TravelingJ
American looking for information about Puerto Rico
Forum posts
38
About me
American
Speaks English
Registration: 07 May 2016
Trying to budget a move to Santurce by miminich
Hi all! I've been scanning this forum and haven't found an answer to this question. Please forgive me if this is a redundant/common query. My girlfriend and I plan to move to Santurce in January of 2017. We will bring a car, and hope to ...
@condorbutch- I just sent you a PM asking more about your car shopping experience with the USVI. Read More
Any fishermen out there? by TravelingJ
Where is the best place to go fishing in PR? What types of fish are typical to catch? How far off shore do you have to go to get edible fish? I heard that in the Caribbean some fish are toxic due to eating reef fish.
Thanks @WarnerW- I love to go fishing. Every year I go fishing in Costa Rica and have caught Dorado and tuna for the table and sailfish, roosterfish and Marlin for sport (catch and release). There are not too much information about fishing in PR, ... Read More
Any fishermen out there?
Where is the best place to go fishing in PR? What types of fish are typical to catch? How far off shore do you have to go to get edible fish? I heard that in the Caribbean some fish are toxic due to eating reef fish. Read More
Check me out, need feedback by condorbutch
I鈥檝e seen others who in the same boat as me, and we are facing basically the same problems, the only difference being our individual life styles. I鈥檝e already bought airline tickets and have set a date. I鈥檓 going to sell my car ...
@condorbutch, several months ago Rey gave me a link for car insurance. I called and the broker was very nice and gave us a great full coverage quote, which I assume you will need if you are taking a loan out on a car. Here is the website: ... Read More
Just joined by condorbutch
hello everyone I'm glad I ran into this site, I think it just might be the site I was looking for with my up and coming move to Puerto Rico. I only have a million questions, I'm hoping to find some answers here if some of you would be kind ...
Speaking of cars being stranded on the side of the road... Does PR have AAA (automobile club)? Read More
ukuleles and friends by frogrock
Hello from the other side, One item in my To Do list is to get together with others who play or would like to learn how to play the ukulele. I love this little four-string wonder because it is easy to learn and it is a catalyst for having fun with ...
That sounds like so much fun!!!! Read More
Insects/bugs by TravelingJ
Ok, I know that it is the Caribbean and that there are bugs (duh). I know there are mosquitos.....but what other little critters are prevalent on the island? We spend a lot of time in Costa Rica.....just wondering if the bug situation is the same. ...
Thanks Rey....yuck. No pond swimming for me. That worm sounds nasty. Read More
Insects/bugs
Ok, I know that it is the Caribbean and that there are bugs (duh). I know there are mosquitos.....but what other little critters are prevalent on the island? We spend a lot of time in Costa Rica.....just wondering if the bug situation is the same. ... Read More
Hotel near airport in San Juan by TravelingJ
When we fly to PR our flight lands after 9 p.m. Can anyone recommend a clean and economical hotel close to the airport? Any favorites that won't break the bank? It will only be for one night.
Thanks everyone. Yes, it will be my first time. I am a "planner" so I am researching everything in advance. I am no stranger to big cities and am not afraid to take a taxi. Hotels online vs how they appear in real life are different. This ... Read More
Hotel near airport in San Juan
When we fly to PR our flight lands after 9 p.m. Can anyone recommend a clean and economical hotel close to the airport? Any favorites that won't break the bank? It will only be for one night. Read More
Banks in Puerto Rico
I currently am a Wells Fargo customer. I might keep it after I move to PR, but will want to open a bank account in PR. What is your favorite PR bank? One with the least amount of fees and has the most ATM access across the island. Branco Popular? ... Read More
Name on drivers license by Dawndoro
Hello! Dawn here...moved with the fam to Fajardo about a month ago, went through the wonderful procedure only to see my maiden name on my license...she indicated because that's what my birth certificate said...no mind my SS card! I have figured ...
