Puerto Rico
Planning a Caribbean vacation? Puerto Rico will surely come first to your mind as it's the most visited and easily reached island in the Caribbean where you will find everything bright and beautiful. Tropical rainforest, soft yellow sandy beaches, plenty of mountains and valleys, acres of coral reefs, caves and rivers, spectacular natural beauty and skyscrapers are the least but not the last elements featuring this perfect tourist destination. Add to these the history of the island, unique Puerto Rican culture, as well as local cuisine, mainly influenced by Spanish, African and American people make it an ideal place to visit and spend unforgettable holidays.Geography
The rectangular-shaped Puerto Rico is the smallest and the most eastern island of the Greater Antilles, including the main island and several islets and quays, such as Mona, Vieques and Culebra. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, Puerto Rico covers a total area of 9,104 sq km and is surrounded by low coastal plains. The capital San Juan is on the northeastern shore of the island. The coasts of Puerto Rico are rather flat but the interior is rugged and mountainous, the highest mountain being 1,338 meters high Cerro de Punta.
Climate
Located in the tropical zone of the world globe, Puerto Rico enjoys a warm, pleasant climate with an average temperature hovering between 22C and 27C all year-round. It is characterized by high humidity reaching to 80% throughout the year. The heavy shower rain occurs especially May to October and unfortunately coincides with hurricane season that lasts from November to April.
History & Culture
Puerto Rico (Rich Port) is a multicultural destination 'discovered' by Columbus in the 15th century during his second voyage to the New World. Firstly it was considered an overseas territory of Spain until the Spanish-American war when the island was invaded by U.S. forces and it was in 1917 when Puerto Ricans gained a citizenship and the island officially became a U.S Commonwealth in 1952.
The first Puerto Rican inhabitants were Taíno Indians known for their highly developed culture. Puerto Rican culture is full of lively, rhythmic music and dance, coming from all corners of the world. Celebrations are an important part of Puerto Rican culture, including Christmas season-the longest celebration of the island with common feasts and festivities. Another famous celebration is the Day of the Innocents (Dia de Los Inocentes) on the 28th of December which is similar to April Fools day.
The culture has influenced to the formation of Puerto Rican cuisine, as well as the way of life. The island boasts one of the world's tastiest cuisines offering amazing food made up of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Social Conventions
When visiting Puerto Rico make sure to learn about some social conventions typical of this nation. Shaking hands is the customary way of greeting. Feel free to wear casual dress but keep in mind that formal dress in hotel dining rooms and casinos is required since 2000. One the whole the island experiences Spanish and American manners and conventions.
Puerto Rico Vacations
Puerto Rico is a perfect vacation 'getaway', offering cheap and luxury vacations for singles, families and honeymooners. Historic sites, world-class resorts, over 272 miles of coastline, twelve casinos, Puerto Rico dazzling nightlife, Bacardi headquarters and innumerable discos are only some of the 'must see' or 'must go' places that Puerto Rico offers. There is so much to do in this tropical paradise; the only difficulty is to allocate your time properly.Beaches
A luxury vacation is not interesting without spending some time in one of the gorgeous beaches of the island. Imagine yourself in a hammock overlooking the ocean and listening to the lullaby of waves. Is it what you are looking for? So many beaches and so little time! The only thing you should do is to choose from plenty of beaches that are best for swimming (Ponce, Pine Grove Beach, Playa Santa), for surfing (Rincon's Beach, Isabella Beach), for magnificent scenery (Boqueron Beach, Sun Bay and Flamenco Beach), for being alone (Las Paldas, La Jungla) or else for families (Luquillo Beach). The majestic beaches of Puerto Rico are as varied as the people, offering everything amazing no matter which part of the island you go. Perhaps the beaches are one of the main reasons for so many visitors in Puerto Rico.
