Explore Puerto Rico

Explore Puerto Ricohttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/puerto-ricoExplore Puerto Ricohttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/visiting-el-yunque-rainforestThe only tropical forest in the US National Forest System, El Yunque is rebounding from hurricane damage with a newly reopened visitor’s center and eco-friendly accommodation options. Nomad Jessica shares what she loves about this park and her favorite things to do here.2024-10-17T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/visiting-el-yunque-rainforesthttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>El Yunque, the lush green rainforest on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico, is one of my favorite places in the world. <em>Coquíes</em> (a tiny frog whose call sounds like coh-qui) serenade you along the winding roads of Río Grande that lead to the rainforest. You can't help but admire the palm trees, the pops of color from the bird of paradise flowers, and the darting hummingbirds. Entering El Yunque immediately gives me a sense of peace.</p> <p>The rainforest was severely damaged in September 2017 by Hurricane María, and it took several years for the park to reopen. Many of the scars of María are still here. Visitors should <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/elyunque/recreation" target="_blank">c</a>heck the current conditions as some trails are temporarily closed. Here are some tips on how to best prepare for your visit.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#reservations">Getting there and making reservations </a></li> <li><a href="#el-portal">Visiting El Portal de Yunque</a></li> <li><a href="#trails">El Yunque trails and hikes</a></li> <li><a href="#accommodation">Eco-conscious accommodations at El Yunque</a></li> <li><a href="#community">Community experiences at El Yunque</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="reservations">Getting there and entering the park</h2> <p>Getting to El Yunque is straightforward by car, and as public transportation is impossible, a <a href="/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/driving-in-puerto-rico">rental car</a> is the best bet if you want to explore on your own. Located in the municipality of <span>Río</span> Grande, it’s an hour's drive east from San Juan.</p> <p>As of August 2024, r<a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/elyunque">eservations are no longer required</a> to enter the park. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is no fee, but keep in mind there is limited parking at the main recreation area. </p> <p>If you're interested in a private tour or guided hike, the park offers a <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/elyunque/passes-permits/?cid=fseprd1092631" target="_blank">list of authorized tour operators</a>.</p> <h2 id="el-portal">Visiting El Portal de Yunque</h2> <p>I recommend starting your visit to El Yunque by visiting <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/elyunque/home/?cid=fseprd1096018" target="_blank">El Portal</a>, the visitor area that reopened in January 2022. As well as information and exhibitions about El Yunque, there are forest rangers on staff that can answer any questions. Given the constant changes with the trails and roads, going over a map with the rangers is a good idea, even if this is not your first visit to El Yunque. They can also tell you about each trail's length and challenge level so you can plan your experience.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/puerto-rico/el-yunque/view-from-el-portal.jpg" alt="Sweeping view of the rainforest from the El Portal visitors center in El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico." /> <figcaption>The view from El Portal de Yunque. Image credit: Jessica van Dop DeJesus</figcaption></figure> <p>The space is modern and airy, surrounded by rainforest vegetation. One of the things that caught my eye was the many breadfruit trees I saw during my visit. Breadfruit (<em>pana</em>) is a popular ingredient in Puerto Rican food, and I was delighted that I could order <em>tostones de pana</em> (fried breadfruit) with my lunch at the El Portal restaurant. It's the ultimate forest-to-plate experience. The cost to enter El Portal is $8 per adult but note that there are several ways you can <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/elyunque/passes-permits" target="_blank">qualify for free entry</a>.