness and hospitality
Spanish is the primary language, but English is widely spoken
Puerto Ricans love to dance, and Salsa music is a big deal
On the dinner table, always keep your elbows below the table
Tipping is customary, especially in restaurants

Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a year-round vacation destination. The temperature is usually in the 70s to 80s, making it a great place to visit in both summer and winter. November to April is the busiest tourist season, but you still can have your own moments.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Rico

Here are some things to do and avoid in Puerto Rico.

Do:

Do take time to explore Old San Juan’s historic streets.
Do try the different local foods during your stay.
Do bring sunscreen, especially if you plan on spending time in the sun.
Do learn basic Spanish phrases, it’ll help improve communication with locals.
Do rent a car in Puerto Rico for better transportation.

Don’t:

Don’t swim at beaches without knowing the current status.
Don’t leave valuables in the car.
Don’t ignore signs and barricades in outdoor areas.
Don’t forget to bring cash. While most establishments take credit cards, others may not.

Safety and Health

Puerto Rico is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but visitors should keep the following safety tips in mind.

Safety in Puerto Rico

Keep your belongings secure and keep an eye on your surroundings, especially in high-crime areas
Avoid unlit areas or isolated beaches at night
Be alert while driving on the island. Local drivers can be rash and aggressive.
Always follow the current guidelines provided by the local health authorities

Health in Puerto Rico

Drink bottled water or filtered water.
Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya are common. Use mosquito nets, repellent, and wear long-sleeved clothes to avoid mosquito bites.
Sunscreen is essential due to the strong tropical sun rays.

Getting to Puerto Rico: Transportation Options and Logistics

Puerto Rico is a prime destination accessible by various means of transportation.

Airports Near Puerto Rico

San Juan Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU)
Mercedita International Airport (PSE) in Ponce

Bus Stations Near Puerto Rico

The San Juan Metropolitan Bus Authority (AMA)
The Ports Authority

Other Options

Cruise ships usually stop in San Juan, they offer docking space
Renting a car through many rental companies in Puerto Rico
Using ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft.

How to Get Around in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has several transportation options to help you get around. It includes renting a car, taking buses, or hiring a taxi. Uber and Lyft are also options.

Where to Go Next from Puerto Rico: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Puerto Rico is an ideal launchpad to discover other neighboring destinations. Here are some great getaway options.

US Virgin Islands- St. Thomas or St. John
Vieques and Culebra, Puerto Rico’s smaller islands located to the east of the main island
The Dominican Republic
The British Virgin Islands

Conclusion

Puerto Rico is a unique destination, featuring a mix of natural beauty, culture and history. From stunning beaches to adventurous rainforest hikes, the island is full of surprises. It’s the perfect place to learn about the Caribbean’s rich heritage and enjoy its food and drink. With the tips shared in this guide, you’re sure to have a memorable Puerto Rican vacation.