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What airlines service the area? Aquadilla (BQN) is the closest airport, but you can fly into San Juan, Mayaguez, or Ponce.
Who rents cars in Puerto Rico? All the national car rental agencies are here: Avis, Hertz, Dollar, Budget, etc. Did I miss any?
How long does it take to drive from San Juan to Rincon? You can expect your dirve to take at least 2 1/2 hours during daytime traffic and about 2 hours if you fly in late at night. However, don't forget to factor in your landing time, picking up baggage, & getting your car rental. This is caribbean time, and things move more slowly! Island time....
Do they speak English in Puerto Rico? Many people do but many don't. People in the service and tourism industry will speak English, while in the smaller areas they might not. Don't assume they do; always try your best to offer a greeting in Spanish first.
Can someone tutor me in conversational Spanish while I am in Rincon? While we do not offer any direct liasions to tutors, you may check the post-it board it at the travle agency and graphics store called Graffiko in town. You might have luck finding someone who is interested. Otherwise, just go out there and start talking to the locals!
Where are the beach supplies kept? The beach chairs and umbrellas are in the bedroom closets.
Will my cellphone work in Rincon? Your best bet is to check with your local carrier to see if your phone is serviced on the western-most point of Puerto Rico; however, even if they tell you that your phone will work, don't be too shocked if it doesn't or barely does. Our Verizon phone works OK, but the "extended network" message seems to drain the phone's battery quickly. Other guests have said their phones do not work. A payphone is located down the street on the left in case you need to make a call and have no working cellphone.
Is the neighborhood safe? Yes! The beach condo is locatd within a residential area and we have never had an incident; however, leaving doors unlocked or cars unlocked may be an invitation, so be careful!
Where do I park? We have a parking spot available within the gated area. It is imperative that you park in your assigned spot, even if others are vacant.
Do the dogs bite? You'll find many dogs wandering the neighborhoods and beaches. They are friendly and don't bite. So don't be intimidated!
When and where is the best place to see the humpbacked whales? From late January to April, you will be able to see the whales; the best place is the lighthouse, which is perched on top of a cliff and offers a great view.
Where is the nearest disco or night club? Rincon does not have this type of nightlife. If the club scene if your preference, you will prefer San Juan. Rincon's nightlife is comprised of many little restuarants and bars scattered around the area. Some of favorites are listed in our reference binder when you get there. We love drinking Piratas at the Cofresi (a five minute walk down the beach) over a game of backgammon!
Are there good restaurants in Rincon?
Yes, indeed! There is a rainbow of selection. Drive around or see our reference guide in the apartment.
What are some of your favorites around Rincon?
For seafood, we love the authentic Puerto Rican open-air ambiance at Seafood Tropical on 115; for Mexican, Pancho Villa in the heart of town; for an after beach drink, Beside the Pointe/Tamboo Bar and Grill on the beach on 413; for happy hour or evening drinks, the cheerful turquoise painted Calypso Cafe by Maria's beach on 413; and the Cofresi on the beach for pinchos (meat on a stick) and piratas at sunset (best spot).
Where can I catch a movie? Head back to route 2 towards Mayaguez. The nearest theater is about a 15 minute drive from the Cozy Coqui. The selections are in English with Spanish subtitles.
Are the beaches crowded?
None of the beaches in the area can ever be called "crowded." All the beaches are public domain, so if you can get to it, it's yours. THis allows people to spread out everywhere and not be herded together. If you like to be around others, however, try the public beach (balneario), Steps Beach for great snorkeling, surfing at Sandy Beach, Maria's Beach, or Domes Beach, and at the Cofresi for great splashing and swimming. For peace and solitude, explore the coast by foot or park and walk over at any point.
Are there water sports?
Snorkeling can be done anywhere there are fish. Surfing is on the Atlantic side (north). Many people try parasailing here as well. Ask around in Isabelle and Aguadilla. At the Cofresi, you can rent jetskis or go on a banana boat ride.
Where do I find local art?
The two best places we have found are: Loiza just outside of San Juan for masks. You will also find many kiosks of Haitian and other caribbean art on your way in. In Ponce, on the square, you will find the papr mache masks. These both are great spots to build your art collection or find souvenirs. In Old San Juan, you will also find many beautiful (and more expensive) items. But if it's local crafts you are after, try the other two places first. In Old San Juan, check out the mask stores and The Butterfly People.
Are there any things we shouldn't miss in San Juan?
You will definitely need to explore Old San Juan and El Morrow. The shops close early, though, so if you would like to do more than window shop, know tha most close at 5 or 6 PM. Also check out Il Convento for tapas and the best mojitos ever made in this open-air, romantic former convent now hotel.
The Bacardi Factory is also worth a trip. It's very informational and they will give you free samplers. You will probably find better prices on rum though at local grocers.
The Condado area has beautiful beaches and great people-watching. Nightclubs abound in Old San Juan and the hotels in The Condado and Isla Verde.Try to make it to the Loiza area, but be careful about these beaches: they are gorgeous but you might get robbed. Yes, evil lurks even in paradise!
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