From the beautiful beaches to the tropical rainforests, it’s easy to see why Puerto Rico remains a popular tourist destination for millions of travelers annually. However, with ongoing safety concerns and alerts around the world, some travelers may be hesitant to book a trip right now.
As Puerto Rico is a United States territory, it does not receive a specific travel advisory from the State Department. Consulting the Government of Canada’s travel advisory, the territory is at its lowest tier of risk, which simply encourages travelers to “take normal security precautions.” The Canadian agency does not have any urgent security warning or flag for travelers to the region.
Additionally Puerto Rico’s Governor Jenniffer González Colón touted “a historic reduction in crime in practically all categories of violent crime,” per the San Juan Daily Star last year. However, it’s still recommended for travelers to stay on alert and take typical precautions.
For example, Canada’s agency advises travelers to make sure that personal items and passports are secure at all times, and to be on the lookout for pickpockets. It also warns that political demonstrations can happen spontaneously, and to avoid any crowds or large gatherings.
“Let people know where you’re going, what you’re going to be doing, and where you’re going to be staying,” an additional advisory from travel insurance firm Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) reads. “Provide multiple people with multiple ways of contacting you. Keep their contact info with you.”
The travel firm also recommends learning some Spanish and understanding of local laws. Additionally, travelers are encouraged to also avoid carrying bags with long straps and to stay away from housing projects where gang-related activity may occur, specifically in San Juan.
Beyond crime though, some of the most encountered threats may come from Mother Nature, versus other humans due to Puerto Rico’s geography. With a prevalent hurricane season and dangerous rip tides, travelers can find resources and safety tips, including real-time weather updates, via the territory’s destination marketing site, Discover Puerto Rico.
“Riptides can be deadly, and there can be poisonous sea creatures like jellyfish,” BHTP warns of the ocean. “Read beach warning signs and swim parallel to a riptide if you get caught.”
When it comes to a traveler’s health while heading to the territory, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, measles, and typhoid before traveling to Puerto Rico, however there are no specific outbreaks or medical events that travelers should be wary of.
While travel insurance is not a requirement for transit throughout Puerto Rico, visitors may find general benefits for trip cancellation and additional medical expenses, if required.
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