By Laura Acevedo
Tips for Traveling to Puerto Rico
Traveling to Puerto Rico is a popular way for
United States citizens to enjoy the sights and sounds of the
Caribbean without a passport. Puerto Rico is located in the northeastern Caribbean between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Sea. Comprised of the main island and several smaller islands, Puerto Rico is known as "The Land of Enchantment" and is a top travel destination in the Caribbean. Here are some helpful tips for your next trip to Puerto Rico.
Required Documents
As a United States commonwealth, no passport is needed for U.S. citizens to travel to Puerto Rico. Bring a standard, government-issued picture ID such as your driver's license. Other visitors to Puerto Rico need the same documents they would need to enter the mainland United States, such as passports and visas.
Language
Spanish is the dominant language in Puerto Rico, but most residents also speak English. Most signs are in Spanish, so bring a small Spanish/English dictionary if you are not fluent in Spanish.
Currency
Puerto Rico uses the U.S. dollar for currency, but locals refer to the dollar as a peso. United States issued credit cards and checks are accepted at most establishments in Puerto Rico.
Cost
When you travel to Puerto Rico, the cost for food and accommodations is roughly similar to a medium to large sized city in the mainland United States such as Atlanta, Georgia. Tipping is standard practice with 15 to 20 percent average for restaurants.
Temperature
The average temperature is 80 degrees F year round. Cotton clothing is best, but you may need a light jacket if visiting the mountains. As Puerto Rico is closer to the equator, sunlight is more intense, so do not forget to wear sunscreen.
Regulations
When you return from your trip to Puerto Rico, avoid bringing local agricultural products as souvenirs. The U.S. Department of Agriculture forbids travelers to transport plants, mangoes and passion fruit from Puerto Rico to the mainland United States.
Time
Puerto Rico is in the Atlantic Standard Time Zone and does not participate in daylight savings. From October to April, Puerto Rico is one hour later than Eastern Standard Time. The rest of the year, Puerto Rico has the same time as the Eastern Time Zone.
Transportation
Most visitors to Puerto Rico arrive by plane or by cruise ships. Flights from New York take about three and a half hours and from California take about eight hours. While on the island, rental cars and public bus services are available.
Alcohol
The legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18.
Resources
About the Author:
Laura Acevedo has been a professional writer for more than 15 years. With a background in business, international relations, psychology and technology, Acevedo writes from both experience and an educational foundation. She holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Florida and undergraduate degrees in business and psychology.
Photo Credits:
morugefile.com/dee
