La Perla is only a couple of blocks long, with a few crappy bars and run down houses, so there's no real reason to stroll down there, but I wouldn't even worry about that in the daytime. I am a Marketing Coach and Consultant! They blame the government for the nearly 3,000 deaths linked to Hurricane Maria, a Category 4 storm that hit the … Find out how coronavirus (COVID-19) may affect your travel plans. If you wouldn't visit Chicago because of the crime than don't go to Puerto Rico. Security guards will call you out and bring you down. Use your head people, if a place looks shady and you have a bad feeling leave and dont wear flashy things. View election results for the 2020 Puerto Rico primary as the United States begins the process to elect the next president. Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico in Fall 2017, tragically killing countless American citizens and destroying much of the island’s infrastructure. The Island is highly developed, though the roads have pot holes, many street lights are still in the dark since hurricane Maria, overall, it's pretty cleaned up and normalish. As Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, that status does provide the country with local autonomy and the ability to fly its own flag. Check with your credit card to see if auto insurance is covered. Now back to Puerto Rico, lovely people, weather, beaches, but I totally agree with the author of the article -- you need to be careful about where you go and what you do! I lived in NY my entire life and have experienced danger there, even in front of my own house as well. While Zika causes very mild symptoms, if any, in most people who become infected, women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the immediate future are in danger. Be the first to discover secret destinations, travel hacks, and more. And it's also true that some islands have it worse than others. Interested in my business? La Perla of course just seemed like any other city area where you dont go. Old San Juan is very safe and entertaining but it’s filled with tourists. Millions of travelers visit Puerto Rico each year, with the majority having a trouble-free experience, but, as you would anywhere, use your common sense. Car Insurance Scams in Puerto Rico. However, when it comes to criminal matters and the legal system, it’s the same as the US mainland. Many travelers advise avoiding public housing areas, known in Puerto Rico as caserio, identifiable by their cement facades and apartment-like balconies. I recently moved to Puerto Rico on Jan 1st, 2017, and overall the experience has been awesome. If you don’t know how to navigate a wonderful city like Chicago and make a comment like you did your opinion on basically anything is useless. With that said, you can have a wonderful time in Puerto Rico, enjoy Old San Juan, El Morro, Condado, take guided tours around the island and swim in the beautiful Atlantic ocean! They will ask you if your car insurance covers Puerto Rico and not just the 50 states. LGBTQ Puerto Ricans have the same legal protections as heterosexual locals and same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015. Why are a lot of people leaving?? It isn't difficult to spot, as it is decrepit and quite run-down. You're not used to the surroundings, you're probably not driving your own car, and the road signs - if there are any - are most likely in another language. Should you have an emergency, call 911 as you would in the US. That’s just basic common sense. But the island itself is pure heaven. Puerto Rico has a high homicide rate however this usually affects those involved in gang activity, the drug trade or both. Stick to the neighborhoods of Old San Juan, Isla Verde, Miramar and Condado at night, where there are regular police patrols. When you surf at Maria’s Beach in Rincón, Puerto Rico, you aren’t all that likely to encounter a shark, at least a deadly Great White. Many locations will try to force you into purchasing their insurance. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. The island has largely recovered from the impact of Hurricane Maria, which hit Puerto Rico in September 2017. Chances of finding a job are better in the tourist areas. The worst thing that's happened to me in PR is slow service in a restaurant and the traffic. Their art culture is EXTREMELY Excellent world quality like Santa Fe NM in its beautiful tropical way. Read the latest travel alerts to find out how COVID-19 restrictions may affect you. I’m in Puerto Rico right now with family (wife and kids). The second largest city in Portugal has a lot to offer when it comes to commerce, education, sports, entertainment and culture. