Puerto Rico Islands

The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is a group of islands in the Caribbean Sea that have recently become a popular tourist attraction. The islands offer an amazing array of physical features that tourists can enjoy, from beaches and rainforests to caves, mountains and rivers.

‘Boriken' was the indigenous name for the island and is still used to refer to the natives in conversation. The term means ‘Land of the Lords'. Along with Cuba, Puerto Rico was one of the last places in Southern America to be free of Spanish rule. Ever since then it has been a part of the United States, becoming a Commonwealth nation nearly fifty years ago.

The mainland of Puerto Rico is made up of three distinct zones - the central mountainous, the northern tropical karsts and the exterior coastal lowlands. The climate of the mountainous region is sub-tropical (moderate), whereas the coastal region is characterized by a typically hot and humid tropical climate. The rainfall is plentiful and has contributed to a lush growth of rainforest in the region. The lowest temperatures (average - 63° F) are recorded in February and the highest (average - 88° F) are common in the month of August.

The capital of the nation is San Juan, which is also the largest and most visited destination in Puerto Rico. In addition to the main island, there are five island dependencies governed by Puerto Rico, namely Vieques, Culebra, Mona, Monito and Desecheo. The combined coastline offers many beach activities such as diving, snorkeling and sailing. The numerous rivers and waters that surround the island also provide ample opportunity for fishing.

All in all, Puerto Rico is a modern vibrant, and multicultural nation that has come together with Mesoamerican, Spanish, African and American influences.