Puerto Rico

Puerto Ricohttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/puerto-ricoPuerto Ricohttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/puerto-rico/puerto-rico-travel-alerts-must-read-nowWhat are the issues affecting travelers in Puerto Rico? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2021-08-09T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/puerto-rico/puerto-rico-travel-alerts-must-read-nowhttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2></h2> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Previous travel alerts</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <ul> <li><a href="#earthquake">6.4 Earthquake strikes southwestern Puerto Rico - January 7, 2020</a></li> <li><a href="#hurricane-dorian">Hurricane Dorian - August 28th, 2019</a></li> <li><a href="#caribbean-maria">Caribbean Hurricane Warnings</a></li> <li><a href="#how-to-survive-a-hurricane">How to Survive a Hurricane</a></li> <li><a href="#am-i-covered-for-a-hurricane">Am I Covered for a Hurricane?</a></li> <li><a href="#hurricane-maria">Hurricane Maria - September 22nd, 2017</a></li> <li><a href="#hurricane-irma">Hurricane Irma - September 7, 2017</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="earthquake">6.4 Earthquake strikes southwestern Puerto Rico - 7 January 2020</h2> <p>The quake, which struck at 4:24am, has caused widespread power outages, seriously damaged homes and buildings, and left much of the island without running water. Several aftershocks, ranging between 4.5 and 5.8, have occurred. This follows a 5.8 earthquake on Monday, 6 January 2020, that caused the collapse of Punta Ventana, a natural rock archway that was a major tourist attraction.</p> <p>Governor Vasquez has declared a state of emergency. The Caribbean is an active seismic zone, and further tremors are possible, as well as the potential for tsunamis. Be prepared for disruptions to travel plans, and contact your travel provider to see if schedules have changed.</p> <h2>What to do if you're in an earthquake</h2> <ul> <li><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-an-earthquake-travel-safety-tips" target="_blank" title="How to survive an earthquake">Move to an open space away from hazards</a> such as powerlines, buildings, trees and bridges</li> <li>Move away from any falling objects, crouch on the ground and cover your head</li> <li>Don't rush outside though – plenty of earthquake injuries happen when people fall while trying to run</li> <li>If you can't get outside safely, get under strong furniture or against an internal wall. Bathtubs or spaces behind furniture aren't the safest places – hiding under a bed or strong table is a better option, which will protect you from falling objects</li> <li>If you are in a wheelchair, stay away from any objects that could fall. Lock the wheels and cover your head with your arms</li> <li>If you are trapped under rubble, avoid wasting your energy or stirring up dust. Only call for help when you hear people nearby</li> <li>After the earthquake, get to your evacuation point. Try to get in touch with your embassy and emergency contact. Try not to waste your phone battery.</li> </ul> <h2 id="hurricane-dorian">Hurricane Dorian - 28 August 2019</h2> <p>Tropical Storm Dorian has strengthened to a Category 1 hurricane, and is predicted to hit Puerto Rico late this afternoon. While the center of the hurricane may pass to the east of the island, heavy rain is predicted, creating a risk of floods or mudslides, and the storm may strain infrastructure that's still not fully recovered from Hurricane Maria. Always check the latest information from the <a href="http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank">National Hurricane Center</a>, and keep an eye on local media for the latest updates.</p> <p>Be aware that now this is a named hurricane and states of emergency have been declared in several places, it may not be possible to purchase travel insurance to cover this event. To discuss your coverage, please contact us <a href="https://helpdesk.worldnomads.com/">at World Nomads</a>.</p> <h2 id="caribbean-maria">Caribbean Hurricane Warnings</h2> <p>A tropical storm becomes a hurricane when wind speeds reach 74 mph or greater - Category 1.</p> <ul> <li>Category 2 wind speeds are 96 mph to 110 mph</li> <li>Category 3 - 111 mph to 129 mph</li> <li>Category 4 - 130 mph to 156 mph</li> <li>Category 5 - greater than 157 mph (note, there are no further categories)</li> </ul> <p>A "watch" is issued when hurricane-force winds are <em>possible</em> in the named region (so <em>maybe a hurricane is coming.)</em></p> <p>A "warning" is issued when hurricane-force winds are <em>expected</em> in the named region (so a hurricane is <em>definitely</em> coming.)</p> <h2 id="how-to-survive-a-hurricane">How to Survive a Hurricane</h2> <p>The absolutely best way to survive a hurricane is to avoid one. Get away from it, but if you make the decision to leave make that decision early. Do not leave it until the last minute because you may find yourself caught without proper shelter.