Information about Puerto Rico: climate, history, geography, currency and language at Buch
Want to know more about Puerto Rico? Get all the information you need about the country: history, culture, nature, attractions and much more. Prepare for your trip and discover the wonderful world of Puerto Rico!
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Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory located in the Caribbean Sea. The island attracts tourists from all over the world with its snow-white beaches, rich culture and diverse entertainment. Every year more and more travelers choose Puerto Rico for a vacation.

The population of Puerto Rico is 3.2 million people. The main religion is Catholicism. Puerto Ricans speak Spanish and English.The indigenous population of the island was originally the Taino Indians, who were almost completely exterminated by Spanish colonizers. Today most of the inhabitants of Puerto Rico - descendants of Spaniards and Africans. The capital of Puerto Rico - San Juan - a beautiful historic city with forts, narrow streets and colorful buildings in the Spanish style. It is also home to luxury resort hotels, bustling nightclubs and fine restaurants offering a rich culinary variety.

Puerto Rico's natural attractions are incredibly beautiful. This peninsula island is studded with picturesque palm groves, waterfalls and mountain ranges. Here you can also visit one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world - La Parquia, where the water glows at night thanks to microorganisms. Puerto Rico's transportation infrastructure is well developed. Buses, cabs and car rentals provide convenient transportation around the island, and domestic airlines allow quick access to remote areas.

Puerto Rico is considered a relatively safe place for tourists. Local authorities take steps to ensure the safety of visitors, allowing them to feel comfortable while on the island. Puerto Rico is an ideal destination for tourists from all over the world who want to enjoy the beauty of a tropical paradise, immerse themselves in the rich culture and history, and relax on the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean Sea.

Puerto Rico is a small but fascinating island-state in the Caribbean Sea with a multi-ethnic population of over 3 million people. Throughout its 500-year history, Puerto Rico has experienced Spanish colonization, resulting in its unique mixed culture and national identity.

Located in the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico occupies the main island of Puerto Rico and a number of smaller islands, clearly marking it on the political map of the world. It borders the Dominican Republic, Haiti, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other islands in the West Indies.

Due to its tropical climate, picturesque nature with sandy beaches, Puerto Rico attracts a huge number of tourists from all over the globe every year. Tourism is the most important sector of the island's economy.

The population of Puerto Rico represents the descendants of Spanish colonizers, African slaves and natives of other Caribbean countries. The main ethnic groups are mulattos, white Puerto Ricans, and Afro-Puerto Ricans; the dominant religion is Catholicism, but Protestantism, Judaism, and Islam are also common. Despite the ethnic and religious diversity, Puerto Rico has an atmosphere of tolerance and harmonious coexistence among different peoples and cultures.

Puerto Rico uses a currency called the Puerto Rican peso, its official abbreviation is PRP. The Puerto Rican peso was introduced by the Spanish colonial authorities in 1895, and from 1895 to 1947 the Puerto Rican peso was used in parallel with the U.S. dollar. In 1947, the peso was removed from circulation and the U.S. dollar became the official currency, but the Puerto Rican peso is still in limited use in Puerto Rico. Currently, peso banknotes are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 pesos and are legal tender, which must be accepted by all commercial and service enterprises on an equal footing with the U.S. dollar. The exchange rate of the Puerto Rican peso is pegged to the United States dollar at a ratio of 1 dollar = 1 peso. Thus, the peso is actually the same monetary unit as the dollar, but has a different banknote design. The Puerto Rican peso is widely used in the daily life of the people of Puerto Rico, especially for cash payments in small stores, markets, and public transportation. Tourists can exchange U.S. dollars for pesos at banks and exchange offices in Puerto Rico. Peso banknotes are also popular with numismatists and botanical collectors.

