Puerto Rico

One of the countries most synonymous with the Caribbean and all that it has to offer, has to be Puerto Rico. Known as the 51st American state, this island nation with its tropical heat, pulsating music, unique language, beautiful beaches, first-rate casinos, and superb snorkeling, diving and surfing offers tourists a vacation like no other. Add to this, the vibrant energy found here and its diverse culture and Puerto Rico becomes one of the most exciting holiday destinations in the world.

Part of the United States of America, Puerto Rico is roughly 9060 sq km with a population of some 4 million people. Over half of the inhabitants on the island live in the capital San Juan and its suburbs, making it one of the most densely inhabited areas in the region. A bustling busy metropolis, San Juan is the heart and soul of Puerto Rico, with this city offering something for everyone.

While you are here you have a countless number of options on how to enjoy your vacation. You can choose to relax on any number of beautiful beaches or if you’d like some more excitement, head on to the casinos out here. To catch a glimpse of the island’s culture head to old San Juan, while if you want to have more fun, there are plenty of bars, clubs and discos to keep you up till the wee hours of the morning.

For nature enthusiasts and those who love the outdoors, Puerto Rico also offers some excellent hiking, top-notch kayaking and some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world in places like Vieques, Culebra and along the island’s western shores. El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the US; while if you are interested in more heavenly bodies, visit the Arecibo Observatory which has the largest radio telescope on the planet.

The best time to visit Puerto Rico is between December and March when the weather is dry and sunny. Avoid coming here between June and November when hurricane season starts and it gets hot, humid and very rainy.