My first trip was over fifty years ago, and after travelling to Puerto Rico, my family purchased our first of three condos in 1969. My mom and grandmother lived there part of the year after retiring. The most important advice I give new visitors is to embrace Puerto Rico on its own terms. It has a unique culture, value system, and lifestyle. PR goes through up and down cycles following major events like hurricanes, pandemics, or base closures, but it always comes back. I just returned from a two week visit a few days ago, and the island is doing comparatively well, notwithstanding the seaweed problem. Finally, my second bit of advice is not to view the island from a tourist's perspective, rather view the island as a resident does - find the beaches, bars, restaurants, and small town festivals for a truly enriching experience. You may be surprised by how warm the people can be, even when they're not getting paid to be nice.
One thing that would be extremely helpful is the tipping expectations in the different cities. Especially for those of us who live in countries where tipping isn't expected like here in Australia. Thanks for the great videos.
As a local I can say that you generally tip either 15%(“standard”), 20%(generous), or 25%(very generous). Tipping 10% is fine, but since waiters generally get paid below minimum wage and depend on tips, I like to leave at least 15% as standard (5% if I want to make a point about bad service). Depends on your budget, satisfaction, and how close you are to payday…
Hey Marc, your videos are awesome to watch because you have a great personality and you always give people great tips and advice before traveling around the World, keep up the great work
I want to thank you for a well put together advice video. I myself am Puerto Rican. I recommend a week or more to really enjoy all the beauty in Puerto Rico. Our island is not very big. We drove around the island in 6 hours. Lots of good food on the road. Once again I appreciate your video. 😊
Very great information to know! I'm going on a mission trip to Puerto Rico in mid-April and trying to prepare as much as possible! By the way, I watch your videos all the time before traveling. I appreciate what you and your family do for us adventurers! 😄
La Perla has improved from being an impoverished mini shanty town, replaced by concrete residences built and owned by generations of La Perla residents. Visit before evening. There are good eateries there operated by locals open to tourism. Avoid becoming inebriated with local drinks which are absolutely delicious. Be humble. Dress simply, not exhibiting or flaunting your jewelry and cameras around there. Going up there you will find before you beautiful views of the ocean, the Spanish Forts and including the Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, a colonial-era cemetery, which is the final resting place of many of Puerto Rico's most prominent natives. If you know a La Perla resident, you will be in good hands and will be treated like royalty, because other residents won't mess with you. Be cautious, but indeed, you can have a nice time there.
Puerto rico will be my next travel destination. I have strong family ties there and my great great grandpa was a prisoner at El Morro in the late 1800s.
My family is Puerto Rican and I have traveled between the states and the island most of my life. I just wanted to add about your comment about La Perla. Although it has historically been known to be an unsafe area of old San Juan, I have heard the neighborhood or "barrio" of La Perla has improved in terms of safety for tourists. There may be some shady characters there, or at least that is what is usually said, but overall the people of La Perla are some of the nicest people you could meet. Many of the families that live there have been there for several generations and some have been there for centuries. There is alot of history which has been passed down by word of mouth to the residents there. Alot of the negative things said about La Perla are from the Puerto Rico of years ago and the historical stigma of that neighborhood still persists unfortunately. And that is unfair to the many good people who live there today.
Sir, absolutely great video. I enjoyed every bit and it was very much on point. I was born and raised in PR but left in 1989, in fact, I lived across Old SJ before moving to CA. Originally from Ponce, but I lived all over the metro area as a young child...thanks for putting it together and I am glad you like PR as much as you do. Take care and stay safe!
DUDE it’s not because it’s a large city. It’s because we have the Jones Act impacting the country. 98% of food is imported. The United State requires all imports to first come to the US, then be shipped to the island. No direct shipping. So Puerto Rico is double taxed. Thus that double taxation price is not only passed on to the people who live there making to difficult to live but it’s passed on to you as a visitor
Tip for driving in San Juan, don't think anyone will let you pull out into traffic, stop at the sign and the just go in the micro gap, the other car WILL stop, it's just how they drive. You have to be aggressive driving in San Juan. My saying is "drive San Juan, where it's always your turn" And don't think I'm putting down the driving, it's not easy, but it is what it is. Good luck, and just go!
I went to Puerto Rico on March of 2023 and Love the island 🏝️ loved la placita El condado! I was planning to Go back of February of 2024. But the hotels don't add up . Too expensive and nothing else! You are on your own to eat to travel to get drinks and that I don't like. Perhaps if they can do some all inclusive? For sure Puerto Rico will thrive on tourism for sure.
