Logistics of moving to/living in Puerto Rico (Gringo) (apartments, rent) - Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, etc. - City-Data Forum

RC211 · 05-17-2011, 07:50 AM

I'm being transferred for work, and I only have until this Friday (5/20) to decide between San Juan, PR and Dayton, OH. Perhaps someone can help put my concerns about PR to rest, as I do not have the luxury of time for a visit.

The main things people have cautioned me about are culture shock, island living and language barriers. These are not concerns of mine.

The things that do concern me are the following:

Safety. I hear mixed reports on this one. Most of what I've heard seems to be car related - carjackings, petty theft, etc. Is this avoidable by staying in the better neighborhoods? Also, I own a 2007 Jeep Wrangler (hard top); would it be best for me to ship my Jeep there and take a chance on security, or sell it and buy a POC car when I get there? I'm thinking that the Jeep would be fun on the island, but I still owe on it. Also, what about house break-ins/personal safety? I'd probably live in a condo or something at first until I learn the lay of the land and where the safer places are. (I'd be working at the international airport.)

Pets. I have two dogs and two parrots. I know that the dogs simply need up to date rabies shots and a health certificate immediately before the move. What about birds? Is there any quarantine or anything special for them? Also, do I need to be concerned about my animals getting stolen?

Bicycles. My husband and I have fairly expensive road bikes. We'd like to have them there to be able to explore the island a little, but would we be better off to sell the good bikes and buy cheap ones once we get there?

Household goods. Is it better to ship as much as possible (I'm not planning on living there more than a few years), or to sell your stuff and try to find a furnished place?

I know this is a lot, but I only have a couple of days to decide, and I'm freaking out a little. PR is the better option for us overall, but I want to make sure that it is the smart choice. Thanks in advance for any information!

unPescador · 05-17-2011, 08:06 AM

Crime is an issue but from my experience a good awareness of where you are tends keeps you away from trouble. Don't know about the birds but I'd definitely take your road bikes. There's a couple of good bikes shops in and around SJ and you'll see a lot of serious riders out on weekends. Check out "La Vuelta", it's an annual fully supported ride around the island. I'd like to do it but the daily mileage is more than I'm up to.

La Vuelta Puerto Rico, a 3 day 375 mile group bike ride around the island.

gemstone1 · 05-17-2011, 02:10 PM

I would take San Juan over Dayton in a heart beat. Bring your Jeep and bikes as long as the company is paying for the move. Don't forget your bike armor...and bring an air horn, riding here could be hazardous to your health...driving is certainly different here...verrrry aggressive.

As an outsider from the country in midwest (and new arrival at that), I see the decorative ironwork used by homeowners to cover every window, air conditioner and door, as well as the carport and entire yard a little odd. I'm told it is more for a "Spanish" feel, than for security (but everybody does it)...but it sure looks like a way to provide a measure of security for your "stuff".

If I can be of assistance with further info to help with your decision, please PM.

Regards
Gemstone1

RC211 · 05-17-2011, 02:43 PM

Good info so far, thanks. Unfortunately the move is at my own expense.

davsot · 05-18-2011, 11:45 AM

Like you said, more petty theft then homicide, but always be aware. I also doubt of any break-ins if you live in a condo, and your car won't get stolen as long as it is somewhere safe.

Bicycle awareness is an upcoming issue in PR, as Complete Streets legislation and mayors announcing their plans for bicycle lanes, so 2012 will definitely be interesting.

Also, the beaches. You. Will. Love. THem.

RC211 · 05-18-2011, 01:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by davsot

Like you said, more petty theft then homicide, but always be aware. I also doubt of any break-ins if you live in a condo, and your car won't get stolen as long as it is somewhere safe.

Bicycle awareness is an upcoming issue in PR, as Complete Streets legislation and mayors announcing their plans for bicycle lanes, so 2012 will definitely be interesting.

Also, the beaches. You. Will. Love. THem.

Haha... definitely looking forward to the beaches. We live on North Padre Island now and our beaches, while convenient, are, shall we say... unkempt?

pigmysapiens · 05-18-2011, 10:22 PM

Whoever told you those gates were more for decoration than for security was either not being totally truthful with you or in complete denial. Yes, the ironwork around windows and such can be merely decorative (usually only happens in "el pueblo"), but it's mostly for security. Something you'll notice quite easily, the more crime ridden a neighborhood is, the more decorative ironwork around windows and porches you'll see.

pigmysapiens · 05-18-2011, 10:43 PM

Living in a condo will really reduce your risk of being victims of break-ins and such and as long as you mind where you park, your car should be fine (they go more for sedans here anyway).

As for your pets, I don't know about the birds but dognapping is not that common. However, if you have expensive dogs, keeping them inside would be advisable, though it's a completely moot point if you're moving into a condo.

With regards to your appliances, it's always a roll of the dice when you look for houses or apartments that come with them included. Still, unless you could ship yours very cheap, I would personally recommend leaving them behind and trying to find a residence that comes with the appliances. If push comes to shove, you can always rent or, if you'd rather buy, they're pretty well priced here.

RC211 · 05-19-2011, 02:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pigmysapiens

Living in a condo will really reduce your risk of being victims of break-ins and such and as long as you mind where you park, your car should be fine (they go more for sedans here anyway).

As for your pets, I don't know about the birds but dognapping is not that common. However, if you have expensive dogs, keeping them inside would be advisable, though it's a completely moot point if you're moving into a condo.

With regards to your appliances, it's always a roll of the dice when you look for houses or apartments that come with them included. Still, unless you could ship yours very cheap, I would personally recommend leaving them behind and trying to find a residence that comes with the appliances. If push comes to shove, you can always rent or, if you'd rather buy, they're pretty well priced here.

Thank you, this is very good information. Condo life will take some getting used to again, it's been a while since I've lived in a condo/apartment. But I will definitely feel safer that way!

STT Resident · 05-19-2011, 02:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pigmysapiens

However, if you have expensive dogs, keeping them inside would be advisable, though it's a completely moot point if you're moving into a condo.

I'm assuming you mean that it's hard to find a condo which will accept dogs? That's certainly the case here in the VI. Some will accept one or two cats but I don't know of any which will accept dogs.