I’m from the US, do I need a passport to enter/leave Puerto Rico?

No, you will not need a passport to enter or leave Puerto Rico from the US. You should bring with you a photo ID, as it is needed for airline transportation.

I’m from outside the US, do I need a passport & visa to enter/leave Puerto Rico?

If you live outside the US, you should observe the same requirements as for entering the US. Potential visitors must first obtain a visa, either a non-immigrant visa for temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence.

If I am staying in San Juan, what airport should I fly into?

The main international airport on the island is Luis Munoz Marin International (SJU). SJU is located in Carolina. There are also several other smaller airports in Puerto Rico.

What is the currency of Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the US and uses the dollar. The US dollar is often referred to as the “peso.”

Does Puerto Rico accept all major credit cards?

Yes, all major credit cards are widely accepted: American Express, Visa, Diner’s Club, Discover, MasterCard and other bank credit cards.

What time does Puerto Rico observe?

Puerto Rico observes Atlantic Standard Time all year round, which means the island does not observe Daylight Saving as most of mainland US does. From October to April, the time will be one hour later than Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Does San Juan have an Embassy or Consulate?

Puerto Rico hosts Consulates from 42 countries from the Western Hemisphere and Europe. Most Consulates are located in San Juan.

I’m looking for information about San Juan, where should I look?

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company, the island’s official tourist center, produces and distributes several publications. The most popular is Que Pasa! magazine and can be downloaded at http://www.gotopuertorico.com/QuePasaMag2009/.

How should I pack for my July stay in Puerto Rico?

The island feels more like Latin America than the United States. Swimwear is fine for the beach & leisure wear for the resorts, but elsewhere a little dressing up is in order. Nighttime is San Juan is somewhat informal. Light & loose cotton clothing is the best bet year-round for Puerto Rico’s warm tropical climate. Pack a sweater for cool season evenings or if you plan to visit the mountain regions.

Should I tip for good service while staying in San Juan?

Tipping is much the same as in the US. In hotels and major restaurants, service charges are usually included. However, many inexpensive restaurants do now add a service charge (tip). If it isn’t, tip between 15% and 20%.

I heard there are casinos in Puerto Rico. Is this true?

Yes, there are casinos located in many hotels around the island. Proper dressing should be observed. People under 18 are not allowed inside.

We are thinking about taking a weeklong cruise after attending the conference. Is San Juan a port of call for cruise lines?

San Juan is a major destination for many large cruise lines including: Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Cunard, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, Radisson Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Silver Sea and Windstar Cruise Lines. Both Carnival & Royal Caribbean offer cruises beginning and/or ending in San Juan.

What kind of public transportation is offered in Puerto Rico?

There are several different types of public transportation offered in Puerto Rico. They include: Metropolitan Bus Authority, mini-buses and taxis.