</p> <p>If you decide to stay and "ride it out" it is advisable to get to an authorized shelter. The locations of these will be broadcast, or locals will know where they are. If there is no shelter, prepare to "shelter in place" in an internal room without windows.</p> <p><strong>Once a "storm watch" has been issued, make sure you are prepared in the event that the watch becomes a "warning."</strong></p> <ul> <li>Fill the gas tank of your car.</li> <li>Check batteries in flashlights and radios.</li> <li>Have extra batteries on hand.</li> <li>Secure all doors and windows.</li> <li>Close shutters or board up the windows.</li> <li>Have extra supplies on hand such as non-perishable food, clean drinking water, a half-gallon of water per person/per day (enough for a couple of days), and prescription drugs.</li> </ul> <p><strong>During the storm</strong></p> <ul> <li>Never go out during the storm. The winds can send flying debris into you causing injury and even death.</li> <li>Stay away from windows and doors.</li> <li>Keep on the alert for additional storm warnings. Hurricanes are known to spawn tornadoes, so be prepared to take cover if one should strike.</li> <li>While the storm is in progress, avoid using electrical appliances.</li> <li>Stay off the telephone.</li> <li>All pets should be secure in carriers. The storm will be a frightening experience for them as well, and they could injure themselves or you if they panic.</li> <li>Do not light candles or lanterns; they could get blown over causing a fire.</li> <li>The eye of the storm passing over could make you think the storm is over when the worst is still yet to come. Only use this calm in an extreme emergency to make critical repairs.</li> <li>Only after an official "all clear" has been issued is it safe to come out.</li> </ul> <p><strong>After the storm</strong></p> <ul> <li>Beware of downed power lines and gas leaks.</li> <li>Stay away from heavily damaged areas.</li> <li>Listen to your radio for instructions.</li> </ul> <h2 id="am-i-covered-for-a-hurricane">Am I Covered for a Hurricane?</h2> <p>There may be cover for you if you purchased your policy prior to the storm or hurricane being declared. Check your policy or call our <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/contact-us">customer assistance teams</a> if you are unsure.</p> <p>Coverage may vary depending on your place of residence and the level of cover you have purchased, however GENERALLY the cover and benefits of Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption may assist you. If regular carriage services to your destination have ceased for 24 hours or more (so you can't get there) you may be able to make a claim. Check with our <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/contact-us">customer assistance teams</a>.</p> <h2>Post-Hurricane Maria</h2> <p>Since Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, it has taken some time to get essential services up and running on the island. San Juan has mostly improved; however, many parts of the country are still without sanitation, telecommunications, and other services. Check with your government's travel advisory and <a href="http://www.seepuertorico.com/">Puerto Rico's tourism bureau</a><span> </span>for more information before you travel.</p> <h2 id="hurricane-maria">Hurricane Maria - 22 September 2017</h2> <p>Hurricane Maria made landfall on Puerto Rico on 20 September as a Category 4 storm, with winds up to 150 mph. The hurricane caused widespread devastation and left almost the entire island without power. It may be months before power is fully restored. Maria also brought nearly 40 inches of rain to some areas of the island, causing severe flooding. More rain is expected through the weekend. <span>Always check the latest information from the </span><a href="http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank">National Hurricane Center</a>, and k<span>eep an eye on local media for the latest updates.</span></p> <h2 id="hurricane-irma">Hurricane Irma - 7 September 2017</h2> <p>Category 5 Hurricane Irma passed north of Puerto Rico early this morning - the island was spared a direct hit, but a million people are currently without power. The storm is now heading towards Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, and the US mainland. Keep an eye on local media for the latest updates.</p> <p>Travel warnings have been issued for Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, Montserrat, St. Kitts, and Nevis, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Sint Maarten, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Vieques, and Culebra, the Dominican Republic from Cabo Engano to the northern border with Haiti, Guadeloupe, Southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.</p> <p>The United States has declared states of emergency in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Puerto Rico.