Are you looking for your next tropical vacation destination?
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.
Two popular choices that often come up are Puerto Rico and the Maldives.
In this article, I will help you decide whether you should vacation in Puerto Rico or the Maldives:
– Is Puerto Rico better than the Maldives?
– Is it cheaper to go to the Maldives or Puerto Rico?
– Maldives vs Puerto Rico safety – which is safer?
– Maldives vs Puerto Rico beaches – which has better beaches?
– Which is better for families with kids?
– Which has more fun and unique activities?
Puerto Rico is a more affordable option than the Maldives for those on a budget.
Visitors can choose from various accommodations, including cozy guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts.
The island also offers affordable dining options, with local food stalls and small restaurants serving delicious and affordable meals.
In contrast, the Maldives is known for its high-end resorts, which offer overwater villas with private pools and ocean views.
While these resorts offer luxurious amenities and services, they come at a higher price point.
In terms of safety, both Puerto Rico and the Maldives are generally safe destinations for tourists. However, as with any destination, taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings is important.
Puerto Rico has a higher crime rate than the Maldives, but this is mainly confined to certain island areas, and tourists are only sometimes targeted.
Puerto Rico may be the better option for families with children due to its affordability and various activities.
The island offers family-friendly attractions such as the Toro Verde Zipline, the Bioluminescent Bay, and the Camuy River Cave Park.
In contrast, the Maldives may be less suitable for families with young children due to the high cost of accommodations and limited activities for children.
Regarding activities, Puerto Rico offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Visitors can explore the old forts in Old San Juan, take a day trip to El Yunque Rainforest, or go zip-lining in the central mountains.
The island is also home to several world-class golf courses, making it a popular destination for enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, Maldives offers a variety of water-based activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.
The islands are also home to several luxury spas, making it a popular destination for those looking to relax and unwind.
In addition, Maldives is known for its unique underwater restaurants, which offer diners the chance to enjoy a meal surrounded by marine life.
Whether you choose Puerto Rico or the Maldives for your vacation depends on your personal preferences, budget, and what you want to experience.
Both destinations have unique attractions and offer a tropical escape that will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated.
When considering travel costs, Puerto Rico is undeniably the more affordable option. Compared to the Maldives, the cost of living in Puerto Rico is relatively low, making it an attractive option for budget travelers.
Visitors can find reasonably priced meals, accommodations, and activities that fit their budget.
One of the biggest cost factors when traveling is airfare. Flights to Puerto Rico are generally more frequent and affordable than flights to the Maldives.
Major airlines offer direct flights from many U.S. cities to Puerto Rico, making it a convenient and accessible destination for American travelers. Additionally, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, which can save on travel costs and time.
Below is a video of someone breaking down the travel guide & cost to Puerto Rico:
In contrast, the Maldives is known for its luxurious resorts and high-end tourism industry, making it a more expensive destination. Flights to the Maldives can be costly, especially if travelers come from outside Asia.
Visitors to the Maldives must also factor in the cost of accommodations, meals, and activities, which can quickly add up.
While there are budget-friendly guesthouses and local restaurants in the Maldives, the high-end luxury resorts and all-inclusive packages draw many visitors, which can be a hefty expense.
Below is a cost breakdown of how much a trip to the Maldives cost:
Overall, Puerto Rico is a more budget-friendly destination compared to the Maldives.
However, it’s important to remember that travel costs can vary depending on several factors, such as time of year, accommodation type, and travel style.
It’s always a good idea to compare prices and plan accordingly to find the best deals and options for your budget.
Check out our guide to the Cost Of A Vacation To Puerto Rico.
The safety of a destination is always an essential factor to consider when planning a trip, and both the Maldives and Puerto Rico have unique safety profiles.
In general, the Maldives is considered to be a safer destination than Puerto Rico.
The Maldives boasts a relatively low crime rate, and the government has implemented strict laws and regulations to ensure the safety and security of visitors.
Puerto Rico, on the other hand, has a higher crime rate than the Maldives, particularly in urban areas.
Visitors should exercise caution when exploring the city and avoid walking alone at night.
Despite this, the tourism industry in Puerto Rico is well-regulated, and popular tourist areas are generally safe.
However, it is essential to always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
It is worth noting that safety can never be guaranteed, and it is important to take precautions regardless of the destination.
Travelers can take steps to minimize their risk, such as staying in well-lit areas, avoiding wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash, and researching the local customs and laws before arrival.
By taking these precautions, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to the Maldives or Puerto Rico.
Read more in our guide to Safety In Puerto Rico.
One of the main attractions of the Maldives is its stunning beaches, which are renowned for their pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters.
