Is Puerto Rico’S Tourism Rebounding?

Puerto Rico’s tourism industry has experienced a significant recovery from Hurricane Maria, with the island leading the way in recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Travel Association’s Recovery report shows that Puerto Rico is experiencing a widespread but gradual recovery, with hotel occupancy rates being 15 higher than other U.S. states and territories. Most hotels have reopened, and luxury resorts that are not yet open will be open for the high season after extensive renovations and upgrades.

The island’s recovery has been aided by the “Live Boricua” campaign, which has helped the island recover from the hurricane. The government of Puerto Rico announced the Assistance Program to the Tourism Industry, which makes up to $50 million in immediate Community Reinvestment Funds (CRF) funds. Airbnb played an outsized role in Puerto Rico’s tourism recovery, as many of the island’s hotels were destroyed during Hurricane Maria.

Major tourist destinations like San Juan, El Yunque, Vieques, and Culebra have made significant recovery for tourists since Hurricane Maria. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 greatly affected this gradual recovery, and it was not until 2022 that tourism numbers demonstrated a concrete recovery.

Travelers can expect a different Puerto Rico post-hurricane due to the island’s renewal and continued recovery. The economy in tourism is picking up again in Puerto Rico, with most hotels reopening and luxury resorts opening for the high season after extensive renovations and upgrades.

Is Puerto Rico recovered for tourists?

Puerto Rico has become a popular Caribbean destination for domestic tourists due to the pandemic, with 2022 travel revenue up 39 percent from 2019. As a U. S. territory, Puerto Rico has no visa requirements, making it an ideal destination for American travelers. However, safety concerns remain, mainly due to the ongoing recovery from hurricanes and earthquakes. Despite these, Puerto Rico remains one of the safer destinations in the Caribbean. The pandemic has helped Puerto Rico catch a break, making it a more attractive destination for travelers.

Is Puerto Rico safe for tourists now?

Puerto Rico is generally safe for tourists with a lower crime rate than many mainland U. S. cities. Local police presence in tourist areas and along beaches helps maintain order. Petty crime still exists, and natural disasters like hurricanes and diseases like dengue fever or Zika virus pose potential risks. Awareness of weather warnings and taking preventive health measures can mitigate these risks. To explore Puerto Rico confidently, learn more about staying safe while traveling.

Is tourism growing in Puerto Rico?

During Discover Puerto Rico’s Industry Update Report webinar, Morales announced that tourism in the first months of 2024 has seen an upward trajectory and strengthening, surpassing previous records and demonstrating unprecedented growth.

Is Puerto Rico safe in 2024?

Puerto Rico is a safe destination for tourists due to its lower crime rate compared to most US metropolitan cities. Despite the fear of violence and hurricanes, the island has a long history of safety, with no reported incidents of violence between gangs or damaging hurricanes. This article provides a comprehensive guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Puerto Rico.

Is Puerto Rico still damaged?

The General Accounting Office (GAO) conducted a study to assess the progress of Puerto Rico’s recovery efforts after the 2017 hurricanes Irma and Maria, which caused significant damage to its infrastructure, housing, and economy. FEMA, the lead federal agency, administers the Public Assistance program, which provides grant funds for repairing and rebuilding damaged infrastructure. The GAO analyzed relevant FEMA and Puerto Rico government documents and data, conducted site visits, and interviewed officials to understand the status of permanent recovery work, the extent to which challenges have been addressed, and the results of FEMA’s efforts to monitor Puerto Rico’s use of grant funds.

Are people moving back to Puerto Rico?

Between 2021 and 2022, 27, 000 people relocated from the mainland US to Puerto Rico, bringing diverse housing options, top-tier schools, and expanding healthcare options. This influx boosts job creation, revitalizes the real estate market, and enhances community development. Filmmaker Alana Mediavilla, who moved back to Puerto Rico after living in New York City and Silicon Valley, was drawn to the island’s professional opportunities, year-round summery weather, international community connections, and vibrant natural landscape. She describes the island’s energetic energy as a feeling of life.

Why is Puerto Rico struggling?

Puerto Ricans face significant barriers to accessing fair and affordable financial services and products due to systemic barriers, limited English proficiency, and rising housing costs. These issues hinder economic mobility, making it difficult for families to buy homes, save for future generations, start businesses, and build wealth. Financial inclusion is crucial for Puerto Rico’s economic growth and recovery from future crises.

Financial institutions can help build a more inclusive financial system by providing opportunities for people with limited English proficiency to build their financial capabilities. To report an issue with a consumer financial product or service, contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) online or by phone in over 180 languages, including English and Spanish.

Is Puerto Rico or Costa Rica safer?

Costa Rica and Puerto Rico are both considered safe destinations in Central America and the Caribbean, but they have varying safety risks. Both have issues with petty crimes like pickpocketing and mugging, as well as large crimes involving gang violence and drug trafficking. However, Costa Rica is more likely to have run-ins with trouble and may have a harder time getting out of trouble due to several reasons.

Is Puerto Rico build back up?

Puerto Rico’s recovery efforts following hurricanes María and Fiona and earthquakes are focusing on building resilience and maximizing the opportunity for stronger recovery. FEMA is committed to supporting the government in this process, ensuring community-driven recovery and addressing vulnerabilities. The recovery process involves understanding vulnerabilities, finding sustainable solutions, advancing equity and climate adaptation, and ensuring recovery is community-driven.

FEMA has implemented innovative solutions to strengthen communities and better serve the island’s residents, with the support of the entire federal family. The road to recovery will bring new obstacles, but FEMA is ready to face them and help Puerto Rico thrive. The entire federal family is working together to ensure the island’s recovery is successful and resilient.

Why is Puerto Rico not a big tourist destination?

Puerto Rico’s tourism industry experienced moderate growth in 2014, primarily due to the introduction of new cruise lines, airfare activity, and hotel development. In 2016, Puerto Rico became a popular destination for business meetings, incentives, conferencing, and exhibitions due to its modern convention center and district. However, between 2017 and 2020, the industry was significantly impacted by events such as Hurricane Maria, the 2019 and 2020 earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, during the 2019 government shutdown, the San Juan National Historic Site closed its two colonial-era fortresses. As of 2024, nonstop flights to Puerto Rico are available year-round from domestic airports and several international airports, as well as regional Caribbean destinations like Barbados, Port of Spain, Punta Cana, St. Croix, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Santiago de los Caballeros, Santo Domingo, and Tortola.

Is Puerto Rico declining?

Puerto Rico’s population is declining, with all 78 municipios experiencing population loss in 2022, according to the Census Bureau.