Great video! I’m happy I was able to spend a few days in Rincon and take a day trip to the rain forest. In addition to a few days in San Juan. If I could do it again, I would plan a few days in vieques. Or one of the neighboring islands. For the full Puerto Experience. A few days in San Juan was enough for me. I feel like it was a great fit for those who enjoy a good trip to Vegas. As our resort had gambling, a night club and multiple pools. As well as a beach club. Fashion, vibe and cocktail price wise. Def similar to Vegas. 40.00 for 2 measured Tito’s and sodas. Before tip! Though I’ve heard that varies from hotel to hotel. I realize there is a fit for everyone. Loved Rincon. Chill vibe. Beautiful beaches, 3.00 fresh watermelon juice. Great surfing. Be mindful where you park your rental though. As we received a ticket despite there being no signs anywhere. The police would not explain what it was for. And we have yet to figure out how to pay the fine online. Us and one other tourist car were the only ones ticketed for being parked in the same area. Guess they need to make their money somehow. Why not the tourists! El Yuque was amazing! I recommend the earliest day hike you can book. To avoid the crowds. I booked Alejandro through an air bnb experience. Highly recommend! As it was less crowded, slightly less expensive and our two guides were so friendly and helpful. Rincon has some awesome, affordable air bnb options for lodging as well. Really cool beach bars. If you’re into that surfing, laid back beach vibe.
I just got back. Great trip and welcoming people. One thing worth noting is that gas pumps do not have the ability to take credit cards. Either bring cash or expect to bring your card in and leave it while you fill up.
What a great video. Thanks for making this dont's list of San Juan it's so specialfor me as a Puerto Rican. I can tell you definitely do your research before giving the tips. Btw You made me laugh when talking about the food. 😂 Definitely don't forget to try it.
Great list, as a Puerto Rican I agree with most of what you said. I would add, there's a few really good restaurants just on the outer edge of la Perla where it's perfectly safe for tourists. There's just no need for tourists or locals for that matter to go deep into the neighborhood unless you either live there or know someone there. And also traffic sucks in the metropolitan area, but it's generally not much worse than any big city in the United States. One of the best parts of having a car if you're driving through the island us that you will find many vendors on the side of the highway, who sell things like delicious street foods or other cool stuff you might want to buy as a souvenir.
I was gonna say, the main strip in Perla is perfectly safe to visit during the day and there is a few local businesses there that would appreciate your business.
Piña colada: 1/4 cream of coconut (Coco López preffered brand), 3/4 pineapple juice, ice, (if desired, rum as needed) and blend. Ice goes first. Rum will water down the piña colada so adjust accordingly (sorry, no fixed ratio for that).
The hotel that I stayed in Old San Juan had a sign next to the toilet that said to put used toilet paper in the trash can and NOT in the toilet! Pee and poop only in the toilet. I asked the front desk about this and was told it’s very common in Old San Juan due to the plumbing and septic system.
I was in Aquadilla, Isabella and Arecibo in 2017. I am 10% indigenous PR, and it was my 2nd visit...the food is the best, hands down. The people are lively and friendly. I love my heritage even if 10%. They speak English in PR.
English is common especially among the younger generation to the point that we sometimes forget words in spanish and end up with a flavorful spanglish. You will have no problem as an english speaker. PERSONALLY, I do appreciate literally just 1-2 words in spanish at the beginning of conversations. It makes me feel acknowledged. “Hola, con permiso, una pregunta (a question), gracias, adios,…) just simple words or phrases that show that you acknowledge local identity. It’ll make it easier for me open up to you. But thats just my opinion. Its really just a bonus, I am fine with pure english. So are 99% of the population.
I have family that lives in la Pella we just don't like it when Taurus go down there and think they can disrespect it and people talking negative about la Pella ✌️
I would say don't go swimming at the beaches in San Juan. They are not the best beaches on island and there are a lot of rip currents if it isn't in a crowded protected area. Also don't forget to drink the local coffee; it is some of the best in the world. My other don't: Don't only visit San Juan, the rest of the island is full of things to see. Note to go the the west side you can fly into Aguadilla or take the puddle jumper from San Juan to mayaguez for $40.
Yes, be careful at the beaches- very strong currents. Also, I would agree that you should try to make the effort to speak Spanish. Puerto Ricans prefer Spanish.