</p> <p>Along with extremely strong winds, Hurricane Irma is likely to create a storm surge of 11 feet or more, with large, breaking waves. Heavy rains could cause life-threating flash floods and mudslides.</p> <p>Be aware that now this is a named hurricane and emergencies have been declared in several places it may not be possible to purchase travel insurance to cover this event. To discuss your coverage please contact us <a href="https://helpdesk.worldnomads.com/">at World Nomads</a>. </p> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>iStock/OGphoto 1522546770 iStock Colorful houses in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/puerto-rico/is-puerto-rico-safeBeautiful Puerto Rico is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, but there are a few things you should know before you go.2025-12-12T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/puerto-rico/is-puerto-rico-safehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States of America. Although it is not a state, Puerto Rico falls under the United States federal jurisdiction and has its own state laws that citizens abide by. Millions of travelers visit Puerto Rico each year, with the majority having a trouble-free experience, but, as you would anywhere, use your common sense.</p> <p>As someone who was born and raised here, these are my top travel safety tips for Puerto Rico.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#safe">Is it safe to travel to Puerto Rico?</a></li> <li><a href="#crime">Crime in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#neighborhoods">Is San Juan safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#car">Car theft in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#women">Women's safety</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq">LGBTQ+ safety</a></li> <li><a href="#law">Laws in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#drink">Drinking age</a></li> <li><a href="#photo">Photography rules and regulations</a></li> <li><a href="#weather">Weather events in Puerto Rico</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="safe">1. Is it safe to travel to Puerto Rico?</h2> <p>Traveling to Puerto Rico is generally safe, but like any destination, it comes with certain risks, particularly related to natural disasters. The Island has significantly recovered from Hurricane Maria in September 2017 which created widespread damage. Many hotels and tourist attractions benefited from multimillion-dollar renovations and upgraded security infrastructure. </p> <p>The Puerto Rican authorities have <a href="https://www.pr.gov/turismo" target="_blank">invested considerably in tourism</a> development to rebuild the Island's economy, with tourism being a vital source of employment for the local population. Years after Hurricane Maria, there have been significant improvements to the Island's infrastructure, however, power grid reliability remains a concern, with periodic outages and infrastructure challenges.</p> <p>As for petty crime, visitors should exercise the usual precautions to safeguard their belongings. Minimizing the display of valuable items such as jewelry, cash, phones, and cameras is advisable. Petty crime and theft do happen in San Juan, just as in other big cities across the United States. By staying alert and taking these basic precautions, travelers can enjoy a safe and fulfilling visit to Puerto Rico.</p> <h2 id="crime">2. Crime in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Puerto Rico, home to about 3.2 million people, has a population concentration in urban areas such as the capital city, San Juan, and other larger towns such as Ponce and Mayagüez. As in many places with inequality and high population density, crime is often higher in those areas. </p> <p>Tourists in Puerto Rico are more likely to encounter petty crimes <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/baggage">such as theft</a>. Here are our tips to avoid petty crime:</p> <ul> <li>Keep your valuables secure and don't leave your belongings unattended.</li> <li>Carry only essentials when out and about.</li> <li>Traveling in groups or using licensed taxis is safer for those planning to go out late at night. Puerto Rican taxis are identifiable by their white color and lit-up roof signs. Uber is also a reliable car share app widely available in San Juan, Ponce, and Mayagüez but not in the smaller cities and towns.</li> <li>Solo nighttime strolls, especially near beach areas, should be avoided due to a heightened risk of robbery.</li> </ul> <p>During the day, local beaches are relatively safe, but it's still prudent to watch over your items. If you're going for a swim, keep an eye on your things, and <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/water-safety">don't stray too far from the shore</a>. </p> <p>More severe crimes, such as homicide, are predominantly linked to gang activity and the drug trade and typically do not involve tourists or the general populace.