Trips to Puerto Rico Flight and Hotel Packages
To make your trip to Puerto Rico stress-free and convenient, you need to book a Flight and Hotel Package. Save time and money by purchasing the packages offered by top travel companies. In this section, we’ll explore the benefits of buying flight and hotel packages and discuss some of the most popular travel companies offering packages to Puerto Rico.
Benefits of purchasing flight and hotel packages
Purchasing flight and hotel packages has several advantages, making it an ideal choice for travelers.
- First, buying a package deal helps save money as travel companies offer discounts when combining flight and hotel reservations.
- Second, it saves time and energy as customers can make both reservations in one go rather than separately.
- Third, these packages provide peace of mind as everything is arranged beforehand, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy their trip worry-free.
Additionally, booking through a travel agent offers access to exclusive deals that cannot be found elsewhere.
Fun Fact: According to the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, the island broke records with over 1.7 million visitors in 2019.
Skip the amateur hour of booking your own flight and hotel, leave it to the pros with these top travel companies offering packages to Puerto Rico.
Top travel companies offering packages to Puerto Rico
When it comes to planning a vacation, Puerto Rico is an excellent choice for individuals and families. Numerous companies offer amazing packages that combine flight and hotel accommodation at reasonable prices. These bundles serve to provide budget-conscious travelers with great deals that make their trip memorable and enjoyable.
Some well-known travel companies in the market who provide fantastic Puerto Rico packages include Expedia, CheapCaribbean, and Kayak. Expedia offers a variety of deals with various airlines and resort options, providing its customers with the most favorable choices available on the market. CheapCaribbean has travel experts who help clients tailor a package based on their travel preferences and budgets, ensuring their requirements are met. Kayak offers deals for both airfare and hotels, including numerous amenities such as wifi access.
If you want to experience Puerto Rico’s Spanish-American culture firsthand while having plenty of time to bask in the sun, these packages’ options are perfect for you. They offer top-tier service at affordable prices while taking care of every aspect of your trip.
With alluring beaches, year-round sunshine, thriving nightlife, and unmatched culinary offerings, Puerto Rico continues to attract tourists worldwide as one of the most sought-after destinations in the world—opting for flight & hotel packages to save costs also helps guests plan better within their range of spending.
Despite undergoing significant devastation caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico has kept its unwavering spirit alive over the years. The island resumed welcoming visitors after undertaking exceptional initiatives towards recovery during reconstruction efforts from several communities across Puerto Rico; hence bookings continue to rise since then due to brilliant marketing campaigns targeting potential travelers interested in visiting this beautiful location.
Why settle for a boring staycation when you can enjoy the sun, sand, and salsa of Puerto Rico’s popular tourist cities?
Popular Tourist City Destinations in Puerto Rico
To explore the top tourist city destinations in Puerto Rico, focus on Old San Juan, Rincon, and Ponce. Each location has unique experiences and attractions that are suitable for different types of travelers. Discover what these spots have in store for you to plan your ideal Puerto Rico itinerary for your next trip.
Old San Juan
Nestled in the northern part of Puerto Rico lies a charming historic district boasting Spanish colonial architecture, blue cobblestone streets and warm Caribbean sunshine. The area, located in the capital city San Juan, is known for its picturesque buildings and charming plazas. The neighborhood has a 500-year old history that is reflected in every corner of the district.
Old San Juan is a mesmerizing blend of culture, cuisine and nature, making it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore landmarks such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro or Casa Blanca – former home of Ponce de Leon – to delve deeper into the area’s rich past. And when you’re ready to pause for refreshments, there are no shortage of restaurants and cafes serving up authentic Puerto Rican dishes.
Aside from being a visual treat, Old San Juan also hosts several events throughout the year like Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian where residents celebrate their colorful heritage with live music performances, street food vendors and art exhibitions.
The neighborhood was founded by Spaniards in 1521 and played an essential role as a strategic port during Spain’s conquest of other parts of Central America. In fact, many historical figures walked along Old San Juan’s pathways including pirates such as Sir Francis Drake who attacked the town twice during sieges in 1595 and again in 1598 – leaving their own place names behind them; Drake’s Seat is one such location that can be visited today.