Mark, you mentioned that US citizens don't need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico. I have a suggestion for a video. It would be to explain the Travel ID that is necessary to fly starting May 3, 2023.
i have one out on REAL ID, and i just filmed the european visa system for americans (though they changed it from january to may the day after i filmed it :) so i am doing some creative editing on that one :) but hopefully next weekend
Puerto Ricans are good people but it is unfortunate that they have a bad government that mistreats their population and many young people have to leave the island for better opportunities elsewhere. Hopefully, they do get some trustworthy people to lead them but as of right now it seems not all is good.
Just got back from visiting PR for the first time. I agree that the people are good, but it was evident that its govt doe not serve or lead the people righteously. As far as the cost of living goes, I’m not sure how the locals afford things unless they have “locals only” places.
@@AM-dr9qdsome people are not going to wait forever for the politics to get better, those who stay usually already have to much invested in the island or are too poor to leave.
Send em to Maine! Greenhead lobster! Im going next month to recruit more future employees! Good people looking to work. Nobody here wants to work. So screw it. Ill pay it forward i guess
Hi I'm looking at staying in Brisas Del Mar, Mata de Plátano for a few nights of my stay after staying in SJ. Is this area safe and is it close to any main attractions? Ty❤
I know you didn't dare to say it, but for all people asking why it's so expensive in Puerto Rico, it's USA's fault, Not Puerto Rico. Look up Jone's Act in Google. The law says cargo between U.S. points must be carried by ships that are primarily built, owned and crewed by Americans. This raises shipping prices big deal, which is then transferred to Puerto Rico making everything so damn expensive and by the way Puerto Rico is an island so pretty much Everything needs to be transported by ships. There you have it, thanks USA😊
Not even pick pockets and leaving the car on all the time. Honestly, probably the safest old town in US for the city of that size. La Perla is fine too. As long as you don't pull the phone out. And it's not a robbery issue. More of the locals not feeling like being an attraction. Not wanting to be recorded in the open drug market probably has something to do with it too. Moved from West Coast a couple of years ago. Feeling safer here than in The Bay or LA is a subject of the conversation with every new Cali transplant we meet
Local here. La Perla is not that bad if you follow some common sense “rules”, for example, the areas close to the entrances, next to the historic wall have nice local bars that are perfectly safe to visit and they are cheap, if you stay there you’ll be ok, don’t go deep into their streets, I’m sure nothing will happen if you do, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Also don’t take pictures of the local people, it’s true that some illicit stuff happens there, so for obvious reasons they don’t allow photographs. As long as you don’t go around thinking you can do whatever you want, they won’t bother you at all.
My advise, seriously, is don't trust your GPS. If you get caught in a mountainous neighborhood, you better know how to get out. It's easy to get lost and drive around in circles.
I know a passport isn’t needed to fly in, but is one needed to fly out? That happened to us on our trip to St. Thomas. Luckily, we had our passports with us, because we needed it to fly back home.
No it’s not needed but I always recommend people to bring it anyways just incase. Puerto Rico has a high immigration from DR, so you don’t want to get caught up with that
As a Puerto Rican, I am very happy with your honesty and accuracy when sharing these tips. ¡Gracias! (All your videos are well made, by the way.)
Loved San Juan and all of Puerto Rico, especially the rain forest!
It's amazing. Wish I would have visited sooner. Great place with great people
Love to watch your "Don'ts of" videos for places I've already been just to see how many mistakes I made
thanks for watching!
How many did you make? Lol
I love San Juan! It’s so beautiful.
it really is
My beautiful island
it's a great place!
My first trip was over fifty years ago, and after travelling to Puerto Rico, my family purchased our first of three condos in 1969. My mom and grandmother lived there part of the year after retiring. The most important advice I give new visitors is to embrace Puerto Rico on its own terms. It has a unique culture, value system, and lifestyle. PR goes through up and down cycles following major events like hurricanes, pandemics, or base closures, but it always comes back. I just returned from a two week visit a few days ago, and the island is doing comparatively well, notwithstanding the seaweed problem. Finally, my second bit of advice is not to view the island from a tourist's perspective, rather view the island as a resident does - find the beaches, bars, restaurants, and small town festivals for a truly enriching experience. You may be surprised by how warm the people can be, even when they're not getting paid to be nice.
That was in the 60's. Things have changed a lot....
