Travel to Puerto Rico - What You Need to Know

Once you've decided to take a trip to beautiful Puerto Rico, it's only natural to want to learn more about the island. The tropical beauty is one of the most alluring aspects of Puerto Rico, and is why it is called the Isle of Enchantment, but there is more to love about this sunny getaway spot. Travel to Puerto Rico is inviting to the U.S. citizen for a variety of reasons. There are many reasons why.

The island state of Puerto Rico has two official languages: Spanish and English. Travelers can be confident they'll be able to communicate when visiting the Isle of Enchantment. The currency in Puerto Rico is the U.S. dollar, so no need to worry about confusing money exchange. U.S. citizens can enter Puerto Rico without a passport, which means travelers feel as though they're visiting an international locale without the hassle. If you want to send a postcard, you'll pay the usual US Postal Service rates!

Located at the center of the Antilles, the island is 100 miles long and 35 miles wide. Both Hispanic and Anglo culture influences Puerto Rican tradition. The state is not new to the U.S., having been a territory since 1898.

The Spanish came to the island in 1493, and their great influence is still felt throughout. The Spanish influence on the culture and architecture are hard to miss; just have a look at the churches, lighthouses, and roadways. Nearly everything bears the stamp of Spanish influence. The Spanish brought African slaves with them, who ended up having a deep influence on the language, music, and cuisine of Puerto Rico.

The climate is nearly perfect, averaging 83 - 85 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. That's right, kids, it's pretty much always summer. It's difficult to identify a "bad" time to visit.

Buying things there is easy; just use your credit and ATM cards as usual. Bringing items back onto the United States mainland is a snap, since there are no customs are duties.

When you're traveling throughout this beautiful island paradise, you'll find familiar transportation options. Every major city has plenty of taxis, rental cars, buses, and "publicos" to help you get around. San Juan has wonderful free Trolley Tours, and you can also choose to rent a bicycle. If that isn't enough for you, you can take chartered planes around the island. Additionally, you can always choose to take a ferry to Culebra or Vieques.

There are so many reasons to take a trip to Puerto Rico. The beautiful scenery and flawless beaches beckon people from everywhere.

About this Author

Elizabeth is a freelance writer who loves to travel. Her latest travels took her to see beautiful San Juan. To learn more about travel to Puerto Rico, visit http://www.weddingsinpuertorico.org/

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