Thank you so much Dawndoro for your update! Read More
Name on drivers license by Dawndoro
Hello! Dawn here...moved with the fam to Fajardo about a month ago, went through the wonderful procedure only to see my maiden name on my license...she indicated because that's what my birth certificate said...no mind my SS card! I have figured ...
Dawndoro: Thank you!!!!! Yes, please keep me posted. Read More
Name on drivers license by Dawndoro
Hello! Dawn here...moved with the fam to Fajardo about a month ago, went through the wonderful procedure only to see my maiden name on my license...she indicated because that's what my birth certificate said...no mind my SS card! I have figured ...
Well I hope I can use my married name, it is on my passport, SS card, car title, bank accounts, etc., it would be ridiculous to have to change all those. I understand it is the Latin culture, but it is still the USA. I would understand having to do ... Read More
Name on drivers license by Dawndoro
Hello! Dawn here...moved with the fam to Fajardo about a month ago, went through the wonderful procedure only to see my maiden name on my license...she indicated because that's what my birth certificate said...no mind my SS card! I have figured ...
Dawndoro, when getting your license did they make you show your birth certificate or could you show your passport for identity instead? Read More
Name on drivers license by Dawndoro
Hello! Dawn here...moved with the fam to Fajardo about a month ago, went through the wonderful procedure only to see my maiden name on my license...she indicated because that's what my birth certificate said...no mind my SS card! I have figured ...
Do you have to show your birth certificate in order to get driver's license or could you show your passport instead? Read More
Mail Service
I know that PR uses USPS. Do they do delivery to your house or do you need to get a P.O. Box? Are the mailboxes secure? In CA we have had a lot of mail theft (letters and packages), luckily I live in a neighborhood where that has happened (yet). ... Read More
Are there stores like Whole Foods or Mother's Market in PR?
I am mainly looking for a store that has alternative toiletries (toothpaste, deodorant, lotion, etc). Any of you use essential oils? Is there any place to buy in PR or do you need to have them shipped? Thanks! Read More
Best ways to safely transport pets to and fro Puerto Rico by DeborahMarchant
Hello What are some of the best ways to safely transport pets to and fro PR? Any great suggestions? Most commercial and major airlines won't fly animals when the temperature is above 85 degrees.This is because while their cargo hold is ...
Thanks @purplesugar! United is the only commercial carrier that has climate control in cargo. The rule is they cannot be in transit more than 12 hours without an overnight stay at a boarding facility. There are unfortunately no direct flights to PR ... Read More
Best ways to safely transport pets to and fro Puerto Rico by DeborahMarchant
Hello What are some of the best ways to safely transport pets to and fro PR? Any great suggestions? Most commercial and major airlines won't fly animals when the temperature is above 85 degrees.This is because while their cargo hold is ...
Has anyone transported their cat to PR? My cat is too big to fly on the plane with me in the cabin; he weighs 16 lbs. My concern is that he hates to ride in the car for short distances and fear that the long travel will cause psychological problems. ... Read More
Gardening, farming and agriculture. by Karenqc
Hi guys, I have noticed that quite a few of you are very much into growing your own food and/or are into gardening quite a bit. I am pretty much addicted and thought it would be nice if we could all share some of our tips and knowledge of growing ...
I am following this thread. Very interesting information. Read More
Our experience in purchasing a home in beautiful Puerto Rico. by BrianTX
Here's the story: My wife and I put our home in Texas on the market in February of 2016. After lots of discussion, we (which means my beautiful wife) decided that it was just too far from everything. We live out in the country and even to go ...
BrianTX, Thank you so much for your story and all the details. I laughed and cringed at some of what you went through. But it is all good as I will be going through some of the same when we move to PR later this year. We will rent first though as we ... Read More
Health Care 2016 by T_om
I was considering a move to PR but I'm having second thoughts because of all the negative comments on the health care system and emergency room nightmares. Even comments from a doctor who practices in PR. Anyone have a good experiences in a PR ...
