Let yourself Puerto Ri-Go!

This week Norwegian launched the UK’s only direct flights to Puerto Rico – opening up the home of salsa dancing and pina coladas for the first time in almost a decade. So what can Brits expect from this unique Caribbean – American island?

Same same, but different…

Golden sandy beaches? Check. Rum cocktails? Check. Sun all year? Check. Puerto Rico offers the best of the Caribbean, but as a U.S. territory it also features designer malls, and easy transport links – making it simple to get what you need and explore at your own pace with a rental car.

A tale of two cites…

San Juan is Puerto Rico’s capital and a thriving city packed with modern restaurants, bars and luxury hotels – but it is also one of the oldest Spanish settlements in the New World. Spend a few days getting lost in the old town’s maze of cobblestoned streets and squares before arriving at the UNESCO protected fort to pose for selfies against the spectacular backdrop of the Atlantic.

A natural beauty…

Puerto Rico boasts over 270 miles of white and golden sandy beaches – perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling and enjoying water sports but it’s at night that the coast really shines… literally. The island has several designated “bio bays” where groups can kayak into the water to witness rare bioluminescent illuminate the night waters.

Thrilling days out…

Once you’ve indulged in culture, cocktails and sunbathing you’ll be ready for a bit of thrill seeking – and Puerto Rico is certainly the right place for it. The Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park boasts one of the world’s longest zip wires – nicknamed ‘the beast’ - it is over a mile long! For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, why not delve deep into the Rio Camuy caves for a subterranean tour of the rivers, crystal clear pools and mud slides running under the island.

Eat, drink and be merry…

Puerto Rico’s culture is a lively mix of Taíno, African, and Spanish influences, and you’ll experience this in the food, drink and nightlife wherever you are on the island. World-class chefs man the kitchens at many restaurants in San Juan, and a range of bespoke culinary tours are available exploring the best of locally sourced products such as coffee and rum. Once you’ve sampled the tastes of the island then experience the sounds at one of the island’s famous salsa clubs such as the Nuyorican in old San Juan.

Getting there: Norwegian operate flights from London Gatwick to Puerto Rico from £159 one way. Flights are available at: www.norwegian.com

For more information about Puerto Rico visit: www.seepuertorico.com