Living as a Digital Nomad in Puerto Rico: Pros and Cons

Introduction

• Discussion aimed at digital nomads, remote workers, or slow travelers considering Puerto Rico.
• Presented by Jel and Michelle from "The Wandering Hearts".
• Aim: Share personal experiences of living in Puerto Rico, highlighting pros and cons.

Pros of Living in Puerto Rico

1. Tropical Climate

• Warm weather year-round.
• Ideal for escaping winter; visited in February-March.

2. No Work Visa Required

• U.S. citizens need only a driver’s license for ID.
• No passport or work visa needed as Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory.

3. Stunning Beaches

• Water temperatures range between 79-84°F.
• 300 miles of coastline for exploration.
• Lived in Rincon, considered a fantastic place for beach walks.

4. Outdoor Activities

• Variety of activities include exploring beaches, Old San Juan, El Yunque Rainforest, and snorkeling.
• Additional resources available on their channel and website.

5. Geographic Location

• Proximity to the U.S. mainland and other Caribbean islands.
• Short flight times from various U.S. cities.

6. Fast Internet

• One of the fastest internet speeds in the Caribbean.
• Important for digital work; ensure to verify speeds before traveling.

7. Puerto Rican Food

• Mix of Spanish, African, and Taino influences.
• Not spicy, includes rice, beans, plantains, and pork.

8. Affordable Cost of Living

• Cheaper than major U.S. cities like Los Angeles or Chicago.
• Accommodation and car rentals are significant expenses.

9. Tax Incentives

• Acts 20 and 22 offer business benefits including low tax rates and exemptions.

10. Work-Life Balance

• Ideal conditions for those with seasonal depression.
• Consistent daylight hours, allowing balanced schedules.

11. Excellent Coffee

• Long history of coffee farming with unique flavors.

Cons of Living in Puerto Rico

1. Hurricane Season

• Runs June 1 - November 30; most active mid-August to October.

2. Lack of Public Transportation

• Outside San Juan, transport options are limited.
• Car rental can be expensive.

3. Power Outages and Infrastructure

• Power outages are a known issue; recommend checking for backup systems.

4. Language Barriers

• Predominantly Spanish-speaking; official documents often in Spanish.

5. High Cost of Living

• Depends on personal budget and expectations.
• High sales tax and electricity costs.

6. Traffic

• High population density leads to traffic jams, especially on weekends.

7. Potholes and Dirt Roads

• Hazardous roads in some areas, especially near remote beaches.

8. Expensive Short-term Rentals

• Finding affordable accommodation can be challenging.

9. Trash

• Litter on beaches and trails is a disappointment.

10. Lack of Co-working Spaces

• Limited to San Juan; other areas have cafes as alternatives.

Conclusion

• Puerto Rico offers a high quality of life with rich cultural and natural attractions.
• Notable for digital nomads due to beaches, weather, and food.
• Additional resources and information available on their website and YouTube channel.