Puerto Rico EDIA Resources

San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) provides wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and priority seating throughout terminals. Passengers needing additional assistance should request support in advance through their airline.  

Puerto Rico enforces the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that public transportation, including in San Juan, is increasingly accessible for those with mobility issues. Tren Urbano (San Juan’s metro system) and certain bus services include wheelchair access, ramps, audio-visual announcements, and priority seating for passengers with disabilities.  

Taxis are common in Puerto Rico’s large cities and can be flagged down or arranged at taxi ranks. In San Juan, designated “tourist taxis” have fixed rates, while usual trips are metered fares. Hailing apps like Uber also operate in San Juan, though restrictions may prevent pickups at some locations, like the airport. Some taxi services, including GO Puerto Rico Shuttle, offer wheelchair-accessible vans with ramps and can be reserved in advance, though availability may be limited outside San Juan. 

Puerto Rico’s landscape is diverse, featuring mountainous regions, coastal areas, and urban centers. In cities like Old San Juan, the terrain includes cobblestone streets and narrow pathways, which may present challenges for individual with mobility impairments. Beyond urban areas, this program includes field trips to forests and rainforests, where students will trek through dense vegetation, uneven paths, and potentially muddy trails. Students should be prepared for extensive walking, trekking, and hiking, and it is recommended to bring sturdy footwear suitable for these conditions. Some historic and natural sites, such as San Cristobal Fort and Paseo de la Princesa, provide accessible paths, but the forested areas would lack accessibility features. 

Puerto Rico experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid summers. Average high temperatures in San Juan during May and June can reach 30-32°C, and humidity can make it feel even warmer. Students are advised to pack breathable, light clothing, hats, and sunscreen to manage the heat. The classroom has air-conditioning, and previous students mentioned it can get quite cold in the room, so bringing a thin layer with you may be a good idea. Other buildings and facilities in urban areas generally offer air conditioning, but the outdoor field trips may not, so students should prepare accordingly. 

Students will be staying in dormitory accommodation on the Universidad del Sagrado Corazón’s campus. Each room will be double-occupancy with WiFi; two twin-sized beds, desks and chairs, and closets, and air conditioning. Each floor has kitchens equipped with refrigerators, stovetops, and microwaves, and a living room with a television and common areas. However, please be aware that kitchenware, including pots and pans and utensils, is not provided. Other dorm facilities include a computer room, recreation room and laundry room (at additional costs). 

If you have specific accessibility and mobility needs that require a single room, we may be able to arrange one on campus for an additional cost. If your needs cannot be accommodated on campus, you do have the option to stay off-campus to access suitable accommodations, such as a hotel or apartment.  These accommodations are paid for separately and may be more expensive than campus accommodations.  If you require a private accommodation for health reasons, you are required to research your own accommodations (i.e., hotels) in the area that are in close proximity to the residence. Please note that Summer Abroad does not book private accommodations for students, and that students are also responsible for additional incurred fees (paid directly to the hotel or booking website).  

We encourage you to reach out to the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) about any mobility-related requirements or accommodations in advance. A reminder that the EDIA Questionnaire is due 7 days of the admission offer. We strongly encourage you connect with the Summer Abroad office to discuss your needs before applying your Summer Abroad program. We will work closely with you to plan your experience abroad, taking into consideration your accessibility needs.  

Mental health issues in Puerto Rico are influenced by a mix of cultural, social, and systemic factors. Despite increasing awareness, stigma around mental health remains a significant barrier, deterring many from seeking help. The economic constraints faced by the island, compounded by frequent natural disasters like hurricanes, have strained mental health resources. These challenges have led to a shortage of mental health professionals and limited access to services, which may impact students’ ability to access timely mental health care if needed. 

If you require support for any mental health concerns, we encourage you to reach out to Summer Abroad so we can work directly with you to provide necessary accommodations and support during your program. All Summer Abroad students have access to International SOS, which has a partnership with U of T, who will connect you with a network of health professionals in your area. If you require a doctor or counsellor in Puerto Rico, iSOS will be able to help you find a mental health professional in your area.  

If you are bringing medication with you into Puerto Rico, remember to check if your medication contains a controlled drug. Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, you can check with the Entry and exit requirements to make sure your medication is legal. You should always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, with your doctor’s prescription. 

Reminder: Students with pre-existing concerns must meet with their Accessibility Advisor to discuss needs and prepare relevant documentations before applying for Summer Abroad.  

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) has highlighted Puerto Rico as an increasingly popular and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, dubbing it the “LGBTQ+ Capital of the Caribbean” due to its inclusive atmosphere and numerous LGBTQ+ focused activities and resources. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2015, aligning with U.S. federal law, and same-sex couples are allowed to adopt. Puerto Rico has made significant strides in legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, covering employment, housing, and public accommodations based on sexual orientation and gender identity. However, it should be noted that while non-binary gender is not yet legally recognized, advocacy efforts continue to expand these protections. 

