If you would rather avoid driving from San Juan to Ponce after your flight, especially if it is late in the day and cannot enjoy the panoramic views from 2,000 feet above sea level, Cape Air could bring you to Mercedita Airport in just 25 minutes. You can then pick up your rented car at Mercedita and be at home within 15 minutes. A car is essential in Puerto Rico. Public transit is available by bus or public cars under a special license that competes with official taxi lines. The bus service is limited in Ponce. Car rentals are good and rates are competitive. Make sure you are well covered by your insurance. Your home provides you with private parking in the backyard but street parking is save and available as long as you avoid leaving tempting personal belongings, packages and luggage in view of passersby. Ponce and most of Puerto Rico is well provided with expressways, roads and streets. With a car, you will be able to visit some spectacular sights up the mountains and along great beaches anywhere in Puerto Rico. All you need then is a good map and a good sense of directions. Get your map at the Tourist Center for free or by one at a gasoline station.