puerto rico travel agent near me

CALL US! 787-721-3984

Modern Travel & Tours is a family-owned and operated full-service travel agency based in San Juan, Puerto Rico since 1978.

They go that extra mile for their clients, which has been the key to their company’s success gaining them the recognition from major airlines, tour operators, cruise ship companies and hoteliers year after year.

A flexible and highly personalized service is offered in building customized vacations from scratch. No detail is too small and our customers know to rely on our professional advice. For the upscale traveler, we spare no effort to create a decadent and unforgettable travel experience. Our alliance with Virtuoso enables us to offer you complimentary upgrades, outstanding amenities, privileged access and private events all over the World.

Whether your expectation is a luxury vacation of a lifetime or balancing corporate objectives with cost savings, our focus is to exceed expectations.

Virtuoso is a global luxury network of leisure travel advisors and carefully curated travel providers. We represent the best of the best in travel, with a portfolio of nearly 1,700 preferred partners - top hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, and more. Our advisors use their global connections to plan the most memorable experiences for their clients, from weekend getaways to dream vacations. A Virtuoso travel advisor elevates every trip. They know how to get the best value for your time and money, and, thanks to their global connections, they can VIP you at hotels, on cruise lines, on tours, and more.

OUR SERVICES

AIRLINE TRAVEL

We make all necessary arrangements for airline travel, including fare comparison and web fare search.

As Virtuoso members, we hold agreements with leading domestic and international air carriers that translate into outstanding fares and services for you.

LAND ARRANGEMENTS

Transfers, hotel, train reservations, and any other specific request you may have to make your trip to your specifications can be arranged. 

Hundreds of the finest hotels, resorts, spas, lodges, rail lines, and car services around the world roll out the red carpet for Virtuoso clients.

With direct reservation systems to the most popular cruise ship lines, we can offer an immediate response to your cruise requests.

Join the Virtuoso Voyager Club and enjoy private shore events and onboard activities only offered through Virtuoso agencies to its clients. Membership is complimentary.

CONVENTION & INCENTIVE

We take care of all necessary

arrangements for corporate conventions from accommodations, transfers, excursions, meeting room reservations, audiovisual equipment, tour guides, banquets, entertainment, and many others to motivate morale and improve business.

VIP & CORPORATE SERVICES

We make reservations for theatre, restaurants, gifts, limousine, spas and many other special requests. As Virtuosospecialists we know the world and all the ways for you to discover it.

We have specialists dedicated to our corporate accounts ensuring a productive and rewarding travel experience.

24 HOUR SUPPORT

Our customers can access our

reservation department through our website, www.moderntravel.com , or call our 24-hour emergency number to receive immediate service.

FREQUENT FLYERS

We complete frequent flyer applications. Benefits offered are free travel upgrades, free travel, and hotel and car rental discounts. For platinum or gold frequent flyers, our agency takes care of upgrade requests and follow-up confirmations.

PASSPORT & VISA PROCESSING

If you need a new passport, renewal, or visa for your trip, we offer assistance for processing. We can help you get them in a rush with less than a week's notice.

SPECIAL MEMBERSHIPS

With our membership with Virtuoso and as an Authorized Disney Travel Planner (not an agent of the Walt Disney Company or its affiliates) our specialists receive constant training on the new trends and special offers for our clients. And through our website, you can find updated offers as well for both, Virtuoso and Disney Travel Co.

OUR EXPERTS

ZAILY RODRIGUEZ, CTA

General Manager

[email protected]

LOLA MENENDEZ

Office Manager

[email protected]

DIELESY KEIFFER, CTA

Advisor/FIT Specialist

[email protected]

LINNY SERRANO, AVP

Travel Advisor

[email protected]

SHIRLEY RODRIGUEZ

[email protected]

GICEL SANCHEZ, CTC

[email protected]

LETICIA RIVERA

[email protected]

KARINA CAMPOS

[email protected]

HILDA MELENDEZ

[email protected]

KANDIMAR VERA

[email protected]

SOFIA AYUSO

[email protected]

ELI RODRIGUEZ PAGANI

[email protected]

GABRIELA VEGA

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WHAT OUR CLIENTS THINK

They did an outstanding job putting together our recent trip. Our agent was proactive, creative, resourceful and responsive. Working with them on the trip added value I definitely could not have equaled planning the trip myself.

Thank you, Modern Travel & Tours for helping me get my family to Miami after Hurricane Maria. You saved my family and my nerves. Forever grateful!

