Puerto Rico, a jurisdiction of the United States in the Caribbean, is the smallest of the Greater Antilles. Its territory, just 100 miles long by 35 wide (8,870km), includes one main island, four smaller islands, and numerous cays. Despite its size, it boasts a unique diversity of landscapes, culture, and biodiversity, as well as nearly 500 miles (800 km) of coastline with some of the best beaches in the world.
The Puerto Rican identity arises from the fusion of Taino, African, and Spanish cultures, whose traditions and customs still permeate daily life. With a tropical climate and landscapes ideal for outdoor activities, Puerto Rico offers entertainment for all tastes. Its strategic location between the Americas makes it an ideal entry point to study and learn about life in NorthAmerica. With Spanish and English as official languages, it is easy to communicate and explore the island's rich history, culture, and gastronomy while enjoying its vibrant music.
Puerto Rico is one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean and a perfect place for cultural, historical, gastronomic and ecological tourism. In addition, it is an excellent place to study or work thanks to its expanding academic system. With all these attributes, Puerto Rico has the potential to be the world's favorite educational destination.
The United States Dollar (USD) is the officialand only currency. This means there are no exchange controls, capital can movefreely in and out of the island, and monetary stability is almost guaranteed.
Puerto Rico follows all U.S. bankingregulations, including the credibility and protections provided by the FederalDeposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). With dozens of local and internationalbanks on the island, this is one of the most robust sectors in the region.
Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory ofthe United States where the official languages are Spanish and English. You mayencounter people who speak a mixture of both, known as "Spanglish,"due to the influence of the United States on the island.
Puerto Rico has multiple airports with easyaccess and connections to most countries. U.S. citizens can travel freelybetween the island and the U.S. mainland. If you are not a U.S. citizen,depending on the country you are traveling from, you may need a visa to studyin Puerto Rico. You should visit the visa and passport information on theDepartment of State's website.
Luis Muñoz Marín Airport (SJU)
The largest and most accessible airport is theLuis Muñoz Marín International Airport, commonly known as San Juan Airport(SJU). Located in Isla Verde, Carolina, this airport is just minutes away fromSan Juan. Over 20 commercial airlines operate flights to and from the cityevery day.
Aguadilla Airport (BQN)
The other airport with international flights isRafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla, in the northwest region of Puerto Rico. Smallerthan SJU, this terminal receives commercial flights from major airlines such asJetBlue, National Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, and privateflights.
Other Airports
JetBlue also flies to La Mercedita (PSE), asmaller airport in the southern city of Ponce.
If you are looking to fly to the smallerislands and cays of Puerto Rico or nearby Caribbean destinations, Fernando LuisRibas Dominicci Airport is a better choice than the two major airports. Alsoknown as Isla Grande Airport, this single-runway airport offers daily flightsthrough three local airlines and private charters.
Other small airports for private and charterflights are in Ceiba, Arecibo, Mayagüez, Fajardo, and Humacao.
