Puerto Rico
Where Ricky Martin is from
October 27, 2026
Puerto Rico has rainforest, Spanish forts, glowing bays and a lively food scene.
You should go if:
You want a Caribbean trip with no passport needed for US citizens
You like music, food and history
You want to see a bioluminescent bay
Must-visit places:
Old San Juan: Blue cobblestones and El Morro fort
El Yunque: The only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system
Mosquito Bay, Vieques: A glowing bioluminescent bay - worth the visit!
Culebra's Flamenco Beach: Famous white-sand beach
Rincón and Ponce: Surf town and historic city
Must-try foods:
Mofongo: Mashed fried plantain with meat or seafood - I thought it was ok
Pernil: Slow-roasted pork - DROOL
Tostones and arroz con gandules
Piña colada and Puerto Rican rum
Fun facts:
Puerto Rico is a US territory, and its people are US citizens.
Reggaeton developed in Puerto Rico.
The coquí, a tiny tree frog, is the island's symbol.
Logistics:
Best time: December to April; hurricane season runs June to November
Currency: US dollar
Getting there: Luis Muñoz Marín Airport (SJU); domestic flights for US travelers
Getting around: Rent a car outside San Juan; drive on the right
Tipping: 15 to 20 percent
Must-learn phrases:
Good morning: Buenos días
Please: Por favor
Thank you: Gracias
"¡Wepa!": An exclamation of joy
Cheers!: ¡Salud!