In Puerto Rico, banks are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. On Saturday, they are open for two hours, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and on Sunday the banks are closed. Also, on the first Saturday of every month, all banks in Puerto Rico are closed. Currency exchange offices in Puerto Rico begin accepting and exchanging currency usually around 9-10 am. In addition to the Puerto Rican peso, VISA and Mastercard credit and debit cards are also often accepted in Puerto Rico. These cards are convenient for paying at a restaurant, hotel or shopping center, but they may charge an additional fee of 2.5 to 3%. However, care should be taken when using credit cards as they can be blocked by the automatic security system outside the country. Unlike many other countries, it is not customary to tip in Puerto Rico. The bill you get at restaurants or hotels usually already includes taxes and service charges. In case you want to say thank you for the excellent service, you can leave a small coin as a tip or round up the amount.

Puerto Rico is characterized by a tropical climate and warm, sunny weather that prevails most of the year. This makes the island a great place for a comfortable year-round vacation.

Winter (December-February) is characterized by dry and mild weather with air temperatures ranging from +21 to +27 degrees Celsius. The sun shines almost every day, there is very little precipitation.

In spring (March-May) the temperature rises to +27-32 degrees Celsius. The rainy season begins, humidity increases and short-term tropical showers occur.

Summer (June-August) is the hottest season with temperatures of +32-35 degrees Celsius and high humidity up to 85-90%. Tropical cyclones and hurricanes are possible. Downpours last up to several hours.

Autumn (September-November) is still warm and rainy. Temperatures are +29-32 degrees. Humidity is high.

In October-November, the last showers and cyclones of the season are possible. Thus, thanks to the tropical climate, Puerto Rico is warm and comfortable all year round. In summer it is the hottest and rainiest, in winter it is dry and mild. At any time of the year the island pleases tourists with sunny weather and swimming opportunities.

The choice of clothing for a vacation on this Caribbean island depends largely on the time of year and the plans of the traveler. Thanks to the tropical climate, it is warm all year round, so clothes should be light and comfortable.

In summer, when the air temperature reaches +30°C, outfits made of natural fabrics - cotton, linen or viscose - are best. The ideal choice for hot days - shorts, T-shirts, T-shirt dresses and tunics. Do not forget about protection from the scorching sun: hats, sunglasses, sunscreen. Shoes should also be light - sandals, flip-flops or sneakers.

In winter, the temperature drops to a comfortable +25°C during the day. At this time of year, pants, shirts and short-sleeved tops are suitable. For the evening, consider a light sweater or windbreaker.

When visiting religious institutions, such as churches and cathedrals in Puerto Rico, it pays to be respectful and wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. For men, pants and a shirt with sleeves are preferred; for women, an opaque blouse and skirt below the knees are preferred.

Also responsibly approach the dress code when visiting museums, historical monuments, government institutions, refrain from too open or provocative outfits.

On city-wide holidays and festivals are also appropriate outfits of a medium degree of formality. Ladies should avoid miniskirts and deep cleavage.

Of course, comfort and sun protection remain the main criteria for dressing for a vacation in Puerto Rico's hot tropical climate, but it is important to respect local cultural norms and traditions in certain public places.

Puerto Rico's culture is a unique blend of European and Latin American traditions, strongly defined by historical Spanish influences, as well as African and Caribbean cultures. This mosaic character forms the island's unique cultural palette.

One of Puerto Rico's main traditions is the celebration of Christmas (Navidad), which is widely celebrated and includes costume parades, Christmas songs and the preparation of traditional foods. Another major event is the Festival of San Juan Batista, in honor of the birth of John the Baptist, where concerts, dance shows and carnivals are held. During Easter, picnics and music festivals are common, as well as exchanging gifts and preparing Easter treats.

Traditional holidays and customs play a significant role in Puerto Rico's cultural life, adding a special flavor and atmosphere to the island. Christmas and the San Juan Batista Festival are particularly popular, with festive processions, musical performances and gourmet culinary traditions.

When visiting the island, it is important to be mindful of local traditions and regulations, including the dress code, especially in religious places and at formal events, to show respect for local culture and customs. This helps to create a harmonious relationship with the locals and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this amazing Caribbean island.

Traffic on the island is heavy, especially in major cities like San Juan. During morning and evening rush hours, traffic jams can occur on the main highways. The average speed of traffic is 40-50 km/h due to congestion.

Some rules are the same as in the US - driving on the right side, stopping at red lights, mandatory seat belt use. But there are some differences. The legal level of alcohol behind the wheel is 0.02%, not 0.08% as in most states. The penalties for drunk driving are very high. It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving, even with a headset.

