As in many Spanish influenced countries, time is organized differently from the United States but not always. Consequently, the idea of “on-time” or late varies with the situation. Sometimes the US idea of “on-time” is in effect and other times arriving late is actually “on-time.” If you go to the doctor for an appointment, it could be an all-day affair. However, sometimes the doctor follows a more specific time schedule. Social time is usually delayed time so that being an hour late to a party is probably on time. The entire idea of time can be deeply frustrating if you are not flexible about your schedule. Waiting in line at the grocery store, mall, bank, etc. can be frustrating because sometimes the line just stops moving (or creeping forward!) and people continue to wait patiently or just give up to come back another time. Also, it seems as if everyone who knows someone is allowed to take cuts!
Driving in Puerto Rico is another adjustment. The official rules are the same as the US but in practice, they differ. For example, right of way seems to be determined by the most assertive driver, the use of turn signals is sporadic and red lights are just a suggestion. Be careful. Everyone is required to have Puerto Rican insurance but that does not cover all accidents. If you are a pedestrian, you should know that all drivers will not always yield for you at crosswalks. Yet sometimes, drivers are incredibly patient and will wait for an extraordinary amount of time for someone to cross, drop off a passenger, or move a stalled vehicle. Speaking of accidents, US medical insurance will probably work in Puerto Rico but check with your company to be sure.
I came to Puerto Rico with the intention to integrate into this culture, appreciate the people and thrive in the lush environment. I attempt to improve my Spanish through daily interactions, take weekly painting classes in Old San Juan and walk along the beach every day. It’s an ideal setting for those who can adjust to the bumps along the way. Yes, it’s true that the cost of living is high but housing is relatively inexpensive. If you like eating out, you should expect to pay more than in the US because much of the food is imported. You have to be careful because certain crimes occur more often here than in the US but on the other hand others occur less frequently. I see my life here as intentionally balanced-out. I know that it’s not for everyone but I love living with Puerto Ricans on the “Enchanted Island” and would never want to live in a false Disney paradise.
Cynthia PittmannI live (and still work) on the gorgeously lush island of Puerto Rico. My husband, two children (now college-aged) and I moved from San Diego, California to immerse ourselves in the local island culture, learn Spanish and get to know his side of the family. We thought we’d try it for a few years and now find that we are still here twenty years later! We are both active university professors though I’m directing now and only teaching one class - Journey in Literature, which is a course in travel literature. (My PhD is in the Language and Literature of the English-speaking Caribbean.) I enjoy writing for various venues, painting, inventing vegetarian recipes inspired by local meat-based dishes, and have an intense interest in understanding people. With an eye towards having a long healthy life, I practice yoga, walk every day, and often hug my four-legged friends.
The photograph of me was taken in front of the Condado Lagoon (Laguna del Condado in Spanish) by my husband Wendell while we were taking a break from our regular long walk down the length of the beach.
Visit my personal blog at Oasis Writing Link ™, read my poetry at Cynthia Pittmann’s Blog, or find me on Facebook or on Twitter @ Oasislink.
You can also reach me via email
View Comments
Good evening, I would appreciate some info on things like utilities and cost, internet and cable and/or satellite TV. Is Puerto Rico able to get American TV shows? Thank you and have a great night.
Puerto Rico has the same services you would expect I the United States, Ilianna. You can have cable to obtain American TV, use a dish or Wifi. It's not more expensive than the US. You could research online for more specifics.
Does Puerto Rico participate in Medicare & Supplement Insurances? Since it is part of the United States.
Yes, Puerto Rico does have the same coverage and plans but I think the amounts might vary. You'd have to check. We do have social security and medicade/Medicare.
what is the average cost per month to live and what areas are safer to live in. my wife is a R.N. is there a demand for them there
Dick, I live in Puerto Rico. I could not tell you exactly the monthly cost here. I can say utilities like electricity and water are expensive, house rental cheaper (a house in a suburb can be from $450 to over $900) it all depends the city and the place you live.
Almost everyone owns a house, and eventhough there are many places to rent, there are not a lot like in US. Of course, that can change depending on the city. I live in the largest city in the south of Puerto Rico.
Medical expenses are much cheaper than the US as well as diferent services that you can find here ar a much cheaper cost than the states. As of your wife, if you mean she is a registered nurse, yes, the demand is real high here, but I don't know how much are they being paid. Your wife would find a job in a flash cause there is a big lack of nurses and doctors here.
I have been involved in financial services for several years but prior to that I was teaching at the university level (business and marketing). What opportunities might there be for a full or part time position at the university or community college level?
I am looking into moving to Puerto Rico. I am on a fixed income of 2100 a month can I live comfortably on that
@Joel - If you have a MA and are willing to work for less than what you would earn in the US, finding a part-time teaching position is quite possible. However, you would need to speak Spanish for the most opportunities. I believe that determined person could find a job without knowing a lot of Spanish.
@David - If you are a frugal person, it can be done. However, it cost more to live in San Juan (Condado area, Old San Juan, and Isla Verde). If you want to speak English with your neighbors, I recommend that you live in a tourist area.
@Dick - RN work pays much less here than the US (as jacsan wrote). In fact, many trained (bilingual) nurses move to the States for this reason. Gated communities and tourist areas are the safest. However, I felt safe living in the mountains - very peaceful.
I was born in PR but raised in NYC. I would like to retire in the next 7 years. I will be on a fixed income. Which areas on the island tend to have affordable housing (homes or apartments) as well as low crime? Are there any affordable elderly complexes? Thanks!