--:--
Puerto Rico — Atlantic Standard Time (AST, UTC−04:00, No DST)
--:--
UTC
Major Cities in Puerto Rico
📝 Puerto Rico Facts, Holidays & Tourism
🎓 For Students:
- Education System: Follows the U.S. education framework with primary, secondary, and higher education.
- Languages of Instruction: Spanish is predominant; English is also used, especially in higher education.
- Universities: University of Puerto Rico system, Interamerican University, Ana G. Méndez University, and others.
- Visas: U.S. visa rules apply (same as traveling to the mainland United States).
✈️ For Visitors:
- Entry Requirements: U.S. citizens can travel without a passport; international visitors usually need a U.S. visa or ESTA (where eligible).
- Popular Destinations: Old San Juan, El Yunque National Forest, Culebra & Flamenco Beach, Vieques, Ponce.
- Best Time to Visit: December–April for drier, cooler weather; rainy season typically May–November.
- Local Transportation: Taxis, rideshares, local buses in urban areas; car rentals recommended for exploring the island.
💼 For Professionals & Expats:
- Economy: Strong sectors include services, tourism, manufacturing (pharmaceuticals, electronics), and finance.
- Work Authorization: U.S. citizens can live and work freely; others follow U.S. immigration and work visa rules.
- Business Culture: Relationship-oriented, courteous, and somewhat less formal in pace than many mainland U.S. cities.
- Cost of Living: Generally lower than major U.S. mainland cities, but higher than many Latin American destinations.
🏞️ Tourism, Nature & Culture:
- Cultural Heritage: Blend of Taíno, Spanish, African, and U.S. influences; Spanish and English are both official languages.
- Nature Highlights: Tropical rainforests, bioluminescent bays (Vieques, Fajardo), mountains, and stunning beaches.
- Major Events: San Sebastián Street Festival (San Juan), Three Kings Day, various music and food festivals throughout the year.
- Local Cuisine: Mofongo, arroz con gandules, lechón, tostones, pasteles, and fresh seafood.
📌 Quick Tips:
- Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD).
- Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC−04:00, no Daylight Saving Time.
- Emergency Number: 911.
- Electricity: 120V, 60Hz; plug type A & B (same as mainland U.S.).