Looking for an unforgettable vacation experience? Look no further. Let me share my firsthand travel tips with you. Discover all that Puerto Rico has to offer!
My trip to Puerto Rico took place in April of 2023 and lasted a total of five days. Each day was filled with endless adventures with welcoming weather. Be prepared to relax, relish and realize the beauty of life while soaking up island time.
Puerto Rico is Calling…
There are numerous reasons to visit Puerto Rico. Whether you are looking to plan a vacation or a last-minute escape, this Caribbean island is the place to be.
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- Cost friendly
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- No passport is required for US citizens
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- Visit historic and serene landscapes
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- Try authentic Puerto Rican cuisine
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- Bathing suit-friendly weather
Things to Do
Finding something to do to fill your days with adventures and activities is effortless on this island.
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- Soak up the sun on numerous beaches
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- Crash Boat Beach
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- Flamenco Beach
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- Soak up the sun on numerous beaches
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- Take a guided tour of the caverns
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- Hike the only tropical rainforest in the US
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- Swim in a waterfall
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- View historic castles and museums
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- Visit a bioluminescence bay
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- Mosquito Bay
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- Laguna Grande
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- Visit a bioluminescence bay
Where to Stay
Choosing where you want to stay can be difficult. To help you decide, I have compiled a list of things you may want to consider before booking your stay.
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- Walkability
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- The ability to walk to attractions and restaurants.
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- Walkability
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- Nightlife
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- Close to areas that have music, bars, and nightclubs.
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- Nightlife
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- Activities that require island hopping
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- Desire to visit a bioluminescence bay.
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- Activities that require island hopping
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- Safety
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- Choosing a city popular with tourists.
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- Safety
Food and Drinks
Indulging in the flavors of Puerto Rico is a must. Some of the popular finds include Gasolina pouches, mofongo, pinchos, empanadillas, and tembleque. The local restaurants and street vendors serve cost-friendly and large portions of authentic food. Fine dining is available on a reservation basis.
Recommendations
A few things I recommend bringing, buying, or doing based on my visit to this lovely island are listed below.
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- Rent a car
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- If you plan on visiting more than one area of the island
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- Rent a car
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- Pack a car charger
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- Maps can drain your battery while finding your way around
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- Pack a car charger
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- Pack walking shoes
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- So many adventures to be found on foot
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- Pack walking shoes
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- Pack water shoes
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- Provides a better grip in the slippery environments
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- Pack water shoes
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- Pack sunscreen
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- Prepares and saves time on your trip
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- Pack sunscreen
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- Pack more than one bathing suit
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- Waterfalls, beaches … need I say more?
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- Pack more than one bathing suit
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- Waterproof bag
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- Use it on the beach, hiking, kayaking, jet skiing or even paddle boarding
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- Waterproof bag
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- Selfie stick
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- No need to ask others to take your photo
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- Selfie stick
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- Bring your camera
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- Document your memories
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- Bring your camera
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- Purchase tickets in advance
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- Limited entry to the rainforest, caverns, and telescope
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- Purchase tickets in advance
Most importantly don’t be afraid to ask the locals. They are so friendly and treated us so well. Remember, they know their way around and where all the hidden gems are located!
Links
I have attached a list of links for several items I used on my trip. I found them extremely useful and think you would benefit from them too! Please note, I may receive a small commission when you purchase through the link, however, it has no bearing on my recommendation for the item.
Thanks for writing all these articles Carri! They are very insightful. Nursing is the toughest, most rewarding job I have ever had. After 33 years in the sick- model of Healthcare, I too am embarking on Wellness care to help keep people out of my beloved ICU! It is possible to help people LIVE! And live well. Nurses are a smart, resilient and creative bunch of humans and we do have the power to transform the current model of “care”. Best wishes to you on your journey ❤️