Travel Puerto Rico
Black Woman Approved: Why I Love It
In San Juan, the past and present exist side by side in color. Old San Juan is characterized by charming cobblestone streets, brightly painted buildings, and imposing 16th-century forts that overlook the Atlantic, while contemporary murals, galleries, and a lively food and bar scene signal a city that continues to move forward.
Puerto Rico is one of the easiest “first international” trips for women traveling solo. You don’t need a passport, the flight is short, and the culture meets you where you are. For a Caribbean getaway, Puerto Rico is also one of the most accessible options. Uber operates throughout the main areas and to and from the airport and Old San Juan is especially walkable. Between its history, creativity, and ease of movement, San Juan is an approachable destination, especially for beginner solo travelers.
My first trip to Puerto Rico was celebratory. I had just gotten my first full-time marketing job, and I wanted to book a trip on a whim. In especially joyous moments, I want to experience a place that amplifies that and evokes a feeling of freedom. Puerto Rico was that place for me. Aside from booking a couple official tours, I roamed. And some of my best trips have been those that feel safe and inviting enough for me to do that.
Travel Logistics
Getting There
Many major U.S. cities have direct flights to Puerto Rico. If you’re coming from the East Coast, it’s especially quick, as flights are normally between 3 and 4 hours. You will arrive to and depart from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU).
Entry Requirements
No passport is required for U.S. travelers and you will not need to exchange currency, as Puerto Rico uses USD—easy!
Language
English is the official language and Swahili is the national language. You’ll hear phrases like jambo (hello), asante (thank you), and karibu (you’re welcome) everywhere.
Getting Around
Walking is sufficient if staying in your San Juan neighborhood, but if you are traveling outside of your neighborhood, Uber is available in San Juan.
A rental car is recommended if you’re going to El Yunque or you want to explore outside the city (Rincón, Ponce, etc.). If you don’t want to rent a car, but you are still interested in exploring, you might consider an organized tour to other places outside the city.
The Puerto Rico Edit
Guides, experiences, and real insights to help you plan your trip
Safety, Ease + Solo Travel Experience
If I Had Three Days In Puerto Rico…
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Walk through Old San Juan (color, architecture, photos)
Visit forts (Castillo San Felipe del Morro + San Cristóbal)
Dinner + drinks in the area
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Morning: El Yunque Rainforest (waterfalls, short hikes)
Afternoon: Beach time (Isla Verde or Condado)
Evening: Casual dinner + early night
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Brunch
Explore Condado + Santurce (art, murals, local vibe)
Last-minute shopping and more beach time before leaving
Where I Stayed
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El Colonial
This is a beautiful, historic stay right in the heart of Old San Juan. This 100-year-old building has so much character, but you can tell it’s well cared for. I stayed here just days after a hurricane, and the property was completely unaffected, which says so much about it. The staff was warm, attentive, and made the experience feel so personal by providing some of the best restaurant recommendations.
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AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado
If you want something modern, convenient, and close to everything, this is an easy choice. It’s just a block from the beach and within walking distance to other resorts, restaurants, and nightlife in Condado. The vibe is clean and minimal, and it’s a great base if you plan to be out exploring during the day but still want a comfortable, reliable place to come back to.
What I Would Do Differently
If I went back to Puerto Rico, I would go a little deeper.
I spent a lot of time in San Juan, which I don’t regret because it’s beautiful, walkable, and easy to be comfortable in. Next time, though, I would be more intentional about exploring the cultural roots of the island, especially the influence of Afro-Puerto Ricans and the history of the Taíno people.
I had a moment where I experienced Puerto Rico’s Bomba dance, and it’s still one of the most spiritual travel experiences I’ve ever had.
I would also leave more time to explore outside of San Juan. Places like El Yunque National Forest and Loíza are still on my list, and I would plan my trip around making space for them.
A visual look at Puerto Rico through Old San Juan and Condado, capturing color, everyday moments, and a slower way to experience the island