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With its proximity to the U.S. and its state-sponsored hotel deals, you can easily take a trip steeped in Latin American culture and the beauty of the Caribbean for mere pennies on the dollar in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico, only a short plane trip from the East Coast, embraces both new and old worlds as it unites Latin traditions with American modernity. With temperatures averaging in the 80s year-round, the island is an ideal vacation spot in any season. However, the pleasant weather and scenery are not all the island haven has to offer – Puerto Rico's budget prices make it one of the most affordable vacation options in the Caribbean.

Transportation: Flights from the East Coast to Puerto Rico can be less than $200 in the low season of May through November. To get the best rates, visit in the late spring or early fall (September–October). On the island, transportation is cheap and efficient. The international airport is only three miles from downtown San Juan, so getting to the city after arrival is not costly or time-consuming. Taxis fares are reasonable, and Puerto Rico's public transportation in the San Juan area is convenient and reliable.

Lodging: In Puerto Rico, budget accommodations can range from $40 - 70 per night, and moderate accommodations range from $75 - $150. The Parador network of government-certified inns, often found in historic or scenic areas, offer quality accommodations for reasonable prices year-round. These inns average around $80 a night and include in-house restaurants, where prices can be up to 25 percent cheaper during the week, as locals tend to visit on weekends. The government also sponsors centros vaccacionales, or vacation resorts, that provide family-friendly coastal lodging for tourists. Cabanas cost about $65 a night, while larger villas average $110 for the evening and can house six people; swimming pools and recreational areas can also be found on-site.

Activities: Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of cultural activities and natural attractions that are affordable and unforgettable. Explore Old San Juan free of charge via trolley, and be sure to visit the Don Q Hospitality House, a local rum distillery, for a free drink and tour of the historic site. The Le Lo Lai Festival in San Juan showcases Puerto Rico's diverse cultural heritage by celebrating its musical roots each week. During the festival, local restaurants offer complimentary drinks and discounts. Take the short and cheap ferry ride across San Juan Bay to visit the city of Cataño to enjoy great views.

Outside of the city, investigate Puerto Rico's eastern islands of Vieques and Culebra and stay at one of the many quaint inns and hotels while escaping the mainland. Mona Island is known as the "Galapagos of the Caribbean" as it is home to iguanas, turtles, whales, mangrove forests and coral reefs. Tour operators offer a select number of packages on the islands twice a month that include hotel, meal and transportation costs.

Puerto Rico also boasts many impressive natural attractions, notably its secluded beaches and the bay of La Parguera in the southwest, which showcases a phosphorescent glowing sea every evening. You might also consider an alternate way to explore Puerto Rico's 272 miles of coastline. Horseback rides to nearby natural attractions can be coordinated by your hotel for reasonable rates.

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