</p> <p>Although there's a robust police presence in San Juan, especially in tourist areas such as Old San Juan, Santurce, and Condado, where police speak English, police presence is sometimes limited in smaller cities due to funding and staffing shortages.</p> <h3><strong>Emergency numbers</strong></h3> <p>As in the mainland United States, you can dial 911 to ask for police assistance.</p> <p>Ambulance services and the fire department can also be reached through 911.</p> <h2 id="neighborhoods">3. Is San Juan safe?</h2> <p>Several neighborhoods in San Juan are renowned for their safety and vibrant atmosphere, especially at night. Old San Juan, a historic district, offers a rich cultural experience with its well-preserved architecture and lively streets. Isla Verde is known for its beautiful beaches and upscale resorts, making it a popular choice for travelers. Miramar and Santurce are also bustling areas, popular for locals and travelers. Condado is another safe and fun area to explore with its trendy boutiques, restaurants, and beachfront hotels. During the day, Pinoñes, a beach community known for its small kiosks offering local fare, provides a vibrant atmosphere and great food.</p> <p>These neighbourhoods generally receive regular police patrols and cater to visitors, but crime can occur anywhere, and some adjacent areas (such as La Perla and certain public housing zones) are not recommended for tourists, especially at night.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/condado-san-juan-puerto-rico-safety-getty.jpg" alt="The resort skyline of Condado Beach, San Juan, Puerto Rico." /> <figcaption>Beachfront hotels in Condado. Image credit: Getty Images / Sean Pavone</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="car">4. Car theft in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>In Puerto Rico, <a href="/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/driving-in-puerto-rico">car theft</a> and carjacking continue to be a concern. Like many metropolitan areas across the US, carjacking levels have risen after the pandemic. These are not isolated occurrences but are indicative of broader criminal patterns fueled by factors such as limited law enforcement resources, socio-economic challenges, and a black market for stolen vehicles.</p> <p>When driving, keeping doors locked and valuables out of sight is advisable. While night driving is not necessarily discouraged, being extra cautious and avoiding less familiar areas, especially at night, can enhance safety. </p> <h2 id="women">5. Is Puerto Rico safe for women travelers?</h2> <p>Puerto Rico is generally a safe destination for women travelers. It's important to practice common-sense safety measures such as being vigilant when out and about, especially in bars and clubs. Additionally, it's wise to avoid exploring poorly lit or unfamiliar areas, particularly at night. Some travelers might encounter verbal harassment. Although this is often harmless, the best response is to ignore it.</p> <h2 id="lgbtq">6. Is Puerto Rico safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?</h2> <p>Puerto Rico is widely recognized as the Caribbean's most <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/lgbtq-travel-safety-tips">LGBTQ+-friendly destination</a>, boasting a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The LGBTQ+ community is also a big part of the hospitality community, with several gay-owned hotels, restaurants, and bars. LGBTQ+ Puerto Ricans have the same legal protections as heterosexual locals, and same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015.</p> <p>San Juan, the capital, is particularly notable for its lively LGBTQ+ scene. Areas such as Santurce and Condado Beach are hubs of activity, featuring a range of gay bars, clubs, and other LGBTQ+-friendly venues. Additionally, Puerto Rico hosts prominent LGBTQ+ events like Puerto Rico Pride and Orgullo Boquerón, which include parades featuring drag shows and rainbow-colored floats to mark the celebrations. </p> <h2 id="law">7. Laws in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Puerto Rico, while a US territory, operates with a level of local autonomy similar to the relationship between US states and the federal government. This autonomy allows Puerto Rico to have its own flag and manage local affairs. However, Puerto Rico adheres to a system similar to that of the US mainland in legal matters, particularly criminal law. This means the island follows federal laws and standards, mirroring the dynamic where US states align with federal law while maintaining their own state laws and regulations.</p> <h2 id="drink">8. Drinking age in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>In Puerto Rico, the legal drinking age is 18, in contrast to the United States, which is 21. This lower age limit applies to the purchase and consumption of alcohol in various establishments such as restaurants, bars, and liquor stores. It is also essential for visitors to be aware that drinking and driving is a serious offense in Puerto Rico. The blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, so it's best to walk or take a taxi if planning to consume alcohol.