If you want to experience the Caribbean without going too far, then Puerto Rico is a place to consider. It offers beautiful beaches, culture and a rainforest with an average temperature of 80 degrees. It is only a 3 hour plane ride from New York, accepts U.S. dollars and both English and Spanish are spoken.

 You can always enjoy the amenities at your resort or hotel but there is so much more to see. You can visit one of the many beaches such as Balneario de Escambrun, which has honey-colored sand or Balneario de Carolina, which is an almond tree-shaded beach. 

If you want to do more than just lounge, you can visit El Yunque, the 28000 mile rainforest or the underground caverns. San Juan also offers its share of nightlife as well. Puerto Rico definitely provides a tropical atmosphere but is just a hop, skip and jump from home.