Puerto Rico is a self-governing commonwealth territory of the United States. It is located in the Caribbean Sea just east of the Dominican Republic.

This is an excellent "starter" destination for US travelers because while you will feel like you are in another country (most-likely Spain), you will enjoy the comfort of a US territory.

​Championship golf, water sports, a huge cruise port, excellent food, and Old San Juan are just a few of the reasons to visit!  

PUERTO RICO - A LITTLE LIGHT READING

FAST FACTS
​​Continent or Region: The Caribbean
Territory: Puerto Rico  
Capital: San Juan
Major Tourist Destinations: San Juan, Ponce
Primary Language: Spanish / English
Time Zone: Atlantic
Currency: US Dollar

​​Passport: No, American citizens do not need a passport to enter Puerto Rico
Visa: American citizens do not need a visa if traveling for vacation

More information on passports & visas can be found here.

I love traveling abroad as much as I love traveling within my home country of the United States. However, I want you to be safe and be an excellent representative of your home country. Even in places that are very friendly to visitors, remember that you are in a foreign country and understanding local customs is critical. So, here are a few tips as you prepare for your adventure.
  1. Before you depart from your home country, call The US Embassy (or your home country embassy) and tell them you are leaving your home country. That way they are aware of your whereabouts in case of emergency.
  2. Carry only the credit cards you are using to charge expenses. Call those credit card companies before you leave. Do not travel with your debit cards. 
  3. Clean out your wallet or purse and carry only what you need. 
  4. Solve your mobile phone situation before you depart. Usually a phone call to your provider will get you started.
  5. Keep all medications with you in your carry on.
  6. Leave a photo copy of all your travel documents (passport, itinerary, copy of your credit cards) with a friend or at your home. 
  7. Do not travel with expensive jewelry.
  8. Make sure you travel with a valid passport or visa (if required). Also, bring another valid form of photo I.D., and photocopies of both I.D.s. in case of loss or theft.
  9. Read up on local laws and practices before you get here.
  10. Be a respective guest of the local customs and obey the local laws.
  11. If English is not the primary language, then familiarize yourself with key phrases and make attempts in the country's primary language. Locals usually appreciate the effort.  
  12. Keep luggage, handbags or backpacks in view at all times.
  13. Keep possessions close to your body.
  14. Don’t take around large amounts of cash.
  15. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry on road trips or excursions.

For US citizens, visit the US State Department's website (for American citizens) before you travel abroad. Here's a direct link to get started. 
TRANSPORTATION
​Generally speaking, it is pretty easy to get to Puerto Rico by air from major hubs in the US, Mexico and Canada. US citizens do need a passport to enter Puerto Rico. However, luggage is subject to search by agriculture officials 

Major Air Gateway(s): ​San Juan (SJU)
​Cruise Port(s): San Juan
Driving: On the right
Car Rentals: You can rent a car in Puerto Rico
THE WEATHER
​With tropical temperatures year round, Puerto Rico is hot and humid. 

The Weather: Tropical
Peak Season(s): Winter
Value Season(s): Summer
Shoulder Season(s): April or October
WHERE TO STAY
Coming Soon
WHERE TO EAT
Coming Soon
HELPFUL LINKS
Puerto Rico has an official tourism bureau. Learn more by watching this video. 

​Puerto Rico Official Tourism Site