A 4-hour flight off of the US mainland, Puerto Rico might be closer to Venezuela but is actually unincorporated territory of the United States. This has made the Caribbean island a popular tourist destination for American travellers, who can visit with fewer VISA checks than other islands in the region.
It’s not only the history-laden links to the US that make Puerto Rico such a tourist hotspot though. With luxurious yet affordable hotels, stunning coastlines and Puerto Rico wedding venues to die for, the whole island boasts a robust tourist industry and an eclectic menu of vibrant culture, history and natural landscapes to lose yourself in. It’s no wonder then that in 2019, Puerto Rico attracted almost 4 million tourists, and whilst the COVID 19 pandemic, for the time being, might have stopped travellers visiting, these are just some of the reasons why your next international vacation should be this beautiful Caribbean commonwealth.
Feast Your Eyes And Ears On Weekend Festivals
Puerto Rico’s history stretches way back before it was colonised by the USA, and the culture of the territory is proudly displayed through the many festivals and street fiestas that can be found on the weekends. With dancing, singing and live music, many towns and barrios come alive on the weekend, and visitors are always welcome!
Sample Puerto Rican Cuisine
With both African and European influences, the local cuisine found at eateries such as the Montana Restaurant boasts plantain rich seafood and meat dishes, as well as vegetarian cuisine inspired by the rich agricultural output of the area. It might be part of the USA, but Puerto Rico’s culinary flare is quite a world apart from the mainland.
Eclectic Natural Beauty
Spanning over 9000 square kilometres, the island of Puerto Rico is rather on the small side compared to neighbouring Haiti. That being said, the tropical climates make for diverse terrain, the island incorporating cave systems, rainforests, tropical beaches and even mountain ranges across its beautiful land.
Diverse Coastlines
As exemplified by Isabela Beach, Puerto Rico coastlines are one of the main reasons for its booming tourism. Whether you’re visiting for a day of surfing at Tres Palmas beach or for some seaside golf at the Royal Isabela Golf Course, there’s a beach for everyone in Puerto Rico.
Colonial Era Architecture
From 400 years of Spanish rule and a more recent century of US governance, the architecture of Puerto Rico tells its own historic story. For those interested in the history of the area, make sure to visit landmarks such as the forts dotted around San Juan and for wider-reaching travellers, see if you can spot the regional distinctions in Puerto Rican architecture.
A Longer History To Reflect On
Whilst Puerto Rico was first colonised by the Spanish in the late 15th century, the indigenous Taino culture developed over thousands of years before. Whilst little is known about the Taino culture compared to other Caribbean cultures, you can still find Taino village reconstructions across the island.
Hotels Of Puerto Rico
Of course, a holiday isn’t as rejuvenating as it is with luxury hotels. Accommodation like the Villa Montana Beach Resort provides a taste of glamour and serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of the cities. With all the resources needed on-site to enjoy the many facets of the island, hotels like the Villa Montana are a welcome consequence of the island’s diversity and personality.
Olivia's Travel Tips 