“Rincon: where even the waves have a laid-back attitude and the only thing you’ll need to worry about is applying sunscreen every half hour.”
Rincon
This coastal municipality boasts world-renowned surfing spots and stunning sunsets. Rincon is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and diverse mix of restaurants. Explore the Rincon Lighthouse Park or take a dip in the natural pools at Steps Beach, a favorite among snorkelers and divers.
Rincon’s beaches are well-known among surfers for having some of Puerto Rico’s best waves, especially during winter months. Be sure to visit Maria’s Beach, Domes Beach, and Tres Palmas Marine Reserve if you’re in search of the perfect wave. For a unique experience, try whale watching between January and March when humpback whales travel through Rincon’s warm waters.
Rincon holds an annual International Film Festival and the Rincón Blues Festival, attracting visitors from all over the world. Discover amazing art galleries featuring local Puerto Rican artists and their works.
The bioluminescent bay located near Rincon is one of only six in the world that glows year-round due to its high concentration of dinoflagellates. The Fajardo Bio Bay Tour takes you on a kayak trip through this awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Source: DiscoverPuertoRico.com
If you’re looking to explore colorful streets, rich history, and delicious food, Ponce will be your number Juan choice.
Ponce
Located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, this city is known for its rich history and culture. It is referred to as La Perla del Sur, which means ‘the Pearl of the South’. Ponce is a popular tourist destination that offers unique cultural experiences combined with beautiful natural scenery.
One must-see attraction in Ponce is the Museo de Arte de Ponce. It houses an extensive collection of European art, including works by Rubens, Goya and Velázquez. Additionally, The Parque de Bombas is another famous attraction that was once a fire station but now houses a museum dedicated to the city’s firefighting history.
For nature lovers, a visit to Gilligan’s Island is highly recommended. This picturesque island boasts clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Walking tours through downtown Ponce are also available for those interested in exploring the city’s architecture and landmarks.
To fully experience Ponce’s culture, one must dine at La Casita Restaurant. It serves traditional Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo and arroz con gandules. Another suggestion would be staying at the historic Hotel Meliá Ponce which has hosted various celebrities over the years. Its traditional Spanish architecture adds to the overall charm of this quaint town.
If you can’t handle driving on roads that twist and turn like a pretzel, you’ll be riding shotgun yelling ‘¡ay bendito! in no time while exploring Puerto Rico.
Getting Around Puerto Rico
To make your travel experience in Puerto Rico smooth, you need to know about different ways of getting around. In order to do that, this section ‘Getting Around Puerto Rico’ with ‘Public transportation options, Car rental options’ as solutions briefly introduces alternative transportation modes.
Public transportation options
When it comes to exploring Puerto Rico, there are many options available for public transportation. Here are three of them:
- Road travel: Renting a car is one way to get around the island with ease. Many well-known car rental companies have outlets in Puerto Rico.
- Public buses: The Metropolitan Bus Authority operates a network of buses that cover major cities and towns across the island.
- Taxis and ride-sharing platforms: Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed from taxi stands or pre-booked. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft also operate on the island.
It’s worth noting that taxis in Puerto Rico don’t use meters, so passengers should agree on a fare before starting their journey.
For those looking for a unique experience, the historic city of San Juan offers trolley tours. These tours take visitors around the old city while providing historical insights into its rich culture.
A true fact is that Puerto Rico has one of the highest rates of car ownership per capita in the world, according to World Bank data. Renting a car in Puerto Rico is like dating a bad boy – risky yet thrilling, with the potential for some serious damage.
Car rental options
If you’re looking to explore Puerto Rico, there are various options when it comes to renting a car. Car rental opportunities abound in the country for both locals and tourists.
Here are some key points to consider when renting a car in Puerto Rico:
- It’s advisable to book in advance as prices can be higher if you wait until arriving at your destination.
- Car rentals available at airports, major tourist spots and even cities.
- Minimum age for renting a car is twenty-one (21) years old, but this may vary depending on the company or location.
- You need an international driving license if coming from outside the United States and a valid driver’s license from any U.S state if you’re a local citizen.
- Renting a car with insurance is recommended to avoid any consequential costs that may come unexpectedly.