The Best Natural Attractions
El Yunque (meaning 'Forest of Clouds') is by far the greatest natural attraction in Puerto Rico, located east of the capital San Juan in the Luquillo Mountains. It is the only tropical rainforest in the United States, sprawling across 1,133 hectares. It's spectacular natural treasure, boasting a rich flora that includes over 150 native fern species and plenty of unique tree species. What concerns to wildlife, it's rare, including reptiles, birds and amphibians. You will find 13 types of Puerto Rico's singing tree frogs, known as coquies, some 50 types of birds including the famous Puerto Rican Parrot which is considered an endangered species as well as several types of lizards. Hiking and picnicking adventures are available, but if you want to camp, be sure to ask for permission.
Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve is another famous natural attraction nestled in the northeastern tip of the island, and encompassing seven different ecological systems, including, lagoons, pristine mangroves forests, sandy beaches and offshore coral reefs. Las Cabezas Reserve is one of the most beautiful and bio-diverse natural wonders of the world where you will find several endangered species. Do not miss out to experience the three interest stops that include El Faro de Fajardo, Playa Lirios and the boardwalk trail through a mangrove forest.
Other best attractions include:
- Castillo de San Felipe del Morro (Old San Juan) which is a fort built in the 16th century. With rich legendary history, the fort accommodates a 9-hole golf course.
- Puerto Rico Museum of Art features a growing collection of the works of local artists in impressive surroundings. In the vicinity you can find beautiful botanical gardens, as well as a theatre that exhibits performances of all types.
- Cabo Rojo, a gallery introducing the works of the local artists, including wood turning, metal work and hand-painted folk scenes.
Puerto Rico Hotels
You can find a huge variety of lodgings to appeal to a multiplicity of personalities and best suited for any budget. On the whole, there are 12,000 rooms in Puerto Rico (1998), half of them being located in the capital San Juan with varying qualities and prices. Feel free to choose from beach hotels, family hotels, kid-friendly hotels, boutique hotels and spas, plenty of romantic hotels and resorts, as well as business hotels. The only thing you should do is to make a right choice.The best Family Hotel
Puerto Rico is a popular vacation destination for families, housing over 323 hotels in different parts of the island. The main reason for this is that U.S. citizens are not required to have passports for entry. Caribe Hilton located in San Juan, only a 15-minute drive from Luis Muñoz Marín Airport, is one of the luxurious Puerto Rico hotels which is a large property with 814 elegantly appointed traditional and contemporary guest rooms, stunning villas and suites with private balconies, offering a garden view, as well as panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Kids can enjoy a play ground and exciting land and water activities to keep them busy. Guests can enjoy fine dining without leaving the property. In the vicinity you will find live music at the casino or nightclubs. Come and enjoy!
The best Romantic Hotel
Seek for a romantic getaway steeped in the best nightlife and entertainment? El San Juan Hotel & Casino (Isla Verde district) will be your ideal choice. Nestled on one of the island's most gorgeous beaches and surrounded by landscaped grounds, the stunning hotel boasts tropical splendor, old-world charm and elegance, as well as an unforgettable gaming experience. Add to these an extravagant pool complex, including a waterfall, a swimup bar, a French-inspired spa and dining options in 2 restaurants. The hotel offers exquisitely appointed accommodations and is home to 332 rooms and 57 suites featuring several restaurants, bars, fully-equipped gym, children's programs, pools and parking. El San Juan Hotel & Casino will surely help you to experience the endless captivation of Puerto Rico.
The Best Boutique Hotel
Puerto Rico is famous for its large all-inclusive resorts, including Rincon Beach Resort, situated between Puerto Rico's magnificent mountains and the Atlantic Ocean in a secluded corner of Anasco Bay. Here you will find pristine natural beauty, top-notch service and the most extraordinary adventures and experiences. Rincon Beach Resort features 118 tropically decorated rooms and suites nestled in three Spanish-style buildings, with wonderful garden, pool or ocean views. Experience the positive palpable energy of Rincon and enjoy your vacation in this authentic piece of paradise.
Almost all luxury hotels of Puerto Rico feature warm sandy beaches, soothing spas, modern facilities, enchanting beauty and world-class service. Such is Puerto Rico...