Monday, September 28, 2009

Welcome to the Tropical Paradise of Puerto Rico


Welcome to the Tropical Paradise of Puerto Rico

By

R. D. Swartz

When the cold winter wind hits your face as you go to work, do you have the thought, (why am I not on a beach somewhere?) We all want to escape from the cold and the Caribbean is always waiting for us. My wife and I go to Puerto Rico every year because it offers fantastic beach vacations. This Island paradise is a United States of America commonwealth so you only need a picture ID, no passport or visa is required and exchanging money isn’t necessary for Americans.

Puerto Rico is a tropical Island that offers everything, beach sand beaches, casino resorts, water sports and all the sunshine you want. The Casio resorts are like small cities and have every conceivable amenity you could want. You can find homes to rent on private beaches or choose from the many hotels, resorts and apartments for your stay. The big resort rooms are a little more expensive and they charge an 11% tax on top of your room cost. My wife and I stay in some of the apartments for rent with kitchens so we can cook in our room and save on food costs.

You can fly into Puerto Rico from Miami in about two and a half hours or take a cruise ship as part of a multi Island Caribbean Cruise. Once on the Island the warm air and sunshine will put you at ease and you will know you are in for some fun and sun. Most days are filled with activities like water skiing, scuba diving, museum tours, outdoor adventures or just lazy days of sunbathing. The nights are filled with long dinners, shows, gambling and dancing the night away.

The restaurant food is very good and you’ll love trying out the huge variety but it can be expensive like most tourist spots and they charge 15% gratuity. Fresh seafood is everywhere and you can find smaller mom and pop restaurants that are a good value. The cafes have free internet access as well as the hotels and you can get great muffins and coffee easily.

San Juan is the capitol city of Puerto Rico and the main spot for shopping, eating and late night partying. The island has great opportunities for family based vacations with waterslides, kids activates and amusement parks. Golfers of all ages will love the gorgeous golf courses throughout the Island and there are several miniature golf courses as well.

Puerto Rico has incredible natural beauty and the interior of the island has tropical forests, parks and mountains that you can go hiking and site seeing through. The bioluminescent bays are a must see and a spectacular part of your vacation. The Island has so much to offer and many people make it their yearly vacation spot.