Children under the age of 12 must be transported in special seats or boosters. Headlights must be on at all times. Overtaking is allowed only on the left. There is an unspoken rule not to overtake on the right, although in practice it is often violated.

Children under one year of age are transported in a car seat against the course of traffic. From 1 to 4 years old - in a seat appropriate to age and weight. From 4 to 12 use boosters until they reach a height of 145 cm. Children under 12 must not be placed in the front seat. Older than 12 are restrained with regular seat belts.

Single-digit roads with numbers like PR-1 are major highways with occasional traffic lights. Two-digit ones like PR-22 are new toll highways. Three-digit ones (PR-181, etc.) are smaller country highways. Four-digit ones are best not to use unless you know the area.

Be careful and obey traffic rules, even if the locals don't. Police cars often drive with flashing lights but no sirens. Don't be frightened if you see them around, it doesn't mean you have violated the law. If you have any questions, you can ask the police officers.

Transportation in Puerto Rico is represented by a variety of means of transportation, including cars, public transportation, cabs, and motorcycles.

Cars: Cars are the most common means of transportation in Puerto Rico. Many residents and tourists prefer to use their own cars for the convenience and flexibility of traveling around the island. The island's road infrastructure is quite developed, with well-marked road signs and traffic lights.

Public transportation: Public transportation in Puerto Rico is represented by buses and subways. The public transportation system is well developed in the capital San Juan, where there are many bus routes and metro stations. However, in some of the less populated areas of the island, access to public transportation may be limited.

Cabs: Taxis are mainly present in the cities and tourist areas. This is a convenient way to get around, especially if you need to get to remote places or don't want to worry about finding parking. Cab prices in Puerto Rico are usually fixed or based on a taximeter.

Motorcycles: Motorcycles and scooters are also popular on the island, especially in urban areas. They can be convenient for navigating tight streets and avoiding traffic jams. However, care should be taken when riding a motorcycle, especially on steep and winding roads.

Overall, the transportation network in Puerto Rico provides a variety of options for getting around both within and between cities. Your choice of means of transportation depends on your itinerary, convenience, and personal preferences.

Spanish and English are the two most widely spoken languages in U.S.-administered Puerto Rico. The literacy rate here is as high as 99%. Prior to Spanish colonization, the island's population spoke Taino languages. The modern languages of Puerto Rico reflect both the cultural uniqueness and rich history of the region.

Spanish was brought by the conquistadors in the 15th century. Since then, it has been the dominant, state and national language on the island. It is spoken by more than 95% of Puerto Rico's residents and is used in everyday communication, education and business. It is also the official language of the country. Over the centuries, a dialect of Spanish has been formed with borrowings from African and Taino languages, as well as English words, however, the Puerto Rican version of Spanish is understood by native speakers from other countries, and they can speak it freely.

English also has official language status in Puerto Rico, although it is spoken by less than 10% of the island's population. The language came into existence after the United States took the island from Spain in 1898. American authorities introduced English along with Spanish into government records and official communication. An attempt to make it the language of instruction in the 1930s met with public resistance. As a result, Spanish remained the primary language in Puerto Rican schools and English became a second language.

The islanders also use Spanglish, a mixture of Spanish and English. This hybrid language is common in tourist areas when communicating with foreigners.

In this way, Spanish and English reflect Puerto Rico's rich history, culture, and ties to Spain and the United States. Although English has official status, Spanish remains the primary official language for the vast majority of Puerto Rico's population, which people speak and communicate in everyday life.

Cell phone and internet services in Puerto Rico are provided by different providers and have their own characteristics:

Mobile carriers: Major carriers include Claro, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint. They provide a wide range of services including 2G, 3G, 4G mobile services and the recently deployed 5G network.

Coverage and Call Quality: Overall, the mobile penetration rate is around 98%, ensuring high availability of connectivity throughout the island. In major cities and tourist areas, the quality of connectivity is generally good, but remote areas may experience some limitation.

Mobile Plans: Mobile plans usually include unlimited calls, SMS and a certain amount of internet traffic. Users can choose from different plans depending on their needs.