</p> <h2 id="trails">El Yunque trails and hikes</h2> <p>El Yunque has 24 miles of recreational trails for all levels. Due to weather and trail conditions, they are subject to closures. <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/elyunque/recreation" target="_blank">Check this page</a> for a complete list of trails and their availability. Here are currently available trails I find particularly worthwhile:</p> <p><strong>El Angelito Trail:</strong> this trail takes you to the natural pool created by the Mameyes River in just 20 minutes. It’s an easy hike, perfect for those traveling with a family.</p> <p><strong>Britton Trail and Tower:</strong> this challenging trail takes you on a steep walk through the Cloud Forest (take a right towards Mount Britton Tower) or go straight or left to continue on to El Yunque Peak. On a clear day, you can see a stunning view of the Northeast coast of Puerto Rico. <em>(Note: the trail is open but the road segment towards the tower and the tower itself are currently closed for construction.)</em></p> <p><strong>La Coca Trail:</strong> one of the most challenging trails at El Yunque is only 1.8mi but mostly uphill. Given that it’s a tough trail, it’s less crowded, and you’ll encounter some swimming holes and small waterfalls along the way. Make sure you prepare with water, proper clothing, and sturdy shoes if you plan to take this trail, and stay on the trail, as it is easy to get lost.</p> <p><strong>Juan Diego Trail:</strong> this easy trail has a surprise at the end: a waterfall. It's only .125mi long and relatively flat, perfect for families and those with mobility issues</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/puerto-rico/el-yunque/view-from-top-of-britton-tower.jpg" alt="Panoramic view from the top of Britton Tower in the El Yunque rainforest, Puerto Rico." /> <figcaption>View from the top of Britton Tower. Image credit: Getty Images / Jennifer Blount</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="accommodation">Eco-conscious accommodations at El Yunque</h2> <p>Currently, camping is not permitted at El Yunque due to damage from Hurricane Maria, but there are plans to open camping facilities in the future. However, <a href="https://yuquiyufarm.com/" target="_blank">Yuquiyú farm</a>, located at the foothills of El Yunque, offers eco-friendly treehouses with rainforest views.</p> <p>If you're looking for a group retreat, consider <a href="https://www.casaalternavida.com/" target="_blank">Casa Alternavida</a>, located only 15 minutes from El Yunque. It provides a series of group events focusing on the healing powers of the nature of El Yunque and its surroundings.</p> <p>If you want a traditional hotel experience, the <a href="https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/puerto-rico/hyatt-regency-grand-reserve-puerto-rico/sjurc?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_sjurc" target="_blank">Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico</a> is a newly renovated resort with eco-conscious features like a hydroponic farm (currently being built), reusable water bottles throughout the property, and installing solar power in the near future.</p> <p><em>Planning a trip to Puerto Rico? Find out <a href="/travel-insurance">how travel insurance can cover</a> medical emergencies, lost or stolen baggage, or other travel mishaps.</em></p> <h2 id="community">Community experiences at El Yunque</h2> <p>If you want to <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/volunteering">volunteer</a> at El Yunque, check out <a href="https://loveinmotion.org/" target="_blank">Love in Motion</a>, a non-profit that focuses on conservation throughout the island. Love in Motion organizes a 7-hour trail maintenance experience. Visit their website for the schedule and details about the cleanup.</p> <p>You can also support community group, Grupo Conciencia, through its <a href="https://www.conservacionconciencia.org/adopt-a-coqui" target="_blank">Adopt a Coquí Program</a> in partnership with Discover Puerto Rico. A donation of $25 will allow you to symbolically “adopt” one of the iconic frogs. Coquí adopters will receive a keepsake adoption certificate for their contribution to supporting conservation, sustainability, and climate resilience efforts by the organization.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/puerto-rico/el-yunque/coqui-frog.jpg" alt="A coqui frog, endemic to Puerto Rico." /> <figcaption>A coqui frog. Image credit: Getty Images / Kevin Schafer</figcaption></figure>Jessica van Dop DeJesus 0 Jessica van Dop DeJesus Two hikers sit beside Juan Diego Falls in Puerto Rico's El Yunque rainforest.