Plan your itinerary. Puerto Rico offers beachfront resorts, inland destinations, a rich array of recreational activities and fascinating historical sites. The western region is known for its scuba-diving and snorkeling spots. It is also home to spectacular underground caverns such as Camuy Cavern and Angles Cave. Popular resorts include the Ritz Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino or the Gran Meliá Golf Resort Puerto Rico. Many well-known American hotel chains can be found there as well.
Get acquainted with the culture. Puerto Rican tourism caters to English speakers but the nation has a distinctly Hispanic heritage. A rich blend of Hispanic, American-Indian and African cultures can be felt in the island's cuisine and music. Early Spanish architectural influences can be seen in the fortresses of San Felipe del Morro and San Cristóbal.
Book your flight. Decide which airport to book your flight to based on your itinerary. Keep in mind that the larger airports such as Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan or the Rafael Hernandez International Airport in Aguadilla are more convenient, and generally cheaper, than the smaller municipal ones.
Secure the proper travel documentation. Since Puerto Rico is a United States Commonwealth, traveling there is like traveling to any U.S State. U.S citizens do not require a passport but do require government-issued I.D. such as a driver's license. Non-U.S citizens require a passport. Puerto Rico uses United States currency (however a dollar may be referred to as a peso) and nearly all the major American credit cards can be used throughout the island.
Book your hotel and lodging accommodations. Puerto Rico has many large resorts with casinos, golf courses and beaches. Small hotels called "paradores" are found particularly on the western part of the island. Paradores are comparable to American bed-and-breakfast inns but are overseen by the government and must meet a certain level of quality. The Puerto Rico Tourism & Hotel Association can help you plan your accommodations.