Internet Service Providers: The main internet providers on the island are Liberty Cablevision and Claro. They provide both wired and wireless internet services for individuals and businesses. The average internet speed in Puerto Rico is 10-25 Mbps, which provides acceptable quality for most users.

Thus, Puerto Rico's mobile and Internet infrastructure provides a high level of accessibility and allows residents and tourists to stay connected and enjoy the benefits of digital technology anywhere on the island.

Puerto Rico's health care system is recognized as one of the best in the Caribbean. The level of medical care on the island meets the high standards adopted in the United States.

The backbone of the medical community is a significant number of highly qualified physicians educated at prestigious medical schools in the United States and Europe. Most of them speak both English and Spanish, which facilitates communication with patients.

The island's medical infrastructure is represented by both modern private clinics and state hospitals. Large multidisciplinary medical centers are available in major cities, where assistance is provided in various specializations. One of the leading medical facilities is the Ashford Memorial Hospital in San Juan, which is equipped with the latest technology.

Although services at private hospitals may be more expensive, they usually provide a higher level of service. Public hospitals, on the other hand, provide more affordable health care for local residents.

There is a Mi Salud insurance program for low-income citizens. The pharmaceutical industry on the island is also well developed. Thus, the healthcare system in Puerto Rico provides quality medical care to both locals and tourists, which is one of the main advantages of the island in the Caribbean region.

Despite this, it is advisable to purchase travel medical insurance that will cover the cost of medical treatment in case of emergency. This will provide foreign nationals with a sense of security and peace of mind during their stay on the island.

When going on vacation to Puerto Rico, it is worth taking care of your own safety and comfort during the trip. One of the key points is the purchase of health insurance - it is an integral part of preparing for the trip.

Health insurance for Puerto Rico will cover the cost of treatment in the event of a sudden illness or injury while on vacation. It will save you from large unplanned expenses and ensure timely, quality medical care on the island.

Insurance companies offer different versions of policies - with coverage from 10,000 to 100,000 dollars and more. The cost depends on the age of the tourist, the duration of the trip and the amount of insurance. In addition to medical expenses, the insurance will also protect you from other troubles - flight cancellation or delay, lost luggage, problems with the hotel and transportation.

With health insurance, you can fully relax and enjoy your vacation in Puerto Rico without fear of financial problems due to unforeseen situations. Your trip will be comfortable and safe.

Puerto Rico is rich in its national holidays and celebrations. Many of them coincide with U.S. holidays, but there are also unique dates that reflect the island's history and culture. One of the grandest celebrations is Christmas, which lasts about 45 days, from Thanksgiving in November through mid-January. It is one of the longest Christmas seasons in the world.

In addition to the common Christian holidays, the island celebrates the birthdays of national heroes and major historical events.

January 1 is New Year's Eve. It is celebrated with family and friends. Traditionally, a bucket of water is thrown out of the window at midnight to get rid of the misfortunes of the past year.

January 5 - Eve of the Three Kings. Children gather grass and put it in a shoebox for the camels of the Three Kings. They also leave them cookies and milk.

January 6 - Three Kings Day. The main Christmas holiday is when children find presents. There is a grand procession in San Juan.

January 10 - Day of Eugenio Maria de Hostos, a philosopher and writer who fought against slavery.

Late January - San Sebastian Street Festival. The largest party on the island, marking the end of the Christmas celebrations.

February 18 - Luis Muñoz Marín Day, the first elected governor of Puerto Rico.

April 18 - José de Diego Day, a fighter for the island's independence.

The second Sunday in May is Mother's Day. The whole family gathers at the matriarch's house, bringing gifts and treats.

The third Sunday in June is Father's Day. It is also celebrated with the family, often a barbecue is organized.

June 23 - St. John's Night. Beach festivities, bathing in the sea to get rid of bad luck.

July 25 - The day the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico was adopted in 1952.

July 27 - Day of Jose Celso Barbosa, a doctor and politician who fought for independence.

October 31 - Halloween. A popular holiday, children go around homes and shopping centers in costumes.

