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Departing Calgary
	Varadero 3	$497.00
	Cancun 3.5	$597.00
	Huatulco 4.5	$788.00
	Puerto Vallarta 3	$627.00
	Manzanillo 3	$648.00

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Prices do not include taxes, insurance, or our service fee. Prices apply to online bookings only and not via Calgary Co-op Travel retail locations.

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Accommodation

There is a wide range of accommodation options in Puerto Rico. Many major chains have resorts throughout the island. The Hilton Caribe is an excellent family resort that offers a private man-made beach as well as a large pool area. The Sheraton Old San Juan is an good starting point before a cruise. It's located across from the pier in the heart of Old San Juan, with world-class dining and shopping right at your doorstep.

For something more authentic, stay at a family-owned padora (inn). With friendly staff, a unique charm, and home-cooked meals, you are sure to feel welcome. There are also many boutique-style hotels, such as the Normandie, which has a classic art deco theme.

But if you truly want to pamper yourself, a stay at the Paradisus is a must. This is Puerto Rico's only all-inclusive resort. With 5 star food and service, a lagoon style pool sprawling the grounds, and a natural beach, you will truly think you have found paradise.

Dining

Dining is a highlight of any visit to Puerto Rico. The island offers traditional Criolla and Puerto Rican fusion as well as just about every international cuisine you can imagine.

Criolla cuisine is a blend of Taíno, Spanish and African influences, incorporating all kinds of delicious fruits and vegetables, unforgettably savory rice dishes, meat and poultry, as well as abundant local seafood. One island favorite, tostones, or fried green plantains, are enjoyed alone or as a side dish with nearly every meal. Mofongo is another tasty option; it features mashed plantains and meat or seafood in a delicious garlic and tomato-based sauce.

Getting Around

By Ground -- Most of the major car rental companies have offices at the airport in San Juan and in the larger cities and towns. Roads are clearly marked and maps are available. Note that speed limits are indicated in miles per hour, but distances are shown in kilometers. Taxis are available at the airport, hotels and major tourist points. In the tourism zones, rates are fixed and posted. Outside the zones, taxis are metered and can be hired by the hour.

By Air -- You can fly to many of the cities and towns within Puerto Rico by taking one of the regularly scheduled commuter-type flights from any of the local airports.

By Water -- Ferry service to Culebra and Vieques is available at the small port of Fajardo on the east end of the island, or from Old San Juan.

By Público -- Among the most interesting-and adventurous-ways of traveling in Puerto Rico is by público. Públicos are independently owned and operated vans that serve hard-to-reach areas. They also travel between island towns. If you have the time, they can be an inexpensive and fascinating way to learn about the island. You may find yourself riding with a family on its way to see a grandmother on the other side of the island, or a half dozen ballplayers on their way to a game. All in all, públicos offer visitors a terrific opportunity to gain an insight into Puerto Rico and its people.

Getting There

Puerto Rico has one of the largest airports in the Caribbean and is a popular place for hopping over to the U.S. Virgin Islands and other Caribbean destinations. Air Canada and many major U.S. carriers offer daily flights into Puerto Rico. There are also many airlines from Europe and South America making daily runs, making Puerto Rico a very international destination. From Calgary, the most convenient option is to fly on either American Airlines via Dallas or with Continental Airlines via Houston.

Although there are no regular passenger services to Puerto Rico by sea, it is a major cruise ship port of call and is also the home port of several cruise lines. More than a million passengers visit the island on cruise ships every year.

Travel Tips

Puerto Rico is considered part of the U.S.; however a passport is highly recommended and is your best form of identification.
When travelling from Canada, U.S. customs are pre-cleared at your home airport, which makes landing in Puerto Rico stress-free.
The local currency is the U.S. dollar.
Spanish and English are both the official languages of Puerto Rico; the majority of its people are Roman Catholic.

For More Information

If you're looking for a holiday that blends history, culture and cuisine with tropical island charm, ask me about Puerto Rico. Call Jeanine Scratch, 299-2619, or email jscratch@calgarycoop.com. Or get all the facts from an expert at your nearest Calgary Co-op Travel office.

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