Sales
As on the American continent, Puerto Rico follows the same rhythm of sales: even if the seasons in Puerto Rico are not as marked as in New York or Chicago, the summer sales start on July 4th,Independence Day, the winter sales at the end of December. Other periods can be noted: at the time of Thanksgiving at the end of November, and Black Friday on November 25, for example.
What's very local
Whether you're looking for souvenirs, local crafts, or major brands, you'll find something to please you in Puerto Rico. There is something for every taste and budget, just make sure you have enough room in your suitcase. Puerto Rico has designer boutiques, factory outlets and numerous shopping malls, which will delight serial shoppers .
Art and crafts. For souvenirs, crafts and art, head to Old San Juan. You'll find an eclectic selection of art galleries, souvenir stores and local crafts. This is where you will find the famous traditional carnival masks (vejigantes)
.
Factory Stores.
For great deals on famous brands like Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Nike, etc., head to the Premium Outlets in Barceloneta, a 45-minute drive from San Juan.
Shopping centers.
Plaza Las Américas, in Hato Rey (a neighborhood of San Juan), is the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean. It contains more than 300 clothing stores and restaurants. Enough to spend at least a few hours there. In Ponce, Plaza del Caribe, is the second largest shopping center in Puerto Rico.
Luxury stores.
The Mall of San Juan, located a few minutes from the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is one of the most recent shopping malls on the island, where luxury brands are well represented (Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Hugo Boss, Carolina Herrera, Gucci...)
Local creation. The Santurce district has become the corner of the workshops and stores of designers and independent traders. Calle Loíza has a few of them. In Old San Juan, go every Sunday on the Paseo de la Princesa. Puerto Rican artisans gather there to exhibit their creations. The promenade is lined with dozens of kiosks of all kinds. Live
bands perform in the area.
Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián. This event takes place in mid-January, marking the end of the festive season and the largest gathering of artists and creators of the year. From Thursday to Sunday, the streets of Old San Juan host parades, music groups, dance and theater performances, workshops for children, and a hive of arts and crafts... All in a joyful atmosphere!