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/7-things-to-know-before-visitingMany travelers don’t know much about Puerto Rico beyond its historic capital of San Juan. Puerto Rico native Jessica shares her tips on the hidden side of the island, from quiet beaches and lively towns to experiencing the local culture.2021-03-16T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/7-things-to-know-before-visitinghttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>I grew up in Puerto Rico, in a small town called Guayama, on the island's southern coast. Although I travel every year back to<em> La Isla del Encanto</em> – the island of enchantment, as it's fondly called – I never tire of exploring the island and finding new experiences. Puerto Rico is known for its beaches, but there is so much more to see and do here. Here are some of my suggestions on how to make your trip an unforgettable one.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#road-trip"> Rent a car and explore beyond San Juan</a></li> <li><a href="#chinchorreo">Plan a Sunday of chinchorreo in the countryside </a></li> <li><a href="#outer-islands">Discover the two outer islands (Vieques and Culebra)</a></li> <li><a href="#el-yunque">Go on a guided hike at El Yunque National Forest</a></li> <li><a href="#southern">Explore the southern coast of Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#caribbean">Experience the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean in one day</a></li> <li><a href="#loiza">Learn about Afro-Puerto Rican culture in Loiza</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="road-trip">Rent a car and explore beyond San Juan</h2> <p>Yes, San Juan is beautiful, but there is a lot more to Puerto Rico. Although the island is fairly small, roughly 110mi (175km) wide by 35mi (55km) long, each geographical region offers something unique. Drive along the east coast to relax at beaches such as Luquillo Beach and Seven Seas. For an adventure, I love navigating the winding roads of Route 10 or Route 149 through the Cordillera Central, the mountain chain that crosses the island from East to West. I always keep my eyes open for waterfalls alongside the road, making for the perfect photo op.</p> <p>Along the roads, many vendors sell fresh fruit, <em>frituras</em> (fritters filled with meat or seafood), or a <em>pincho</em> (kebab) of savory grilled pork, and even <em>tiburón</em> (shark). One of my favorite <a href="/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/driving-in-puerto-rico">island road-trip activities</a> includes buying a cold coconut, drinking the water, and asking the vendor to cut it in half so I can indulge in the delicious pulp.</p> <h2 id="chinchorreo">Plan a Sunday of <em>chinchorreo</em> in the countryside</h2> <p>Puerto Ricans love to party. There's nothing we enjoy more than spending time with friends and family, listening to upbeat music, and eating <a href="/explore/caribbean/tasting-my-way-around-the-caribbean">good food</a>. <em>Chinchorreo</em> takes place mostly on weekends, and it consists of going to a dedicated road, mainly in the countryside, and hopping from vendor to vendor. These days you can find <em>chinchorreo</em> routes everywhere across the island. For example, the town of Ciales in north-central Puerto Rico has become a popular spot for this activity. You’ll see venues such as Casa Vieja teeming with people, live music, and locals sipping on their <em>parcha</em> (passion fruit) mojitos.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/puerto-rico/casa-vieja.jpg" alt="Locals enjoy chinchorreo - an afternoon of music and food, hopping from one venue to another - at a roadside reastaurant in Ciales, Puerto Rico." /> <figcaption><em>Chinchorreo</em> at Casa Vieja in Ciales. Image credit: Jessica van Dop DeJesus</figcaption></figure> <p>For the quintessential <em>chinchorreo</em> experience, head to an area called Guavate in the town of Cayey, in southeastern Puerto Rico. On weekends, the place comes to life with live bands and <em>lechoneras</em>, restaurants dedicated to cooking whole roasted pigs with sides of rice, stewed root vegetables, and fried plantains. I grew up not too far from here, and this was a monthly weekend outing for our family.</p> <h2 id="outer-islands">Discover the two outer islands (Vieques and Culebra)</h2> <p>An archipelago of several islands and cays, the territory of Puerto Rico contains two habited islands besides the main island: Vieques and Culebra. These tiny islands are sparsely populated, making them ideal for a secluded getaway. Instead of large resorts, there are small hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals, which give it a more intimate feel.</p> <p>Culebra is home to Playa Flamenco, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. With its white, sandy beach and azure waters, it's the perfect place to relax and forget about the world. There are other, smaller beaches along the island that are secluded enough that you may be the only visitor there.