Fly to Puerto Rico for a break from the cold weather!

East Coast of Puerto Rico (Paul McDaniel)

If you’re like me you may be longing for those warm days we were having in previous weeks. Well, pack your bags because in a little over three hours you could be stepping out of the airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Thanks to U.S. Airways’ non-stop flight from Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, Charlotteans have the option for quick weekend getaways to this and many other tropical Caribbean Islands. Once you arrive in “la Isla del Encanto” (“the Enchanted Island”) you’ll be certain to find places to see and things to do that fit your interests no matter what they are. Want to just lounge on the beach? Then head to one of the many palm-lined beaches along the island’s northeast and east coasts. History buff? Why not explore the colonial streets of Old San Juan (founded by the Spanish in the 1500s) and San Juan National Historic Park, which contains the massive El Morro fort. If being active in nature is more to your liking, then head over to El Yunque in Caribbean National Forest for some great hiking in a mountainous tropical rainforest. Or, spend an evening kayaking on a bioluminescent bay near Fajardo in the northeast. You won’t have to worry about lodging or meals as hotels and restaurants of various types are abundant in San Juan and throughout Puerto Rico. And most importantly, no passport is required for travel between the mainland U.S. and Puerto Rico. After all, the island is part of the United States. So go on and book that trip! Soon you’ll be on your way to exploring beautiful Puerto Rico during an upcoming weekend. But keep in mind that once you're there you’ll wish you were staying longer than a couple of days!