About Puerto Rico

Quick Facts

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written by:Lynne Sullivan

Puerto Rico
sits in the northeastern curve of the Caribbean Sea, about 1000 miles southeast
of Miami, between the Dominican Republic and the Virgin Islands .
Peak tourist season runs from December through April, the driest months, but festivals and cultural events take place throughout the year.
It is an unincorporated
territory of the United States, and residents are US citizens, but its vibrant culture
and relaxed lifestyle reflect the Latin flavor of its Caribbean neighbors and
tropical location.
U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to visit the island.
Luis Muñoz Maríin International Airport (SJU) is the largest in the Caribbean and offers all the modern services found in major U.S. airports. Direct flights from the U.S. are offered by Delta, American, United, and Jet Blue
The oblong island’s mountainous and heavily forested interior slopes to beach-fringed coastal flatlands that meet the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other.
Smaller islands and cays float just offshore, with popular Vieques and Culebra forming the Spanish Virgin Islands to the north.
All prices are in US dollars
San Juan is the capital and cultural center of Puerto Rico, and roughly two-thirds of the island’s four million residents live in the metropolitan area. Well-preserved Old San Juan is the number one tourist draw, and much of the colonial architecture has been authentically restored.
Many Puerto Ricans speak English, although Spanish is the official language.
The island uses 110 volt electricity and two- or three-prong outlets, as in the U.S.
Clocks are set at Atlantic Standard Time — an hour later than Eastern Standard Time, and the same as Eastern Daylight Time. The island does not observe Daylight Savings.
Tourist information centers are located at the cruise ship dock and airport. Phone: 800- 866-7827.
Pick up the free and widely available magazine, Qué Pasa , for current event and tourist information.