</p> <p>Overall, while Puerto Rico's lower drinking age makes it an attractive destination for younger US travelers, it's crucial to adhere to local laws and exercise responsible behavior regarding alcohol consumption.</p> <h2 id="photo">9. Photography in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>In Puerto Rico, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/participation/ethical-drone-photography-filming">drone</a> regulations align with those in the United States. Key rules include registering your drone with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and following safe flying practices. This means avoiding flying your drone near people, airports, crowded areas, and events to ensure safety and compliance.</p> <p>Regarding photography, it's advisable to be mindful of your surroundings, especially in areas where safety might be a concern. Additionally, <a href="/responsible-travel/make-a-difference/people/how-to-take-photos-responsibly">it's respectful</a> and often necessary to ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals to avoid causing any offense or discomfort. This approach respects people's privacy and enhances your safety while capturing memories in Puerto Rico.</p> <h2 id="weather">10. Weather events in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Hurricane season in Puerto Rico, typically spanning from June to November, is a crucial factor for travelers to consider when planning their visit. During this period, the island can experience hurricanes or tropical storms, which may lead to severe weather conditions. It's important for visitors to stay updated on weather forecasts and heed any advisories or warnings issued by local authorities. </p> <p>Engaging in water sports or activities such as surfing is highly discouraged during an impending hurricane or tropical storm due to the increased risk of strong currents, high waves, and unpredictable weather conditions. Safety should be the top priority, and travelers are advised to have flexible plans that allow for adjustments in case of severe weather. Knowing the location of the nearest shelters and having a communication plan are also sensible precautions during the hurricane season in Puerto Rico.</p>iStock/dennisvdw 0531709378 iStock San Juan streetview

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/puerto-rico/travel-healthCan you drink the tap water, and what about vaccinations before you go? Find out how to stay healthy on your vacation in Puerto Rico.2020-09-29T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/puerto-rico/travel-healthhttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#vaccinations">Vaccinations</a></li> <li><a href="#health">Medical treatment in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#avoiding-diseases-in-puerto-rico">Avoiding diseases in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#beware-of-these-bugs-in-puerto-rico">Beware of these bugs in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#is-puerto-rican-water-safe">Is Puerto Rican water safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#chances-of-a-natural-disaster-in-puerto-rico">Chances of a natural disaster in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#exploring-puerto-ricos-natural-landscapes">Exploring Puerto Rico's natural landscapes</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="vaccinations">Vaccinations</h2> <p>See your travel doctor prior to your trip to make sure you are up to date with booster shots, and to get the most relevant advice for your personal circumstances.</p> <p>The <a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/puerto-rico">CDC</a> recommends the following vaccinations for travelers to Puerto Rico:</p> <ul> <li>Hepatitis A and B</li> <li>Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)</li> <li>Typhoid</li> <li>Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis)</li> <li>Chickenpox and shingles</li> <li>Influenza</li> <li>Pneumonia</li> <li>Meningitis</li> <li>Polio</li> <li>Rabies.</li> </ul> <h2 id="health">Medical treatment in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Generally speaking, the best doctors can be found in the San Juan metro area, however medical facilities in the country are comparable to those available in the USA, and there are 90 medical facilities and hospitals throughout Puerto Rico. In the case of an emergency, call 911.</p> <h2 id="avoiding-diseases-in-puerto-rico">Avoiding diseases in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Diseases are a downer. Unfortunately, Puerto Rico is an environment rife with certain bug-borne bugs and other illnesses to watch out for. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends anyone traveling to Puerto Rico get vaccines for hepatitis A and B and typhoid.</p> <p>Though the viral form of the illness is easier to handle than the bacterial kind, it's still no picnic. Symptoms include headache, a stiff neck, fever and vomiting.