Puerto Rico Is Open for Tourism

Puerto Rico Is Open for Tourism!

Island Continues To Welcome Tourists Despite Temporary Closure of Several Government Agencies Due to Fiscal Budget Issues -

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 1
Despite the temporary closure of several government agencies beginning today due to fiscal budget issues on the island, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) assures tourists that Puerto Rico is open for tourism and that their safety and comfort remains the number one priority. While non-essential government offices could be closed through July 1, all emergency services are operating as normal.

PRTC expects no major effect on the services used by tourists as Puerto Rico continues to be very accessible and safe during this time. PRTC is monitoring the situation day-to-day to ensure visitors' trips to Puerto Rico will not be affected and that a level of comfort is being maintained to keep their travel plans.

"Tourism is of the utmost importance to Puerto Rico as it is a vital part of the economy and vitality of the island," said Terestella Gonzalez Denton, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC). "All efforts are being made to ensure safety for our visitors and to guarantee a secure and pleasant stay."

Puerto Rico's many attractions, resort areas and tourist services have not been affected by these office closings. All tourist services are open and functioning normally, including: emergency services, airport staff and maintenance, ports and cruise facilities, taxis, casinos, national and local parks, hotels, restaurants, tour guides, municipal services and tourist centers. In addition, all government offices related to public safety and health services will remain open to ensure safety and security.

Background on the Situation:

Starting today, because the legislature did not approve a loan passed by Gov. Anibal Acevedo Vila of $638 million to cover the country's growing budget deficit, non-essential government offices were closed. Since the loan was not approved, the government cannot pay the salaries of an estimated 95,700 public employees and thus, selected government offices will be closed until further resolution. The closings could remain in effect until July 1, 2006 until the new fiscal budget begins.

For updated information please visit, www.gotopuertorico.com or call the consumer hotline at 800-866-7827.

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC), founded in 1970, is a public corporation responsible for stimulating, promoting and regulating the development of the tourism industry. It markets Puerto Rico as a tourism destination through advertising, public relations and promotional activities; promotes tourism among local residents; provides visitor orientation and technical assistance to investors; evaluates tourism facilities and establishes standards of quality; and regulates and oversees gaming operations. PRTC has offices and representatives in the U.S. mainland, Canada, Europe and Latin America.