Things to Know When Traveling to Puerto Rico

    

    So, you're traveling to Puerto Rico? How exciting! But of course, I'm sure you're anxiously packing and getting your affairs in order. Nobody likes a stressful vacation, am I right? Although life is unpredictable, you can still limit the amount of surprises by considering some of these things you should know BEFORE traveling to Puerto Rico.

1. Airports & COVID Regulations

    First off, please do not travel to this island if you are experiencing any Covid-related symptoms. We have to remember to think of those living on the island.  Especially those without the vaccine. Although there are over 66% currently vaccinate, that still leave the remaining percentage susceptible. If you are more comparable to the virus, I also advice you not to go during this time or until the virus is gone.

    Before our travels, we made sure to look into the travel restrictions and how that would affect our trip. This would play a huge factor in our activities and how we planned our overall stay in PR. We had planned to get our Covid tests done within the 72 hour time required prior to our flight. Right before leaving, we found out that vaccinated visitors do not need to get the test done, but rather have to register on their health department's PORTAL and upload our vaccine information. If you need to get the test done, note that they require a full test done (not a rapid test). This means you'll need an extra day to receive the results before uploading it onto the portal. For either method, make sure you register the information on the portal before you arrive at the airport. For a smoother transition, you will be given a QR code in which they scan as you leave the airport to get into Puerto Rico.

    As far as airports, there are multiple small airports. However, the one that we all know is Luiz Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). You can fly in with the most major airlines at this airport. There is also another airport in Aguadilla by the name of Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) on the northwestern region. However, it is limited to Spirt, Jetblue & United Airlines. And then there's La Mercedita (PSE) in Ponce that is limited to Jet Blue Airlines. Of all the options, I'd highly recommend SJU. You'll find better flight deals and more options as far as times for your flight. 

2. What to Pack

    The island is absolutely gorgeous and there's so much to do. If you are staying long enough to enjoy the different variety of activities, you may want to considering packing some or all of the following:

• Mask (during COVID)
• Vaccination card/Covid test results (just incase) but also have your QR code on your phone
• Sunscreen
• Bathing suit
• A hat
• Sunglasses
• Water shoes
• Water proof case/cover for your phone
• Water proof bag
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Bug/Insect repellant (is a must)
• GPS (if you are driving)
• Selfie stick (if you like to take pictures) 

3. Environment, Culture & Language

    It was really neat to learn about the PR culture and environment. From food to landscape, we enjoyed everything. But, there are definitely things you'll want to keep in mind so you're not surprised:

1. The time difference is the same as EST (Eastern Standard Time). This worked in our favor because I don't do well with jetlag.
2. Cats, dogs, horses and lizards roam about throughout the island. The most popular species we  saw were dogs. I kept joking about how I wanted to adopt one because we want a dog in the future. But, I definitely don't recommend trying to adopt one in PR or really touching them. Because they are stray dogs, it's unknown where they've been and what they may be carrying. As far as lizard, you don't need to worry. They run away from you and do not harm you. When we asked a local, they said that many years ago they were brought over (I forgot why) and have just multiplied. It's an apparent pest problem they have in the area. 
3. When driving, some streets do not have visible lines to separate the lanes. This can make it difficult when driving in multi-lane streets. 
4. There aren't many forms of public transportation on the island. There is a ferry that takes you to and from San Juan and over to Cantano. As well as the ferries that take you to the surrounding small islands. You can also take the taxi. However, there aren't many buses. If you can rent a car, I'd highly recommend doing so. Unless you plan on staying close to your hotel most of the time or taking an Uber. 
5. As far as areas that you might not want to go to, the only one we were repeated warned about was La Perla, a small community location in Old San Juan. 
6. Google Maps can be a bit annoying as far as using GPS on the island. However, Apple Maps does not always take you to the accurate destination. For our trip, we alternated between the two to ensure we arrived at each location with ease.
7. Do not let the $.89 gas fool you! Gas is measured in liters. So, although the prices aren't too high (in comparison to prices in the DMV area), they are not super low either. You can only pay for gas inside the store. Also, in some stations you will have to ask the cashier where the credit card machine is unless you plan on using cash. These aren’t always easily visible.
8. Make sure to bring cash! Some restaurants, kiosks and stores only accept it. You'll also find a lot of street vendors too. If you plan on buying from them, you'll most likely need cash.
9. If you plan on taking a tour of some sort, book in advance! Especially now, many people are also traveling to PR. It makes space in certain areas limited. If you can, plan week or maybe even months before your trip. 
10. Tipping culture is big here. If you can, spare a little extra for those who help you. Although, we found this to be true mainly in restaurants and transporation (Uber & taxi).
11. Brush up on your Spanish. Although most of the island speaks English, you'll still come across those who do not.

    This island is beautiful! And so are the people. After all, that is what makes a place so great. The warmth and hospitality are pretty evident. We did not feel at all like outcasts. I'm glad we got to have this experience. If I were to go back to PR, I would know what to expect. I hope you feel the same way! Thanks so much for reading and be sure to check out my other posts about Puerto Rico!