Arrival & Departure: Vieques

First Steps Upon Arrival

Initial Actions

Collect Luggage:
Retrieve checked bags from the carousel if flying into VQS.
Locate Transport:
Find your rental car pickup desk or designated taxi/público stand.
Confirm Phone Service:
Check that your mobile phone service works; consider a local SIM card if needed.

Orientation & Needs

Neighborhood Familiarization:
Once at your accommodation, familiarize yourself with the immediate area.
Essential Services:
Locate nearby restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacy, and ATM.
Initial Purchases:
Withdraw USD from an ATM. Consider a quick stop for bottled water and snacks.

Getting to Your Destination

Airport Pickup

Taxis or públicos meet flights at Antonio Rivera Rodríguez Airport (VQS). They transport you to your accommodation.

Ferry Arrival

Upon ferry arrival at Isabel Segunda, taxis or públicos are available. They carry you to your lodging.

Driver Availability

Drivers typically await arriving passengers. Pre-arrangement might be possible for larger groups.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid rush.
Inquire about local postal or courier options.
The U.S. Post Office in Isabel Segunda handles domestic shipping.
VAT refund procedures are not applicable for Puerto Rico.

Departure Timing

Arrive at Isabel Segunda ferry terminal 60-90 minutes before.
Arrive at VQS airport 60-90 minutes before small plane departure.
Return your rental car with ample time before departure.
Confirm return procedures and location with agency.

Return Trip Final Checks

Flight/Ferry Confirmation

Reconfirm onward flights.
Verify ferry connections.
From Ceiba/San Juan to your next destination.
This prevents last-minute issues.

Packing Strategy

Pack strategically.
Leave adequate space for souvenirs.
Avoid overweight luggage fees.
Consider items acquired during your trip.

Accommodation Departure

Collect all personal belongings.
Perform a final check of drawers and closets.
Dispose of all trash.
Leave your accommodation tidy.

Cultural Insights

Online Communities & Language

Travel Forums

Travel forums or Vieques-focused online communities offer real-time advice and insights.

Facebook Groups

Specific Vieques groups provide recommendations and share experiences.

Language Resources

Utilize language learning apps like Babbel for practicing basic Spanish phrases. Even a few words deepen interactions.

Start Learning

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

A comprehensive Puerto Rico travel guide includes Vieques.
A detailed physical Map of Vieques is highly recommended.
Cell service is spotty; a physical map aids navigation.
Purchase one before your trip or upon arrival.

Books & Publications

Read books on Puerto Rican history.
Explore specific books on Vieques' unique past.
Check local shops for free newspapers.
Community newsletters list upcoming events.

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

Contacts

Emergency (Police, Fire, Medical): 911.
Vieques Health and Medical Services, Inc.: (787) 741-6000.
For U.S. Citizens, U.S. Department of State.
International visitors: embassy or consulate in San Juan.

Lost Document Procedures

File a police report immediately for lost ID/passport.
Contact your country's embassy or consulate.
Obtain emergency travel documents.
Immediately contact your bank for lost credit cards.

Natural Disaster Protocols

During hurricane season (June-November), monitor local news and official weather alerts. Familiarize yourself with your accommodation's natural disaster plan, including evacuation routes. Follow instructions from local authorities for evacuation or sheltering in place.

Arrival & Departure