Puerto Rico hosts multiple pride events annually, particularly in San Juan, which has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene with a variety of queer-friendly bars, clubs, and cultural events. Yet, students should remain aware of potential gaps in local protections. It is advisable to exercise caution, especially in unfamiliar or rural areas where social attitudes may be more conservative. Maintaining awareness of surroundings and utilizing LGBTQ+ friendly spaces and resources, where possible, can help ensure a safer experience. 

Summer Abroad is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, and support students of all sexual orientations and gender identities. If you have any concerns or require support regarding your 2SLGBTQ+ accommodations, please do not hesitate to reach out to us, so we can assist you in finding additional resources as well as explore your accommodation options.  

Puerto Rico is generally considered safe for women travelers, but it is advisable to take standard precautions, especially when exploring unfamiliar or isolated area. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so staying vigilant with belongings is recommended. According to Canada’s travel advisory, harassment or unwanted attention may occur. While San Juan is known for its vibrant nightlife and beaches, women travellers should be cautious in crowded areas or after dark.   

In Puerto Rico, emergency contraception (often referred to as "Plan B") is available without a prescription and can be obtained at most pharmacies, including major chains such as Walgreens. It’s advisable to ask the pharmacist directly if there are any questions regarding access. 

If you experience sexual harassment or feel uncomfortable while you are abroad, you can reach out to Summer Abroad and Safety Abroad for help, and they will help connect you with U of T resources including the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre. For more information on how Safety Abroad can support you in a crisis, please click here to view Safety Abroad’s resources (under “sexual harassment & violence” and “in a crisis.”) 

Puerto Rico is a diverse society, though its racial diversitydiffer from other parts of North America. The island’s population is primarily Hispanic or Latino (over 98%). According to the 2020 census, 46.8% of Puerto Ricans identified as belonging to more than one race. This reflects Puerto Rico’s complex heritage, influenced by Spanish colonization, African ancestry, and Indigenous roots. Puerto Rico also has a history of immigration, particularly from neighboring Latin American and Caribbean countries, resulting in communities from the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and other Latin American nations. The most common non-English languages spoken as the primary language in households in Puerto Rico are Spanish, French and Chinese. These groups contribute to the racial and cultural diversity of the island, particularly in urban centers like San Juan.  

Overall, Puerto Rico is generally welcoming to visitors, and the tourism sector embraces diversity. However, some individuals may still experience stereotypical assumptions or unfamiliarity with non-Latino racial backgrounds, especially in less frequented or rural areas. As with many places, travelers should remain aware of local social dynamics and be prepared to navigate occasional cultural differences. 

If you feel unsafe or experience racism during your time in the Summer Abroad program, we encourage you to report the incident immediately to the Summer Abroad office or reach out to the On-Site Coordinators, who will contact U of T Safety Abroad to provide immediate support, including connecting you with U of T Resources such as the Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). 

Puerto Rico has a predominantly Christian religious landscape, with approximately 70% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic and around 25% as Protestant. However, religious diversity is increasing, with small but active communities of Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, and practitioners of other faiths.  

San Juan offers the most religious diversity and has places of worship for several faiths. The Catedral de San Juan Bautista in Old San Juan is one of the most significant and historic religious sites in Puerto Rico. The city hosts three active synagogues, representing Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism, as well as a Chabad center. The Muslim community has established several mosques across the island, including the Islamic Center of Puerto Rico at San Juan and the Islamic Center at Ponce, which serves as a hub for Islamic worship and cultural gatherings.  

If you are looking for religious accommodation support during your Summer Abroad program, such as religious observations that may conflict with academic activities and field trips, please contact the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator in advance. Summer Abroad will work closely with you to ensure that your religious observance needs are accommodated to the best of our ability, creating an inclusive environment that respects and values your faith while planning and participating your Summer Abroad experience.  

Halal food can be found in Puerto Rico. There are a few Middle Eastern restaurants and groceries that may carry halal items. However, explaining halal requirements to locals can sometimes be challenging. To locate halal restaurants, apps like Zabihah can be useful resources for finding suitable places to eat and explaining dietary needs. It’s advisable to research or contact these places in advance, or consider bringing some non-perishable halal items if access is a priority. 

Kosher food is available in San Juan, where a few stores and restaurants cater to the Jewish community. The Sha’are Zedek Synagogue and Chabad of Puerto Rico are good resources for kosher information and community support. 

Puerto Rican cuisine incorporates a variety of vegetables, grains, and legumes, and vegetarian food is generally accessible in restaurants and supermarkets. However, many traditional dishes may include meat or animal-based products, so it’s essential to clarify dietary preferences when ordering. Travellers may find some specific vegetarian food choices may not be available in Puerto Rico, so you may need to prepare for finding suitable alternatives. Apps like HappyCow can help locate vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants across Puerto Rico.