Due to another awful travel company mistakenly used I was left stranded in Puerto Rico without enough money or access to a flight home. They were able to arrange this and looked after me. Thanks to them I am on my way home.

610 Ave. Escorial, Caparra Heights

San Juan, P.R. 00920

TO SPEAK WITH AN AGENT,

PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL US:

[email protected]

Tel: 787-721-3984

Fax: 787-723-5884

Travel with Style • Travel with Class

Booking a major trip is exciting, but it can also be a bit overwhelming.  That's why we have Travel Experts to take care of your every need, making your trip stress-free & amazing. 

4Seasons Travel is here to plan an experience you’ll never forget. 

As one of the exclusive agencies that comprise VIRTUOSO, 4Seasons Travel provides a combination of exceptional service with stylish and luxury journeys around world.  After 40+ years of experience we have become a leader in Caribbean, Europe, Latin America Travel and much more.  Based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 4Seasons Travel staff personally have visit many destinations and cruises before they make any recommendation to our clients. This ensures that our offers perfectly matches each one of our client’s desires and needs.

As a renowned travel agency, we comply with the highest standards in the industry.

Our Virtuoso Travel Advisors Team

At 4Seasons Travel, we believe in maintaining long-term relationships with all of our clients. We’ll go the extra mile to make sure all the trips we plan and book are absolutely flawless. Get to know us below!

Virtuoso Travel Advisor

Gloria Valle

Carmen Mulet

Years of Experience: 

More than 35 years

Area of Expertise:   

4 Seasons Travel manager and team lead. Expert in River Cruises, luxury cruises and the Caribbean!

Favorite Destination:  

My  favorite  destination i s  Italy and Istanbul. 

Contact me :   

[email protected]

I started working as a Travel Advisor in 1987 and have been with 4 Seasons Travel since then. 

Ocean and river cruises in Europe, FIT’s

My favorite destination is Europe, more specific the Amalfi Coast.  Visited Praiano, Sorrento, Positano, Ravello, and a Mozzarela Buffalo farm in July 2022.  I recommend this for couples that want to relax, experience great food, shopping, and beautiful sites

[email protected]

More than 40 years

Expert in Caribbean destinations and World luxury cruise ships!

Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, England, Switzerland and the rest of Europe

[email protected]

Working for over 55 years as a travel advisor.

Expert in air travel in general, Cruises & Accounting

My favorite destinations is  Spain!

[email protected]

Dr. Jaime Vazquez

“Gracias por todas las atenciones para mi reserva del Crucero, cabina espectacular y el servicio a bordo fue Excelente. Muy agradecido."

Evelyn Salas Otero

"La experiencia con 4Seasons es exclusiva, desde que abordas hasta que llegas de regreso ellos monitorean el vuelo y están al pendiente de los traslados.  Hoteles exclusivos y con una experiencia virtouso, dejan buenos recuerdos e esas vacaciones. Al escoger tours privados puedes definir el  tiempo y los puntos de interés que quieres visitar. Servicio de excelencia, gracias 4Seasons!"

Glenda de Hoyos

“Gracias por los arreglos especiales que no preparanron a Caño Cristales y al Valle del Cocora y Salento en Colombia. El servicio del operador utilizado fue de maravilla. Nuevamente gracias por el servicio.”

• Explore Puerto Rico
• Customize Your Trip

Best Travel Agency In Puerto Rico

Best agency & concierge in puerto rico, how would you like to explore choose your adventure.

Oh La La LLC. is a Destination Management Company.

Based in San Juan, we are approved by the Puerto Rico Ministry

of Tourism and we are IATAN accredited.

Oh La La was born from our love for the island of Puerto Rico

where we have been settled since 2013.

What we guarantee to our customers: reliability and peace of

“Traveler satisfaction”

Based in San Juan, we are approved by the Puerto Rico Ministry of Tourism and are accredited IATAN.

Oh La La was born from our love for the island of Puerto Rico where we have been settled since 2013.

What we guarantee to our customers: reliability and peace of mind.

“ Traveler satisfaction ”

Tailor-Made Experiences Just for You

Unleash the power of customization with Oh la la Travel Agency! Whether you’re tweaking a tour package or crafting an entire itinerary from scratch, our local travel consultants turn your travel dreams into reality. Picture adding extra nights, accommodating large groups, planning business retreats, or creating a dreamy honeymoon—every detail personalized to perfection. Share your desires via our form, and let’s craft a journey that’s uniquely yours!

