Local Customs & Etiquette in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico

All Topics about San Juan All Cities in Puerto Rico

1. Greeting Customs

Locals greet each other with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. A peck on the cheek is common among friends or family.

Friendliness: San Juan locals are generally friendly, but it's important to be respectful during introductions.
Directness: Eye contact and firm handshakes show sincerity and engagement in conversation.
Contextual: Knowing if you're addressing a friend, acquaintance or stranger can influence the level of formality.

A service charge is usually included in restaurant bills; however, it's customary to leave additional tips for exceptional service.

Included Service Charge: Restaurant bills often include a 10% service charge, but additional tipping is expected.
Round Up: Rounding up the amount to the nearest dollar shows appreciation for good service.
Guide Tips: Tipping tour guides is customary, but not expected unless they provide exceptional service.

Visitors should dress modestly when entering churches, with shoulders and knees covered out of respect.

Respect for Religion: Dressing appropriately shows respect for the religious practices and beliefs.
Availability of Cover-ups: Churches often provide cover-ups or shawls for visitors who are not dressed appropriately.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and adhering to local customs helps create a positive cultural exchange.

Beaches are public spaces in San Juan; visitors should share space, pick up after themselves and respect local customs.

Sharing Space: Since beaches are shared spaces, it's important to leave enough room for others.
Cleanliness: Always clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
Respecting Local Customs: Learn about local traditions, such as playing music or setting up tents on the beach.

Street food is a big part of San Juan's culture; be aware that some vendors may not have the same hygiene standards as restaurants.

Food Safety: Be cautious when choosing street food vendors and look for cleanliness.
Haggling: It's common to haggle over prices at street vendor stands, but always be respectful.
Local Specialties: Try traditional dishes like alcapurrias and empanadas for an authentic culinary experience.

Buses in San Juan are often crowded; it's important to offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women or people with disabilities.

Courtesy: Offering seats to those in need shows respect and kindness.
Line Formation: Form a line when waiting for the bus, and let passengers off before boarding.
Valuables Safety: Keep an eye on your personal belongings while riding the bus.

La Playa de las Carmelitas is a nudist beach; respect the privacy and comfort of those who choose to visit.

Privacy: Respect the privacy of those who are sunbathing or swimming nude.
Proper Attire: Dress appropriately when visiting this beach; swimwear is required outside of designated nudist areas.
Respect for Diversity: Understand and accept the diverse customs and practices that exist within San Juan's communities.

El Morro Fortress is a historic landmark; respect the property and be mindful of others while taking photos.

Historical Preservation: Respecting the fortress helps preserve its rich history for future generations.
Photography Etiquette: Take turns with other visitors when taking photos and be mindful of their experience.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understand the historical significance of El Morro Fortress and show respect during your visit.

Attend a salsa lesson at Casa Bacardi and immerse yourself in San Juan's vibrant dance culture.

Cultural Immersion: Dancing salsa allows visitors to connect with local culture.
Lesson Availability: Check Casa Bacardi's schedule for available salsa lessons and events.
Dance Skill Level: Lessons cater to all skill levels, so don't worry if you're a beginner.

Join locals in celebrating one of San Juan's many festivals; be respectful and participate in traditions.

Cultural Immersion: Festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience local customs and traditions.
Respect for Traditions: Learn about the history and significance of each festival before participating.
Festival Schedule: Check local event calendars to find out when festivals are taking place.

Experience the unique atmosphere of a local barbershop; be patient as service may take longer.

Local Experience: Barber shops offer an authentic glimpse into San Juan's culture.
Service Time: Plan ahead as barbershop service may take longer than expected due to the social aspect of the visit.
Language Barrier: Brush up on your Spanish or bring a friend who speaks the language.

Explore local markets for unique handmade crafts and traditional Puerto Rican foods.

Authenticity: Local markets offer authentic, handcrafted items that can't be found in stores.
Haggling: It's common to haggle over prices at local markets, but always be respectful.
Product Quality: Inspect products carefully and ask questions before making a purchase.

Sample traditional Puerto Rican cuisine in local restaurants; be patient as service may take longer.

Cultural Experience: Dining at local restaurants provides a unique cultural experience.
Service Time: Plan ahead as restaurant service may take longer than expected due to the social aspect of dining.
Food Safety: Be cautious when choosing restaurants and look for cleanliness.

Respect the sanctity of La Catedral Metropolitana de San Juan by dressing modestly and removing hats.

Respect for Religion: Dressing appropriately shows respect for the religious practices and beliefs.
Silence: Speak quietly and move slowly to avoid disturbing those who are praying or meditating.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and adhering to local customs helps create a positive cultural exchange.

Bargain for items at local artisan shops; be respectful and considerate during negotiations.

Cultural Exchange: Bargaining is a common practice in Puerto Rico, but always maintain a respectful dialogue.
Product Quality: Inspect products carefully and ask questions before making an offer.
Fair Price: Aim to find a fair price that both parties are satisfied with, taking into account the quality of the product.