The beaches in the Maldives are also known for being secluded, with many only accessible to resort guests. This makes them the perfect place to relax and unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Whether you want to sunbathe on the beach, take a dip in the sea, or simply admire the stunning views, the beaches in the Maldives offer something for everyone.
Puerto Rico is also famous for its beautiful beaches, which are more accessible.
Visitors to Puerto Rico can enjoy a variety of beaches, from calm and shallow waters in Isla Verde to the rugged and scenic beaches in Rincon.
With so many options, visitors can find the perfect beach to suit their preferences. Whether you want to surf, swim, or simply soak up the sun, a beach in Puerto Rico will meet your needs.
When it comes to choosing between the Maldives and Puerto Rico, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference.
If you want a more secluded, luxurious beach experience, the Maldives may be the better choice.
However, if you prefer more accessible, diverse beaches with a mix of activities, then Puerto Rico is the better option.
With a wide range of beaches to choose from, visitors to Puerto Rico can enjoy everything from swimming and surfing to hiking and sightseeing.
No matter which destination you choose, the Maldives and Puerto Rico offer stunning beaches that will leave a lasting impression.
Learn more in our guide to the Best Beaches In Puerto Rico.
When it comes to family-friendly vacation destinations, both Puerto Rico and Maldives have something unique to offer.
Puerto Rico is known for its rich culture and history, and families can explore the old forts in Old San Juan, visit the vibrant street art in Santurce, or take a day trip to El Yunque Rainforest.
Puerto Rico has several family-friendly beaches, including Luquillo Beach, which has calm waters perfect for young children.
Families can also enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling, making it an excellent destination for families who want to stay active.
On the other hand, Maldives offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere that can appeal to families looking to unwind and spend quality time together.
Many of the resorts in the Maldives provide a range of family-friendly activities, including snorkeling, water sports, and beach volleyball.
The tranquil and secluded beaches in the Maldives provide the perfect setting for families to spend time together without the distractions of modern life.
However, it’s important to note that some of the activities in the Maldives, such as scuba diving, may not be suitable for young children.
Ultimately, both destinations have their pros and cons when it comes to family vacations.
It’s essential to consider your family’s interests and preferences when deciding which destination best fits you.
Families interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities may find Puerto Rico the perfect destination. In contrast, families who are looking for a relaxing beach vacation may prefer the tranquil atmosphere of the Maldives.
Check out our guide to the Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico With Kids.
Puerto Rico and the Maldives offer a wide range of activities for travelers.
In Puerto Rico, visitors can explore the old forts in Old San Juan and learn about the island’s rich history and culture.
The Spanish built the forts Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristobal in the 16th century to protect the island from invaders.
Today, visitors can tour these historical sites and learn about the island’s colonial past.
Visitors can also take a day trip to El Yunque Rainforest to hike the trails and swim in the natural pools.
Puerto Rico is also home to several world-class golf courses, including the Trump International Golf Club, making it a popular destination for enthusiasts.
In contrast, Maldives offers a variety of water-based activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.
The islands are surrounded by coral reefs and are home to a diverse range of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Visitors can also enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing.
Maldives is also known for its luxury spas, offering a range of treatments to help visitors relax and unwind.
In addition, Maldives is home to unique underwater restaurants, such as the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which offers diners the chance to enjoy a meal surrounded by marine life.
Ultimately, the choice between Puerto Rico and Maldives for activities comes down to personal preference.
Suppose you’re looking for a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. In that case, Puerto Rico may be the better choice for you.
In addition to exploring the historic forts and rainforests, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as zip-lining and horseback riding.
Puerto Rico is also known for its vibrant music and dance scene, with salsa clubs and live music venues throughout the island.
On the other hand, if you’re more interested in water-based activities and relaxation, then Maldives might be the better fit.
The tranquil and secluded beaches provide the perfect setting for water sports and relaxation, while the luxury spas and underwater restaurants offer a unique and memorable experience.
Puerto Rico is easier to get to from the United States, as it is a US territory and therefore does not require a passport for US citizens.
Puerto Rico is easier to get around for tourists.
In conclusion, Puerto Rico and the Maldives offer a fantastic tropical getaway with unique features.
Your final decision will depend on your personal preferences and what you seek in a vacation.
If you are on a budget, Puerto Rico is the ideal destination with its affordability and accessibility, along with a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
On the other hand, the Maldives offers a more luxurious and secluded escape with its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious overwater bungalows.
Check out our guide to the 50 Best Vacation Rentals In Puerto Rico to help you plan your trip.
Writer at PuertoRico.com. I’ve lived in Puerto Rico for 14 years and have experienced every inch of this stunning island. Growing up in Puerto Rico has helped me truly learn about the rich culture and extensive history this island has to offer. I share my local knowledge in all of the articles that I write.