@@saucerianpublisher6423 Continuously, for decades all the way to now. Yes things have changed, and remained the same.
One thing that would be extremely helpful is the tipping expectations in the different cities. Especially for those of us who live in countries where tipping isn't expected like here in Australia. Thanks for the great videos.
We talk about that in our don'ts videos and a lot of countries we already have how to tip there videos. But they don't show up often on search, sadly.
20% for good service, just like in the mainland USA, 15% for mediocre service, 10% for bad service. Never 0%.
As a local I can say that you generally tip either 15%(“standard”), 20%(generous), or 25%(very generous). Tipping 10% is fine, but since waiters generally get paid below minimum wage and depend on tips, I like to leave at least 15% as standard (5% if I want to make a point about bad service). Depends on your budget, satisfaction, and how close you are to payday…
Hey Marc, your videos are awesome to watch because you have a great personality and you always give people great tips and advice before traveling around the World, keep up the great work
Hahahaha, I just got back and was looking for this video before my trip. I definitely plan on going back so thanks for the vid either way.
Hope you had fun. We really liked San juan.
La perla is not to be skipped just don't go at night and don't use your Camara going down the main entrance.
@@JorgePerez-vi7op can u elaborate?
I'm a Puerto Rican and I can say that you are SPOT ON! Good job!
I want to thank you for a well put together advice video. I myself am Puerto Rican. I recommend a week or more to really enjoy all the beauty in Puerto Rico. Our island is not very big. We drove around the island in 6 hours. Lots of good food on the road. Once again I appreciate your video. 😊
This is the best video I have seen as a first time traveler. Thanks.
Men. You are right on the money. I agree 100%. Thank for visit Puerto Rico.
Very great information to know! I'm going on a mission trip to Puerto Rico in mid-April and trying to prepare as much as possible!
By the way, I watch your videos all the time before traveling. I appreciate what you and your family do for us adventurers! 😄
Hi Wolter! I'm watching your video from Puerto Rico! 🇵🇷
La Perla has become a haven for tourist and safe as long as you do not mess with the locals. Harlem once dangerosu now a huge tourist stop.
La Perla has improved from being an impoverished mini shanty town, replaced by concrete residences built and owned by generations of La Perla residents. Visit before evening. There are good eateries there operated by locals open to tourism. Avoid becoming inebriated with local drinks which are absolutely delicious. Be humble. Dress simply, not exhibiting or flaunting your jewelry and cameras around there. Going up there you will find before you beautiful views of the ocean, the Spanish Forts and including the Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, a colonial-era cemetery, which is the final resting place of many of Puerto Rico's most prominent natives. If you know a La Perla resident, you will be in good hands and will be treated like royalty, because other residents won't mess with you. Be cautious, but indeed, you can have a nice time there.
Puerto rico will be my next travel destination. I have strong family ties there and my great great grandpa was a prisoner at El Morro in the late 1800s.
It's a wonderful place. We loved our time there.
I love PR food! Soooo good! I have PR ancestry and I can’t wait to visit next year.
Yummy!!
My family is Puerto Rican and I have traveled between the states and the island most of my life. I just wanted to add about your comment about La Perla. Although it has historically been known to be an unsafe area of old San Juan, I have heard the neighborhood or "barrio" of La Perla has improved in terms of safety for tourists. There may be some shady characters there, or at least that is what is usually said, but overall the people of La Perla are some of the nicest people you could meet. Many of the families that live there have been there for several generations and some have been there for centuries. There is alot of history which has been passed down by word of mouth to the residents there. Alot of the negative things said about La Perla are from the Puerto Rico of years ago and the historical stigma of that neighborhood still persists unfortunately. And that is unfair to the many good people who live there today.
Great summary, thanks!
Thank you Ana
I have another one. Don’t forget to order a Mallorca sandwich and 🇵🇷 café con leche for breakfast while you’re in OSJ. Absolutely delicious!
Great video..as I leave for my cruise in two days
Just in time. That’s all you need to know. Enjoy as it’s a nice relaxing experience.
Have fun!
I live in Atlanta. San Juan is a bargain. Beautiful city. I love it.
the Condado is a great area to stay while in San Juan
Sir, absolutely great video. I enjoyed every bit and it was very much on point. I was born and raised in PR but left in 1989, in fact, I lived across Old SJ before moving to CA. Originally from Ponce, but I lived all over the metro area as a young child...thanks for putting it together and I am glad you like PR as much as you do. Take care and stay safe!
