For a tropical Caribbean island with world-class beaches and amenities, Puerto Rico might not seem like the ideal destination for budget travelers seeking an exotic getaway. However, this island can be surprisingly affordable for the savvy tourist. There are great bargains available, as well as numerous incentives and deals designed to help you save money.
In this guide to budget travel, you’ll find tips on when to go, where to stay and eat, and what to do while you’re in Puerto Rico. Therefore, add it all up, and you’ll be amazed at how far you can stretch your dollar when you visit la isla del encanto.
When to Go
Financially speaking, the best time to visit Puerto Rico is during the long off-season, which runs from May to November. While the summer is peak travel time for numerous destinations around the world, in the Caribbean, it’s hurricane season. Consequently, with the arrival of the storm season comes a significant drop in prices for hotels and airfare, as the tourist industry seeks to attract visitors. Puerto Rico has good reason to lure tourists during these months, and at the top of the list is the excellent value you’ll find on lodging. I’ve discovered four-star hotels at two-star prices during the off-season. Even so, it’s always wise to check the local weather forecast before you travel.
Where to Stay
The advantage of Puerto Rico is that you can find a beachfront luxury resort located less than a minute away from a budget inn. Both provide virtually the same access to the beach and surrounding area, but only one can offer a room for less than $100. With that in mind, here are a few resources to help you find a place that suits your comfort and budget:
- Paradores around Puerto Rico (Paradores are country inns scattered throughout Puerto Rico away from San Juan; they are well worth a look for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path vacation.)
- In Rincón, check out The Lazy Parrot Inn and Dos Angeles del Mar Guesthouse, where you can find rooms for under $100.
Where to Eat
Dining in Puerto Rico can be an adventure because there is no shortage of hearty, delicious criollo specialties to challenge your appetite. Fortunately, it doesn’t cost much to enjoy excellent local food. Here are just a few recommendations:
- Explore local restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
- Cheap food kiosks abound in Puerto Rico, selling all kinds of fritters and bite-sized snacks. A visit to the kiosks in Piñones and Luquillo should not be missed.
- Panaderías, which are Puerto Rican bakeries, offer a lot more than your neighborhood bakery and are a great place for an affordable lunch while mingling with locals.
What to See and Do
You will be pleased to know there are plenty of free activities for tourists in Puerto Rico. Some restaurants happily offer free samples of their house drink; many events in and around San Juan come at no charge, and there are enough festivals around the island to keep you entertained throughout the year.
- Many local markets and fairs offer free access to engaging activities.
- Of course, one could argue that Puerto Rico’s best attraction, its beaches, are the most obvious free activity around. Even the public beaches, or balnearios, that charge for parking and use, only ask for a nominal fee.