November 19 - The day Columbus discovered Puerto Rico in 1493.

The fourth Thursday in November is Thanksgiving in the American tradition. The beginning of the long Christmas season.

December 24 - Christmas Eve. Spent with family, singing Christmas carols.

December 25 - Christmas Eve. Gift exchanges, family dinners and strolls through festive San Juan.

December 31st is New Year's Eve. A time to summarize the past year and a festive meal with loved ones.

Thus, the calendar of holidays of Puerto Rico reflects both Christian and national traditions of the island. This helps to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen family ties.

Epiphany (Día de los Reyes Magos): takes place on January 6. This holiday celebrates the arrival of the Magi (Three Kings) in Bethlehem to worship the baby Jesus. Children in Puerto Rico receive gifts on this day, as it is analogous to Christmas presents in other countries. Traditionally, a special dish, Roscon (a beautifully decorated fruitcake), is prepared for this day in Puerto Rico.

Aibonito Flower Festival: takes place in late April or early May. This festival celebrates the beauty and diversity of flowers. For several days, the town of Aibonito is transformed into a blooming paradise with colorful decorations, flower processions and exhibitions. The main event of the festival is the Royal Procession of Flowers, featuring decorated platforms with local women in flower costumes.

Ponce Carnival: takes place in February. Ponce Carnival is one of the largest and most popular carnivals in the Caribbean. For several days, the streets of the city are filled with costumed participants and spectators. The carnival program includes parades, dancing, music, cocktails, competitions and other entertainment.

San Sebastian Street Festival: takes place in January. This festival is considered one of the most grandiose and cultural events on the island. The main emphasis of the festival is on music and dancing. The streets of the city are transformed into huge dance floors where people of different ages and backgrounds party and dance together.

Puerto Rico Salsa Congress: takes place in the month of June. This salsa festival attracts professionals and dance enthusiasts from all over the world. The program includes workshops, performances, competitions and parties.

Heineken Jazz Festival: takes place in March. This festival is one of the largest jazz events in the Caribbean. Concerts and performances by musicians of different jazz styles take place over several days at various venues throughout the city.

Rincon International Film Festival: takes place in September. This festival is dedicated to the art of cinema and attracts films from all over the world. The festival program includes film screenings, discussions, workshops and other cinematic events.

Saborea Puerto Rico: takes place in March. This festival is dedicated to the food culture of Puerto Rico. The main event of the festival is the food fairs where you can sample a variety of food and drinks.

Hatillo Mask Festival: takes place in December. This festival represents the tradition of wearing masks during Christmas. The people of Hatillo wear colorful and patterned masks and parade through the streets of the city.

Casalsa Festival: takes place in June. This festival is dedicated to Spanish classical guitarist Francisco Tarrega and guitar music. There are several days of concerts, workshops and other musical events.

Coffee Harvest Festival: takes place in September. This festival is dedicated to coffee and its production. In the program: exhibitions, tastings, competitions and other coffee-related events.

Festival of St. James the Apostle: takes place in July. This festival is dedicated to St. James, the patron saint of Puerto Rico. Various religious activities take place over several days, including pilgrimages, prayers and festive services.

Puerto Rican Danza Week: takes place in June. This festival celebrates the Puerto Rican Danza, a traditional music and dance genre. Concerts, dance performances, and other danza-related events take place throughout the week.

Puerto Rico Inauguration Day: takes place on July 25. On this day, Puerto Rico celebrates its day of independence and liberation from Spanish rule. The holiday program includes parades, fireworks, concerts, exhibitions and other events.

Jaya Indian Festival: takes place in November. This festival is dedicated to the Taino Indians, who are part of the cultural heritage of Puerto Rico. The festival program includes: traditional dances, rituals, exhibitions, crafts and other activities of the Indian culture.

Puerto Rico - It attracts tourists with its white-sand beaches, historical sites, amazing cuisine and an abundance of diverse natural landscapes including mountains, jungles and crystal clear rivers. Here's more about Puerto Rico tourism and tips for visiting this beautiful place:

Beach Vacation: Puerto Rico is famous for its beautiful beaches. Popular places to swim and sunbathe include Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, Playa Flamenco, Playa Luquillo, and Playa Buyé.

