Puerto Rico Resorts | 10 Timeshare Resorts in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Delivers A Unique Island Experience

Tourists looking for a different view of island life often find Puerto Rico offers just the right combination of natural attractions and interesting experiences. Located to America's south, this island is a commonwealth attached to the country, but it offers vacationers an experience that simply cannot be found on the mainland.

Visitors to Puerto Rico will find the island has a long and rich history that dates back to its earliest settlers, the Taino Indians. Through the years, the island was held by the Spanish, first claimed by Christopher Columbus and also heavily influenced by Ponce de Leon. The Spanish held the island almost exclusively for several hundred years, despite attacks from the British and Dutch. Puerto Rico became an American territory in 1900.

Those who make Puerto Rico their destination today will find its deep history mingles freely with a modern culture and more natural sights than most would expect from an island that is just over 3,500 square miles in size. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south, Puerto Rico is a tropical paradise that draws in millions of visitors a year. This destination is famous for its natural attractions and distinct regions. They include:

• Beaches: The warm tropical waters and sandy, white beaches pack in the crowds. Puerto Rico is home to miles and miles of beaches that provide the perfect opportunity not only for swimming, but also fishing, sailing, water skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, diving and more. The waters and the average temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit are real high points for most who make the trek here.
• Other geography: Puerto Rico's expanse is very mountainous. The island is, in fact, about 60 percent mountain ranges. It is also noted for its rain forests, caves and rivers. Visitors who come to see the natural sights will find the island is perfect for hiking, climbing and simply exploring. The Cerro La Punta mountains are a favorite of visitors, but so too is the Caribbean National Forest.

The regions visitors often find themselves in include:

• San Juan, Northern Region: This Capital City is one of the top tourist spots on the island. It features the Guajataca State Forest, the Historic Old San Juan district and the Arecibo Observatory. It is also known for its bustling activity, well developed night life, restaurants, shopping and more.
• The Eastern Region: This region is home to such cities as Arroyo, Patillas and Rio Grande. It is home to El Yunque, which is known as the Caribbean National Forest, the Natural Reserve of Mosquito in Vieques, Laquillo Beach and Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve.
• The Central Region: This is home to such cities as Cidra and Maricao. Its top places to visit include the Caguana Indian Ceremonial Park, Montoso Gardens and the Toro Negro Forest Reserve.
• Western Region: Containing the cities of Cabo Rojo and San German, this region is home to Boqueron Beach, the Mayaguez Zoo and the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge.
• Southern Region: Home to Santa Isabel and Yauco, this region has many draws. In addition to being the hottest section of the island, it is also the driest. Its popular stops include the Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center, Serralles Castle and Caja de Muertos.

An island paradise with deep Spanish roots with an American styling, Puerto Rico is a favorite destination. From mountain climbing to beachcombing, visitors here never find themselves with a shortage of things to do.