Monday, September 19, 2022

What to Avoid Doing in Puerto Rico

 Puerto Rico is an incredible place to visit, with its stunning beaches and beautiful scenery. However, like any other tourist destination, there are some things you need to know before visiting. Take a look at a few things to avoid doing in Puerto Rico.

Taking a Tourist Bus

Simply put, tourist buses are just not worth it. They're expensive, slow, and generally offer very little in the way of a tour experience. Instead of taking a tourist bus, consider renting a car or motorcycle and exploring Puerto Rico on your terms. You can always consider taking a romantic walk by the beach with your partner instead of using public transportation.

If you do decide to take a taxi while in Puerto Rico, make sure that they turn on their meters before starting the ride. The last thing you want is to get scammed by an unscrupulous cab driver who uses tricks like "the meter hasn't been working" or "my company's rates don't cover this area."

Forgetting to Take Local Currency

Before you get on the plane, this is another thing you should avoid doing in Puerto Rico. Upon arriving on the island, make sure you have enough cash to last your stay. Everyone has heard that ATMs are not guaranteed to work in Puerto Rico, and it could be difficult finding places that accept credit cards if you need cash.

old san juan facing el Morro Make sure to have some cash with you in Puerto Rico

If possible, use a credit or debit card instead of carrying large amounts of cash on you. You can use a debit card at most businesses and restaurants in Puerto Rico. However, do not rely solely on this method because some places may charge high fees for using them (a common fee is $5).

Avoid drinking Tap Water

Drinking tap water in Puerto Rico might not be a good idea, and there are a few good reasons why:

  • Harmful bacteria or parasites can make their way into your body and cause illness.
  • You don't know how long the water has been sitting in a tank before it's delivered to you. It could be contaminated with things like hydrogen sulfide, manganese, chlorine, and nitrates.
  • If you're sick or have any kind of digestive issues, it's best not to drink tap water at all. In case you want to try authentic Puerto Rican coffee, make sure to do so in a verified restaurant that’s recommended by locals.

Buying Jewelry or Electronics Without Tax-Free Forms

If you're a US citizen, there's no need to worry about taxes on any jewelry or electronics that you buy in Puerto Rico. The island is a duty-free zone for US citizens so long as they have the proper forms. You can get these from the airport or online before your trip and will need to show your passport when purchasing any items that qualify for tax exemption.

Don't forget to bring an umbrella

It doesn't rain every day in Puerto Rico, but it does rain often enough that you should expect it to happen at some point during your trip. When the clouds roll in, be sure to have a waterproof cover for your bag and camera, so they don't get soaked!

[old san juan streets Keep in mind that traffic can be pretty jammed on this island

Also, make sure not to forget sunscreen or bug spray either. While the island receives plenty of sunshine throughout most months, it can also get pretty hot during peak hours of the day. If you plan on spending time outdoors after dark, consider bringing along some bug spray as well, because mosquitoes love Puerto Rico!

Don't drive without a map

One of the things you should avoid doing in Puerto Rico is driving without a map. Maps are available at gas stations and tourist centers, but you can also download them from the internet and have them printed before you come to Puerto Rico. Keep in mind that maps here are in Spanish, so it's good to ask for help if needed.

Learn what to do here before arriving

Before you arrive on the island, make sure to learn more about Puerto Rico, its local currency, and its language. If a restaurant doesn't have a sign in English, most likely, the staff won't speak English either. Don't be afraid to try new things or ask for help when you need it!

It's best to know what to expect from the weather before arriving on your trip as well. The island's average temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), but it can get quite hot during the summer months (June through November). You should pack sunscreen and water if you plan on spending time outdoors!

When packing for your trip, bring clothing appropriate for both warm and cold weather. You'll want lightweight clothing made with natural fibers that allow airflow. This way, no matter what the temperature outside may be, your body will stay cool enough throughout your adventure.

Avoid venturing out at night in isolated areas.

Puerto Rico is a relatively safe place, but there are some precautions you'll want to take when traveling at night. If you're on your own or with a small group of people, try to stay in populated areas and avoid being out after dark in isolated places. You should also try to learn some Spanish words and adapt to a new language to communicate with locals.

In case of an emergency, knowing the language will help you get around and find your hotel. If you are alone during the night in Puerto Rico, make sure to stay close to populated areas.

la Perla 
If you're traveling alone, make sure to stay away from isolated areas at night. It’s definitely something to avoid doing in Puerto Rico

Conclusion

Visiting Puerto Rico can be a great adventure! On the other, moving to the island could take some time to get used to. If you want to find a home and relocate to Puerto Ricco, professionals from Relosmart Movers suggest planning your move well in advance. New culture, daily habits, and new housing could significantly change your lifestyle. During this process, you might need some help packing and transporting your belongings.

Hopefully, this article will help you learn what to avoid doing in Puerto Rico. If you are planning a trip, research everything before arriving to know what to expect when you get to the island. The last thing anyone wants is their vacation ruined by a silly mistake or misunderstanding.

 

No comments:

Post a Comment