Much love ❤️
Thank you
Supposed to be going in September (hurricane limited lol) but me and my gf are so excited
😎 finally got to see this one. I was waiting for years lol but it was worth the years of watching your channel. So accurate and informative! Awesome
Thank you for your tips and comments. As a Puerto Rican, I really appreciate what you shared. Kudos to you!!
I think it’s common to see these higher prices in cruise ports.
you would be surprised what people expect :)
Thank you for your effort to do this good video.
Thank you
DUDE it’s not because it’s a large city. It’s because we have the Jones Act impacting the country. 98% of food is imported. The United State requires all imports to first come to the US, then be shipped to the island. No direct shipping. So Puerto Rico is double taxed. Thus that double taxation price is not only passed on to the people who live there making to difficult to live but it’s passed on to you as a visitor
Correct.
@@CenoteDeAtabey so it’s more expensive that Hawaii/California/NY?
Tip for driving in San Juan, don't think anyone will let you pull out into traffic, stop at the sign and the just go in the micro gap, the other car WILL stop, it's just how they drive. You have to be aggressive driving in San Juan. My saying is "drive San Juan, where it's always your turn" And don't think I'm putting down the driving, it's not easy, but it is what it is. Good luck, and just go!
I’m glad you enjoyed my homeland so much. I miss her so much.
I went to Puerto Rico on March of 2023 and Love the island 🏝️ loved la placita El condado! I was planning to Go back of February of 2024. But the hotels don't add up . Too expensive and nothing else! You are on your own to eat to travel to get drinks and that I don't like. Perhaps if they can do some all inclusive? For sure Puerto Rico will thrive on tourism for sure.
I love these videos that say turn signals are optional in PR - not too many people use them stateside either!
Back when I lived in Puerto Rico I got a couple tickets for not using turn signals. It's definitely not optional.
@@danny91pr I live here. They never give tickets unless it's for tinted windows.
Great video! I’m happy I was able to spend a few days in Rincon and take a day trip to the rain forest. In addition to a few days in San Juan. If I could do it again, I would plan a few days in vieques. Or one of the neighboring islands. For the full Puerto Experience. A few days in San Juan was enough for me. I feel like it was a great fit for those who enjoy a good trip to Vegas. As our resort had gambling, a night club and multiple pools. As well as a beach club. Fashion, vibe and cocktail price wise. Def similar to Vegas. 40.00 for 2 measured Tito’s and sodas. Before tip! Though I’ve heard that varies from hotel to hotel. I realize there is a fit for everyone. Loved Rincon. Chill vibe. Beautiful beaches, 3.00 fresh watermelon juice. Great surfing. Be mindful where you park your rental though. As we received a ticket despite there being no signs anywhere. The police would not explain what it was for. And we have yet to figure out how to pay the fine online. Us and one other tourist car were the only ones ticketed for being parked in the same area. Guess they need to make their money somehow. Why not the tourists! El Yuque was amazing! I recommend the earliest day hike you can book. To avoid the crowds. I booked Alejandro through an air bnb experience. Highly recommend! As it was less crowded, slightly less expensive and our two guides were so friendly and helpful. Rincon has some awesome, affordable air bnb options for lodging as well. Really cool beach bars. If you’re into that surfing, laid back beach vibe.
Vieques, beautiful place ,very nice people.
Excited about the food!
What restaurants would you recommend in sampling your favorites?
It is a single day stop for us while on a cruise.
Thanks
Lived in PR for a few months and I loved old San Juan.
I just got back. Great trip and welcoming people. One thing worth noting is that gas pumps do not have the ability to take credit cards. Either bring cash or expect to bring your card in and leave it while you fill up.
What a great video. Thanks for making this dont's list of San Juan it's so specialfor me as a Puerto Rican. I can tell you definitely do your research before giving the tips. Btw You made me laugh when talking about the food. 😂 Definitely don't forget to try it.
Love it
Great video, very informative, and right on target in every tip!
(I’m born and raised in San Juan)
Thank you for the tips! We are headed her on the MSC Seascape on the 20th of September.
Very accurate! 💯🇵🇷
I love this guy….
Great list, as a Puerto Rican I agree with most of what you said.
I would add, there's a few really good restaurants just on the outer edge of la Perla where it's perfectly safe for tourists. There's just no need for tourists or locals for that matter to go deep into the neighborhood unless you either live there or know someone there.
