It seems not even the imminent threat of natural disasters can deter people from seeking the majestic rain forests and sandy shores of Puerto Rico.
Merely hours after enduring a 6.5-magnitude earthquake off it's north coast, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company announced its tiny U.S. territory had been voted the number one Caribbean Island vacation destination in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Travel Award Contest.
Puerto Rico claimed the top honor thanks primarily to its offering a spectrum of experiences for all types of travelers; from Old San Juan's ancient architecture tailored to history buffs, to the numerous idyllic islands and coast lines suitable for couples and families seeking a relaxing getaway.
In addition, accessibility for visitors was a huge factor in the voting as a passport is not required for entry by U.S. citizens.
"We are delighted to receive this honor and invite travelers to explore and experience all that Puerto Rico offers for themselves," Ingrid I. Rivera Rocafort, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company said. "We look forward to continuing to be a premier Caribbean destination for all travelers no matter what budget."
Puerto Rico is known to experience earthquakes daily---most of them small enough to go unnoticed by those on the island. Monday morning's larger quake was a bit of an aberration however, as the U.S. territory had not been hit with a tremor of that size in nearly three years.
Prospective visitors are advised to use caution when deciding whether or not to visit the island in the near future even though damages from the recent disaster appear to have been minor with no injuries reported.
"All of Puerto Rico is in a seismic danger zone," Puerto Rico geologist Gisela Baez Sanchez said. "We have to be prepared."
Dutch-speaking paradise Curacao, known for it's immensely diverse culture and extensive system of magnificent beaches, beat out Dominica for second place in the final tally.
Rounding out the rest of the island-filled list were St. Martin, Grenada, Barbados, Bonaire, St. John, Tobago, and Anguilla.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
