Puerto Rico “Island of Enchantment”

Named “The Island of Enchantment”, Puerto Rico is a jewel of the Caribbean. This destination offers a unique and enriching tourist experience. Its striking culture and interesting history are combined with a wide range of attractions where nature is the protagonist.

But where is it located? Legally known as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, it is an unincorporated territory of the United States. It is located in Insular America; northeast of the Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic and west of the US Virgin Islands.

Geographically, it is the smallest island in the Greater Antilles archipelago (which also includes Cuba, Jamaica and Haiti). Its capital is San Juan, an island located on the north coast of Puerto Rico.

History and Culture of Puerto Rico

The vitality of Puerto Rico is the result of more than 500 years of a history where different cultures are mixed. To give you a more precise reference, we will talk about the three most important stages:

• Pre-Columbian Period: Before the arrival of the Europeans, Puerto Rico was inhabited by the Tainos, an indigenous people who lived in villages and practiced agriculture. The Tainos called their island “Borikén” and their culture was influenced by nature, agriculture and spiritual beliefs.
• Spanish Colonization: In 1493, Christopher Columbus arrived on the island (on his second voyage to the New World) and claimed Puerto Rico for Spain. This brought about significant changes in Taino society and culture, as well as the introduction of African slavery and the Christianization of the indigenous population.
• American Rule: In 1898, during the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico was ceded to the United States as part of the Treaty of Paris. From then on, the island became an unincorporated territory of this country, meaning that it is under the sovereignty of the United States, but it is not a state of the Union. The official currency of Puerto Rico is the American dollar.

Today, music and dance are an integral part of Puerto Rican culture. Genres such as salsa, merengue, plena and bomba reflect the rich ethnic diversity of the island. Mambo and folk dance are a must. In fact, you can attend dance classes in Ponce.

What is the language like in Puerto Rico?

In Puerto Rico, they speak Boricua! The language of the place is a fascinating mix of Spanish, English and a number of cultural influences. For example:

• Spanish is the main and official language of Puerto Rico, but with its own peculiarities and variations. That is to say, “Puerto Rican Spanish” has differences in pronunciation, vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.
• English is also widely spoken and understood in Puerto Rico, especially in tourist areas and in the capital, San Juan. Many Puerto Ricans are bilingual and can switch between Spanish and English with ease.
• Spanglish, a mix of Spanish and English, is common in casual conversation. Often, Puerto Ricans combine words and phrases from both languages ​​into a single sentence, creating a unique form of communication that reflects the influence of both cultures.
• Puerto Rican Slang: Puerto Rico has its own slang, or jargon, which includes unique terms and expressions that may not be widely understood outside of the island. These terms can vary by region and community; reflecting the unique culture and experiences.
• Idiomatic Expressions: As in other Spanish-speaking places, a number of idiomatic expressions and idioms are used in Puerto Rico that may not have a direct translation into English. These expressions can add color and richness to the language and are an important part of everyday communication on the island.

Learn a little more in our article about Puerto Rican slang terms.

What activities does Isla del Encanto offer?

Despite its small size, the island of Puerto Rico has a great diversity of ecosystems. But, the attractions are not only linked to its territory, but also to its origins. This is how this destination guarantees experiences that nourish the body and soul. Here is a preview:

• Nature: it houses dry and rain forests such as El Yunque, mountain ranges, waterfalls and marine habitats including: rivers, lakes, mangroves, bioluminescent bays and world-renowned beaches. Among the latter, snakes and Vieques (two neighboring islands).
• Art and Architecture: Spanish colonial architecture is a distinctive feature of the island. The art is diverse and reflects the history and cultural identity of the place. You will delight in the historic center and well-preserved buildings such as Old San Juan and the Historic Site.
• Gastronomy: The island’s culinary art is not far behind, offering gastronomic routes such as coffee. Discover them here!
• Festivals and Celebrations: Puerto Rico is known for its lively and colorful festivities. Some notable celebrations include the San Sebastián Street Festival in San Juan and the National Afro-Caribbean Dance Festival.

After the above, we invite you to check out the best attractions in Puerto Rico. You can practice water sports, spot humpback whales and dolphins (in waters off the nearby coasts), walk along trails, visit old military bunkers, and so on.

