Puerto Rico

Puerto Ricans love their country, and at the same time accept the free association with the United States, always emphasizing loyalty to their own culture, folklore, hospitality and way of life.

Puerto Rico is a modern progressive and civilized vacation spot that maintains the charm and hospitality of days gone by. You will find everything that the Caribbean has to offer in this all around family destination.

Best places to visit
Looking for the best of the best? Ask anyone individual and you will get as many different answers as people you ask. Each person sees a different picture of Puerto Rico. Sights, sounds and experiences will forever be embedded in the memories of those who come to visit. Which places should be on the top of your list?

Puerto Rico can be divided into five distinct regions, each with unique characteristics and flavors.

Northern Region
The capital of the island lies within this region. San Juan is the centre of commerce and is also the main port of entry. This is the most populous and economically diverse region. It has lots to offer - archaeological and historical exhibitions, beautiful beaches, forests, and fine dining.

Eastern Region
This region is home of El Yunque, known as the Caribbean National Forest, is located in the rugged Sierra de Luquillo, 40 km southeast of San Juan. Catch the ferry from Fajardo to the outlying islands of Vieques and Culebra, both known for their secluded beaches, snorkeling spots and spectacular views. A must see is the phosphorescent Mosquito Bay. This rare and remarkable phenomenon is caused by millions of luminescent dinoflagellates* lighting up when disturbed by movement. The region is also famous for its fresh local seafood and romantic sunsets.

Central Region
The central region is characterized by the Cordillera Central. The cool climate all year-round and rainfall of this area turned this region into an important agricultural center. If you want to relax in a quiet and serene place, full of lush and spectacular waterfalls and deep wilderness, this is the place for you.

Western Region
Hundreds of miles of coastline make this a popular beach region. Most of the island's top beaches are located here. This region is known for its diving and world famous surfing. This is the perfect place to stay if you like the ocean, water sports, and plenty of sunshine.

Southern Region
This hot and humid region is by far the driest in the island. The largest city in the region is Ponce, which was Spain's capital of the southern region until it fell to the U.S. in 1898. Rich in heritage and architecture, Ponce has spent nearly one half a billion dollars preserving its colonial core. This region will reveal a unique blend of both urban and rural environments, rich in cultural and architectural heritage.

Do you want to hear and see more? Do not hesitate and enjoy your visit to Puerto Rico!

• blend = směs

• by far = zdaleka

• charm = kouzlo, šarm

• core = jádro, nitro

• dinoflagellates* are tiny (malinký, tenoučký) plants which live in the sea and obtain energy from sunlight during the day; in darkness, they emit (vysílat, vydávat) bright blue light in response to movement within the water

• diverse = různorodý, rozličný

• embed = uložit, pevně zasadit

• emphasize = zdůrazňovat

• ferry = trajekt

• heritage = dědictví, tradice, odkaz

• hideaway = skrýše, úkryt

• humid = vlhký, dusný

• luminescent = světélkující

• lush = svěží rostliny

• maintain = udržovat, zachovávat

• outlying = odlehlý, vzdálený

• phosphorescent = světélkující

• preserve = uchovat, ochránit

• rainfall = množství srážek

• rare = vzácný, ojedinělý

• remarkable = pozoruhodný, významný

• reveal = odhalit, odkrýt, prozradit

• rugged = drsný

• secluded = odloučený, samotářský

• serene = poklidný, tichý

• splendor = nádhera

• vacation spot = rekreační místo, letovisko

• wilderness = pustina, divočina

• wonder = div