When renting a car, it’s important to note that different agencies have varying terms, conditions and prices. Comparing their offers is vital before signing up for rental services.
It’s imperative that drivers obey traffic rules and regulations when exploring this beautiful island, especially since roads can be narrow or winding with blind curves.
Puerto Rican’s have an elaborate historical tradition about vehicles which comes from the Taino culture who had specialty craftsmen creating means of transportation including zemís (a pre-Hispanic craft item).
Prepare to loosen your belt buckle and expand your taste buds as you discover the mouth-watering flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine.
Puerto Rican Cuisine and Dining Options
To immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Puerto Rico, you need to know its cuisine and dining options. You can indulge in traditional dishes to try and have a gastronomic adventure, as well as visit popular restaurants on the island.
Traditional dishes to try
Puerto Rico boasts a rich and diverse cuisine with traditional dishes that are an absolute must-try. Indulge in the island’s unique blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino flavors that make their dishes stand out from the rest.
- Mofongo – a classic Puerto Rican dish made from mashed plantains mixed with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings. It can be served as a side or filled with chicken or beef.
- Arroz con gandules – rice cooked with pigeon peas, spices, and often accompanied by pork or chicken. This savory dish is a staple during Christmas celebrations.
- Pernil – slow-roasted pork shoulder seasoned with garlic, oregano, and other spices. The dish has crispy skin on the outside but is moist and tender on the inside.
- Chuletas Can Can – deep-fried pork chops pounded thin to achieve a crispy texture and then drizzled with lemon juice.
The dishes mentioned above are just some of the many mouth-watering delights that Puerto Rican cuisine has to offer. Be sure to also try tostones (twice-fried plantains), empanadillas (fried turnovers), and coquito (a creamy coconut-based alcoholic beverage).
Interestingly, Puerto Rican cuisine is heavily influenced by its history and cultural diversity. The displacement of Taino Indians by Spanish conquistadors introduced most criollo food into Puerto Rico, while African slaves added flavors using their native ingredients like okra, yams, guava fruit, or peanuts.
Overall, overlooking the unique flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine when visiting the archipelago would be a disservice to your taste buds. If you’re looking for a taste of Puerto Rico, these restaurants are a must-visit – just don’t blame us for the food coma that follows.
Popular restaurants to visit
For those craving Puerto Rican cuisine, there are several highly recommended dining spots to check out. Here are some of the spots:
- Aguaviva – this trendy local favorite is known for its fresh seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes.
- El Jibarito – a classic and affordable spot that serves up tasty mofongo, plantains and other tasty Puerto Rican staples.
- La Casita Blanca – tucked away in the city’s Santurce neighborhood, this family-owned restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious home-style cooking.
- Jose Enrique – Chef Jose Enrique’s spot has earned accolades from around the world for dishes like his octopus with grapefruit mojo.
- Santaella – while slightly more upscale than some of the other options on this list, Santaella’s creative take on Puerto Rican flavors is sure to impress.
In addition to mouth-watering food options, many of these restaurants also offer vibrant atmospheres that add a whole new layer to your dining experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local foodie, don’t miss out on exploring these amazing eateries. Your tastebuds will thank you!
Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the lush rainforest or the heart-pumping excitement of a salsa dancing lesson – Puerto Rico has more than just delicious food to offer!
Popular Activities and Attractions in Puerto Rico
To explore the best things to do in Puerto Rico, indulge in the popular activities and attractions. Check out beaches and water activities, rainforest hiking and exploring, and historical landmarks and museums. Discover what each sub-section holds to plan your perfect trip to Puerto Rico!
Beaches and water activities
When exploring what Puerto Rico has to offer, visitors must experience its beaches and aquatic activities. Here are six ways you can enjoy the beautiful waters in Puerto Rico:
- Take a dip in Luquillo Beach’s clear blue waters or relax on its golden sand.
- Surf at Rincon Beach, known for its world-class waves.
- Embark on an adventure with a kayaking tour through El Yunque Rainforest’s river system.
- Experience diving in one of the most popular reefs in Culebra Island, Tamarindo Beach.
- Sail in Fajardo and discover the beauty of nearby islands by boat.
- Stand-up paddleboard or parasail at Isla Verde beach while taking in breathtaking views of the city skyline.
