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I've lived in 6 or 7 islands in the Caribbean but I regret never having stayed long in Puerto Rico. Now that I'm retired I can go there for a year or two and see how I like it.
I prefer small towns, rural living, artists, artisans & musicians, and friendly people. No interest at all in the beach or nightlife, but it would be nice to live in a normal community, make a few friends and even have a date on Saturday nights. I can get by ok in Spanish.
I lived in PR for about a year in San Juan and Humacao. I dont know what your finances are like, but I worked out in Palmas del Mar (Humacao) which is a master planned community with restaurants, hotels, golf, marinas etc...but also nice residential areas. Not to far from there (if you do not want to live there) is small towns such as Candelero, Yabucoa (spelled wrong Im sure)...which would still be relatively close to Palmas and Humacao. I liked that area of the island, and was still able to get to San Juan in about an hour or so. That whole highway along the coast 53, goes through towns like Fajardo, Luqillo, Carolina..etc...many choices and a nice area of the island.
I heard Ponce was nice, but never made it (unfortunately) to that side of island.
The friendliest people in PR live on the mountain. A lot of people in the cities (San Juan, Ponce) are stressed out and ready to pick a fight with whoever comes across. In the small towns of the mountain, people are more laid back, and a whole lot friendlier. Barranquitas is such a town. It is small, rural, cool throughout the year, and has an annual arts and crafts festival that draws people from around the island. Aibonito is very nice too.
If you're looking for a relaxing and friendly atmosphere, any of the towns within the outline will work. And major cities are just an hour away.
I agree that mountain towns--particularly the smaller ones in the west are very friendly and excellent places to live. They also have the added benefit of.perfect climate meaning that you never have to run up electric bills with air conditioning or heat. Since they are relatively isolated from commercial centres, the rents are much cheaper. I think you could find a nice, clean, furnished place from $300 to $450 a month.
Scenery is beautiful in these towns, and each has an individual charm. First of all you need a car to get around and drive down to coastal areas for.supplies. Small towns have most facilties from restaurants to markets, but most people do shopping in larger towns down from the mountains. Your best bet would be to take a temporary monthly rental anywhere and then search for the location (and prices) you favour.
I always say that Puerto Rico us a hidden secret--the enchanted isle. It compares more favourably than most retirement places even on mainland. It certainly is a lot cheaper than any other Caribbean island and offers much much more. Unlike some more popular US locations like Hawaii, you will be welcome.
I lived in Ceiba Puerto Rico for 5 months. I only left because I had to sell my home in Florida. I loved Puerto Rico, the people, the life and all connected to it. I Will be back.
It's a really nice place from a rural perspective, but from a industrial place it's complete garbage Perhaps if I was you I'd go to aguadilla or a part of san juan depending on what you want with your stay. If your going economical perhaps bayamon, but considering you said you want the cultural part of Puerto rico, san juan is a safe bet.
The friendliest people in PR live on the mountain. A lot of people in the cities (San Juan, Ponce) are stressed out and ready to pick a fight with whoever comes across. In the small towns of the mountain, people are more laid back, and a whole lot friendlier. Barranquitas is such a town. It is small, rural, cool throughout the year, and has an annual arts and crafts festival that draws people from around the island. Aibonito is very nice too.
If you're looking for a relaxing and friendly atmosphere, any of the towns within the outline will work. And major cities are just an hour away.
Hola, Trucker7...I agree with your assessment of Aibonito.I think it is the highest elevation in PR, not sure, but a local told me that 2 years ago when I was there..
I had taken my Jeep for warranty servicing in NJ where I bought it, and the service consultant was a beautiful young lady from Aibonito..we got to talking about PR because she saw my 'Rincon' sticker on my bumper.
Her family still lives there she gave me their address and told my wife and I to stop to see them..
funny, she told me 'they are getting old, and like to have company'
When we got there we thought we would find some doddering Viejos..but they were only 55 and 56!
I guess 'old age' is relative
the girl at the car dealership is only 23..
Anyway, what a great town, lovely plaza, clean and sooo cool high in the hills.
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looking foe appartment
Perhaps if I was you I'd go to aguadilla or a part of san juan depending on what you want with your stay. If your going economical perhaps bayamon, but considering you said you want the cultural part of Puerto rico, san juan is a safe bet.
