Passports are NOT required for travel to and from Puerto Rico and Vieques and Culebra for US citizens
Area & Statistics:
The Island is about 21 miles long and 5 miles across. It the eastern most island of the Puerto Rican Archipelago, sometimes referred to as the Spanish Virgin Islands. Since the US Navy left the island in 2003, 60+% of the island has become the largest Wildlife Sanctuary in the Caribbean under the protection of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. The Sanctuary lands are open from Dawn til Dusk, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean are on this property.
The population of Vieques is about 9,400 and is an island-municipality of Puerto Rico, which is a Commonwealth- as an Associated Free State. It is a democracy, which governs itself subject to the Constitution of the United States.
The Weather:
The climate in Vieques is sub-tropical and during most of the year it is blessed with the trade winds from the east, which helps keep the humidity low even during the summer months, when it is actually preferable here than in most areas of the United States.
The most humid months are in mid-Sept. to mid-Nov., which are called the "doldrums". August through mid-October are the most active hurricane months in the Caribbean. During the winter months there is very little rain, and the water takes on the azure blue color, which people equate with the Caribbean.
Currency and ATM's:
The currency is U.S. Dollars.
There are presently 2 ATM's on the Island. Two in Isabel Segunda, the first is at Banco Popular on the main street. The second is at the Credit Union next to Panaderia Lydia. Both are open 24-7.
Most restaurants and guesthouses do take Visa and MasterCard, but it's always a good idea to look for the logo or ask before you order, because some don't.
GETTING AROUND:
Many people rent cars and jeeps while they are in Vieques. There are many car rental agencies, but, during the winter months there are never enough cars to go around. Make your Car Rental Reservations early for Christmas through April. Many house rentals come with a car option, so check that out also, if you prefer staying in the hills.
Staying in Isabel Segunda and Esperanza affords you a little more flexibility as you can get around town on foot, shop and dine all without a car. But, if you want to get to the beach you still must either have a car or use public transportation, "Publicos". They are mostly nine passenger vans that transport people on regular routes around the island. They have set rates, but, if you want to go to a beach, there will be an higher cost. Not all the Publico drivers are equally reliable, and you don't want be stuck at a beach that is way out. Sun Bay is safe as you can walk to the road and catch a Publico. Ask around and people will clue you in on the reliable drivers. The Inns will even call them for a pick up. DO tip your Publico driver well, as he is your life line to getting home.
There are a few Publico drivers that will even hire out to groups for the day for a fee. The hotels and Inns can direct you to them. Treat them well. Buy them lunch. They are your family for the day. They can give you a great tour also. They live here.
If you're moving here, there are even a couple of used auto dealers in Isabel Segunda.
LANGUAGE:
The official language is Spanish in all of Puerto Rico, but most of the Viequense speak some English. It is always good to have a knowledge of the language, and even poorly spoken Spanish shows that you care and at least try to respect the peoples you are visiting. Though it may bring a giggle to someone's face, the smile that follows on one's face speaks volumes in knowing that you are trying to respect someone's heritage.
WEDDING INFO:
Here is some info I've accumulated on getting married in Vieques. There is an Wedding & Event Planning page [here] and a few of the larger hotels will also make wedding arrangements.
Blood Tests:
1. Both have to have a blood test about 24-48 hours ahead of the wedding
2. go to the hospital to get the paperwork for blood tests
3. go to the lab and have blood tests done
4. return to the hospital with results of blood work
5. go to the courthouse or minister for the marriage license.
That is the simplification and it involves a two to three day period to complete
A wedding consultant would walk you through it!
There are florists and bakeries that can produce wedding cakes. There are also restaurants and caterers, but I highly suggest you to leave it to the professionals and enjoy your Wedding in Paradise!
ENVIRONMENTAL CLEAN-UP
June 2010 - NOAA scientists are reporting in a newly published study that the health of the marine environment of Vieques, Puerto Rico - ........is comparable to the rest of the region. Read the full report here.
