This season, why spend the holidays in the middle of a snowstorm when you could be celebrating "La Navidad" on a beach in Puerto Rico? Tickets to Puerto Rico are very affordable this time of year, so you can spend your time away from work enjoying the warm weather, delicious food and vibrant culture of the Isle of Enchantment.
If you're still not convinced, here are five reasons why you should spend your Christmas vacation in sunny Puerto Rico:
1. Dig into some delicious pork
While you might have had a Christmas ham in the past, chances are you haven't had a holiday dinner that is quite like what you'll find in Puerto Rico. According to USA Today, most Puerto Ricans indulge in a plate of "lechonera," pork that is marinated in spices and slow roasted on a rotating spit over a fire. The pork is usually served with sides of peas, rice, sweet potato and blood sausage. Enjoy the pork with a glass of pinot noir or some locally brewed Puerto Rican beer!
2. Hang out at the beach
How many times have you spent Christmas Day on the beach? If you're from a northern climate, chances are you're usually bundled up in front of the fire when you unwrap those presents. This year, you can try something a little out of the ordinary by sipping your eggnog with your toes buried in the sand.
You can see some amazing sights while celebrating the holidays in Puerto Rico.3. Participate in the celebrations
For many people in the U.S., Christmas is an intimate holiday, spent only with family and close friends. In Puerto Rico, however, you'll find that it's much more of a public celebration. Have a meal with your family, then head out into the streets of San Juan to take part in the many festivals where locals come together to sing, drink and make merry. It's a great reminder of what the holiday season is all about.
4. Take a hike
If you're looking to get away from the noise of the city, consider taking a hike on El Yunque, a mountain located within a national park of the same name. Here you'll find lush tropical foliage, waterfalls and colorful songbirds. It's a great way to work up an appetite in preparation for the lechonera!
5. Celebrate Three Kings Day
Who says Christmas has to be limited to a single day? In Puerto Rico, the locals also celebrate Three Kings Day on Jan 6. The day is spent giving gifts, eating sweets and watching reenactments of the nativity scene. According to Quartz, children often leave boxes out for the three kings to leave presents in, much like Santa Claus does in other parts of the world. For visitors, it can make for quite an exciting end to already fun and full vacation.
Warm weather and lots of fun celebrations are waiting for you! Now is the perfect time to book your Christmas trip to Puerto Rico.
