occhris

Hello,

This is my very first time traveling in the country. I'm leaving for Puerto Rico on 11/30 and staying for about a 9 days. I'm not exactly sure what I want to do in the country, but was wondering if anyone can tell me if its easy to get around? Do I need to rent a car? Is anyone aware of any land only deals or tours? Thanks for your help

caribedon

Hello occhris, youy definitely need to rent a car or jeep. There are many places to rent one and it is very easy. Go to Fajardo on the east end and catch the ferry at the Conquistador resort there to Culebra island. The best beaches around Puerto Rico are there and make sure you spend time at FLAMENCO BEACH!!

Statia

On the other end of the spectrum, I've been to Puerto Rico many times (specifically San Juan) and have several friends who live there. Their motto is "New York cab drivers come here to learn."

So, in my experience I have never rented a car in Puerto Rico, but have rather relied on cabs and had no problem with it.

I will admit, however, if you are venturing all over the island and not staying in one major city then renting a car might definitely be more preferable. It would be rather difficult to cab it all over Puerto Rico and I'm sure the driving standards are quite different when you get out of San Juan.

RAB

I have not found driving in Puerto Rico to be very difficult, except the cities can be congested and a taxi is probably better in San Juan. You do have to get used to the lack of turn signals and the occasional individual who passes on the shoulder. Roads are generaly quite good.

occhris

Is there any type of public transportation available?

oldhippy

There is a good metro San Juan bus service...and publicos [shared vans and taxis] from Rio Piedras to most points east.

Ask a local about publicos to other island
destinations.