</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/risks-symptoms-and-prevention-of-dengue-fever" target="_blank">Dengue fever</a> is another illness we can blame on insects. <a href="/travel-safety/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention" target="_blank">Mosquitoes to be specific</a>. Common in high population island areas like Puerto Rico the highest transmission rates occur between and September and November.</p> <p>The island has not experienced a major outbreak since 1998, but you can help your odds by wearing insect-repellant to ward off mosquitoes.</p> <p>Zika virus has been found in Puerto Rico, so like you would with Dengue and other mosquito borne diseases; <a href="/travel-safety/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention">take precautions</a> to prevent being bitten.</p> <h2 id="beware-of-these-bugs-in-puerto-rico">Other animal hazards</h2> <p><a href="/travel-safety/sunblock-or-insect-repellent-first" target="_blank">Mosquitoes</a>, scorpions, centipedes, flying cockroaches and tarantulas can all be found inside and out in wilderness areas such as forests . If you want to avoid waking up to these nightmare-inducing creatures, waving their antennas or reaching a hairy leg at you from your pillow; keep your windows closed (if there are no window screens), doors closed and store away items such as food and backpacks. </p> <p>Sand bugs, also known as sand fleas and sand flies, like to bite. These bites turn into especially annoying and itchy bumps. These tiny white or red irritations can sneak up on you hours after you've been bitten. The hungry critters most like to feast on human blood in the morning and evening throughout the year. Topical creams and forms of ibuprofen are common treatments.</p> <p>Also beware of mongooses, as these weasel-like creatures can carry rabies. Rats and stray dogs are common in areas like San Juan, and can be seen out and about at night.</p> <h2 id="is-puerto-rican-water-safe">Can I drink the water in Puerto Rico?</h2> <p>Being an American territory, Puerto Rico's water standard is usually on par with the United States and is closely monitored by federal health authorities. However, after Hurricane Maria it's recommended to only drink bottled or treated water while essential services like sanitation and water are restored. Street food is also normally well-prepared and quite delicious. </p> <p>Puerto Rico has some amazing waterfalls, rainforest pools and plenty of spots to take a dip to cool down or a drink; however there is the risk of exposure to contaminated water which can infect any wounds or cause digestive illnesses such as gastro or schistosomiasis, which has similar symptoms to gastro. If you think you have been exposed to contaminated water whether via a wound or ingesting it, head to hospital immediately. Drying yourself with a towel can also cut your chances of schistosomiasis.</p> <p>Don't ignore these symptoms if you feel unwell, as left untreated, schistosomiasis can lead to kidney failure, enlarged liver and spleen and fluid build up in the abdominal cavity. So before you decide to trek off somewhere and jump into that inviting pool to cool off, ask the locals where the best and safest spots are to swim.</p> <h2 id="chances-of-a-natural-disaster-in-puerto-rico">Hurricanes in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Hurricanes are the most common form of natural disaster in Puerto Rico, and the season spans nearly half the year, from May to November. September and October are the worst months for tropical storm activity, so avoid planning your trip during this time, if possible. The weather service keeps a close eye on hurricane activity and tropical storms forming in or heading toward the area. But even if this weather hits other parts of the Caribbean, it won't always strike Puerto Rico.</p> <h2 id="exploring-puerto-ricos-natural-landscapes">Exploring Puerto Rico's natural landscapes</h2> <p>Natural geography can hurt. A recent traveler recommends using caution when traveling to Isabela's El Poso de Jacinto at Jobos Beach in the northwestern part of the island. A large, unfenced opening sits atop an area of sharp rocks, so avoid going too close if you don't want to become one with the roaring waves.</p> <p>Use caution around reef breaks during low tide at beaches throughout the island. Rip currents at Maria's, Jobos, Surfers and Wilderness beaches can be particularly dangerous.</p> <p>When hiking in places like Experience El Yunque National Forest, travelers say to beware of slippery trails and rocky paths. In addition to the rain itself, waterfalls and rivers can flood the road.</p> <p>Poisonous plants exist in this area as well, so wear long pants and avoid touching any of the flora and fauna. Stick to the trails in the forest, as it is very easy to get lost with the dense plant life and rugged, steep landscape.</p> <h2 id="scuba-and-snorkel-safety-in-puerto-rico"></h2>iStock/Image Source 0122343194 iStock A man laying on the beach with his surf board in Puerto Rico