Caribbean
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico combines Spanish colonial heritage, outstanding beaches, lush rainforest and a distinctive cultural identity shaped by Taíno, Spanish and African influences. From the colourful streets of Old San Juan and the bioluminescent bays of Vieques to the beaches of Rincón and El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico offers a richly layered Caribbean experience.
Elect's take
"Puerto Rico has a cultural energy and depth that sets it apart from most Caribbean destinations. Old San Juan alone is worth the journey and the combination of food, music and landscape creates something genuinely distinctive."
Old San Juan is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the Americas. The blue cobblestone streets, pastel painted buildings and imposing forts of El Morro create a setting of extraordinary charm. The food scene is outstanding and has evolved significantly in recent years. The island's beaches range from the surf breaks of Rincón to the calm turquoise waters of Flamenco Beach on Culebra. El Yunque National Rainforest is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Old San Juan
A UNESCO listed colonial city of cobblestone streets and colourful buildings.
El Morro Fortress
A spectacular 16th century fort guarding the entrance to San Juan Bay.
Flamenco Beach
One of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches on the island of Culebra.
El Yunque Rainforest
The only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system.
Puerto Rican Cuisine
A distinctive culinary tradition combining Taíno, Spanish and African influences.
Bioluminescent Bays
Extraordinary natural phenomenon of glowing water caused by microorganisms.
