How Is Puerto Rico Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island that is known for its pristine beaches, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery. In recent years, the tourism industry in Puerto Rico has seen significant growth due to the island’s efforts to promote itself as a top travel destination. In this article, we will take a closer look at how Puerto Rico’s tourism industry is doing.

Impact of COVID-19 on Puerto Rico Tourism

Like many other countries around the world, Puerto Rico’s tourism industry has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The island saw a sharp decline in tourist arrivals and revenue in 2020 due to travel restrictions and safety concerns. However, as restrictions have eased and vaccination rates have increased globally, Puerto Rico has started to see an uptick in tourism.

Tourism Recovery Efforts

To boost tourism recovery efforts, the government of Puerto Rico has implemented several initiatives. One of them includes offering incentives to airlines that increase their flights to the island. Additionally, the government has invested in improving infrastructure and promoting sustainable tourism practices.

Popular Tourist Attractions

Puerto Rico has no shortage of popular tourist attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Some of these include:

  • Old San Juan: This historic district is home to colorful Spanish colonial buildings that date back to the 16th century.
  • El Yunque National Forest: This rainforest boasts stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse flora and fauna.
  • Rincon: This beach town on the west coast is known for its surfing spots and laid-back vibe.
  • Puerto Rico Bioluminescent Bay: Located on the island of Vieques, this bay is famous for its bioluminescent plankton that light up the water at night.

Sustainability Efforts

In recent years, Puerto Rico has placed a greater emphasis on sustainability in its tourism industry. The island has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and protect its natural resources. One such initiative includes the creation of the Northeast Ecological Corridor, a protected area that spans over 3,000 acres and is home to various endangered species.

Conclusion

Overall, while Puerto Rico’s tourism industry faced significant challenges in 2020 due to the pandemic, things are starting to look up. With the government’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism practices and initiatives to boost tourism recovery, Puerto Rico remains a top travel destination for those seeking sun, sand, and culture.