Unleash the power of customization with Oh la la Travel Agency! Whether you’re fine-tuning a tour package or crafting an entire itinerary from scratch, our local travel consultants turn your travel dreams into reality. Picture adding extra nights, accommodating large groups, planning business retreats, or creating a dreamy honeymoon—every detail personalized to perfection. Share your desires via our form, and let’s craft a journey that’s uniquely yours!

Frequently Asked Questions

Visit our “ Customize My Trip ” section, complete the form with your travel details, preferences, and any special requests. Our dedicated local experts will curate a unique itinerary based on your inputs.

Almost any trip! Whether it’s a family vacation, corporate retreat, honeymoon, or special celebration, our “Customize My Trip” service ensures your travel experience is crafted to perfection.

 No, our customization service is complimentary. We believe in tailoring your journey without added fees, ensuring your travel dreams come to life within your budget.

 Absolutely! Your satisfaction is our priority. Feel free to discuss and fine-tune the proposed itinerary with your dedicated travel consultant until it perfectly reflects your vision.

Our travel experts strive to provide a personalized itinerary within [X] business days. The timeframe may vary based on the complexity and details of your request.

Certainly! Your itinerary is flexible. Discuss any modifications or preferences with your assigned travel consultant, and we’ll make the necessary adjustments to meet your expectations.

We cater to all needs. Specify any dietary restrictions or special requirements in the “Customize My Trip” form, and our agents will ensure your travel experience is tailored accordingly.

For any additional queries, reach out to our dedicated customer service team at [ [email protected] ]. We are here to make your travel dreams a reality.

At Ohlala Travel Agency, we prioritize crafting personalized experiences. While we do not offer direct online bookings, we encourage you to share your travel preferences through our “Customize My Trip” form. Our attentive agents will then promptly respond with tailor-made offers based on your input. Your journey begins with a conversation!

• License: Lic. Av-121/188 de la CTPR
• Address: 668 Calle Suau Esq 957 Ave. Fernandez Juncos San Juan, Miramar, PR 00907
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (787) 390-4406

• 2013-2023 Oh La La Travel Agency - All Rights Reserved

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• Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico Vacations: Caribbean, American, Unique

Puerto Rico offers a distinctive blend of Spanish, European, native, and American culture. Trade wind breezes temper the Caribbean sun, and natural marvels abound. Whether you’re strolling San Juan’s old world-style streets, discovering its 500-year-old San Felipe del Morro citadel, or partying the night away at San Juan’s clubs and casinos , there’s a little something for everyone. Puerto Rico offers world-class beaches, fishing, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and more—so whatever you’re looking for, your Liberty Travel consultant can create a vacation that fits your style.

Puerto Rico at a Glance

Currency: U.S. Dollar, ($)

Tipping Customs: It is customary to tip 15-20%

Language: Spanish and English

Popular Drink: Medalla Beer and Frappés

Must Eat: Mofongo

Power Up: A or B (two or three-prong) 120 V

Weather: Temperatures average in the mid-80s, but weather can be cooler in the mountains. June 1 – November 30 is hurricane season.

Best Time to Visit: The busiest time to visit is in the winter; mid-April to the end of May are less crowded and offer beautiful weather.

Puerto Rico Vacation Deals

Puerto rico cruise deals, meet our puerto rico experts.

Krystal Holmstead

Elva Rutgers

Sandy Mesenburg

Brooke Brush

Susie Wright

Top Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Paddle the Brightest Bioluminescent Bay in the World The brightest bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico (and the world) is Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques, (or explore the two mainland bays in Fajardo and La Parguera).

Take the Ferry to Culebra Island On Culebra, you can visit the remote white-sand Flamenco Beach, celebrated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Stroll Old San Juan Wander the narrow, European-style streets of Old San Juan, admire the colorful architecture, and visit the 16th century citadel of San Felipe del Morro.

Dry Forest, Rainforest Puerto Rico is a land of diverse ecosystems: visit El Yunque rainforest and then travel to the island’s south coast and hike the Guánica Dry Forest, with its cacti and bird-watching opportunities.

Surf Rincón In the winter, the surf’s up in Rincón with Tres Palmas being famous for its big waves.

Our Commitment to You

For over 70 years, the one-on-one personal experience has been at the very heart of Liberty Travel’s mission. It's what we've always done, and now it’s more important than ever.

We’re committed to serving you through:

• GUIDANCE with our expert insight and travel knowledge.
• VALUE with irresistible rates, offers and benefits.
• PEACE OF MIND to book with confidence.
• SERVICE by being by your side before, during, and after your trip.

