Four trips to San Juan, Puerto Rico taught me what the travel blogs skip. Here's the real guide to experience Afro-Puerto Rican culture, the best food + hotels + hidden spots
Traveler Type: Culture, Adventure, & Wellness
Welcome to Puerto Rico
Bad Bunny has singlehandedly become Puerto Rico’s tourism board, and he’s doing a phenomenal job lol. Ever since he said, “Vamo’ pa’ la playa,” it feels like everyone in their group chat is trying to catch a flight to La Isla de Encanto. And I don’t blame them.
Puerto Rico holds a special place in my heart. No matter how many times I go (4 times to be exact), it always feels like I’m returning home. It’s healing. It’s magnetic. It’s personal. Every trip I’ve taken to Puerto Rico has marked a new chapter in my life. Maybe it’s the perfect combination of sunshine, salsa & reggaeton, and roadside piña coladas (mocktail for me, please), or perhaps there’s just something spiritual about a place where people have persevered through so much with unbreakable joy. This island pulls you in and sends you back home feeling a little bit more like yourself. Whether you’re going for the music, the history, the adventure, or just to unplug—this island delivers EVERY time.
Puerto Rico
Bomba: The Traditional Sound of Puerto Rico
Bomba is a traditional Afro-Puerto Rican dance that has been around for over 400 years. It was created by enslaved West Africans who worked in sugar plantations along the coast. Bomba was one of the only ways for enslaved people to express themselves freely and feel powerful. It was an act of resistance for them to reclaim their humanity and self-determination. While Bomba’s roots are mainly African, there are indigenous Taino influences, such as the use of a maraca, usually played by the singer. And the Spanish colonizers influence like the use of a skirt.
What makes it unqiue, is that it’s actually a complex conversation between dancer and drummer. The dancer doesn’t follow the drums—the drums follow the dancer! Every swirl of the skirt, every shoulder movement, every step commands the lead drummer to respond with a corresponding beat.
Black Traveler Friendly Safe For Solo Women Travelers
Here are some of the best boutique hotels in Puerto Rico if you’re planning a trip to San Juan and looking for a place that’s a bit more intimate and stylish than your average hotel. Since one of the biggest expenses during a trip[...]
Loíza
City Spotlight
Loíza
Known as the “Capital of Traditions,” Loíza has deep African roots. Here, African heritage is celebrated in every colorful vejigante mask, every bomba rhythm, and every bite of traditional coconut-infused cuisine.
Founded by formerly enslaved Africans who bought their freedom, Loíza has transformed its history into powerful artistic traditions that continue today. Don’t miss the artisan workshops where mask-makers craft those iconic horned vejigante faces, or Santiago Apostol Festival (late July) when the entire town erupts in processions, music, and dance. The beaches here—particularly Playa Aviones—offer a more authentic, less touristy experience than their San Juan counterparts. Visit Loíza to experience the Puerto Rico most tourists never see.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?
If you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you don’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico because it is technically part of the U.S. But starting May 2025, the Real ID Act begins so you may need a passport depending on your state’s compilants. For travelers from other countries, the same visa and passport rules apply as if you’re visiting the mainland U.S.
What language is spoken in Puerto Rico
Spanish and English are the official languages of Puerto Rico. Only about 20% Puerto Ricans speak English but if you’re mainly in touristy areas like San Juan you’ll be fine.
When is the best time to visit to Puerto Rico?
I’ve been to Puerto Rico four times in all four seasons, and each time, the weather was sunny and hot. My recommendation is to visit between late October and early February. January is a good month to experience the San Sebastián Street Festival in Old San Juan, which is held during the third week of January.
Is Puerto rico safe for solo women travelers?
Puerto Rico is a pretty safe destination, especially for solo women travelers. Every time I’ve gone has been solo, and I felt completely safe. But like any destination practice caution.
Is Puerto Rico safe for Black travelers?
I think so. I’ve never had any issue and people usually think I’m Puerto Rican as well. That’s how diverse the population is. But like any destination practice caution.
Is Uber available?
It depends on the city. In San Juan, Uber is widely available and quick to access. A ride can cost anywhere between $5 and $20. In other parts, like Loiza, Uber is still available but will sometimes take a little longer to arrive.
Weather in San Juan, Puerto Rico?
Hot and sunny. Pack SUNSCREEN!
When is hurricane season in Puerto Rico?
Hurricane season is officially in effect from June 1 to November 30.
Is Puerto Rico expensive?
If, I’m being honest, it can be but it doesn’t have to be! I’ve gone of 4 different budgets and you can definitely have an amazing time with at least $1000 including the hotel but not flights. Usually the most expensive part of traveling to Puerto Rico is the hotels because it’s pretty hard finding anywhere that is less than $150/night. So depending on the length of your trip it adds up quickly.
What currency is used?
The U.S. dollar (USD).