UK
Salsa, Surf & Spanish-Colonial Soul
Puerto Rico is where Caribbean warmth meets Latin flair and American convenience. With historic cities, lush rainforests, and glowing bioluminescent bays, it’s a vibrant destination for UK travellers seeking culture, nature, and beachside bliss—all in one compact island.
Air Travel
Flights from London to San Juan take around 12–13 hours with stopovers, typically via Miami, New York, or Madrid. There are no direct flights from the UK, but cruise ships often dock at Old San Juan.
Airlines
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic serve nearby hubs. American Airlines, JetBlue, and Delta offer connections to San Juan. Inter-island travel is available via ferries and charter flights.
Cheap flights to Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
Salsa, Surf & Spanish-Colonial Soul
Landmark
Travel Season
- December–April: Dry season, best for sightseeing and beach holidays
- May–November: Wet season with tropical showers and hurricane risk
- June–August: Hot and humid, but lively with festivals
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Cards widely accepted; cash useful for small vendors
- ATMs available in cities and towns
- Tipping: 15–20% in restaurants is customary
Connectivity
- Excellent Wi-Fi in hotels and urban areas
- Local SIMs: Claro, T-Mobile, AT&T
- Coverage is solid across the island
Getting Around
- Car hire recommended for exploring beyond San Juan
- Taxis and ride apps (Uber) available in urban areas
- Ferries to Vieques and Culebra
- Driving is on the right
Time Zone
- Atlantic Standard Time (AST) – GMT-4 (no daylight saving)
Etiquette & Culture
- Spanish and English are both official languages
- Puerto Ricans are warm, expressive, and proud of their heritage
- Greet with a smile or handshake
- Respect for local traditions and festivals is appreciated
Top Destinations
- San Juan: Historic charm, nightlife, and shopping
- Vieques & Culebra: Island escapes with pristine beaches
- Ponce: Cultural hub with museums and colonial architecture
- Rincón: Surf town with laid-back vibes
- Luquillo: Beach town with famous food kiosks
- El Yunque: Rainforest hikes and waterfalls
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Mofongo, Lechón Asado, Tostones, Arroz con Gandules
- Drinks: Coquito, Piña Colada (invented here!), Medalla beer
- Tap water is safe in most areas
- Street food and local diners offer authentic flavours
personal_bag What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing
- Swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen
- Power adapter (Type A/B – 120V)
- Insect repellent and waterproof gear (wet season)
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (Dec–Apr): Ideal for sightseeing and beach holidays
- San Sebastián Festival (Jan): Music, parades, and street parties
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for island hopping and cultural events
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Puerto Rico is generally safe in tourist areas; exercise caution in urban outskirts
- Emergency number: 911
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid; mosquito precautions advised
- UK citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days
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San Juan
Book cheap flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham & more UK airports to San Juan. Compare airlines, find direct flights, and discover the best time to travel from the UK to San Juan.