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. So to everyone, travel to where you may but never go astray and have a great day! Ireland: 6-Nt, Upscale Trip w/Air, Castle... Lowest Cruise Rate: 7-Night Alaska Cruise... Round-Trip Business Class Flights to Europe. Is Puerto Rico Safe for Solo Travelers? In general, the US Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is a safe, welcoming island in the Caribbean with great beaches, historic sites, shopping and restaurants. I respect everyones opinion im Puerto Rican, and until 2014 I hadn't been in my island for 13 years, I loved it I was suppose to only be there for 3 weeks and ended up staying for 7 months a lot of people say don't spend money here and all kinds of crazy shyt but truth is there's no safe place to visit in the world nowadays and you'd be robbing yourself if you decide not to visit, I stay in San Lorenzo Puerto Rico when I go and there's a place called "El Gravero" its a place to go and enjoy yourself on Sundays if you have a 4x4 jeep or atv , basically anything fun with wheel in this place is freaking fun, and then there's "El Cerro de Nandy" this is a place you can only make it up if you have a jeep and also they have a army truck that an bring you up with your family and has the craziest high altitude views, I'm still struck about how beautiful the view is and on certain parts of the year they have a helicopter ride up there and all year long there is a Mexican restaurant up there that cooks great. Many Puerto Ricans are angry. I recommend carrying some kind of self defense object. The Puerto Rico Trench is the deepest part of the Atlantic Ocean, with water depths exceeding 8,400 meters (figure 1). Louis Lloren Torres, a caserio in San Juan is where a lot of the city's crime takes place. Puerto Rico Things To Do – Attractions & Must See, Puerto Rico Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips. However, it’s important to be respectful and discreet as the country is still conservative due to the influence of the Catholic Church. Dangers Puerto Rico Puerto Rico est une belle nation insulaire dans les Caraïbes. All the locals we have met have been very friendly. Yes this can happen anywhere but the truth is you do need to always be careful. The risk of theft should be your biggest concern here, so be careful with your belongings – don't be flashy with jewelry, cash, phones or cameras. Puerta de tierrra is becoming an extremely expensive neighborhood, with few restaurants opening up. I lived in Guayama years back. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Isla Verde, Condado, Old San Juan are all safe areas in my opinion. and it’s an offense to have open alcoholic beverages in public. Always park your car in a well-lit location at night. My advice is to never completely trust anyone or let your guard down. You’ll likely also be removed from the site. If you become a victim of crime, being able to communicate to the police is important. We have had absolutely no problems. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites. Gangs are a problem in these areas, and activities linked to the drug trade often take place. Duh... To some this might come as a shock. If you're doing it right you'll be exhausted by dark and ready to head back to your hotel anyways and won't have to worry about the shit that goes on at night in the inner city. Puerto Rico is a place where the Old World is mashed up with the new on an island that is small in size but offers an immense bounty of one-of-a-kind experiences. Its depth is comparable to the deep trenches in the Pacific Ocean. Been in Ponce, many small towns, and the rural areas with not a problem. Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Puerto Rico warnings and dangers. I was in Old San Juan, San Juan and the north east part of the island. With the poor economy in PR, as US citizens, they can relocate to get a good job. Keep your car door locked and valuables out of sight while traveling. I'll be going back in July, and I anticipate another great time. I mean every city in the world has dangerous areas but to say not to visit b/c of one or two bad areas good lord. The economy is poor because people are creating that reality. Puerto Rico is as safe and unsafe as any other state in the Union, true areas to avoid are there, however, overall it is an extremely safe destination. However, to … The 3.5 million residents of the Unites States’ largest territory will soon be able to better exercise their Second Amendment rights. Keep it locked up in the safe back at your accommodation if you're going out at night – it's not worth losing your cards or valuables. Ponce is a great delight with the south suburbs excellent for retirees. Go up the hill to see the Cross and the Castle. I moved to Ocean Park between San Juan and Condado. Today i was walking a block away from my home when a white van with two guys speaking spanish pulled up and signal me to get in. Carjackings can sometimes occur, so avoid driving at night where possible, particularly through known crime hotspots. Puerto Rico Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Puerto Rico. I've felt more fear living in Europe. Because of the Jones Act, foreign ships inbound with goods from Central and South America, Western Europe, and Africa cannot stop in Puerto Rico, offload Puerto Rico-bound goods, load mainland-bound Puerto Rico-manufactured goods, and continue to U.S. ports. The truth is, it's been decades since a storm or hurricane caused the kind of damage that gives hurricane season such a bad reputation. L’infection se répand rapidement sur l’île. I leave my Jeep in some pretty quiet places while I surf before dawn 4-5 days a week. Car theft is a significant issue in Puerto Rico, so take any valuables out of your car, leaving it as empty as possible. The beaches, the rainforests, nature will definitely not disappoint you. Car rental agencies in Puerto Rico may attempt to swindle you. Contact us for full details. Can you drink the tap water, and what about vaccinations before you go? The legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18, whereas in the United States it’s 21; making the country a popular destination for college students from the US on spring break. Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, and the Dominican Republic do not have active volcanoes; however, they are at risk from earthquakes and tsunamis. As to Puerto Rico, have walked from Old San Juan to the tip of Isla Verde and never felt unsafe and the walk for an architectural buff is quiet interesting in which the American vs Spanish architecture mix. Obviously there are places where you shouldn't be by yourself after dark. Even if you butcher the language, making an effort will still go a long way. Is it safe to go to Puerto Rico right now? Sign up for our free newsletter. Travel may increase the chances of getting and spreading COVID-19 and why only essential travel is being encouraged at this time. I wouldn't be caught dead in a city like those two, but I feel perfectly safe in PR. Drone laws in Puerto Rico are the same as in the United States, and there are a few rules to know before you fly such as registering your drone with the FAA and not flying close to people, crowded areas and events. Malgré ses belles plages et temps chaud, Puerto Rico est pas toujours le paradis qu'il semble être. Porto Warnings and Dangers. Namely, like in the rest of Puerto Rico, there is the presence of the mosquito-borne Zika virus. So unless you have a special “rental car insurance” add-on, your car insurance will not cover your rental anyway. To understand how this may impact cover under your policy, please go to our FAQs and select your country of residence. Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Puerto Rico: Read the latest travel alerts to find out how COVID-19 restrictions may affect you. Purchased a condo two years ago in the heart of Old San Juan, and have to say it is an extremely safe place, though must say, have never seen so many Anglo Americans roaming the streets as con artist, pretending to have missed their flights or boats and are in need of assistance, don't believe them!!! There is crime everywhere. But I have been in many of the places frequented by locals and never even had a dirty look thrown my way. Puerto Rico knows that the most important commerce for their island is the tourist dollar from people that visit from all over the world. There are just two bathrooms in El Morro. We are in a residential neighborhood. That said, Puerto Rico has a lower crime rate than many major US cities. If you plan to have a night out, always walk with someone else, in a group or grab a licensed taxi (white taxis with the lit up roof sign). The Puerto Rican government put a lot of resources into tourism initiatives to encourage travelers to visit the island nation following Hurricane Maria, and will no doubt do the same following the earthquake damage in early 2020. Another hot tip: Don't do drugs. Pinones, Parque de la Palomas and Santruce are also safe to visit during the day. Puerto Rico is in chaos, and some worry continued instability is a major threat Demonstrators march against Gov. The Email address or Password is incorrect, World Nomads Contributor - Tue, 29 Sep 2020. read about lockdowns and border restrictions. Travelers will be most affected by petty crime, such as pickpocketing or robbery. Puerto Rico's murder rate averages four times the murder rate of the United States as a whole. Yes, Puerto Rico is a safe place to visit, however there is a risk of natural disasters – such as earthquakes and hurricanes. Is Puerto Rico safe to visit? The blood alcohol limit in Puerto Rico is 0.08 however it's best to walk or grab a taxi if you plan to have a few drinks. Puerto Rico is “an island sitting in the middle of an ocean … a very big ocean,” as President Donald Trump said on September 26, making Hurricane Maria more distant than … Tip: Learn some basic Spanish to make your trip just that bit easier, especially when you aren't in the urban centers. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States, located approximately 1,000 miles southeast of Miami. Beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico is growing in popularity as a tourist destination because of its interesting architecture and overall charm. What you need to know in this situation is that your car insurance isn’t driver based—it’s driver- and vehicle-based. Btw, this message is for "ffjsb" whoade tge first comment on this thread. I am a tough person and know how to take care of myself along with my street starts from Chicago. Rich history and culture, exceptional food, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, relaxation, adventure — … Don't not visit the island, I had a blast and am going back in 3 weeks but more so to the west side of the island like Rincon etc. 2. Most of the sharks that spend their time in the waters off the coast of Rincón are nurse sharks, which are smaller, docile and generally hide in … It has a little appearance of Tucson and Green Valley AZ with delightful neighborhoods. You can buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world. I lived im Puerto Rico fot almost five years, because I decided to study at the University of Puerto Rico...to get a degree and learn Spanish at the same time. By telling us your country of residence we are able to provide you with the most relevant travel insurance information. In January 2020, a string of large earthquakes struck Puerto Rico and caused severe damage throughout the country, leading the Governor Vázquez Garced to declare a state of emergency and activate the National Guard. Car rental agencies in Puerto Rico may attempt to swindle you. The most well-known safety risk of traveling to Puerto Rico is probably its proximity to hurricanes. Hurricanes I'm from Chicago and to look at Puerto Rico's crime rate, I'd say I feel right at home there. The local beaches are pretty safe during the day, just keep an eye on your belongings and don't bring anything you're not prepared to have stolen while having a swim. Mayaguez is fairly modern with many good stores. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. I think what everyone is forgetting is that common sense plays an important role in your safety. Puerto Rico is no less safe for solo travelers than any other … It's away from the safe, popular spots in San Juan, so travelers may get more than they bargain for if they end up there at night looking for recreational drugs. I have walked every street in Old San Juan, and much of the city from Old San Juan to Condado, with zero problems. Police outside of major tourist areas might not speak English, and while many locals are bilingual, Spanish is still the dominant language. So be cautious and respect those rules and watch your back. The Perla, which I grew up avoiding, has actually been improving, drove thru it with my mother and we were treated very well, now been hearing that a new restaurant opened and have also been seeing tourist venturing down its winding streets. A new bill aims to establish Puerto Rico as a state by 2021. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All Rights Reserved. Les visiteurs doivent se méfier de certains des dangers communs dans ce pays. Why do you think people left Detroit?? According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Puerto Rico is categorized Level 4 due to the high level of COVID-19 cases on the Island. The view is breathtaking if you have a person you love and want them to see something beautiful by your side this is the place to do it once I get the chance god willing I'm taking my family I really want them to see this I think my wife is going to cry cause I won't stop talking about this place and when she sees it she will also know what I mean and so will you if you go. I have been to PR many times, I have relatives there, and my daughter did a 3 month internship in Old San Juan. Strong earthquake in Puerto Rico causes one death, eight injuries Temblor is the latest in the past 10 days to shake the U.S. island territory. The West coast of the Island is just outright beautiful and safe, Aguadilla, Isabela, Aguada, Anasco all offer great beaches, however, Rincon with surfing beaches is a cute town, with fun things to do and overall extremely safe. Throughout our trip we have only encountered one bad person and he was a white guy from Ohio who likes to treat people like crap. Seriously, I'm so glad I didn't read any of this nonsense before I moved here a few months ago. Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Puerto Rico. Avoid taking photos in high crime locations (ask the locals where not to go!) Drink driving is also a major offense in Puerto Rico which can result in financial penalties and potentially jail time. Coronavirus (COVID-19) and travel: The situation around the world is changing dramatically. We are currently in Ocean Park in San Juan. February 2019 is my first visit to Puerto Rico. It is not nice to try to say something about one place bu putting down other places like Chicago or Detroit....was you said is not nice, Chicago is a great city...yes it can be dangerous just like Puerto Rico or any other city or county if your in the wrong place at the wrong time or your not using common sense or pay attention to advice and rules. I hope you guys enjoyed my humor in this video - like this video if you love Puerto Rico! Hello everyone, Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States of America. Dont live in fear, just be aware and vigilant. Please note that not all content is translated or available to residents of all countries. Ricardo Rosselló in San Juan, Puerto Rico… largely recovered from the impact of Hurricane Maria, a string of large earthquakes struck Puerto Rico. Just about everyone you will get to know and trust is really down to earth and friendly. Dont miss the tropical forest of El Yunque with its pools of water and high views. High crime rate yet I've never experienced any danger. We’ve been walking, driving and dining in San Juan and around the Island, anywhere we feel like ( I’m obviously not going to the caserios, but why on earth would I do that???) Use common sense and you will absolutely love PR. Avoid wandering alone at night in particular near the beach areas where there is an increased risk of being robbed. This work assists in recovering the country's economy, as tourism is the number one source of employment for locals. Aguadilla seems to have the poorest areas in some neighborhoods. However, as with any major metropolitan city, there are safe places and areas to avoid in San Juan. Other spots to avoid at night are the neighborhoods of La Perla (next to Old City) and parts of Puerta de Tierra. The populations of the Island and of my hometown are about the same and there's a roughly equal number of murders. What can I do to prevent bug bites? In California my vehicle was broken into twice in a two week period and my house robbed. With the first few days I was warned to avoid a sections that was crime-infested. Yes, Puerto Rico is a safe place to visit, however there … The Puerto Rico Trench: Implications for Plate Tectonics and Earthquake and Tsunami Hazards. Don't leave your valuables