And also traffic sucks in the metropolitan area, but it's generally not much worse than any big city in the United States. One of the best parts of having a car if you're driving through the island us that you will find many vendors on the side of the highway, who sell things like delicious street foods or other cool stuff you might want to buy as a souvenir.
I was gonna say, the main strip in Perla is perfectly safe to visit during the day and there is a few local businesses there that would appreciate your business.
Finally, someone who said it. Don't go to La Perla..👏
Agree on La Perla without a doubt...otherwise Old San Juan is great as is the food and drink as you pointed out!
Most people think that Puertorrican food is just mofongo, empanadas and rice and beans but the palette is so much more.
People are so , so nice
Eat at Ropa Viejo on Ashford Ave. Good food!
If you’re from New York or anywhere big city you’re be ok driving in San Juan
I'm in Puerto Rico, right now😁🇵🇷🇵🇷🇵🇷
Awesome video
Thanks!
Piña colada: 1/4 cream of coconut (Coco López preffered brand), 3/4 pineapple juice, ice, (if desired, rum as needed) and blend. Ice goes first. Rum will water down the piña colada so adjust accordingly (sorry, no fixed ratio for that).
Thanks from Puerto Rico........all that you mention is real.....
Thank you! We loved our time in San Juan and in Puert Rico in general. Great food, friendly people, nice weather.
The hotel that I stayed in Old San Juan had a sign next to the toilet that said to put used toilet paper in the trash can and NOT in the toilet! Pee and poop only in the toilet. I asked the front desk about this and was told it’s very common in Old San Juan due to the plumbing and septic system.
I just came back from PR and its EXPENSIVE. Im from Chicago and it more expensive than here.
I didnt know they did British Wolter's World t-shirts!
Was a few years ago
I was in Aquadilla, Isabella and Arecibo in 2017. I am 10% indigenous PR, and it was my 2nd visit...the food is the best, hands down. The people are lively and friendly. I love my heritage even if 10%. They speak English in PR.
you are taíno!!! have you considered reconnecting? it's so important to honor our ancestors and keep them and our culture alive!!!
In San Juan they speak English. Everywhere else in PR, much less so
@@jaynyce5923I would agree.
Marc is epic
Thank you
I went to the bioluminescent bay. It was amazing.
gorgeous
Any tips for Mayaguez?
English is common especially among the younger generation to the point that we sometimes forget words in spanish and end up with a flavorful spanglish. You will have no problem as an english speaker. PERSONALLY, I do appreciate literally just 1-2 words in spanish at the beginning of conversations. It makes me feel acknowledged. “Hola, con permiso, una pregunta (a question), gracias, adios,…) just simple words or phrases that show that you acknowledge local identity. It’ll make it easier for me open up to you. But thats just my opinion. Its really just a bonus, I am fine with pure english. So are 99% of the population.
In my opinion, I would disagree. I would say the opposite- the majority prefer to speak Spanish.
La Perla that's my first enjoyment 😂
I have family that lives in la Pella we just don't like it when Taurus go down there and think they can disrespect it and people talking negative about la Pella ✌️
Lol, you are very aware of how things are in San Juan and PR... Good Job
I would say don't go swimming at the beaches in San Juan. They are not the best beaches on island and there are a lot of rip currents if it isn't in a crowded protected area. Also don't forget to drink the local coffee; it is some of the best in the world.
My other don't: Don't only visit San Juan, the rest of the island is full of things to see.
Note to go the the west side you can fly into Aguadilla or take the puddle jumper from San Juan to mayaguez for $40.
Yes, be careful at the beaches- very strong currents. Also, I would agree that you should try to make the effort to speak Spanish. Puerto Ricans prefer Spanish.
Mark, you mentioned that US citizens don't need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico. I have a suggestion for a video. It would be to explain the Travel ID that is necessary to fly starting May 3, 2023.
i have one out on REAL ID, and i just filmed the european visa system for americans (though they changed it from january to may the day after i filmed it :) so i am doing some creative editing on that one :) but hopefully next weekend
@@woltersworld Thanks Mark!
Puerto Ricans are good people but it is unfortunate that they have a bad government that mistreats their population and many young people have to leave the island for better opportunities elsewhere. Hopefully, they do get some trustworthy people to lead them but as of right now it seems not all is good.