Real people helping real people. Beside you every step of the way.

The Liberty Travel Experience

At Liberty Travel it’s the people who make a difference. Our travel experts craft the perfect trip for every traveler through our award-winning customer service. Real people helping real people. Beside you every step of the way.

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We are honored to be named United States’ Leading Travel Agency at the 30th annual World Travel Awards. Thank you for trusting us with crafting your incredible vacations.

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Fill out the form below to get in touch with us.

Liberty Travel is dedicated to helping you get the best value and greatest experiences out of any trip. One of our Travel Consultants will respond to your enquiry within 1 business day.

If you would like to speak with a consultant now, please call 1-888-343-2128 .

A Liberty Travel consultant or one of our third party independent advisors who are part of our member network, Envoyage will contact you within 1 business day. If you would like to speak to a Liberty Travel consultant or one of our independent advisors now, please call 1-888-343-2128 . A non-refundable consulting deposit may be required to start the planning process for certain multi-city itineraries based upon complexity. This consulting deposit will be applied towards your final trip cost at the time of booking. You acknowledge that by submitting this inquiry form that your information may be disclosed to our third party independent advisors who are part of our member network, Envoyage for the purpose of facilitating your inquiry and your travel services booking. Accordingly, you are deemed to consent to the collection, use and disclosure of your personal information by us to our third party independent advisors who are part of our member network, Envoyage and relevant travel service providers for the purpose of facilitating your inquiry and your travel services booking and in accordance with the Liberty Travel Privacy Notice .

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Luxury Travel Agency For Puerto Rico Vacation Packages

Luxury travel agency to puerto rico, puerto rico is a caribbean gem that offers an array of experiences, making it the perfect destination for a luxury vacation, honeymoon, group getaway, family trip, and corporate incentive travel. its unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and modern amenities caters to diverse tastes and interests..

For luxury travelers, Puerto Rico boasts an impressive selection of high-end resorts and boutique hotels, many of which feature exquisite oceanfront locations, private villas, and world-class spa services. Fine dining is abundant, with opportunities to savor gourmet cuisine influenced by a fusion of flavors from around the world. Luxury activities include golfing at championship courses, exploring the stunning El Yunque rainforest, and enjoying yacht charters to nearby islands.

Couples seeking a romantic escape will find Puerto Rico to be an idyllic honeymoon destination. The island offers intimate beachfront resorts, secluded coves, and enchanting sunset views. Whether strolling through the charming streets of Old San Juan, enjoying a couples’ spa treatment, or embarking on a scenic horseback ride along the coast, Puerto Rico sets the stage for unforgettable moments of togetherness.

Families are drawn to Puerto Rico for its diverse range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to exploring the historical forts of Old San Juan, the island provides a wealth of experiences that combine fun and education. The family-friendly resorts offer supervised kids’ clubs and water parks, ensuring that children have a fantastic time while parents relax.

For groups looking to bond and create lasting memories, Puerto Rico vacation packages offer a dynamic blend of adventure and culture. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like zip-lining through the lush rainforest, while history buffs can explore the island’s colonial heritage. Group dining experiences featuring traditional Puerto Rican cuisine and lively music add to the sense of camaraderie.

Finally, Puerto Rico’s accessibility, world-class venues, and unique cultural experiences make it an excellent choice for corporate incentive travel. Companies can organize team-building activities in stunning natural settings, host meetings at luxurious resorts, and immerse employees in local culture, creating a motivating and rewarding experience.

In essence, Puerto Rico’s versatility as a luxury vacation, honeymoon, group, family, and corporate incentive destination stems from its ability to offer a diverse range of activities, exquisite accommodations, and the warm hospitality of its people, ensuring that travelers of all preferences find their perfect getaway on this enchanting Caribbean island. Contact a travel agent to book your Puerto Rico trip today.

Call Elite Travel at (727) 726-9090 to book your trip today.

Fun Facts About Puerto Rico:

• Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States, making it a unique blend of American and Spanish influences.
• The Ponce de León Fountain in San Juan is said to be the oldest water fountain in the Americas.
• Puerto Rico has the world’s largest single-dish radio telescope, the Arecibo Observatory.
• The island is known for inventing the piña colada cocktail.
• Puerto Rico has the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque.
• Salsa music originated in Puerto Rico, and the island hosts the largest salsa festival in the world.
• The bioluminescent Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques is one of the brightest in the world.
• Puerto Rico is home to a population of wild horses, known as “Paso Fino” horses.
• The flag of Puerto Rico, known as the “Lone Star Flag,” is one of the oldest national flags in the world.
• Puerto Rico has three of the world’s five bioluminescent bays, making it a unique destination for eco-tourism.

