Discover Puerto Rico's Don'ts - 🚫 Visitors Beware

Visiting Puerto Rico is an enchanting experience, filled with vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. However, like any travel destination, there are certain things you should avoid doing to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit. Here are some key tips to keep in mind.

Respect and Embrace Puerto Rico's Unique Culture 🌺

While Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, it has its own rich culture and traditions. It's crucial to respect these customs, even if they differ from your own. For instance, avoid making derogatory comments about local customs or comparing them unfavorably to those in the mainland US. This can be perceived as disrespectful and may cause offense.

Stay Sun-Safe in Puerto Rico's Tropical Climate ☀️

The tropical sun in Puerto Rico can be intense, especially for visitors from cooler climates. Avoid underestimating its strength. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated. And remember, even on cloudy days, the UV rays can still be strong.

One cannot stress enough the importance of using sunscreen while enjoying the beautiful beaches of Puerto Rico. Here's a perfect example.

Remember, the right sunscreen and sun care routine can protect you from harmful UV rays and contribute to a more pleasant and safe vacation experience.

Play it Safe: Adhere to Puerto Rico's Beach Rules 🏖️

Puerto Rico's beaches are stunning, but they can also be dangerous if you don't follow safety rules. Avoid swimming alone or in unknown areas. Always heed lifeguard warnings and beach safety regulations.

Savor the Flavor: Don't Miss Out on Puerto Rican Cuisine 🍴

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is sticking to familiar foods and missing out on local culinary delights. Avoid limiting yourself to fast food chains and instead, venture out to local eateries. From mofongo to tostones, Puerto Rican cuisine is full of flavor and not to be missed.

Traditional Puerto Rican Mofongo

You will need:

  • green plantains3 green plantains
  • pork cracklings1 cup of pork cracklings
  • garlic cloves4 cloves of garlic
  • saltSalt to taste
  • olive oil1/4 cup of olive oil
  • chicken broth1/2 cup of chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Start by peeling the plantains and cutting them into 1-inch slices.
  2. Fry the plantain slices in oil until they are golden brown and crispy.
  3. While the plantains are frying, mash the garlic cloves with a little salt in a mortar and pestle until they form a paste.
  4. Once the plantains are done, remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel.
  5. In the mortar with the garlic paste, add the fried plantains, pork cracklings, and a little bit of olive oil. Mash everything together until it forms a thick consistency.
  6. Gradually add the chicken broth to the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.
  7. Form the mixture into balls or into a mound and serve hot.

Notes

Mofongo can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It's traditionally accompanied by a broth or sauce, but it's also delicious on its own.

Learn more about 🇵🇷 Traditional Puerto Rican Mofongo Recipe or discover other recipes.

Drive Wisely: Stick to Puerto Rico's Traffic Laws 🚗

Just like in any country, disregarding traffic laws in Puerto Rico can lead to hefty fines or worse. Always wear your seatbelt, avoid drinking and driving, and adhere to speed limits. Remember, the driving style in Puerto Rico might be different from what you're used to, so always stay alert.

Speak the Language: Learn Basic Spanish for Your Puerto Rico Trip 🗣️

While many Puerto Ricans speak English, it's respectful to learn a few phrases in Spanish. Not only will this enrich your travel experience, but it's also a sign of respect for the local culture.

Basic Spanish phrases for travelers

Test your knowledge on some basic Spanish phrases that could be useful during your visit to Puerto Rico.

Learn more about 🇪🇸 Basic Spanish Phrases for Travelers 🌍 or discover other quizzes.

Jacob Thornfield
Adventure Travel, Wildlife, Photography, Local Cuisine

Jacob Thornfield, a native of New York City, has spent the last decade living out of a suitcase. His love for adventure and exploration has taken him to remote corners of the world, providing him with unique insights into diverse cultures and environments. Jacob's writing is characterized by vivid descriptions and a keen eye for detail.