Your Questions About Puerto Rico Answered

It’s finally here! The mega post where we answer 45 of your most pressing questions about Puerto Rico has finally arrived! We went through the hundreds of emails asking about the Island and identified the most frequent.

These are questions that come to mind if you're coming to Puerto Rico for a week or if you're planning an extended stay. They’re questions about visiting Puerto Rico and about living here altogether.

Some are more sensitive than others, so you will find subjects in this post that many other travel blogs might skirt around.

However, like all things we do at Puerto Rico By GPS we’ve strived to keep it real and honest. Remember, we don’t sugar coat reality. We tell it like it is.

So sit back, relax, grab a cup of Puerto Rican coffee, or of your favorite beverage for that matter, and let’s dig in to “your questions about Puerto Rico answered.

Is it easy to travel to Puerto Rico?

Yes, it is easy to travel to Puerto Rico. It is a US territory, so US citizens do not need a passport to travel there. There are several daily flights from major US cities to San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital. Once you arrive, transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and public transportation.

Is Puerto Rico Safe?

Puerto Rico is generally considered safe for tourists, but as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Some areas of the island may have higher crime rates than others, so it is a good idea to research the specific areas you plan to visit and take any necessary precautions. Additionally, it is always a good idea to be aware of local laws and customs, and to respect the culture of the place you are visiting.

Do I need to know Spanish to visit Puerto Rico?

While it is not necessary to know Spanish to visit Puerto Rico, it can certainly be helpful. English is widely spoken on the island, particularly in the tourism industry, so many people in the service industry such as hotel staff, tour guides and restaurants will be able to communicate with you in English. However, Spanish is still the primary language spoken on the island, and you may find it useful to know some basic phrases if you plan to explore more rural or less touristy areas. Knowing Spanish can also be helpful when communicating with locals or navigating public transportation.

Do I need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?

No, you do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so U.S. citizens can travel to the island with just a government-issued ID, such as a driver's license. However, it is always a good idea to check the expiration date on your ID and make sure it will be valid for the duration of your trip. Non U.S citizens will need a valid passport and other possible visa requirements to enter Puerto Rico.

I'm coming from South America. Do I need a visa to visit Puerto Rico?

Citizens of South American countries may not need a visa to visit Puerto Rico as it is a U.S. territory. However, it's always best to check with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country or the Puerto Rican government for any updates or changes in the entry requirements. Generally, a valid passport and a return or onward ticket are required to enter Puerto Rico. Some countries may also require a Tourist Card or ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) depending on the citizen's nationality and the length of stay. Keep in mind that even though Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, it has a separate immigration system and the rules may be different than traveling within the mainland US.

How safe is the water in Puerto Rico?

The water in Puerto Rico is generally considered safe to drink and use, however, it is always a good idea to check the local water quality reports for the specific area you will be visiting.

The water supply in Puerto Rico is managed by the Puerto Rico Aqueducts and Sewers Authority (PRASA) and they have information on their website about the water quality in different regions of the island. If you are traveling to a more rural or less developed area, it may be best to drink bottled water or boil the water before consuming it.

Additionally, swimming in ocean water can be dangerous due to strong currents, so it is important to be aware of local swimming conditions and to always obey posted warning signs.

When is the best time of the year to visit Puerto Rico?

The best time to visit Puerto Rico depends on personal preferences and travel goals. The island experiences a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s year-round.

For those seeking warm weather and beach activities, the peak tourist season is from December to April, when the weather is drier and less humid. This is also the time when most tourists visit, so prices and crowds are higher.

For those interested in outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the island's natural beauty, the summer months (May to November) are ideal, as the weather is warmer and more humid. This is also the time when Puerto Rico experiences the most rainfall, but the rain is often brief and tropical in nature.

For those looking for lower prices and fewer crowds, the shoulder season from May to November is a good option. In general, visitors can expect good weather and a relaxed atmosphere, with the added bonus of fewer tourists and lower prices for hotels and activities.

Regardless of the time of year, visitors to Puerto Rico can expect plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures, and a wide range of activities and attractions to enjoy. Continue reading...