What is the gastronomy of the Island of Enchantment like?

Puerto Rican gastronomy is a delicious fusion of indigenous Taino, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.

Among the most popular typical dishes of Puerto Rico are: mofongo, one of the most emblematic!, rice with pigeon peas, rice and beans, fried foods, ripe plantain cake, coconut arepas, and roasted suckling pig, popular at parties!

Meanwhile, coquito is the typical drink of Puerto Rico. Learn how these and other local delicacies are prepared in our guide to traditional Puerto Rican food.

Likewise, we share with you a top 10 of the most famous restaurants on the island. You can select the ones you prefer and give your palate a true explosion of flavors.

What is the weather like in Puerto Rico?

The climate of Puerto Rico is tropical, with warm temperatures throughout the year and relatively high humidity. Generally, there are two distinct seasons:

• Dry season: runs from December to April, this period being the most popular for tourists due to the drier and sunnier conditions. Temperatures during this time typically range from 70°F (21°C) to 84°F (29°C), with sunny days and cool nights.
• Rainy season: This season runs from May through November, with August and September being the rainiest months. During this time, temperatures are a bit higher, with highs that can exceed 86°F (30°C). Rains are usually brief and followed by periods of sunshine, although more intense storms can occasionally occur.

Due to its location in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is subject to hurricane season, which generally runs from June to November. It is important to consider this information when planning a trip to the island and, in that sense, to keep an eye on the weather forecasts during that time of year.

In summary, the island offers pleasant temperatures and sunny days most of the time (all year round). However, it is important to be prepared for possible rains and storms, especially during hurricane season. In this order of ideas, check out what clothes to pack for a trip to Puerto Rico.

How to access the island of Puerto Rico?

To access Puerto Rico you have several options, depending on your location and travel expectations or preferences. Among the most common transportation routes to reach the island are:

• By air: The Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan is the main airport in Puerto Rico and the most common entry point for international travelers. It offers direct flights to and from numerous cities in the United States, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Other international airports in Puerto Rico are the Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla (BQN) and the Mercedita Airport in Ponce (PSE). Learn more details here!
• By sea: Puerto Rico is a popular cruise destination, with several ports on the island that receive ships from different shipping lines. San Juan is one of the most important cruise ports in the Caribbean, with modern facilities and a convenient location in the old town of the city. Additionally, there are ferry services that connect Puerto Rico to other Caribbean islands, such as the Dominican Republic and the US Virgin Islands.

Regardless of the option you choose, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents to enter the “Island of Enchantment” such as a passport and visa (if applicable), and check the current entry and health requirements in Puerto Rico.

Lodging in Puerto Rico

In this wonderful destination you will find a wide variety of accommodation options. You can select your accommodation based on your style and finances:

• Hotels and Resorts: from luxurious beachfront resorts to charming boutique hotels in all regions of the island. They offer amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, spas and recreational activities.
• Apartments and Condos: an excellent option for those who prefer a more private space and the flexibility to cook. They are located in residential complexes and have fully equipped kitchens and shared common areas.
• Bed and Breakfasts (B&B): located in historic houses or charming buildings in the old town of San Juan and other picturesque areas of the island, they offer cozy rooms and homemade breakfasts that are included in the rate.
• Hostels and Hostels: in Puerto Rico there is a selection of hostels and hostels that offer economical accommodation in shared or private rooms. They tend to have a youthful atmosphere, with basic services such as free Wi-Fi and common areas for socializing.
• Vacation Homes and Rentals: an excellent option for longer stays or large groups. There are a variety of homes and villas available throughout the island, many of which offer amenities such as private pools, terraces with ocean views, and beach access.
• Paradores: are a unique lodging option in Puerto Rico, combining the comfort of a hotel with the authenticity of local culture. They are located in rural areas and offer accommodation, local cuisine, and outdoor activities – a quiet and picturesque setting!

Don’t wait until you get to this destination to choose your accommodation. The ideal is to book in advance, for which we invite you to look at the top 10 best accommodations.

Another very good option is to contact our specialists who will help you put together an all-inclusive travel itinerary. As you can see, Puerto Rico “Island of Enchantment” is small but super complete as a tourist attraction. Don’t waste it and live it like a true Puerto Rican.