Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best airport to fly into?
A: SJU is the main airport in San Juan. You will generally find the most flight options in and out of this airport. It is also the closest airport to our rental properties.
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Q: What are the terms and conditions of the SUV rental?
A: The daily rate is $125. We do require all drivers to show a valid drivers license as well as proof of insurance. While the SUV is insured, any claims would be submitted to your policy first. The daily fee includes any road tolls incurred (these can add up!) and it includes pick-up and drop off at the airport, or another location if you choose. The SUV seats 7 so you can take your group around to see the sights. Discounts are available for rentals longer than 7 days.
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Q: Do I need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico?
A: Passports are not required for US citizens to travel to Puerto Rico as it is a territory of the United States of America. If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will need a passport to visit.
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Q: What are the terms and conditions of the Cooking Class?
A: The price will be confirmed after you have chosen your menu. To confirm the booking, we will ask for a 25% non-refundable deposit. Please allow at least a week advanced notice for booking.
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Q: What is the best time of year to visit?
A: Our high season is considered from December through April, although the weather is beautiful all year long! You can expect longer waits and more traffic during the high season. It is several degrees warmer in the summer months but you can still find cooler areas in the Rain Forest and Mountainous areas. Hurricane Season runs from June through November although historically the worst storms have hit in September and October.
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Other Helpful Information
Weather
The weather in Puerto Rico is just about perfect! The average day-time temperatures are around 82-85°F during the day in the winter and 86-90°F in the summer months. Nighttime temperatures drop to around 75°F. It is slightly cooler in the rain forest and can get more brisk in the higher elevations of the central part of the island. Do make sure to use plenty of sunscreen, especially on beach days or if you are on a boat tour.
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We generally get more rain during the winter months, although most days the rainfall is very little and the clouds pass quickly. The summer months are hotter and dryer, but the tropical storms that can occur can produce very heavy rainfall over a day or two.
Hurricanes
Hurricane season runs from June through November, with September and October usually being the most active months. Hurricanes and tropical storms do not hit the island every year, but we still need to be mindful as the weather is unpredictable. We usually have several days notice of an impending storm, but in reality we rarely know the severity until it hits. In the unlikely event you are in one of our homes when a storm approaches, we will be in contact to ensure you are as safe and secure as possible.
Holiday's
One of my favorite things about the Puerto Rican culture is the observance of so many holidays! I mention this only because sometimes the holidays will affect the operating hours of business. Most large corporate chains usually operate as usual, but many of the small family owned businesses will have shorter hours or be closed. Also be aware that it is customary for many small business to close for weeks at a time so that the employees can take well-deserved time off. Basically, its always a good practice to call ahead to a business, especially if its a long drive or special trip.
Wildlife
Even in the city, you will have run-ins with our local wildlife. In the metropolitan areas, like San Juan, you can expect to see lizards, insects, chickens, stray dogs & cats, and maybe the occasional pig, horse, goat or cow. In the rain forest, and other less populated areas, you will see everything listed above plus a few more creatures that don't venture into town. There are a few species of snakes on the island, but it is rare to see them. I am only aware of one species that has a mild venom, called the Puerto Rican Racer. They are more common in the rain forest, but their venom is very mild and will not cause any long term discomfort. Like most of our wildlife, it is more afraid of you, than you are of it. Most animals, birds, and reptiles will run away if they sense humans. Insects, on the other hand, are a different story! I suggest keeping a can of OFF or other repellant with you. Mosquito bites are a quick way to put a damper on your outing. Flies and other flying insects can also be an annoyance, but more so after a long rain.
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All in all, there are some beautiful and unique species that inhabit Puerto Rico. Just use common sense, and you will have a great time!
Currency
The economy of Puerto Rico is based on the US Dollar. Most larger businesses do accept major credit cards, but be aware that it is common for random outages to render credit cards useless. It is a best practice to carry some cash in the event a business does not, or cannot accept credit cards. You will find that many businesses use an app called ATH Movíl. It works similar to Venmo or Paypal but you must have a bank account from an approved Puerto Rican bank to use ATH Movíl. More businesses are now accepting Venmo & Paypal, and a few accept Zelle.