Communication in: Old San Juan

Mobile Connectivity

Major U.S. Mobile carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) operate in Puerto Rico. For U.S. Customers, Puerto Rico is domestic travel, so your existing plan likely works seamlessly.

Local & eSIM Options

International travelers benefit from a local SIM card (Claro, T-Mobile Puerto Rico, Liberty).
eSIM options via Airalo offer convenience for compatible devices.
Consider portable WiFi devices from Solis Wi-Fi for consistent access.

Internet Access & Postal Services

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, most restaurants, cafes, and many public spaces throughout Old San Juan. Free Wi-Fi is also at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU).

Connectivity & Mail

Speeds can vary but generally provide reliable connection.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) operates in Puerto Rico for sending mail and packages.
Post offices are available for your mailing needs.

Language & Translation Resources

Spanish and English are the two official languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by tour operators. Spanish is dominant outside tourist zones.

Overcoming Language Barriers

Google Translate (offline and camera features) is helpful for menus or signs.
A small phrasebook can be helpful.
Language learning platforms like Rosetta Stone can prepare you.

Important Phrases

Essential Spanish Expressions

Hola (OH-lah): Hello
Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs): Thank you
Por favor (por fah-VOR): Please

More Helpful Phrases

Basic Questions & Needs

Sí / No (see / noh): Yes / No
¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLEHS?): Do you speak English?
¿Cuánto cuesta? (KWahn-toh KWEHS-tah?): How much does it cost?
Agua (AH-gwah): Water

Greetings & Courtesy

Permiso (pehr-MEE-soh): Excuse me (to pass through a crowd)
Con permiso (kohn pehr-MEE-soh): Excuse me (when you need to leave a group or situation)
Buenos días (BWEH-nohs DEE-ahs): Good morning
Buenas tardes (BWEH-nahs TAR-dehs): Good afternoon/evening

Local Interactions Tip

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is appreciated by locals and enriches your experience.

Business Hours and Schedules

Shops

Generally open 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Some boutiques may open later (10 AM) and close earlier. Many smaller shops are closed on Sundays.

Restaurants

Lunch service: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Dinner service: 6:00 PM onwards, extending to 10:00 PM or later, especially on weekends.

Museums & Attractions

Typically open 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM. Many museums and some smaller attractions are closed on Mondays.

Banking Hours & ATM Locations

Banks are generally open Monday-Friday. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available throughout Old San Juan, found at major banks and commercial areas.

Financial Access

Banks generally operate from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
Some bank branches may offer Saturday morning hours.
ATMs are conveniently located throughout the area.

Religious and Public Holidays

Puerto Rico observes all U.S. Federal holidays, plus several local holidays. During holidays, many businesses, banks, and government offices may be closed or operate on reduced hours.

Holidays

Three Kings Day (January 6th)
Eugenio María de Hostos Birthday (January)
Abolition of Slavery Day (March)

Seasonal Closures & Schedules

Low Season Considerations

During the low season (summer/fall, aligning with hurricane season), some smaller businesses or tour operators may have reduced hours or temporary closures.
Public transport schedules may also be affected during holidays.
Confirm operating hours in advance.

Planning for Holidays

Planning meals and activities ahead is advisable during public holidays.
It is always wise to confirm operating hours in advance for specific attractions or tours.
Casual eateries and street food vendors may have longer and more varied hours.

Verify Schedules in Advance

Always check specific operating hours online before your visit to museums and attractions, as they often close on Mondays.

Etiquette and Cultural Norms

Interacting respectfully with local culture enriches your experience and fosters positive relationships.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common for formal introductions. Among friends and family, a single kiss on the cheek (usually right cheek to right cheek) is a common greeting between women, and between men and women.

Formal & Informal Greetings

Use formal greetings like "Buenos días" (Good morning) when addressing strangers or entering a shop.
"Buenas tardes" (Good afternoon/evening) or "Buenas noches" (Good night) are suitable for later in the day.
Learning basic Spanish phrases is appreciated.

Appropriate Attire

Casual, comfortable, and light clothing is appropriate due to the warm climate. Consider specific settings for your clothing choices.

Dress for the Occasion

Religious Sites: Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Upscale Restaurants: Smart casual attire (collared shirts for men, dresses or nice trousers for women) is generally appropriate.
Beaches: Swimwear is for the beach or pool only. Wear a cover-up or street clothes in public spaces.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Table manners are generally relaxed. It is polite to keep hands above the table when not eating. See Section 2.3 for detailed tipping guidelines.

Mealtime Courtesy

It is common and polite to say "Buen Provecho" (enjoy your meal) to others dining near you, even strangers.
Refer to specific tipping guidelines in the relevant section of this guide.
A friendly demeanor goes a long way, especially if language barriers exist.

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

Generally, it is acceptable to photograph public spaces, architecture, and attractions. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children.

Photography Etiquette

A polite gesture and a "Permiso para una foto?" (May I take a photo?) is appropriate.
Respect any "No Photography" signs in museums or private establishments.
Be mindful of privacy in residential areas; avoid photographing people's homes without consent.

Taboos and Sensitive Topics

Conversation Caution

Avoid discussing politics, especially the island's relationship with the U.S., unless a local initiates the topic.
Approach sensitive discussions with sensitivity and respect for diverse viewpoints.
Be respectful of religious beliefs and local traditions.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Puerto Rico is generally a welcoming destination. Gender roles are somewhat traditional but are evolving.
San Juan is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in the Caribbean.
Same-sex marriage is legal. Public displays of affection are generally accepted, especially in tourist areas.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Challenges

Old San Juan's cobblestone streets are uneven and can be challenging for wheelchairs and strollers.
Some areas have steep inclines, specifically around the forts.
Many historic buildings lack modern ramps or elevators, making access difficult for upper floors.

Accessible Options & Resources

Public buses (AMA) are generally equipped with ramps for wheelchair access. Tren Urbano stations and trains are accessible.
Limited specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are widely advertised. Contact attractions directly.
Organizations like the Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH) or local disability advocacy groups might offer resources.

Accommodation Accessibility

If you have specific accessibility needs, contact your chosen accommodation directly before booking. Inquire about ramp access, elevator availability, and room layout.

Communication in Old San Juan