It takes you around 4 to 5 hours to explore the entire island if you stay on the highway and travel through the main routes only. But the duration will certainly vary if you stop to take some breaks in between your trip. On the other hand, it takes you about 6 to 7 hours if you use the back routes to explore the entire island. This is when most of the states are struck by freezing winds of winters. People come here in this season to enjoy sunbathing in the warm dunes of its beaches. But, it’s not as easy to travel to Puerto Rico by sea as you may think.
- I recommend having at least two flights home in your savings at all times, and three months worth of rent.
- In one energetic stop, there is tradition, live music, culture, and genuine regional cuisine at La Placita de Santurce .
- Well-traveled areas like San Juan are perfectly safe to visit.
- We recommend that you book your hotel of preference in advance, especially during the high season .
- Not only are there plenty of police patrolling the areas, but it is also common descency to abide by the rules and be respectful.
- The CDC still recommends getting tested 3 – 5 days after arrival and staying home for 5 days post-travel if you are not fully vaccinated.
Of course San Juan, like any city, has its safer parts and its sketchier parts. Avoid wandering into La Perla – right next to the Old City – and Puerto de big tom pub Tierra at night. It’s also worth noting that there has been a slight increase in crime since Hurricane Maria came through in 2017 and the island has been struggling to recover.
Entry to other islands in the region, either sovereign states or dependent territories, as a permanent legal resident carries the same requirements as any international travel on a green card. You’ll need a passport from your home country in addition to your green card. If you’re staying in Vieques for a few days, you’ll also get to experience some of the best beaches in Vieques for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. One of the most romantic things to do in Vieques is to go horseback riding on Black Sand Beach. If you’re staying in the San Juan area, you do not need to rent a car. This is the most practical option for short term visitors.
Why Choose Traveling To Puerto Rico Right Now?
I love the tipping advice, cause I’m always uncertain when I travel about whether or not to tip. In September 2017, Hurricane Maria pummeled Puerto Rico as a Category 4 storm. It left all 3.4 million residents without electricity which took several months to restore.
The 10 Best Places To Eat And Drink In San Juan, Puerto Rico
Is the Dean of Students and former high school Spanish teacher. He began traveling with EF Tours in 2001 and has led dozens of student tours to various Spanish-speaking countries. Scott strongly believes that student travel builds self-confidence and inspires students to develop and work towards long-term goals.
Depending on when you visit, cash airfares to Puerto Rico can be quite affordable. However, the best way to fly to San Juan is for almost free using airline miles or credit card points. It was great to see smaller communities outside of San Juan taking COVID-19 protocols just as seriously as in the larger cities.
The mashed plantains even reminded me of the yams I grew up eating at Thanksgiving. For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel. If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors. Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas. The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
However, due to the majority of things being imported, it is going to be more expensive. I recommend hitting the local mercado for some fresh fruits and vegetables at a reasonable price. The food is often compared to Spanish or Mexican cuisines. Puerto Rican cuisine has the perfect amount of influence from Mexico, Africa, and the Americas.
Top Rated Places To Stay In Vieques, Puerto Rico
Prices were available within the past 7 days and starts at $49 for one-way flights and $98 for round trip, for the period specified. Starting as soon as May 3, 2023, you will be able to apply for a driver’s license or ID that is REAL ID compliance. When applying, you’ll need to present a set of required documents to your local licensing agency. Afterward, your new ID/driver’s license will be processed, which can be used to board domestic flights. Within this time, if you can’t present an identification document that meets the REAL ID standards, you won’t be able to board any domestic flights without presenting a passport.