Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, or also officially known as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in the northeast Caribbean Sea, east of the Dominican Republic, and west of both the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. It is an archipelago that includes Puerto Rico, the main island, and smaller ones like Mona, Culebra, and Vieques. This 100-mile long by 35-mile wide island has plenty of cultural experiences and many historical locations to explore as well as nature, sports, nightlife and adventure. San Juan is the capital and the most populated city, and it is known as the walled city (la ciudad amurallada). It is the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas. The capital is located in the Northern Coastal Plains region in the karst zone.

SAFETY INDEX

See cities in this country

Is Puerto Rico a Safe or Dangerous Country?

According to reports of the Crime in the United States published online by the FBI, Puerto Rico has a crime problem higher than New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago metro areas. However, the crime rate is lower in the wealthy suburbs outside of major city areas. The major problem is theft, so never leave your belongings unattended. Carjacking and car theft are common. It is recommended, that as in any country, you avoid certain areas. Puerto Rico can be safe as long as you use common sense and take advice from authorities, hotels and tour operators. Follow the news on television and radio closely. Be aware of your surroundings at all times like you would in any large city. Criminals tend to work in groups and use different ruses to distract travelers.

Warnings & Dangers

Mid Priority-96 OVERALL RISK : LOW

Standard safety precautions are recommended in Puerto Rico. Exercise common sense and remain vigilant for suspicious behaviour as you would in any other country. Watch out for petty crime in tourist areas and protect your valuables.

Mid Priority-96 PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH

Pickpocketing and purse snatching are common in tourist locations and public transportation.

Mid Priority-96 MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Muggings have happened in urban areas. People walking alone are often the targets, especially at night. In case of being robbed, do not resist and hand over your valuables.

Mid Priority-96 SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

As in any other country, taxi drivers will try to take advantage of travelers by overcharging them. Remain vigilant for thieves that use different strategies to rob you like a tap on the shoulder, spitting or getting something spilled on you. Credit card skimming is also common.

Mid Priority-96 TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Overall, taxis and public transportation are safe. Make sure you book a ride or use radio taxis from places like a hotel when possible as there have been reports of traveler being robbed and assaulted by taxi drivers.

Mid Priority-96 NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

Flooding and landslides can happen during tropical storms and hurricanes and may result in serious disruptions. The hurricane season extends from June to November. Monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Mid Priority-96 TERRORISM RISK : LOW

There is no recent history of terrorism in Puerto Rico. However, they should not be ruled out, so remain vigilant for suspicious activity.

Mid Priority-96 WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Many women travel safely without any issues. However, there have been reports of sexual assault throughout the country. Avoid isolated locations and traveling alone after dark. Remain extra vigilant at bus terminals and in taxis.

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