Thank you for your interest in the Puerto Rico Travel Study Program Fall 2018!
Quick Facts About Puerto Rico
Capital: San Juan
Currency: US Dollar
Population: 3.337 million (2017)
Language: Spanish & English (don’t expect residents to speak English)
Average Temp in December: Hi 82°, Low 70°, average water temp 80°
Rainfall in December: 19 days of rain
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island and unincorporated U.S. territory with a landscape of mountains, waterfalls and the El Yunque tropical rainforest. In San Juan, the capital and largest city, the Isla Verde area is known for its hotel strip, beach bars and casinos. Its Old San Juan neighborhood features colorful Spanish colonial buildings and El Morro and La Fortaleza, massive, centuries-old fortresses.
Even though Puerto Rico is part of the United States and may be thought of as a domestic program, it is important to remember that the culture history, cuisine, climate and language are very different than the mainland United States. Participants must be prepared to encounter environments different from the United States which can include cigarette/cigar smoke, automobile exhaust, loud noise, congested streets and crowded public areas and a variety of other environments which may not be known except upon encountering them. This experience will examine Puerto Rican life and its relationship to the US mainland through service, cultural immersion and learning.
If you have any physical or emotional limitations, consider your health and capabilities carefully in consultation with your doctor before undertaking this trip. If you have questions or are concerned please speak with Dr. Cathorall.