How to Find Cheap Hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico is the oldest city in the U.S. and will celebrate its 500th year as a city in 2008. This city has a rich history that's easy to appreciate in Old San Juan. There are also beautiful beaches in El Condado and wonderful ocean views in Isla Verde.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Credit/debit card to book accommodations

Instructions

Learn About the Culture in San Juan, Puerto Rico

1. Speak Spanish to communicate with people in their native language. English is used in many tourist areas.

2. Change into long pants for nice restaurants and to enter the casinos after 6 p.m.

3. Put on fresh clothes after a visit to the beach. Beachwear is not appropriate clothing when traveling around town.

Travel to San Juan, Puerto Rico

1. Fly into Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) located 9 miles from San Juan. There are over 20 airline carriers offering flights to Puerto Rico.

2. Relax on a cruise ship to Puerto Rico, which is a popular destination for Carnival, Celebrity, Silver Sea, Windstar and many other cruise lines.

3. Hail a cab for the trip from the airport to your hotel. It'll cost about $10 to get to Isla Verde and Las Marias, and $20 to get to Old San Juan, Tourism Piers and Puerta de Tierra.

Pick Your Cheap San Juan Accommodations

1. To book accommodations, contact Puerto Rico Convention Bureau at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

2. Take a chance and save even more money by booking ultra cheap accommodations. The cheapest rooms cost around $35 a night, though you might not be impressed by the ambience or amenities.

3. Book a cheap hotel in Puerto Rico's capital for $40 to $65 per night.

4. Choose 2-star San Juan accommodations. These rooms range from $75 to $100 per night.

Tips & Warnings

• San Juan represents several cultures from its history, including Latin American, African and Taino traditions.

• Spanish is spoken at a faster pace in Puerto Rico than in Mexico and Central America.

• Carry small bills at all times to pay for taxis, tip various people who help you or to make other small purchases.

• Citizens of the U.S. do not need a passport to travel to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

• Leave your extra cash and traveler's checks in the hotel safe when going out for the day or night.

• Foreigners should carry a photocopy of their passport at all times.

• Beware of tarantulas that come out at night. One bite means a trip to the local hospital for help.

• Leave expensive jewelry at home to keep it safe and to keep you safer during your trip.