Sources of Information
1. Tourist Offices Abroad
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company has offices in the US, Canada, UK, and Spain that provide brochures, maps, and general information on attractions, activities, and accommodations. For more detailed information, consult independent travel agencies and websites.
Puerto Rico Tourism Company • 800 866 7827 (US) • 416 368 2680 (Canada) • www.seepuertorico.com
2. Local Tourist Offices
There are local tourist offices scattered around the country, with the main Puerto Rico Tourism Company information bureau in San Juan. Specialist tour operators are also good sources for maps, brochures, and personalized travel advice. There are very few tourist information offices outside San Juan.Puerto Rico Tourism Company • La Casita, Pier 1, Old San Juan • 721 2400 (San Juan) • 841 8044 (Ponce) • 823 5024 (Rincón) • 787 741 0800 (Vieques) • www.gotopuertorico.com
3. Local Tour Operators
Found throughout the country, local tour operators are often the most reliable sources of information about sightseeing and activities related to specific regions and destinations. Hotel tour desks will be able to provide details of local organized tours and activities.
4. Websites
A huge amount of information about the country is available online. Google and other Internet search engines are a useful means of locating any specific information you may need, such as weather conditions, the cost of flights, or the availability of sporting activities. Try logging on to www.seepuertorico.com, www.puertoricodaytrips.com, and http://welcome.topuertorico.org.
5. Maps
There are several good maps of the country, the best published by International Travel Maps and Books. The best outlet for maps in San Juan is Cronopios.
International Travel Maps and Books • www.itmb.com
Cronopios • Calle San Jose 255, San Juan • 787 724 1815
6. English-Language Newspapers
The Puerto Rico Daily Sun the only English-language daily newspaper published on the island. The weekly Qué Pasa Magazine has useful tourist information, and The Vieques Times is published monthly.
7. Local Publications
Several daily Spanish-language newspapers compete, including El Nuevo Día, Vocero, and Primera Hora. Several towns also publish their own local newspapers – most are available online.
8. Bookstores
Several bookstores in San Juan, such as La Tertulia, have a good range of guidebooks, maps, and other travel-related literature. Hotel gift stores are also good sources.La Tertulia • 305 Recinto Sur, Old San Juan • 787 724 8200
9. Guides
There are many well-informed and qualified guides available in Puerto Rico, although some individuals offering their services can be a nuisance. Ask your hotel concierge or local travel agencies for a recommended and reliable guide. Many taxi drivers also hire themselves out as guides.
10. Libraries
San Juan’s Biblioteca Nacional has a vast array of books, maps, and documents, but they are mainly in Spanish. Most of the other towns also have libraries.Biblioteca Nacional • Av Ponce de León 500, San Juan • 787 725 1060 • Open 8am–4:30pm