or belongings unattended and only take what you need out with you. This is a major safety hazard. As a commonwealth of the United States, Puerto Rico is one of the easiest tropical destinations for American travelers to reach: The simple Puerto Rico passport requirements mean that the islands are open to every American citizen. Les temps forts de la programmation culturelle Porto Rico : festivals, fêtes folkloriques et événements festifs, jours fériés. With 150+ adventure activities covered and 24/7 emergency assistance. My whole family loved this place and we are looking forward to coming back many more times. Various governments have changed their travel warnings to restrict travel during this time. Museums, shopping, clubs, bars, restaurants, CVS, Walgreens, fast food, one tends to forget they are in the Caribbean. Just think of it this way; "It's a different ball.park with different rules." On December 11, Puerto Rico Gov. Porto Rico est fortement touché par le virus Zika, transmis par piqûres de moustiques-tigres. @ffjsb and anyone putting any faith in ffjsb’s opinion. For the latest travel warnings and alerts around the world, read about lockdowns and border restrictions. They will ask you if your car insurance covers Puerto Rico and not just the 50 states. Wherever inequality and high population density occur, crime generally follows. Despite recent law enforcement crackdowns, it remains one of the most dangerous places in Puerto Rico. Old San Juan especially in the daytime is VERY colorful, Very Clean to the extreme. By the end of the 19 th century, the U.S. had also started to acquire an overseas empire—purchasing Alaska in 1867, annexing Hawaii in 1898, and taking sovereignty over Puerto Rico… There are 3.3 million people living in Puerto Rico, and most of the population live in the capital city, San Juan, and other larger towns, which are made up of different cultures and social classes. Twenty-five years after Puerto Rico made headlines by sending its National Guard to patrol urban neighborhoods, the island is still one of the most dangerous places in … and not once have felt unsafe. I am a native Chicagoan and it was quite an adventure and challenge at the same time. USGS says there is currently no threat of tsunami — though some municipalities along the southern coast began evacuating out of fear, according to … Practice common sense anywhere you go. I have NO problems going anywhere in PR, any more than I have in any big city in the mainland, unless it's Chicago or Detroit. Like use your head people. There are a few sketchy homeless people and alcoholics like in any big city. If you're coming here on vacation there is no reason to worry. Puerto Rico is considered to be one of the most LGBTQ friendly destinations in the Caribbean, with the capital San Juan having an established and lively gay scene, particularly around Santurce and Condado Beach. Jobs. Its downtown is very nice like Albuquerque NM with a subhumid climate similiar to parts of Eastern Brasil. Find out how to stay healthy on your vacation in Puerto Rico. There was no need to make negative comments about Chicago or Detroit...the last being a struggling city whose trying to make it in today's trying time. Some may experience verbal harassment. I’m of course vigilant of my surroundings when in unknown areas. According to most statistics, there are approximately 250 violent crimes a year in San Juan. Always carry your valid personal ID with you. Travel around during the day and see everything you want to see. And while there are many all-inclusive Puerto Rico resorts, hundreds of Puerto Rico beaches worth visiting, and a plethora of unique things to do in Puerto Rico, the islands are not without their warnings and dangers. However, locals report if you are there during daylight hours, you're generally safe. Drugs are a major problem here. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. However, over the past couple of years, Puerto Rico’s tourism, economy, and natural wonders are well on their way to restoration. Old San Juan is populated with enough police to make sure your stay is a safe one. Uri ten Brink, Chief Scientist U.S. Geological Survey. While you can roam through most of the grounds, you are not allowed to climb the stairs or walk around the top of the castle. For those who are not aware, Old San Juan is an Island and one can see Puerto Rico from its southern shore. Bars on the windows... Well, PR is warm, and many people leave their windows open for circulation. My wife read a lot of this junk and was worried sick. and always ask before taking a photo of someone to avoid potential offense. Crime is a characteristic of all humans all over the world. Puerto Rico is pretty safe for women travelers if you exercise some simple safety precautions and use your common sense as you would back home such as not leaving your valuables unattended and not wandering around poorly lit areas at night. San Juan is no more dangerous than any other metropolitan city. Driving in a foreign country is almost guaranteed to be different from driving around your hometown. You will need a valid ID to purchase alcohol from bars, restaurants, stores etc. One of our favorite places back home is St Louis. © 2021 Smarter Travel Media LLC. Travel Smarter! However, your credit card may. While there is nothing wrong with having additional car insurance, it may not be necessary, so don’t feel obligated into buying it if you’re already covered through your credit card.