No, because the U.S. dollar is used, no passport is required since it’s a U.S. territory, and your cell phone works just like at home, so you won’t need an international plan. You can focus on packing and enjoying the trip without worrying about extra travel logistics.
To fully embrace the beauty of the rainforest setting, we kindly recommend an Island Glam dress code. Think elevated tropical elegance with comfort in mind: For women: Flowy dresses, breathable fabrics (linen, silk, chiffon), vibrant or earthy tones, and wedges or block heels suitable for natural terrain. For men: Guayaberas, light linen shirts, or summer suits in neutral or tropical hues (no tie required). Because the weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable, there may be light rain before sunset. We will monitor conditions closely and notify guests if any adjustments are needed due to heavier rain.
Wedding venue - Río Grande is approximately 30–45 minutes from San Juan. Wendy's tip: I prefer taking a taxi from the airport to the hotel, then moving around using Uber. Taxi's prefer cash but will take debit. There are ATMs at the airport. • Uber is widely available from San Juan and the airport (~$60–$80). • For return trips, we recommend scheduling your ride in advance. • Taxis and private transfers are also available. • Renting a car is the most convenient option for guests staying multiple days or exploring the island.
Besides fresh caught seafood of course, look out of: Mofongo – Mashed plantains with garlic, often served with seafood or pork. Lechón – Slow-roasted, crispy pork, a Puerto Rican favorite. Pastelón – Sweet plantain lasagna layered with seasoned meat. Tostones – Twice-fried green plantains, crispy and savory, perfect as a snack or side. Bacalaítos – Crispy codfish fritters, a beloved local treat often found at beach kiosks.
Puerto Rico offers a vibrant culinary scene from traditional island flavors to modern, elevated cuisine. Below are some of our favorite spots across San Juan and Río Grande for you to enjoy during your stay. San Juan Favorites - Lunch & Dinner Casita Miramar Address: 605 Av. Miramar, San Juan, PR Website: https://casitamiramar.com A charming classic with elevated Puerto Rican cuisine. La Casita Blanca Address: 351 Calle Tapia, San Juan, PR Website: https://lacasitablanca.com Authentic, soulful, and beloved by locals. Cocina al Fondo Address: 300 Calle San Francisco, San Juan, PR Website: https://cocinaalfondo.com Modern Puerto Rican cuisine in a refined setting. Verde Mesa Address: 107 Calle Tetuán, Old San Juan, PR Website: https://verdemesapr.com Fresh, artistic, farm-to-table dining. More San Juan Favorites Santaella – upscale & vibrant Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar – fine dining Jose Enrique – award-winning local favorite Brunch El Mañanero Location: Calle Loíza, San Juan A lively brunch favorite with great coffee and dishes. Café Regina Tostado Panoteca San Miguel 🌿 Río Grande & Nearby (Luquillo / Fajardo) 🌴 Local Favorites La Parrilla Location: Luquillo Kiosks Beachfront seafood with beautiful views. Terruño Address: Carr. 3 km 30.3, Luquillo, PR Authentic Puerto Rican cuisine—local favorite. La Estación Address: Carr 987 Km 4.0, Fajardo, PR Highly rated BBQ with Puerto Rican flavors. Elevated Options Roots Coastal Kitchen Refined, modern Caribbean cuisine near the rainforest. Casual & Daytime Luquillo Kiosks Fun, casual, and perfect for trying a variety of local bites. ☕ Casual Stops Brunch & Bistro Bar Degree 18 Juice Bar El Verde BBQ We recommend making reservations in advance, especially for dinner and weekend brunch. If staying in Río Grande, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore nearby restaurants.
Old San Juan - Top Bars adjacent to Calle San Sebastián (2026): La Factoría (148 C. San Sebastián) La Taberna Lúpulo (151 C. San Sebastián): A popular beer hall featuring a massive selection of craft beers on tap and bar food. El Cafetín (153 C. San Sebastián): A traditional spot known for affordable mojitos, local beer deals, dominoes, and authentic Puerto Rican culture. Cannon Club (215 C. San Sebastián): Located within the historic area, offering a more refined drinking experience. ***El Batey (101 Calle de Cristo): An iconic, legendary dive bar known for its graffiti-covered walls and laid-back vibe. The Mezzanine at St. Germain (156 Calle Sol): A stylish, second-story lounge known for craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. Calle Cerra, Santurce (San Juan area) - Located near La Placita, this area is famous for its massive, vibrant murals, making it an excellent spot for daytime sightseeing, walking, and photography before heading over to La Placita for the evening party. La Placita de Santurce has a chill atmosphere, walkable on good Thursday through Saturday, with Friday and Saturday nights being the most energetic and crowded.
TPC Dorado Beach – East & Sugarcane Courses (Dorado) – Championship layouts with ocean views and lush fairways designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jr. St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club (Río Grande) – Tropical resort course weaving through rolling terrain and beachfront landscapes. El Conquistador Golf Club (Fajardo) – Resort course set near the rainforest with scenic ocean glimpses. Wyndham Rio Mar Beach Resort – River & Ocean Courses (Río Grande) – Two scenic courses blending coastal views with lush jungle surroundings. Palmas Athletic Club (Río Grande/Humacao area) – Relaxed, well-maintained fairways perfect for resort-style play. Grand Reserve Golf Club (Río Grande) – Elegant course with rainforest elevation changes and stunning ocean panoramas.
Besides sunscreen of course, bug spray or lotion is a good idea. Brian has been using odorless 14hr Sawyer Picaridin lotion for the last two years and has never received a bite. True story.
That sound you hear at night is the coquí, a tiny tree frog native to the island. The males make a loud, high-pitched “ko-kee” call to mark their territory and attract mates. It’s a signature part of Puerto Rico’s nighttime soundscape, especially in forested and residential areas near greenery, and is considered a charming and iconic symbol of the island.