Getting Around: You'll find that you have many of the same options in Puerto Rico as you do at home. Rental cars from the major agencies are available from AAA, Avis, Budget, Discount, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and other companies, especially in the San Juan area. Driving is on the right and signage, while bilingual, is like that at home. However, realize that San Juan is a major metropolitan area and just as difficult to maneuver as any other city its size. The Old San Juan area is especially congested, with old, narrow streets.

Taxis are a popular choice, especially within the San Juan area. A new Taxi Turisticos program sets specified rates within certain zones. These taxis are white and bear the words Taxi Turisticos and a drawing of El Morro. These taxis are an excellent choice for first-time visitors. The drivers have received special training to serve the tourist zones. A drive from the airport to the Isla Verde area costs about $8; a trip from the airport to Old San Juan runs about $16.

Entry Requirements: As a US commonwealth, passports are not required of American citizens. However, passports are required for visitors from Canada and the U.K. Luggage is inspected upon departure for agricultural reasons.

For More Information: In the U.S. contact the Puerto Rico Tourism Company at 3575 Cahuenga Boulevard, Suite 405, Los Angeles, California 90068, 800-223-6350 or 213-874-5991 or at 901 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, Suite 101, Coral Gables, Florida 33134, 800-223-6350 or 305-445-9112, fax 305-445-9450. In Canada, contact Puerto Rico Tourism Company, 41-43 Colbourne Street, Suite 301, Toronto M5E 1E3, 800-223-6350 or 416-368-2680. European headquarters for the Puerto Rico Tourism Company are at Calle Serrano 1, 2 Izda. 28001 Madrid, Spain; phone is 341-431-2128, fax 341-577-5260.

Website: www.prtourism.com