Vieques, Puerto Rico 🇵🇷
#1249
18.12805, -65.43351
Nomad Score:
61%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Vieques is an island municipality located off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico known for its stunning beaches and bioluminescent bay. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 9,300 inhabitants. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speeds of around 20-30 Mbps, with some areas offering higher speeds. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD = 1 USD (US dollar is the official currency; banking services are available through local branches like Banco Popular). |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 120V, 60Hz, standard Type A & B sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Major carriers include AT&T, T-Mobile, and Claro, with options available at local stores. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Credit and debit cards widely accepted; some local businesses may prefer cash. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Accommodation options include beachfront villas, guesthouses, and Airbnbs with prices ranging from $50 to $300 per night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, many places accept credit cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Popular platforms include Airbnb and vrbo, with options starting around $80 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like 'The Vieques Hostel' offer dorm beds starting at $30 per night. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Vieques Coworking Space offers a quiet atmosphere and reliable internet. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Duffy's is a great spot with Wi-Fi and a relaxed vibe for working. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Occasional meetups can be found via local Facebook groups focused on expats and remote workers. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Look for community events at local bars or restaurants; 'Marauder's' often hosts gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Ride-sharing is limited; taxis are available, and 'Vieques Transit' offers rides around the island. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Local rentals like 'Isla de Vieques Bike Rental' offer bicycles and scooters. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Settle at Playa Negra, known for its unique black sand. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Silver Airways connects Vieques to San Juan. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | JetBlue and American Airlines provide direct flights to San Juan. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Limited, as the island relies primarily on local roads. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | No train services; ferries are used to connect to the main island. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Buses are limited; taxis and rental cars are the main modes of transport. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Ferris and small planes available to the main island of Puerto Rico. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Clinica Veterinaria Vieques is the main health facility for general ailments. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Nearby studios like Vieques Yoga offer daily classes. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | The Vieques Community Center has gym facilities. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats like 'La Lavanderia' provide washing and drying services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Delivery services like Grubhub might feature local restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Mofongo - a mashed plantain dish that’s a must-try. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants like 'El Quenepo' offer vegetarian-friendly dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | 'The Bakery' serves a variety of local pastries and desserts. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like 'Plaza de Mercado' offer fresh local produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon and local stores provide limited online shopping. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Some local grocery stores may offer delivery services; inquire directly. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The Malecon area features various bars with local nightlife. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Cerveza de Puerto Rico offers local brews; tasting tours might be available. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | 'La Taberna' is a cozy spot to enjoy good wine. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Various vendors near the beaches sell local snacks. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | 'Bananas' offers a mix of international and local flavors. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Mosquito Bay is famed for its bioluminescent waters, and the Old Sugar Mill is a historical site. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Vieques Historical Museum provides insights into the island's past. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the ruins of Fortin Conde de Mirasol. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria is notable for its architecture. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Fiestas de Vieques, celebrated in July, features music, food, and dances. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Isabel Segunda has a vibrant local culture with shops and galleries. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Cultural events often take place at community centers or outdoor venues. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Vieques Farmer's Market operates on Sundays, featuring local produce and crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Various bars and restaurants host local musicians regularly. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Street art can be found throughout Isabel Segunda. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes focusing on Puerto Rican cuisine can be found through local chefs. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local artists display work at galleries in Isabel Segunda. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Several colonial-style buildings are still in use, particularly in the town center. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Vieques maintains a rich Afro-Caribbean heritage visible in its festivals and music. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | The Vieques National Wildlife Refuge offers beautiful trails and beaches. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | El Yunque National Forest is accessible via ferry and is a popular day trip. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal paths around the island are perfect for biking and walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint near Playa La Chiva offers breathtaking views of the coastline. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is popular in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain beaches, like Playa Caracas, allow bonfires; verify local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local post office services are available, but shipping can be slow. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited options; 'Best Buy' in mainland Puerto Rico is recommended for major repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Check community centers for recreational table tennis options. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Local community centers may offer Spanish tutoring. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The Vieques Community Center has space for reading and studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | The Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust hosts various community events. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited; some bars have gaming setups available. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos; gaming is available in mainland Puerto Rico. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $800 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $32,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $600 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $24,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $700 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $42,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $30,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $600 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $48,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $400 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $32,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 4% for eligible businesses under Act 20/22. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% for residents. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Puerto Rico has a unique tax system distinct from the continental US; residents are taxed on worldwide income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 33% for high earners. |
| 🧾 VAT | 11.5% total sales tax on goods and services. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, applicable to foreign-owned businesses. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is about 1.5% of the property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 2% of the purchase price. |