If sandy sun-drenched beaches, vibrant culture, delicious food and gorgeous rain forest sounds good to you, then Puerto Rico is your destination of choice. Leave your U.S. passport and forget about exchanging currency, because this tiny island is the epitome of convenience. The only drawback about vacationing to Puerto Rico is the trip home.
Because of the diverse terrain found in Puerto Rico and the abundance of outdoor fun, you'll want to pack a wide variety of clothing. Anticipate drudging around rain slicked paths through the rain forest, exploring caves, strolling through a cacti spotted landscape and snorkeling in the Atlantic. If surfing is more of your thing, then pack your board or rent one from any one of the different surf shops. Your resort should be able to tell you where the closest one is, but be careful. The waves in Puerto Rico can be high even for more advanced skill levels. You may want to throw in a pair of boots. Guided mountain tours on horseback give you the experience that many explorers felt when arriving. In addition to great land adventures, fishing in "Blue Marlin Alley" has caught the attention of international fishers. Whether you bring your equipment or rent here, success can be yours for catching dolphin, mahi-mahi and yellowfin tuna.
Puerto Rico's make up is awash of different cultures. Spanish, French, Chinese, Lebanese, African and Portuguese are just a few of the people who help make this island teeming with diversity. Spanish and English are the official languages spoken. If your worried your high school Spanish won't see you through, bring a Spanish book. Though a walk down the street will reflect the effect Catholicism has had on the people, Puerto Rico has one of the highest Jewish populations in the Caribbean. To truly get absorbed into the community, visit churches, synagogues and holiday events. Regardless of people's backgrounds, their one underlining commonality is their love for music. Salsa, reggaeton, merengue and bachata will not only make you dance, but help you mingle with the locals. Give yourself a break from being a tourist and get to know what makes this little island move to the beat.
It is said that to really get to intimately know a place requires an open mind and love for diverse culinary cuisine. The melting pot of cultures literally make for one delicious melting pot. Spanish and African influences over foods are readily seen in such Criolla dishes as tostones, mofongo, pork and seafood dishes. Some meals may not be for those afraid of spice, but all of them are made with the warm hospitality found on the island. Give your palette a memorable meal with glorious seafood eaten right on the beach. There are hundreds of restaurants using the freshest of fish. Order up a beverage and choose from dozens of fish caught that morning. Trips to Puerto Rico are rarely people's last. This is a place that is truly magical for those fortunate to visit.