</p> <p>Vieques is known for horses that roam throughout the island. Most have owners, but since the island is so small, they roam free. A night time <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/kayaking-or-rafting">kayak tour</a> of bioluminescent Mosquito Bay is also a must – it’s surreal to watch the water light up as you paddle along. But make sure not to visit during a full moon, because the bay doesn't light properly, and many operators don't even host experiences. I made the mistake of scheduling my last two trips to Vieques during a full moon!</p> <h2 id="el-yunque">Go on a guided hike at El Yunque National Forest</h2> <p><a href="/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/visiting-el-yunque-rainforest">El Yunque National Forest</a> is the only rainforest in the United States National Park Service and one of my favorite places on earth. Listening to the coqui's calming sounds (this tiny frog makes a very distinct call, "cooh-qi") automatically relaxes me and takes me to a happy place. Many local tour operators and volunteers at the newly reopened El Yunque El Portal Visitor Center offer guided tours along the forest's many trails. Although the forest is one of the smallest in the United States, it’s one of the most biologically diverse. Along with a range of wildlife, there are 150 fern species and 240 tree species (88 of these are endemic or rare, and 23 are exclusively found in El Yunque).</p> <p>The forest was extensively damaged by Hurricane Maria in 2017, but trails have been gradually reopening. After a challenging hike, I love taking a dip in <a href="/stories/connection/cannonball-at-la-mina">La Mina Falls,</a> a stunning waterfall with a natural pool. The water is bitterly cold, but I guarantee that it will help your sore muscles feel better. I recommend going early in the morning during a weekday, to avoid crowds.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/puerto-rico/la-mina.jpg" alt="Iconic La Mina Falls in El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico." /> <figcaption> Iconic La Mina Falls in El Yunque National Forest. Image credit: Jessica van Dop DeJesus</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="southern">Explore the southern coast of Puerto Rico, filled with culture and gorgeous beaches</h2> <p>I may be biased, but I think the southern coast of Puerto Rico is one of the most underrated regions of the island. Many visitors tend to stay in San Juan and its surrounding areas, but there is plenty to see, do, and of course, eat, here. The biggest city on the coast is Ponce, which is known for its culture. It’s home to El Museo de la Musica Puertorriqueña, containing memorabilia of the many Puerto Rican music genres. El Museo de Arte de Ponce is one of the most prominent museums in the Caribbean, with an impressive permanent collection, including the famous painting<em> Flaming June</em> by Frederic Leighton. Growing up, my Dad used to take us to Ponce once a month on a weekend outing, and it's become a special place for me to return.</p> <p>The island's southwest coast has impressive beaches with blue, calm waters. Popular beaches include Playa Santa in Guanica, and Boquerón and Playa Sucia, located in Cabo Rojo. I also recommend a stop in La Parguera, a coastal community in Lajas, with a lively nightlife scene on the weekends and boat rides along the bioluminescent bay. But for me, taking in the sunset at Combate Beach in Cabo Rojo with a passion fruit mojito from Annie's Place is the ultimate luxury.</p> <h2 id="caribbean">Experience the Caribbean<em> and</em> the Atlantic Ocean in one day</h2> <p>Puerto Rico is lapped by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The beaches on the northern coast tend to be more brazen, with plenty of waves. You can take a dip in San Juan in the morning and then drive an hour down to Patillas, a beach town on the island's southeast coast, for a swim in the Caribbean.</p> <h2 id="loiza">Learn about Afro-Puerto Rican culture in Lo<span>í</span>za</h2> <p>Puerto Rico's culture is a mix of European (mainly Spanish), African, and Taíno (the indigenous people who lived on the island before colonization by the Spaniards). The African influence, introduced via slavery, is sometimes overlooked, but its roots are in every aspect of Puerto Rican culture: food, music, art, and dance. A great place to learn more about this heritage is the town of Loíza, located 15 minutes east of San Juan.</p> <p>Catch live performances of <a href="/explore/caribbean/5-unforgettable-experiences-in-the-caribbean">bomba</a>, one of the traditional Afro-Puerto Rican dances, throughout the city on the weekends. Indulge in traditional Puerto Rican food in Piñones, a beach neighborhood lined with kiosks serving delicious treats such as fried cod fritters (<em>bacalaítos</em>), <em>tostones</em> (fried plantains), and empanadas with a selection of creative fillings. Learn about Afro-Puerto Rican art at Estudio de Arte Samuel Lind, an art studio in Loíza. A native of Loíza, Samuel's art focuses on the Afro-Puerto Rican experience for his oil-on-canvas work.</p>Jessica van Dop DeJesus 0

