The island of Puerto Rico sits to the East of the Dominican Republic, with the Caribbean Sea to the South and the Atlantic lapping on the Northern coastline – all in all, a traditional tropical paradise one would think. But the island is actually a part of the US commonwealth, meaning the beautiful jungles and magnificent nature stands hand in hand with chain stores, freeways and the American Dream. Quite surprisingly though, the country is not overwhelmed with consumerism, and only the main tourist regions feel like they are overdeveloped – anyone looking for an eco-holiday can still find more than enough to interest them on Puerto Rico, and the forests, mountains and exquisite oceans surrounding the isle provide entertainment, relaxation and fun for anyone, regardless of why they are visiting.

Puerto Rican history stretches back to the Tainos Indians, whose history is pretty unknown, but they were the people present when Columbus landed on the island on his second Caribbean trip in 1493. By 1508, Juan Ponce de Leon arrived with Spanish settlers, enslaved the locals and set up shop on the island. Over the next few centuries the island saw the natives wiped out, legions of African slaves brought in to replace them, fortification and economic growth – mainly through smuggling, much to Spain’s disdain. The individualistic feel of the island was prevalent through its people and talk of independence was going quite some way, until 1898 when the Americans arrived to occupy Puerto Rico during the Spanish-American War. The Americans cut short the Puerto Rican’s calls for autonomy for a while, but by 1917 the natives were granted US nationality, and by 1951 the island had become a part of the commonwealth, rather than just a colony. The 20^th century saw the island’s economy grow and the people became a nation of commuters, moving for work to the US then back to the island and their families. This status quo has been maintained for decades now, and national referendums on the status of the country – independent, 51^st US state or remaining as it is – have occurred on a few separate occasions, with the result each time showing the people wanted things as they are, though by the narrowest margins. Tourism is big business in the country and things are generally politically stable – though the quality of life is higher than that in Caribbean neighbours, there is still quite a lot of unemployment and poverty in Puerto Rico.

This is a wonderful, beautiful country filled with both natural and manmade attractions that are sure to please anyone who visits. Whilst it may be an extension of the US, Puerto Rico still maintains a strong national identity and has managed to keep a hold of many natural assets, rather than see them fall to rampant consumerism and construction. The economy is strong, the country is doing well and a potential off plan investor – with the means, at least – should at least give the island a look over.

The standards of healthcare in Puerto Rico are on a par with the US, as are costs. Health insurance is highly recommended.

Mobile phone coverage exists, but does not yet cover GSM handsets. Landlines are widely available and lines are of a good standard. Internet cafes are available in hotels and business districts.