Currency:

United States Dollar (USD)

When to go:

Late spring and early summer to avoid both high season and the hurricanes

Known for:

No passport required for U.S. residents, easy access from the East Coast

Languages:

Spanish, English

As a self-governing commonwealth of the United States, Americans have been investing in – and visiting – Puerto Rico since the 1950s. The islands are home to nearly 4 million residents, most of which reside on the main island of Puerto Rico, especially near the capital of San Juan.

Besides the beaches, popular tourist destinations include the El Yunque National Forest, the glowing bioluminescent bays near Fajardo and Vieques and the San Juan National Historic Site, which includes forts and fortification remnants. Water activities such as diving, kayaking and fishing ensure that any trip to Puerto Rico can be an active one if you desire.

Flights to and from Puerto Rico are frequent and convenient, especially from the New York Area. Cruises departing from the northeastern United States often stop in San Juan. Before you return home, pick up some duty free rum that is made on the islands, such as Bacardi and Don Q. The local beer is Medalla.

Additional information on Puerto Rico is found at www.gotopuertorico.com, the official tourism website.