A tropical island to the east of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico lies between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, about 1000 miles southeast of Miami. Its temperate climate, miles of beaches, dense rain forests, and rugged mountains create a bounty of sights and experiences to the delight of visitors. The people are friendly, multi-cultural, and most speak both Spanish and English. With annual temperatures averaging 82?C, residents and visitors alike enjoy year-round watersports.
Puerto Rico’s mixture of Spanish, Taino Indian, African, and American influences creates a colorful Caribbean culture blending old and new into one that is distinctly Puerto Rican. This self-governing commonwealth enjoys full U.S. privileges with authority over its own internal affairs. U.S. citizens travel freely to and from the island without restrictions.
Several scheduled carriers serve passengers flying into Puerto Rico through the main airport at Luis Mu?oz Marin International Airport (SJU)
Departure Tax
None
A temperate climate attracts visitors from North America year round, with a peak between December and April°due to those escaping the cold more than the climate in Puerto Rico itself. Expect average temperatures of highs in the 80s and lows in the 70s, dipping by around 10 degrees in higher altitudes. Tourist crowds are fewer during hurricane season (May-November), and hurricanes are rare°but can be severe so watch the forecasts before and during your travels.
North American phone cards, calling cards and IDD service are readily available. Long-distance services from AT&T, MCI, and Sprint can help avoid hotel surcharges. Several Internet service providers (ISPs) provide dial-up access via a local call. National ISPs include AT&T, American Online, Compuserve, MSN and Sprynet.
Currency: the US Dollar
Meals
- Low-end: US$5-15
- Middle: US$15-25
- High: US$25-35
- Gourmet: US$35+
Lodging
- Low-end: US$40-75
- Middle: US$75-150
- High: US$150-300
- Deluxe: US$300+
Visa
A valid ID is needed by US & Canadian citizens, but they do not require visas or passports. A reciprocal visa waiver agreement between the US and several western European countries, Australia, New Zealand and Japan means that citizens of those nations do not require a visa if they intend to stay less than 90 days. Citizens of all other countries require a US visa.
Puerto Rico operates on a 110v/60Hz cycle electric current. North Americans can use 110 volt appliances as usual. European appliances require the use of a transformer.
Water
In more undeveloped areas, avoid tap water unless it has first been boiled, filtered, or disinfected, and do not drink unbottled beverages or iced drinks.
Vaccinations
- Typhoid: Not recommended for most visitors, unless plans include an extended stay in rural areas with possible exposure to contaminated food.
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all visitors.
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for those who may make intimate contact with local residents, especially for stays longer than 6 months.
- Routine Immunizations: All visitors should have up-to-date tetanus-diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, polio, and varicella immunizations.
- Rabies: Recommended for those at high risk of encountering animal bites.
Official languages: Spanish and English. Spanish is dominant.
Occasional theft, as can happen most anywhere. Exercise normal caution without much concern. Both local and tourist women wear as much jewelry as desired.
Local sales tax is included in all purchases. Non-casino hotels impart a 9% tax, with 11% tax on hotels with a casino. Tipping is similar to the States. Inexpensive restaurants to not automatically include tips, so 15% to 20% is in order. Major hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs often include services charges.