In addition, visitors can also engage in various water sports like snorkeling, jet skiing, windsurfing and more. For those looking for a unique experience under the water, Puerto Rico offers bioluminescent bay tours where you can witness microorganisms light up!
It is said that before European discovered Americas; Carib Indians had settled here and called this island ‘Borikén‘, meaning ‘Land of the Valiant Lord‘. This name was later evolved into Puerto Rico. So when you visit these beaches be sure to respect their origins while enjoying the scenery!
There’s nothing like a good hike in the rainforest to remind you just how out of shape you are.
Rainforest hiking and exploring
For those who seek adventure amidst the lush greenery of Puerto Rico, trekking and discovering hidden gems in rainforests is an ideal way. Here’s a guide to enjoy “Exploring the Enchanting Rainforests of Puerto Rico.”
- Plan your trip to either El Yunque National Forest or Carite State forest to marvel at serene waterfalls, scenic trails, and towering trees.
- Be responsible and respectful towards nature while exploring. Do not litter, use biodegradable products, follow marked trails, pack sufficient food and water.
- Take a guided tour for a more enriching experience as guides can provide detailed knowledge about endemic flora and fauna.
- Explore offbeat tracks with rented 4×4 cars or ATVs for an unfiltered experience down the less traveled roads.
Along with hiking opportunities, visitors can rent kayaks to explore mangroves at Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve or opt for zip-lining adventures in Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park – each giving a unique view of Puerto Rican nature.
Did you know that around 60% of El Yunque National Forest was destroyed during Hurricane Maria in 2017? However, it has now reopened with abundant growth due to constant and dedicated reforestation efforts by government agencies.
Take a step back in time and learn about Puerto Rico’s rich history, or just pretend to be cultured for a day at these museums and landmarks.
Historical landmarks and museums
Puerto Rico is known for its exquisite attractions and a rich history. The island houses numerous cultural landmarks and museums which give an insight into the country’s heritage. Among these cherished sites are ancestral homes, indigenous artwork pieces, and antique buildings that preserve Puerto Rico’s customs and traditions.
Visitors can explore the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, one of the most prominent military sites in Puerto Rico. It dates back to the 16th century and is now revered as an archaeological museum exhibiting relics of past civilizations. Other noteworthy mentions are La Fortaleza, Ponce Art Museum, National Historic Site San Juan, and Caguana Ceremonial Ball Courts Site.
Additionally, Puerto Rico boasts small yet striking museums like Casa Blanca Museum in Old San Juan that commemorates the city’s colonial era with exhibits on interior design and art pieces dated back to its golden age. Not to mention Casa-Museo Felisa Rincón de Gautier which was once residence to San Juan’s first female mayor Ms Felisa Rincon de Gautier.
Interestingly, you can relive moments from the early Spanish occupation by visiting El Yunque Cave Park; this ecologically rich park preserves petroglyphs created by early settlers who resided underground.
The historical landmarks and museums of Puerto Rico narrate engrossing stories of where they come from while captivating their visitors with unique artifacts sprawled across well-kept galleries.
Planning a trip to Puerto Rico? Leave your worries at home, but definitely pack some sunscreen.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Trip to Puerto Rico
To plan the perfect trip to Puerto Rico with budget-friendly options, optimal time to travel, and prioritizing safety, explore the following tips. Discover the best time to visit Puerto Rico and cut down expenses with affordable accommodations and activities. Additionally, ensure your safety with our must-follow tips for travelers.
Best time to visit Puerto Rico
One of the most crucial factors when planning a trip to Puerto Rico is determining when to go. The island has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 70°F and 90°F throughout the year. However, there are certain months that are better suited for tourism due to several reasons.
The ideal time to visit Puerto Rico falls between late April and June, as well as November and December, constitutes shoulder season when crowds are lesser. During these periods, the weather is mild, and accommodation rates drop significantly. However, if you want to escape cold winter or extreme heat in your location then early January through mid-April can be more convenient depending on what type of experience you want.
It’s worth noting that the rainy season is from May through November. So if you’re avoiding rain is very important for your plans then late December might not be the best period for you to go. Overall, Puerto Rico has much less rain compared with other tropical destinations which also draws tourists in droves during this period.
