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While 2017 has already sprung upon us and everyone is fine-tuning their bucket lists for the new year, I had to make an article about why Puerto Rico should be near the top, because it’s one of the easiest travel destinations I’ve been to recently.
So much goes into perfecting a vacation, and when it comes to first-time travelers, backpackers, or fashionistas, Puerto Rico is the perfect destination for all of the above and more. Here’s why…
1. It’s more affordable to fly there than ever
I’m not sure what gives people the idea that you need thousands of dollars to fly internationally or even domestically, but a quick search on my favorite search engine Skyscanner, shows how you can book a roundtrip flight to Puerto Rico for under $300.
I used popular cities like Los Angeles and New York City for examples, but just plug in your nearest airport, click “cheapest month” as the date, and be amazed at the results!
2. You don’t need a passport (if American)
While over 60% of Americans still don’t have passports, there’s no need to rush to the offices if you want to go to Puerto Rico.
While Puerto Rico may have their own customs and culture, it is still technically U.S. territory so a driver’s license or any type of state-issued ID will suffice for your flight!
3. It has some of the best beaches in the world
Sure, there are some pretty blue waters in places like Thailand and Greece, but Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, Playa Sucia in Cabo Rojo, or Caracas Beach on Vieques Island gives everywhere else, a run for its money.
4. The weather is perfect year-round (minus the rain, of course)
Puerto Rico is in the tropical climate zone, so you can expect year round temperatures to average 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius).
Outside of the sporadic rainfall, which is typical of island life, the weather can feel a little humid, but it’s nice to go out to La Plaza de Mercado in Santurce to eat, drink, and dance the night away without ever getting cold.
5. You’ll find affordable yet fancy accommodation
San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is where I recommend booking your accommodation. We stayed at Comfort Inn & Suites Levittown, as they were close to the airport, had both ocean and city views, and the nightly rates were affordable and accommodating for single, couple, or family type of stays.
It’s just a few minutes from Old San Juan and other local attractions like Plaza Las Americas, Punta Salinas, and Bacardi Distillery.
If you fancy a dip, but don’t want to deal with any sand, there’s a pool out back that myself and other guests enjoyed laying around before heading out for our sightseeing for the day.
Not to mention, you save some cash staying here, because there’s free hot breakfast provided for all guests right next to the lobby on the first floor. There’s also freshly brewed coffee and water readily available throughout the day.
6. Because you need to brush up on your Spanish
While English is widely spoken throughout Puerto Rico, Spanish is one of the official languages of the island, so if you’ve been wanting to get some more real-time practice in, there’s no better place.
While I’m still mastering my Spanish fluency in other ways, there’s no better way to practice than being in Spanish-speaking countries where everyday words and phrases can be practiced.
7. Because there’s still enough time to become the island dancing queen you’ve always dreamed of
Something about palm trees and white sand that call for a little bit of solo jammin’ on the beach. Check the video below to see what I mean and hope to see you all in Puerto Rico soon! 😉
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored in collaboration with Choice Hotels and Comfort Inn & Suites Levittown. All opinions, as always, are my own. A special thanks to the staff in Levittown for their warm welcome and hospitality!
