Puerto Rico (or "Rich Port" as it is known in Spanish) is a self governing territory or Commonwealth of the Unites States. Commonly referred to as "The Island of Enchantment" or as "Borinquen" by locals, Puerto Rico is located in the Caribbean Ocean and is comprised of a number of islands that form an archipelago, including two of its most famous islands - Culebra and Vieques. The capital and largest city in Puerto Rico is San Juan, which is also home to the world famous Bacardi rum.
El Morro Fort San Juan - Puerto Rico |
Getting there
Getting to Puerto Rico is easy, as each year visitors arrive by cruise ship, pleasure craft and international air carriers, with daily flights arriving at the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in Carolina or at the Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla. The peak travel season is generally considered to be between December and May. For citizens of the United States, there is no need for a passport or visa. However, citizens of other countries must obtain a visa and can stay up to 90 days on a non-immigration visa. Puerto Rico's unit of currency is the United States dollar.
Faro de Rincon - Puerto Rico |
Accommodations
Puerto Rico offers a variety of accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels, with casinos and entertainment, to beach cottages, eco-lodges, B&Bs and camp sites. Some of the world's finest hotels, health spas and oceanfront villas dot the coastline on all sides of the island, and are available for purchase or rental by the week or month.
El-Pozo de Jacinto - Isabela - Puerto Rico |
Attractions
Puerto Rico is a favorite Caribbean destination and has something for everyone. Known as much for its beautiful people as it outdoor activities, Puerto Rico boasts some of the Caribbean's most interesting museums. A visit to Puerto Rico could not be complete with stopping at the world's finest art galleries and magnificent performing art theatres, such as the 19th century neoclassical Teatro la Perla and the Teatro Tapia opera house, built in 1824. Other famous attractions include tours of the historic district of Old San Juan where the Castillo de San Felipe del Morro (commonly referred to as "El Morro") is within walking distance of the old town and offers spectacular ocean views of the San Juan harbor atop rocky cliffs.
San Juan cemetery - Puerto Rico |
Beaches and Water Sports
Some of the favorite activities of locals and tourists alike include spending time enjoying the island's fine and unspoiled beaches along coastlines dotted with spectacular opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling, wind surfing, scuba diving and board surfing. Puerto Rico has many famous beaches for families as well as professional surfers. One of the more popular beaches is Luquillo Beach, which is known for its clear waters and spectacular lagoons at only about a forty minute drive from San Juan. Other famous beaches that are a must-see include Boquerón, Crashboat, Isla Verde, Shacks.
Los Morrillos lighthouse, Puerto Rico |
Activities
Whether you are a professional or recreational golfer, Puerto Rico offers 24 golf courses designed by such legendary golfers as Puerto Rico's native son Chi Chi Rodriguez, the famous Australian golfer Greg Norman, as well as the game's all time winner - Jack Nicklaus. Come and play at some of the famous resorts, such as the Dorado Del Mar Golf Club in Dorado and the Punta Borinquen Golf Course located in Aguadilla, and see how you match up against the masters of golf while enjoying the brilliant backdrop of the island's beauty.
Rainforest of El Yunque, Puerto Rico |
Outdoor Enthusiasts
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the islands by horseback or by foot, there are more than seventeen national parks and reserves, such as Tortuguero Lagoon Reserve and Maricao Forest Reserve, that offer trails suitable for those seeking a casual walk to avid adventurers looking to explore the many hiking trails. One of the most famous national parks in Puerto Rico is the Observatorio Astronómico in Humacao.
This is just a partial list of the information that we offer on PuertoRico.com. If you would like to find the best travel deals to Puerto Rico check out our travel finder where we offer flight information from all carriers, a hotel finder with accommodations for every budget, and the most comprehensive directory of car rental companies and travel providers - all of which are ready to serve you.
We look forward to seeing you in Puerto Rico soon!
Gracias!
(Puerto Rico)