Do I need a passport?

No! Puerto Rico is part of the United States. Requirements are the same as other domestic flights, you may fly with just your REAL ID compliant driver’s license.

Currency?

As a United States territory, Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. Major credit cards are accepted in nearly all places. Very small businesses like roadside stands may require cash.

Will I need a rental car?

If you are just attending our wedding, you will not need a rental car. Many shuttle options exist to get between the airport and our hotel. We will have buses to take us between the hotel and venue. If you need to leave the reception early or are staying at another location please arrange your own transportation. The venue will have plenty of parking for cars.

If you plan to explore the island while you’re here the best way is with a rental car. At only 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, anywhere on the island is within a few hours driving distance. Rideshare and cab service is scarce outside of major metro areas like San Juan. Public transportation is extremely limited.

Most insurance companies will cover rental car use in Puerto Rico. If you plan to use your own coverage, please be aware that Puerto Rico law requires that drivers carry medical liability insurance. Nearly all rental car insurance places require your policy to cover damage to their vehicle – usually part of your insurance’s comprehensive coverage. If your policy does not have these things you may want to opt for the insurance provided by the rental car company. We recommend you give your insurance a call beforehand and bring a printed copy of your declarations page with you to simplify pickup. In the San Juan area, we’ve had great luck with Charlie Car, an affiliate of ACE. They are a local business which runs a free shuttle to San Juan airport.

Driving in Puerto Rico:

-All road signs are exclusively in Spanish. You will want to familiarize yourself with key phrases such as “exit only”, “toll road”, etc.

-All gas stations require you to pay at the counter before pumping gas. Note that gasoline is priced by the liter. Once paid, you can lift the handle of the pump and fill up. It’s like back in the day before pay-at-the-pump!

- Road signs give distances in kilometers, while speed limits are required to use the US-standard miles per hour. Go figure.

-Puerto Rico is home to some very aggressive drivers – think Manhattan at rush hour. Make sure to use those defensive driving skills!

-Tolls on the island are electronic only, no cash accepted. Nearly all rental cars will come with an electronic toll transponder.

Do I need to know Spanish?

The staff at our venue and hotel will all speak basic English. Anyone involved in the tourism industry including airport personnel, taxi drivers, and rental car agents will have working knowledge of English. In any case, learning a few basic phrases such as “excuse me” will be helpful.

Leaving PR - Agricultural Inspection Requirement:

Leaving the island involves the extra step of putting your checked and carry on baggage through agricultural inspection to prevent spread of invasive species. You'll need to put your bags through the inspection before checking your bags at the counter. Make sure to finish that apple you were saving for lunch before getting to the airport!

San Juan can be a very busy airport, so make sure to leave plenty of time. We recommend arriving at the airport an additional hour before you normally would.

Safety:

Puerto Rico faces similar crime problems found in all major cities with large populations. However, unlike some resort areas in central American countries, it is not inherently dangerous for tourists to venture into the cities and countryside. Please take the same basic precautions as you would in any city as you explore the island. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Place bags or suitcases in the trunk when parking your car in public.

Even in the spring months, Puerto Rico can be warm and humid so take care to mix in some water between the mojitos! Be sure to reapply your sunblock often, especially if you share the groom’s Irish complexion.

Torrential rain storms are possible nearly any day, but usually only last a short time before the sun comes back out to dry everything up. Take care to avoid flooded roads when driving immediately after a heavy rain.