Pro Tip: While it’s wise to plan around the weather and tourist influx, remember that visiting Puerto Rico anytime in this window still adds up fantastic memories.
Roughing it doesn’t have to mean sleeping with the iguanas – check out these budget-friendly accommodations in Puerto Rico.
Budget-friendly options for accommodations and activities
Finding Affordable Accommodations and Activites in Puerto Rico
Looking for affordable places to stay and things to do in Puerto Rico? Here are some budget-friendly options:
- Stay in a hostel or guesthouse, which is often cheaper than a hotel.
- Take advantage of free activities such as visiting beaches and parks.
- Eat at local establishments rather than touristy restaurants.
- Join a walking tour to explore the city on foot for free or at a low cost.
- Visit museums and historical landmarks during free admission days.
- Take public transportation such as buses or trains instead of taxis or rental cars.
While exploring Puerto Rico on a budget, it’s worth checking out small towns like Arecibo. An off-the-beaten-path destination, Arecibo offers natural attractions such as the Cueva Ventana cave system and La Poza del Obispo beach.
Pro Tip: Plan your trip during the shoulder season (March through May/September through November) when prices for accommodations and activities tend to be lower compared to peak season.
Don’t worry about getting mugged in Puerto Rico, the sand and sea are the only things that’ll rob you blind.
Safety tips for travelers
Travel with Confidence: Tips for a Safe Trip to Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico offers beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and rich cultural experiences. However, before embarking on your trip, it’s important to stay safe and secure. Here are some tips to help ensure that you have a worry-free vacation:
- Carry only necessary identification while sightseeing.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid dark alleys or poorly lit areas at night.
- If you plan on renting a car, do research about the companies in advance and pay close attention to local driving laws.
While safety measures may seem overwhelming, they ultimately provide peace of mind during traveling. The foreign land can present unforeseen circumstances so it’s important to remain informed.
Not everyone knows that in 2017 Hurricane Maria destroyed Puerto Rico. In fact, it was amongst the deadliest natural disasters in US history. Nevertheless, despite facing setbacks like these – the first pandemic in over a century with COVID-19 – residents remained resilient as ever. When visiting the country post these challenges two important aspects must be kept in thought — empathy towards their struggles and apathy towards crime and violence.
Trust us, after one trip to Puerto Rico, you’ll be booking your next vacation before you even leave the airport.
Conclusion: Why Puerto Rico is a Must-Visit Travel Destination
If you’re searching for a place that offers culture, history, beauty and a tropical atmosphere, then Puerto Rico should be at the top of your list. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with stunning landscapes, vibrant locals and a plethora of activities to keep you entertained. There are multiple reasons why Puerto Rico is gaining notoriety as one of the must-visit travel destinations today.
For starters, no passport is required! It’s an easy trip from the U.S., plus it’s an affordable destination compared to many other Caribbean islands. Once here, visitors can enjoy unique attractions such as bioluminescent bays and colonial forts while learning about Puerto Rican history and culture. Beaches are also aplenty on the island – some more secluded than others – but all offer crystal clear waters and soft sand.
Visitors may consider outdoor activities such as hiking in El Yunque National Forest or exploring Cabo Rojo’s salt flats. Lastly, don’t forget to treat yourself to authentic cuisine like mofongo or pastries like quesitos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the best time to book a trip to Puerto Rico?
A. The best time to book a trip to Puerto Rico is between December and April when the weather is dry and sunny.
Q. What are the top-rated hotels in Puerto Rico?
A. The top-rated hotels in Puerto Rico include The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort.
Q. What is the average price of a flight to Puerto Rico?
A. The average price of a flight to Puerto Rico varies depending on the departure location, time of the year, and duration of the trip. On average, a round-trip ticket costs around $350-$500.
Q. Which airlines fly to Puerto Rico?
A. Major airlines that fly to Puerto Rico include Delta, United, American, Southwest, and JetBlue.
Q. What are the must-visit attractions in Puerto Rico?
A. The must-visit attractions in Puerto Rico include the El Yunque National Forest, Old San Juan, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and the Bioluminescent Bay in Vieques Island.
Q. Do I need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico?
A. No, US citizens do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico as it is a US territory.