Cannonball at La Mina Falls | Puerto Rico Travel Storyhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/cannonball-at-la-minaCannonball at La Mina Falls | Puerto Rico Travel StoryWed, 28 Oct 2020 00:17:23 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/cannonball-at-la-minahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/driving-in-puerto-ricoDriving is the easiest and most convenient way to get around Puerto Rico, but like any destination, it has its challenges. A Puerto Rico native shares what you need to know about safety, road conditions, the local drivers, and other transport options.2022-05-18T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/driving-in-puerto-ricohttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#getting-around">Getting around by car</a></li> <li><a href="#traffic">Local drivers and traffic in Puerto Rico</a></li> <li><a href="#safe">Is it safe to drive in Puerto Rico?</a></li> <li><a href="#other">Other ways to get around Puerto Rico</a></li> </ul> <p>As a person who grew up in Puerto Rico and travels there often, one of my main recommendations to travelers is to get to know the island beyond San Juan. Puerto Rico, an archipelago of several islands, can be traveled by car, plane, bus, and ferry, but one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get around and explore stops off the beaten path is by car. Driving is the best way to enjoy less crowded beaches, go for a <a href="/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/7-things-to-know-before-visiting#el-yunque">hike in the rainforest</a>, or <a href="/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/7-things-to-know-before-visiting#chinchorreo">indulge at the countryside restaurants</a>. Every destination has its quirks when it comes to driving, and Puerto Rico is no different. Here are some tips to consider.</p> <h2 id="getting-around">Getting around by car</h2> <p>Getting around by car in Puerto Rico is pretty straightforward. If you're traveling with a US-based phone plan or with roaming, Google Maps works pretty well on the island – even lesser-known spots such as Charco El Hippie, a stunning waterfall and swimming hole, are easily found when using the Google Maps App. Also, with providers like T-Mobile, there's ample cell coverage across the island, including rural areas. If you're lost, it's generally safe to ask residents for directions. Many Puerto Ricans speak English, especially in the urban areas. However, bringing a Spanish-English dictionary or downloading Google Translate is always helpful.</p> <p>Puerto Rico has several main highways that are in good condition. Just note that some of them now have automated tolls, so ensure you speak to the car rental agency about how they charge for tolls. Most cars will already have the <a href="https://www.autoexpreso.com/home" target="_blank">AutoExpreso</a>, the Puerto Rican toll collection system, installed in their vehicles.</p> <p>The main highway, Highway 52, is a toll highway that takes you directly to Ponce, the second largest city in Puerto Rico on the <a href="/explore/caribbean/puerto-rico/7-things-to-know-before-visiting#southern">southern coast</a>. Highway 22 takes you along the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico, while Highway 2 takes you along the western coast, and Highway 3 takes you along the southeastern coast from Guayama back to San Juan. There are also several well-kept panoramic roads in the center of the island. If you're feeling adventurous, you can drive the island's perimeter in one day.</p> <p>Renting a car is relatively affordable, and the prices are comparable to mainland United States. Since 2020, there's been a price surge in rental vehicles, and unfortunately, Puerto Rico has not been immune to the pricing changes. Plan to spend between US $50-$100 a day for a car rental. Most mainland USA rental companies operate in Puerto Rico, making it easy to use your loyalty programs. Puerto Rican roads do have a lot of potholes, and sometimes, you need to take an unpaved road to get to some of the more remote beaches. If your budget allows, we recommend renting a jeep or SUV.