If you don't have medical insurance how much would a normal Dr. visit cost? Read More
Auto Insurance by TravelingJ
Can anyone recommend a good/reputable auto insurance company/broker? Will be shipping car, but want more than just liability insurance. Will it be cheaper or more expensive than back in the states? Thanks all! This forum rocks!
Rey, thanks for the info on auto insurance company. The broker was very nice and quotes us full coverage, $500 deductible for comprehensive and collision, including rental car and road side assistance for about half of what we currently pay in CA. Read More
Relator/Broker needed San Juan by luis.grace
Hello, after looking around we want to explore the option of buying a home rather than renting. Can anyone recommend a good relator and/or broker in the San Juan area? Can I use a broker from FL, USA? If anyone knows! Thanks! :)
247realestatepr, I look forward to working with you. We won't be coming to PR until September. I will contact you when we get closer. Read More
Shipping car to PR? by TravelingJ
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ...
BrianTX, thanks. I don't have a lienholder, it is paid off. So I am lucky in that respect. Read More
Shipping car to PR? by TravelingJ
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ...
The problem would be if BrianTX had to sell his vehicle and then try to repurchase the same vehicle in PR, he would be behind financially even after paying the steep tax. He is lucky that he can leave his truck in the states for when he travels back ... Read More
Drinking Water? by TravelingJ
I assume the water out of the tap is drinkable? Do people use a filter? Let me know what you do on the island for drinking water without contaminates (chlorine, minerals, fluoride, etc). I currently have a reverse osmosis system in my house on the ...
Schutzie, the one I found was at Home Depot. Unfortunately they do not ship to PR, but I will bring down with me in my check-in luggage. It is called APEC Water system. Here is a link to it on Home Depot's website. Hope it helps. ... Read More
Auto Insurance
Can anyone recommend a good/reputable auto insurance company/broker? Will be shipping car, but want more than just liability insurance. Will it be cheaper or more expensive than back in the states? Thanks all! This forum rocks! Read More
Relator/Broker needed San Juan by luis.grace
Hello, after looking around we want to explore the option of buying a home rather than renting. Can anyone recommend a good relator and/or broker in the San Juan area? Can I use a broker from FL, USA? If anyone knows! Thanks! :)
How about realtor/property manager in Luquillo and/or Fajardo area? Looking to rent a house for the first year. Thanks in advance. Read More
Drinking Water? by TravelingJ
I assume the water out of the tap is drinkable? Do people use a filter? Let me know what you do on the island for drinking water without contaminates (chlorine, minerals, fluoride, etc). I currently have a reverse osmosis system in my house on the ...
Thanks everybody! I found a portable (on the counter) filter online that says it will purify up to 3 gallons an hour. I will go to Home Depot and check it out and see if it oils something that will work. I drink around a 1/2 - 1 gallon of water a ... Read More
Drinking Water?
I assume the water out of the tap is drinkable? Do people use a filter? Let me know what you do on the island for drinking water without contaminates (chlorine, minerals, fluoride, etc). I currently have a reverse osmosis system in my house on the ... Read More
Shipping car to PR? by TravelingJ
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ...
I researched shipping companies and it was between Crowley and Puerto Rico Transport. With Crowley I will have to drive to Jacksonville, but Puerto Rico Transport has the option to pick up at your home. I live on the West Coast so this would save me ... Read More
Shipping car to PR? by TravelingJ
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ...
I was looking into that same company. They will pick up on the West Coast and then ship to PR for around $1900. Saves us a drive across the USA. Just worried about the estimated $12,000 tax. But it says it is estimating that the car value is way ... Read More
Shipping car to PR?
I have read that it is a nightmare to ship your car to PR, but my car is relatively new and I would take a huge hit on it if I were to sell and would have to buy a lesser car. My question is how much is the excise tax? When I went to the Haceinda ... Read More