New flights provide milestone for airport
Journeys to Puerto Rico are first outside the continental US
Wilmington Airport reached a new milestone Wednesday, as Avelo Airlines made the airport’s first trip outside the continental U.S. to San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The flight was celebrated with a ceremony outside of the terminal attended by executives of the airline and local politicians.
San Juan became Avelo’s 16th destination from Wilmington Airport. Nonstop flights will be offered twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Oneway fares start at $99, and tickets can be purchased online.
Here’s what to know about traveling to Puerto Rico, including tips and things to do if you take advantage of the new offers.
Tips for flying to Puerto Rico
Wilmington flights to Puerto Rico will land at the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, in the island’s capital, San Juan.
Since Puerto Rico is a United States territory, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to fly to San Juan.
Domestic travelers will also not need to go through customs when they arrive on the island.
Visitors will be required to pass through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s check before returning to the continental U.S., so be sure not to bring back any fruits, vegetables or open food packets.
There are 14 car rental companies and rideshare stations in the airport to get you to your destination. Apps like Uber or Lyft will be useful for those who plan on staying in the metro area, but car rentals are generally recommended for other areas of the island. Cars can also be booked ahead of time (driving is still on the right side of the road).
If you’ll be driving outside San Juan, get the EZ Pass add-on.
Be wary of hurricane season when booking a trip, which in the Caribbean usually lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30. The territory also imposes an 11.5% sales tax on goods and services.
Puerto Rico’s regions
Puerto Rico has six general regions: North, Metro, East, South, West and the Central Mountain region.
Each of these regions has its own distinct characteristics, differing in attractions and habitats.
Puerto Rico boasts year-round summer temperatures, with an average of 80 degrees across the island. The island is home to countless activities, none of them more than a 21⁄ 2- hour drive from the airport. But the trip’s experience will depend on where you choose to stay.
The west side of Puerto Rico is known for having some of the best beaches on the island. Areas like Flamenco Beach are known for their clear, calm waters perfect for sightseeing and snorkeling. Farther north, areas like Rincón are considered the surfing capitals of the territory, with swells peaking from October to February.
Caffeine enthusiasts will enjoy the Central Mountains, where people can tour the coffee farms (known as haciendas) throughout the mountains.
San Juan
The historic capital of Puerto Rico is one of the most populous in the country, with different areas to visit.
Old San Juan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The neighborhood is over 500 years old and offers everything from historic monuments and museums to bustling nightlife and award-winning restaurants. The pastel-colored buildings that line the streets are easy on the eyes, too.
Among the sites in Old San Juan are the historic forts that can be explored with or without guided tours. Museums like the Museo de las Americas, Puerto Rico Museum of Contemporary Art and the Sports Museum of Puerto Rico are also worth checking out.
There are three main beaches in the San Juan area: Condado Beach, El Ecambron and Ocean Park Beach. Condado and Ocean Park are considered the more “laid back” beaches, while El Ecambron is where thrill-seekers can find more active pursuits like snorkeling, jet skiing and paddleboarding.
El Yunque National Forest
Behold, the only rainforest in the United States National Forest System. Travel around an hour east of the airport and find El Yunque National Forest, 28,000 acres of true dense rainforest.
Hiking and exploring the trails make for a good day trip. There are shorter trails that lead to waterfalls, palm trees, giant ferns, orchids natural pools and 360-degree lookout towers.
La Coca waterfall and Yokahu Tower are some of the more well-known areas within the forest. There are also various excursions that are offered there like ziplining, ATV riding and horseback riding.
Keep in mind, this is a legitimate rainforest. True to the name, expect regular bouts of brief but intense rain.
Luquillo Beach is minutes down the road from the rainforest, home to a popular strip with dozens of shops and restaurants where you can enjoy Puerto Rican culture and dishes.
Benefits of Puerto Rico over other Caribbean destinations
A few other benefits to consider about Puerto Rico over other tropical destinations:
● Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, they use U.S. currency.
● While knowing Spanish is a plus, most people you encounter can speak English.
● No added charges for using your cellphone for major carriers.
● Puerto Rico is the rum capital of the world and you can bring 5 quarts back with you. There are rum stores in the airport.
Old San Juan is over 500 years old and offers everything from historic monuments and museums to bustling nightlife and award-winning restaurants.