Just got back from visiting PR for the first time. I agree that the people are good, but it was evident that its govt doe not serve or lead the people righteously. As far as the cost of living goes, I’m not sure how the locals afford things unless they have “locals only” places.
Welcome To Earth
They elect their government. Is everyone's responsibility. People need to learn how to say I'm part of the problem.
@@AM-dr9qdsome people are not going to wait forever for the politics to get better, those who stay usually already have to much invested in the island or are too poor to leave.
Send em to Maine! Greenhead lobster! Im going next month to recruit more future employees! Good people looking to work. Nobody here wants to work. So screw it. Ill pay it forward i guess
Perfect video, going to Puerto Rico for the 11-18 of July. Was just getting my tripadvisor stuff together lol
You will have a fun time
If you crave local fast food, go to El Meson. Great Sandwiches and coffee.
Love Puerto Rico
En general buenas recomiendaciones.
I wouldn't be caught anywhere without watching the Don'ts first
thanks Mel
Why shouldn't a tourist go to La Perla district? Is it dangerous?
"Talking about Puerto Rican food makes me really happy"
It's so good. Go dawgs!
0:13 This clip cracked me up.
Hi I'm looking at staying in Brisas Del Mar, Mata de Plátano for a few nights of my stay after staying in SJ. Is this area safe and is it close to any main attractions? Ty❤
perla is very safe,fun ,god live music is a destination what you mean dont go if you dont want go stay in the states .
I know you didn't dare to say it, but for all people asking why it's so expensive in Puerto Rico, it's USA's fault, Not Puerto Rico. Look up Jone's Act in Google. The law says cargo between U.S. points must be carried by ships that are primarily built, owned and crewed by Americans. This raises shipping prices big deal, which is then transferred to Puerto Rico making everything so damn expensive and by the way Puerto Rico is an island so pretty much Everything needs to be transported by ships. There you have it, thanks USA😊
Yep.
What time of year is this video??
March
@@woltersworld Thanks 😊
Driving is way less hectic out of the San Juan metro area.
Not even pick pockets and leaving the car on all the time. Honestly, probably the safest old town in US for the city of that size. La Perla is fine too. As long as you don't pull the phone out. And it's not a robbery issue. More of the locals not feeling like being an attraction. Not wanting to be recorded in the open drug market probably has something to do with it too. Moved from West Coast a couple of years ago. Feeling safer here than in The Bay or LA is a subject of the conversation with every new Cali transplant we meet
Im trying to plan a visit to PR for 5-7 days for a family of 4. How much spending money should we bring with us?
Hi ! I love your show but just wanted to say we are not the home of Bacardi. We love Bacardi, but this is a Cuban rum.
Don Q, yes?
Are there any locals from PR here? Is La Perla that dangerous?
Local here. La Perla is not that bad if you follow some common sense “rules”, for example, the areas close to the entrances, next to the historic wall have nice local bars that are perfectly safe to visit and they are cheap, if you stay there you’ll be ok, don’t go deep into their streets, I’m sure nothing will happen if you do, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Also don’t take pictures of the local people, it’s true that some illicit stuff happens there, so for obvious reasons they don’t allow photographs. As long as you don’t go around thinking you can do whatever you want, they won’t bother you at all.
@@ariels36 muchas gracias!ni pensaba que alguien me iba a responder😀
No grabes a nadie y sentido común , lo demás la vas a pasar de maravilla .
And don’t forget to drink plenty of water if you’re walking a lot under the sun don’t be lazy not to carry it. It will save your life 😬
My advise, seriously, is don't trust your GPS. If you get caught in a mountainous neighborhood, you better know how to get out. It's easy to get lost and drive around in circles.
Don't forget Felix Navidad 🇵🇷
I know a passport isn’t needed to fly in, but is one needed to fly out? That happened to us on our trip to St. Thomas. Luckily, we had our passports with us, because we needed it to fly back home.
No it’s not needed but I always recommend people to bring it anyways just incase. Puerto Rico has a high immigration from DR, so you don’t want to get caught up with that
We are renting a car any good parking hints
If you drive in NY you can drive in PR.
Is cell numbers work there? Or do you need to switch to roaming?
I have att and it worked as normal. No roaming.
But check with your provider
Car rental is necessary and you’ll get used to drivers all over the road and grass, any place to get by another vehicle!
I stayed at Condado beach 🏖
The beach is beautiful but we warned going past the beach. Homeless and trash and lots of police 👮♂️