Puerto Rico
No specific vaccinations appear mandatory for entry to Puerto Rico from the U.S. Or most other countries. Keep routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Chickenpox, annual flu shot) up-to-date. For tropical regions, especially rural areas, vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid are often recommended. Consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized advice.
Tap water in most urban and tourist areas, Aguadilla included, is generally safe to drink, meeting U.S. EPA standards. If you have a sensitive stomach or venture into very rural areas, bottled water remains an option. Exercise caution with street food; ensure it appears cooked thoroughly and served hot. Choose reputable vendors with high turnover, and wash hands frequently.
Hospital Buen Samaritano in Aguadilla serves as a main medical facility, providing emergency and general care. For specialized needs, larger hospitals exist in San Juan. National pharmacy chains like Walgreens and CVS, alongside local pharmacies, stock common medications and health supplies. For police, fire, or medical emergencies, dial 911, the standard emergency number across the United States.
As Puerto Rico is an U.S. Territory, no U.S. Embassy or Consulate within Puerto Rico exists. U.S. Citizens contact local police. Foreign nationals contact their respective embassy or consulate in the U.S. Mainland for assistance. Carry a card with your name, allergies/medical conditions, and an emergency contact number.
Stay alert to your surroundings.
Aguadilla generally has a lower crime rate than San Juan. Petty crime like pickpocketing or bag snatching can occur in crowded tourist areas or popular beaches. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas. Secure valuables.
Break-ins are not uncommon in remote beach parking lots. Never leave valuables visible in parked cars. Clear your car of all luggage and personal items when unattended. Park in well-lit, secure areas whenever possible, especially at night.
Stay informed and prepared.
Officially June 1 - November 30. Highest risk August to October. Monitor local news and weather advisories. Have a contingency plan. Local authorities provide clear instructions during storm events.
Puerto Rico sits in an active seismic zone. Minor tremors occur. Familiarize yourself with "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." Tsunami warning signs exist in coastal zones. Pay attention to any emergency alerts.
A smart travel companion.
Highly recommended. A comprehensive policy should cover medical emergencies, emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellation/interruption for unforeseen events. World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Insubuy are options.
Seek policies that specifically include hurricane coverage if you travel during the wet season. Compare coverage and prices from reputable providers online.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas. Secure your valuables. Avoid openly displaying large amounts of cash or expensive electronics. Leave valuables you do not need in a hotel safe. Use trusted Anti-theft bags for daily excursions.
Many beaches, especially those popular with surfers, have strong undertows or rip currents. Pay attention to warning flags. Swim near lifeguarded areas. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim to shore. Always hydrate, specifically when spending time outdoors in the sun.
Dial 911 (Police, Fire, Medical)
Keep contact information for your embassy or consulate in the U.S. Mainland handy.
Have emergency contact numbers for your policy details.
Maintain a list of family members, your doctor, and bank hotlines.
Main medical facility in Aguadilla.
Puerto Rico uses the United States Dollar (USD), simplifying currency matters for U.S. Travelers.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). ATMs appear widely available at banks, supermarkets, and some gas stations. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) find acceptance at most hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses. Smaller local establishments, like street vendors or "fondas," often prefer cash.
Tipping is customary in Puerto Rico, akin to the continental U.S.
Your daily expenses in Aguadilla will vary greatly based on your travel style and preferences. Here's a quick reference:
While Puerto Rico is generally a safe destination for tourists, awareness of common concerns and local procedures remains a wise practice.
For any police, fire, or medical emergency in Aguadilla or anywhere in Puerto Rico, dial 911. This is the standard emergency number throughout the United States. Prompt emergency services are available. For U.S. Citizens, no U.S. Embassy or Consulate within Puerto Rico exists, so direct contact with local emergency services is the protocol. Foreign nationals contact their respective embassy or consulate in the U.S. Mainland if assistance becomes needed.
Hospital Buen Samaritano in Aguadilla acts as the main medical facility, offering emergency services and general care. For more specialized medical needs, larger and more comprehensive hospitals appear in San Juan. National pharmacy chains like Walgreens and CVS, alongside local pharmacies, stock common medications and health supplies.
The tropical sun in Aguadilla appears intense, with a high UV index. Sunburn and heatstroke remain common concerns. Prioritize sun protection throughout your trip.
Apply Reef-safe broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ frequently, wear a Wide-brimmed hat and Sunglasses. Stay hydrated.
Avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day, typically 10 AM to 4 PM.
Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya appear present in Puerto Rico. Protecting yourself from bites remains important.
Use Insect repellent containing DEET (at least 20-30%) or picaridin. Wear Long-sleeved shirts and long pants during dawn/dusk.
Avoid standing water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Tap water in urban and tourist areas of Aguadilla generally is safe to drink. Food hygiene practices contribute to a healthier trip.
Drink tap water if comfortable, or choose Bottled water. Pick reputable restaurants and food vendors. Wash hands frequently, especially before eating.
Avoid uncooked street food or food that has sat out for extended periods.
| Coverage Area | Benefit | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Emergencies | Emergency medical treatment and evacuation costs. | Important; medical expenses without coverage can be substantial. |
| Trip Cancellation/Interruption | Compensation for unforeseen events (illness, family emergency, natural disaster) disrupting travel. | Highly recommended, especially during hurricane season. |
| Lost or Delayed Luggage | Coverage for essential items if bags are delayed or lost. | A comfort item; covers immediate needs. |