Historical Sites: The capital city of San Juan is known for its colonial buildings, narrow streets, and forts. One monumental landmark is the San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) fortress, symbolizing the island's rich history. Also worth a visit is the San Cristóbal Fortress, which embodies the spirit of Spanish colonial rule. Plaza de Colón, located in Old San Juan, is another symbol of the island, dedicated to Christopher Columbus. This historical monument invites visitors to immerse themselves in the past and experience the grandeur of maritime discovery. The Cathedral of San Juan, founded in 1521, is an important historical building. This Catholic church is considered one of the oldest Spanish Christian churches in the Americas, making it an important historical site in Puerto Rico. Casa Blanca Museum - This was the residence of Puerto Rico's first governor, Juan Ponce de Leon. Today it is a museum that tells the history of the island and the lives of its first inhabitants.

Excursions to nature reserves: Puerto Rico has an abundance of natural treasures. El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rain forest in the U.S. National Forest system. In this preserve, you can enjoy the beauty of tropical vegetation, explore the many hiking trails and lakes, and visit cascades and waterfalls. Bioluminescent Bay - Visit Puerto Rico's bioluminescent bays such as La Parguera and Mosquito Bay to see the fantastic glow of the water due to microscopic organisms. Carbali Reserve - This reserve offers many activities including horseback riding, ATV rides, helicopter rides and many hiking trails. Luzon (Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve) - This is a reserve on the east coast of Puerto Rico where you can enjoy observing local ecosystems such as mangrove swamps, coral reefs and lagoons.

Water Sports: The island offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, surfing and kayaking. Many resorts and tour operators offer equipment rentals and excursions.

Gastronomic Tourism: Try traditional Puerto Rican dishes such as mofongo (mashed bananas), arroz con gandules (rice and peas), and mango mojitos. Visit local restaurants and street cafes to experience the island's culture.

Safety: as with any other country, it is important to take precautions. Keep your valuables in a safe place, avoid dangerous neighborhoods, follow the advice of locals and don't stay out alone at night.

Trip Planning: Plan your trip in advance to arrange all excursions, hotel reservations and transportation services. Keep in mind that tourist season can be very popular, so book everything in advance.

Using public transportation: Public transportation in Puerto Rico is not always convenient and often has problems. It is recommended to rent a car for a more convenient way to get around the island.

Respect the local culture: A note to tourists - respect the local culture and traditions. Puerto Rico has a rich cultural heritage, and learning about the culture will make your trip even more immersive and exciting.

Sun protection: remember to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to prevent sunburn and overheating. Caribbean sunlight can be very intense.

By following these tips, your trip to Puerto Rico promises to be memorable and full of adventure.

Puerto Rico has a variety of hotels, inns and other accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

Best hotels in Puerto Rico:

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel: this historic hotel is located in the heart of the Condado neighborhood and offers luxurious accommodations with gorgeous ocean views. Its amenities include a rooftop pool, a superb spa and world-class restaurants.

La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort: a modern resort complex that offers a wide range of rooms with ocean or pool views. There are several pools, restaurants, bars and access to a private beach.

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: this luxury resort hotel is located on the coast and offers spacious and elegant rooms with private pools or terraces. The hotel also offers access to a beautiful beach, spa and upscale restaurants.

Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort: located on the east coast of the island, this resort offers a wide range of amenities including two full golf courses, a spa, pools and access to a private beach.

Other Puerto Rico lodging options:

Vacation Rentals: Puerto Rico has a variety of short-term vacation rentals, ranging from downtown apartments to beachfront villas. This is a great option for those who prefer more space and individuality.

Hostels: San Juan and other major cities on the island have hostels with shared rooms or private rooms at affordable prices. This is a great option for budget travelers and young people.

Mid-range hotels: throughout the island you can find mid-range hotels that offer comfortable accommodation at reasonable prices. These can be chain hotels or local inns.

When choosing your accommodation, be sure to consider your budget, personal preferences and the location of the hotel in relation to the places you plan to visit. It is also important to check on the availability of amenities such as swimming pool, restaurants, parking and internet access.