# What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About the Latest Puerto Rico Travel Advisory
Planning a getaway to Puerto Rico from Ottawa? The Government of Canada has just updated its travel advisory for this popular Caribbean destination, and there are some important changes you should know about before you book your flight.
As of April 20, 2026, Puerto Rico maintains a **Level 1 risk rating — Take Normal Security Precautions**. This is the lowest advisory level, meaning travel conditions are generally safe. The most significant update? Canada has removed its dengue travel health notice for the territory, signaling improved conditions for one of the region’s most concerning mosquito-borne diseases.
## Understanding What’s Changed
While the dengue notice has been lifted, this doesn’t mean health preparation should be overlooked. Puerto Rico still presents typical Caribbean travel risks that Ottawa residents need to consider when planning their trip. The island faces ongoing challenges with infrastructure, crime, and natural hazards that require awareness and preparation.
## Safety Concerns to Keep on Your Radar
Petty theft remains prevalent throughout Puerto Rico, with pickpocketing and purse snatching targeting tourists in busy areas. More concerning is the occurrence of violent crime, making it essential to stay vigilant with your belongings, especially passports and travel documents.
Coastal activities require extra caution. Riptides pose serious dangers along Puerto Rico’s beautiful beaches, and not all areas have adequate warning systems. Always check with local operators and residents before swimming in unfamiliar waters.
Infrastructure challenges persist since Hurricane Maria devastated the power grid in 2017. Ottawa travellers should expect periodic electricity and telecommunications disruptions, which can affect everything from air conditioning to mobile phone service.
Women travelling solo should be prepared for potential harassment and verbal abuse in some areas. Taking standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas after dark becomes even more important.
## How Ottawa Travellers Should Prepare
Beyond checking your travel insurance and booking accommodations, proper health preparation is crucial. Even with the dengue notice removed, mosquito-borne illnesses remain a concern throughout the Caribbean. A pre-travel health consultation helps identify which vaccinations and preventive medications make sense for your specific itinerary.
Standard travel vaccines like hepatitis A and typhoid are often recommended for Caribbean destinations. Your travel health provider can also prescribe medications for traveler’s diarrhea and advise on insect repellents most effective against tropical mosquitoes.
Pack a comprehensive medical kit including any prescription medications, basic first aid supplies, and remedies for common travel ailments. Given Puerto Rico’s infrastructure challenges, having supplies on hand becomes more important than in destinations with reliable access to pharmacies.
Travelling to Puerto Rico? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.