There monkeys in El Yunque Rainforest?
False. No species of monkeys are native to Puerto Rico. I have heard that there are monkeys that live in certain parts of the mountains, but I can’t confirm or deny that. There is an island, Cayo Santiago, aka Monkey Island, off the coast of Punta Santiago, Humacao. Only islands live on this island. They were brought from India to SJU via JFK by a primatologist to be studied as part of a research project for Columbia University, almost 100 years ago. It is amazing how there are presently more than 1000 monkeys on this small cayo; many even survived Maria which directly hit exactly where they are! Although only researchers are allowed on the island itself, there is an excursion that involves kayaking to the shore! The PR Planners can help you get set up
There are alligators and or caimans in Puerto Rico waters?
TRUE, Although alligators and caimans are not native to Puerto Rico, they are in fact in some of the Puerto Rican waterways. There has been a surge going on since mid to late 2022 on the Northeast side of the Island. I live and work on that side of the Island and have never seen one personally. I am a charter boat captain and I paddleboard the rivers in that area, so I’m in the water daily.I would not worry too much about it.
Shark attacks are not common in Puerto Rico.
TRUE, shark attacks are NOT common. Of course there are sharks in the ocean around Puerto Rico. There are sharks in all parts of any ocean. I am a charter boat captain and the only species of sharks I see on a regular basis are nurse sharks. These sharks are not aggressive; you have nothing to worry about. My Guests & I have swam with these sharks off of the coast of Culebrita several times. Sharks in Puerto Rico
Street dogs in Puerto Rico will attack you.
FALSE. While Puerto Rico does have many street dogs and cats (over half a million-please consider being a Flight Angel on your way home!), we have never heard of anyone being attacked by one of them. We have personally been near many street dogs and never felt scared. You don't have anything to worry about.
Most Satos (‘stray dog’ in PR) have severe mange though, so please be mindful. Often times, ‘street’ dogs or cats by restaurants or kiosks actually live there and eat quite well! There are also crews or packs you’ll see that regularly are in that neighborhood or at that beach. It is technically illegal to tie up your pets in PR. Sometimes you’ll see a roaming dog and they’re just a local and/or their owner isn’t too far.
Indigenous tribes live in the Puerto Rican Rainforest.
FALSE. Though Puerto Rican's are composed of African, Taino (indigenous) and European descent, Tainos were extinct as of 1565 Don’t be surprised when you see regular homes in and around the rainforest.
The Tap Water Will Make You Sick.
FALSE. The tap water in Puerto Rico is perfectly fine to drink. I have been drinking, showering and cooking with it for 2 years with no problems.
You Must Speak Spanish to Explore Puerto Rico.
FALSE, although being able to speak Spanish does help. Many Puerto Ricans speak at least some English. Just have a translator such as Google Translate and for the most part, you will be fine.
The pot holes will swallow your car in Puerto Rico.
FALSE. Puerto Rico has potholes just like anywhere else, but it’s not as bad as people make it out to be. At least not in the areas I’ve been.
Puerto Ricans don’t like Americans.
FALSE–for the most part. First and foremost, Puerto Ricans are American. Yes, most Puerto Ricans don’t like what’s going on with the influx of Americans on the island causing gentrification, which is in turn changing the island and forcing many locals out of their hometowns or homes period, for the most part, the Puerto Rican people are very kind.
I have not had one single bad interaction with a Puerto Rican the entire time I have lived in Puerto Rico. I would like to point out that I have always lived in a normal neighborhood and some people have even told me the area was ‘dangerous.’ I am only making that statement so you don’t think I have spent the past 2 years in a gated community.
I need a Passport to travel to Puerto Rico.
FALSE, you do not need a passport to come to Puerto Rico; PR is a US Territory. You just need an ID like you would for any other domestic flight.
Puerto Rico is one Island.
FALSE, Puerto Rico consists of over 100 small Islands and keys, although only 3 are inhabited. Those islands are the main Island (Puerto Rico), Culebra and Vieques.
Puerto Rico is home to the highest rated bioluminescent bay in the world.
TRUE. Mosquito Bay which is located on the island of Vieques, is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
Due to there generally being no available flight or ferry route back at that time, an overnight stay is required. In fact, Puerto Rico is said to have 3 of the world’s bioluminescent bays; all of which are unique.
La Parguera is grandfathered in and allows gas boats in versus just kayaks. La Parguera is also the only bio bay you can actually swim in. There is also one electric boat in Fajardo, but it books up fast! Check Out A Clip of Mosquito Bay, Vieques Here!
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