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/puerto-rico/driving-puerto-rico-vieques.jpg" alt="An SUV drives down a dirt road on the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico." /> <figcaption>An unpaved road on the island of Vieques. Image credit: Getty Images / Alberto Coto</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="traffic">Local drivers and traffic in Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Location will dictate your driving experience here. Puerto Rico does have aggressive drivers, especially in San Juan. Don't be surprised if you see someone hopping on the roadside to advance on an exit or cutting you off if you're too slow. However, drivers are more relaxed when you go into the rural or less populated towns.</p> <p>San Juan, the densely populated metropolitan area, has its share of rush hour traffic or what residents call "El Tapón" (traffic jam). Avoid traveling towards San Juan between 6-9am and away from the metro area between 4-7pm. It can take you an hour to travel ten miles! Driving during rush hour can be very loud as well. Between the honking of impatient drivers, people blasting their music with the windows open, and friends chatting across vehicles, the San Juan commute can be pretty eventful.</p> <h2 id="safe">Is it safe to drive in Puerto Rico?</h2> <p>Since the devasting damage of Hurricane Maria in 2017, there have been a lot of repairs done throughout Puerto Rico, and the highways are in good condition. Due to heavy rains, you may find potholes, especially on residential roads. If you're traveling throughout the countryside, be mindful that rural streets can be narrow, windy, and with a steep incline. If you want to travel to these areas, be alert on the road. When traveling narrow, winding streets, be sure to honk the horn as you drive around the curves. <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-a-hurricane">Hurricane season</a> is from June to November when random heavy rains commonly occur. Some downpours only last for 15-20 minutes, but they can seriously affect visibility or cause flooding.</p> <p>Another thing to consider is street crime. Unfortunately, carjackings happen in Puerto Rico, so be aware of your surroundings. Keep the car locked and the windows up and avoid distractions. Puerto Rico's <a href="https://welcome.topuertorico.org/pdf/ManualConductor2009.pdf" target="_blank">Department of Transportation</a> authorizes drivers to treat stoplights like stop signs between midnight and 5am. However, many locals will start doing this after 10:30pm with very little enforcement. Also, don't leave any valuables in your car, especially at the beach. In the case of an emergency, call 911 to contact the police.</p> <h2 id="other">Other ways to get around Puerto Rico</h2> <p>Although driving is the most convenient way to explore the island, there are several other ways to get around. In the San Juan tourist areas, local taxis and Uber are widely available. Rideshares and taxis may be available to take you outside of San Juan but be mindful that you may not be able to get a ride back as quickly (or at all). Public transportation is also available in San Juan via <a href="https://www.san-juan-airport.com/bus.php" target="_blank">AMA</a>, the bus system, and <a href="https://tutrenpr.com/" target="_blank">Tren Urbano</a>, a train system connecting San Juan with the greater metropolitan area. Fares are US $.75 and $1.50, respectively. The AMA bus routes cover the main tourist areas in San Juan such as Isla Verde, Condado, and Old San Juan. There's also a ferry from Old San Juan to Catañ, perfect if you want to visit the <a href="https://www.bacardi.com/us/en/casa-bacardi/" target="_blank">Casa Bacardi</a>.</p> <p>If you want to travel outside of San Juan via public transportation, it’s a bit more complicated. You can hire a <em>carro público</em> (public car), which leaves from the Rio Piedras Terminal. This public car service has been in Puerto Rico for decades, and it's still affordable; however, there's no set schedule. These cars go to other towns such as Caguas, Ponce, and Mayagüez.</p> <p>Finally, if you're considering a trip to Vieques or Culebra, the picturesque islands off the east coast of mainland Puerto Rico, there are two ways you can visit: by boat or plane. A ferry departs from Ceiba, a town on the island's east coast, and runs a route between the mainland and Vieques or Culebra. Check <a href="https://www.puertoricoferry.com/" target="_blank">the website</a> for the itinerary and to purchase tickets in advance. There's also a long-term parking lot at the port where you can leave your car. A ticket for $2 for a non-resident adult makes it an affordable choice, but it's usually crowded. Another option is taking a short flight from San Juan or Ceiba via Vieques Air Link or Cape Air. Although shorter and more convenient, the tickets can cost up to $200 per person roundtrip.</p>Getty Images / Maremagnum 1542709979 Getty Images A car drives down a street lined with colorful buildings in the city of Ponce, Puerto Rico.