Puerto Rico
The Island of EnchantmentAbout Puerto Rico: As the smallest and easternmost of the Greater Antilles, Puerto Rico is comprised of 79 unique cities and towns. And there's so much to do. Perfect for the golfer, Puerto Rico has several championship courses. More than 250 miles of sundrenched beaches spell delight for those who simply want to relax and sun-worship. An abundance of coral reefs will also enchant snorkelers and scuba divers. Brimming with its legendary Spanish heritage, San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, offers something for every traveler. Shop, restaurants, art galleries and museums are in abundance. For the history buff, Old San Juan features structures that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Nature lovers need go no further that any one of the island's majestic rain forests and imposing cliffs, each a memorable sight in itself. San Juan isn't short on nightlife, either. There are dozens of glittering casinos, fabulous restaurants and action-packed discotheques.
Climate: Warm and sunny year-round along the coast. Average temperatures during the summer are in the mid-80°F (29°C) and in the 70 °F (24°C) range during the winter. Temperatures in the mountains are slightly cooler by 5-10°. The average annual rainfall is about 62 inches (24 centimeters) mostly falling from May to December.
Documents: Visitors arriving from the U.S. or U.S. Virgin Islands do not need to show a passport or proof of citizenship. Canadians must carry a birth certificate and photo I.D., and other foreign visitors should have valid passports.
Currency: The U.S. dollar. Most major credit cards and traveler's checks are accepted.
Electricity: 110 volts 60 AC; U.S. appliances are compatible.
Taxes and Tipping: Hotels add a 7-percent tax, 9 percent if they have a casino. There's no departure tax, and visitors should tip an average of 15 percent in restaurants.
Time: Atlantic Standard Time -- same as Eastern Daylight Time.
Language: Spanish is the primary language, but English is understood and spoken almost everywhere.
Marrage Requirements: Documents required include driver's license (or passports for non-U.S. citizens), blood test taken within 10 days of the wedding, divorce or death papers (if applicable). Send request in writing at least two months in advance to Dept. of Health, Demographic Registry Office, Box 11854, Fernandez Juncos Station, Santurce, PR 00910; (787) 728-7980. After receiving the license forms, the couple must obtain a medical certificate from a doctor in Puerto Rico. With the necessary papers, a couple can visit the Marriage License Bureau to obtain a license.