Puerto Rico getting back on track

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) is continuing to collaborate with industry players on its path towards recovery, from homeport operations for cruise lines to welcoming new guests at hotels across San Juan, with a focus on voluntourism.

“We’re glad to report that the preparedness measures put into place have allowed for what we’re seeing will be a quick recovery for our tourism industry,” said José Izquierdo, executive director, PRTC. “We are confident that the progress we have shown just a few weeks out is a sign of the resiliency and strength of our people.

“We expect to welcome visitors to the island in the weeks ahead, especially those looking to travel with a purpose as we’re working to finalize compelling voluntourism activities for those who want to head out beyond San Juan and help the communities in greater need.”

International airport back up and running

The Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is fully operational, with scheduled domestic and international flights. Rafael Hernández Airport (Aguadilla), Mercedita Airport (Ponce), José Aponte de la Torre Airport (Ceiba), Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport (Isla Grande) and the Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport (Vieques) are operational and offering limited service.

Ports reopen

PRTC said it was in direct communication with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) partners; San Juan Harbour is open and resumed homeport operations on the first weekend of October, with the departure of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Adventure of the Seas. Over 2,000 travellers are expected to travel in and out of San Juan to embark on these journeys.

Hotels back on track

More than 80 hotel properties are open, with most taking new reservations for the upcoming months. A full list of the status of hotels is available at http://puertoriconow.seepuertorico.com/hotels/.

Attractions reopening

An island-wide assessment of historic and tourist attractions is underway, but several key attractions have already opened, including the Puerto Rico Museum of Art in Santurce and the Ponce Museum of Art, both of which are open for visitors. Bacardi tours will open to the public on Nov. 1. El Morro and other San Juan historic sites are expected to open in the coming weeks. Public spaces for which admission is not required are also open.

Transportation, visitor services operational

Main transportation companies as well as taxi drivers are fully operating, and providing ongoing service to visitors. Local travel agencies are also operating and providing service to travellers. The Mall of San Juan and Plaza Las Américas are open for shoppers.

“The support received from our industry partners to date has been remarkable, and we continue to welcome relief efforts from partners who are interested in helping the people of Puerto Rico as we focus on rebuilding our island,” said Izquierdo. “We are confident that with the continuous support of our industry partners and visitors coming to our island, we can build a stronger Puerto Rico.”

The latest tourism industry updates on Puerto Rica are available at www.SeePuertoRico.com, with information on other infrastructure improvements accessible here.

Visitors with questions about travel to Puerto Rico can call the PRTC at 787-522-5960, talk via PRTC's Live Chat, or call hotels directly for more information.