Go to Puerto Rico this spring break to volunteer AND party
Puerto Rico, even post-storm, is the affordable Caribbean vacation you need for spring break this year.
The island is officially back open for tourism, so you can help out Puerto Rican businesses while lying on the beach all day at the same time. You also don’t need a passport and there’s no currency exchange necessary, which is always a hassle when traveling out of the US.
“Tourism is vital to Puerto Rico’s full recovery, and the progress made by the Island demonstrates its readiness to welcome guests. The truth is, visitors shouldn’t be hesitant when planning vacations to Puerto Rico. In fact, it’s quite the opposite! The best way to support us is by continuing to visit, stay at hotels, eat at restaurants, and buy from local businesses,” says Carla Campos, Acting Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.
There are over 100 hotels back in operation, and around 400 weekly flights to Puerto Rico from the U.S., so it’s a great option for that last minute vacation when you realize you have fomo from everyone else’s plans.
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Puerto Rico has come a long way since Hurricane Maria. “We have made great strides because we’ve implemented a comprehensive strategy which has in turn secured a promising comeback for the island,” says Carla Campos. “With over 1.9 billion dollars of hospitality development in the pipeline and an existing lodging inventory undergoing exciting renovations, Puerto Rico’s revamping is underway,” she adds.
There’s tons of really engaging activities to do while you’re in Puerto Rico, too. From volunteering to snorkeling to a Bacardi booze tour, you won’t ever be bored during your island stay.
You can also support female-owned businesses while you’re in Puerto Rico, via this guide we made last year. Why not shop local and female while you’re touring the island?
Check out this list below from Puerto Rico Tourism Company about some of the adventures that Puerto Rico has to offer on your trip. We don’t think you’ll be disappointed by any of the things on the list, and we are kind of dying to go ourselves.
1. Snorkeling
Guests can snorkel crystal clear Caribbean waters, and visit beautiful white sand beaches on islands off the east coast of Puerto Rico including Culebra and Vieques. Lunch and booze included for only $100 with East Island Excursions.
2. Bacardi Tour
At San Juan’s world-famous Casa Bacardi, guests can take a tour of the distillery while sipping on tasty beverages. There is also a rum tasting tour and mixology tour, for those looking to explore the history of the world-renowned brand.
3. Bio Bay Tours
Bioluminescent bay tours in Puerto Rico with Kayaking Puerto Rico are one of the most unique experiences on the Island. This rare phenomenon seen via night kayaking tours will take any spring break to the next level.
4. Cueva Ventana Tours
Looking for an Instagram-worthy adventure? Cueva Ventana sits atop a limestone cliff in Arecibo, Puerto Rico where visitors can hike to the mouths of the caves and peer out of the cave’s window overlooking the Río Grande de Arecibo valley. A breath-taking experience combined with a light workout with Aventura Cueva Ventana.
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5. Old San Juan Bike Tours
Take a ride through the colorful cobble-stone streets of Old San Juan, the colonial section of the city. Bike tours provide a unique way to explore and learn about the Island’s capital, and make for a great group activity you’re sure to remember.
6. Nightlife
Nightlife in Puerto Rico is second to none. From salsa dancing in La Placita de Santurce, to unique cocktails at La Factoria (yes, the bar in Despacito!), get ready to party when the sun goes down in San Juan.
7. Volunteer Opportunities
Truly experience the nature of meaningful travel by partaking in Puerto Rico’s rebuilding initiatives. Travelers can help contribute to Puerto Rico’s recovery with organizations like Para la Naturaleza by cleaning up areas that are being revived.
For more vacation information including details on open attractions, accommodations, popular restaurants, and more, check out See Puerto Rico.
For other updates on the island, including information related to hospitals, ATMs, supermarkets, and more, visit Status PR.
Photos from Puerto Rico Tourism Company