Puerto Rico is a U.S. Territory, and the smallest island of the Greater Antilles, located in the eastern zone of the Caribbean. The island is partially covered by the incredible El Yunque Caribbean National Rain Forest, which is considered to be the only tropical reserve in the U.S.
A trip to Puerto Rico is a great escape into a world of beautiful contrast. Puerto Rican heritage boasts a culture that is 2,000 years old and steeped heavily in diversity. The Puerto Rico section of the CIA World Factbook, and Welcome to Puerto Rico are excellent resources for detailed information on this island.
| Currency | The U.S. Dollar is the official currency of Puerto Rico. Canadian currency is reluctantly accepted at some of the larger hotels. |
| Electricity | The electricity in Puerto Rico is the same as in the United States and Canada, which is 110-120 volts. |
| GDP Per Capita | The annual income is $18,400 (USD). Tourism and pharmaceuticals are among the country's major industries. |
| Language | English is understood at major resorts, but Spanish is the primary and official language in Puerto Rico. |
| Population | Puerto Rico has about four million residents. The visitor population is about three million - 86 percent are from the U.S. |
| Size | Puerto Rico has an area of about 3,515 square miles. |
Getting There
Puerto Rico is the most accessible of the islands in the Caribbean. Puerto Rico has several airports, but Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport in San Juan handles the majority of tourist traffic. American Airlines, in fact, uses San Juan as the nucleus for its Caribbean travel connecting U.S. flights to less accessible Caribbean islands. In addition, airlines like Delta, United Airlines, and US Airways offer daily nonstop flights from the U.S. to Puerto Rico. Passengers from Europe can travel on Lufthansa, British Airways, and Iberia to San Juan.
Cruises are also available for travel to Puerto Rico; the most popular cruise lines include Carnival, Princess, and Norwegian. The impact of cruises is minimal in most areas of Puerto Rico, but San Juan, as the second largest sea port in the world, experiences more hustle and bustle than rest of the island.
Entry Requirements
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, so U.S. citizens do not need a passport or visa. Citizens of all other countries must provide a valid passport to gain entry.
Climate
Puerto Rico shares in the Caribbean wealth of wonderful weather; January temperatures range from 70 to 83 degrees, and July temperatures range from 76 to 88 (all in degrees Fahrenheit). Given the lush northern and eastern areas of the island, Puerto Rico experiences 52.3 inches of annual rainfall that support the El Yunque Rain Forest.
Geography
Puerto Rico's geography is a reflection of their culture. Puerto Rico has breath-taking landscapes that cover the island. Northern Puerto Rico is a naturally beautiful region, which is hilly in formation and lush in view. The El Yunque Rain Forest, located in east Puerto Rico, has more than 400 species living within its confines. Listen for the croaks of the coqui, a frog which is considered to be the national mascot of the island, while visiting. While the northern and eastern regions are abundant in tropical vegetation, the southern region is more arid and rocky. Guanica Dry Forest is the opposite of the El Yunque Rain Forest, and is host to many indigenous species found only in this area. Puerto Rico is also home of hundreds of beautiful beaches, with many of the most breath-taking in San Juan.
Health/Safety
The water, like in most Caribbean islands, is potable and safe to drink. Those with more sensitive stomachs may prefer bottled water. It is best to take precautions when traveling in any foreign locale, and, indeed, petty crimes are a possibility in Puerto Rico. Using common sense, especially when traveling through small towns and narrow country roads, can help prevent purse-snatching and pick-pocketing. Beaches near major hotels can provide security that isolated beaches rentals cannot, so make accommodation selections wisely.
People
Puerto Rican culture is a culmination of two thousand years of heritage. The culture combines the native Taino culture with influences from Creole, Spanish, African, and American cultures into a beautiful blend of Caribbean living. Musical sounds of La Bomba (Puerto Rican dance music) and La Plena (Puerto Rican folk music), can be heard throughout the Puerto Rican streets. Many Puerto Ricans identify more with their island culture than with their national standing, and independence is a controversial topic for political discussion. Spanish is the main language spoken in Puerto Rico, but the localized version contains African, Taino, and English terms. When visiting, it is appropriate to greet in Spanish as opposed to English, as it shows respect for the Puerto Rican culture. Interest in Hispanic culture goes a long way; Puerto Ricans love to talk about their heritage. It's better to ask of a local if he or she speaks English before making an assumption; it's also custom to always shake hands at when meeting with local company and before taking leave.
The key to experiencing the vacation of your dreams is learning as much as possible about the Caribbean before you leave.
Take advantage of some of the amazing activities found throughout the Caribbean.
