Its inhabitants were made American citizens in 1917, and the island was designated a US Commonwealth in 1952 after a popular vote. This gave the island the autonomy to pursue its destiny, while Puerto Ricans continue to remain U.S. Citizens. Puerto Rico enjoys an enviable position in the Caribbean as having the best of both worlds. An association with a great protector nation, and the freedom to continue to pursue its Spanish traditions and culture. No visa or passport is required for US mainlanders to visit the island.
Currency is in U.S. dollars.
There is an on-going debate about the status of Puerto Rico and its relationship with the United States. Puerto Rican voters recently decided to continue the existing relationship as a US commonwealth particularly due to concerns about preserving Puerto Rico's cultural identity without affecting its free association as a commonwealth. If you are interested in knowing more about Puerto Rico, take a few minutes to look through our Book Store . Here you you will find a lot more information on the history, culture, and other topics of interest about Puerto Rico for the vacationer, or the researcher. We also recommend a visit to some great work by Professor Peter Johnson of the Illinois Institute of Technology.