Top Questions About Puerto Rico

• What is the best time to visit Puerto Rico using a travel agency?  The best time to visit Puerto Rico is during the winter months, from December to April, when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
• What makes Puerto Rico a luxury destination?  Puerto Rico offers luxury accommodations, upscale dining, and world-class golf courses, making it a premier destination for luxury travelers.
• Is Puerto Rico popular for destination weddings?  Yes, Puerto Rico is a popular destination for weddings, with beautiful venues and a rich cultural backdrop.
• Is Puerto Rico family-friendly?  Puerto Rico is very family-friendly, with numerous kid-friendly attractions and family-oriented resorts.
• What adventure activities are available in Puerto Rico?  You can enjoy adventure activities such as zip-lining, hiking in El Yunque rainforest, and water sports along the coastline.
• Is Puerto Rico a honeymoon destination?  Yes, its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and romantic ambiance make Puerto Rico a great honeymoon choice.
• Are there options for group travel in Puerto Rico?  Puerto Rico offers various group activities, from exploring Old San Juan to outdoor adventures in the countryside.
• What are some unique corporate incentive options in Puerto Rico?  Corporate incentives can include team-building events, meetings at luxury resorts, and cultural experiences.
• What are the highlights of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico?  Old San Juan features colorful colonial buildings, historic forts like El Morro, and vibrant street art.
• Can you explore natural wonders in Puerto Rico?  Yes, you can explore El Yunque National Forest, Cueva Ventana, and the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay.

Using a Travel Agency to Go to Puerto Rico: The Pros and Cons

Travel agents can help to relieve some trip-planning stress—but working with a travel agent isn’t always the best way to discover all the  incredible things to do in Puerto Rico .

Here, we look closely at the pros and cons of using a travel agency to go to Puerto Rico, measured by price, experience, personalization, safety, availability, & authenticity.

• Personalization
• Availability
• Authenticity

Pros :  Travel agents have connections with hotels and airlines, and know about popular tour packages . This means that, in theory, agents can provide access to the top things to do in Puerto Rico at a discounted rate.

Cons :  However, travel agents work on commission. As such, you may encounter hidden fees, like travel insurance. 

Trip planners who aren’t paid commission  are more ideal—especially if they can also help you budget your itinerary , and personalize your trip.

#2: Experience

Pros :  Travel agents are experts at trip planning. They'll easily be able to introduce you to Puerto Rico's coolest tourist attractions .

Cons :  Generally, travel agents don't  live  in Puerto Rico. And experience with trip-planning can't replace local knowledge. 

When you have a local plan your trip , they can share their experience and personal recommendations—including hidden gems in Puerto Rico that may not be on a travel agent's radar.

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#3: personalization.

Pros : Travel agents will provide a list of options like different  Puerto Rico tours , so that—to a degree—they can personalize your trip based on what you pick. 

Cons :  This can be limiting, however. You're choosing from a list. What if the places you want to visit in Puerto Rico simply aren't there?  If you really want to  customize your Puerto Rico experience , travel agencies may not be the best fit for you.

Pros : Travel agents are well-versed on Puerto Rico safety , and will share their knowledge with you. 

Cons :  When it comes to safety in Puerto Rico , you can't beat on-the-ground updates from the people who actually live there. Local trip planners can give safety advice about all kinds of Puerto Rico activities —and important information on different places to stay on the island .

#5: Availability

Pros :  As they plan your trip, travel agents will (of course) be available to answer your Puerto Rico questions . 

Cons:  But what about once you arrive? Working with a local trip planners means you'll be in the same time zone. And when you work with one of our Puerto Rico locals , they'll be available with phone support in case you run into any issues.

#6: Authenticity

Pros :   If your travel agent specializes in travel to Puerto Rico, they'll be a good resource for seeing all the great sights during your Puerto Rico vacation .

Cons :  Nothing can replace local knowledge . If your agent doesn't live in Puerto Rico, your Puerto Rico itinerary will lack the local know-how that makes the island so enchanting. 

Conclusion: Have a local plan your trip

If you want to   see Puerto Rico like a local —not a tourist—work with one to plan your trip. Locals can create a unique itinerary customized to your interests and budget. 

Getting local advice means you'll have up-to-date info on safety. You'll know  just  where to go for incredible pina coladas or  mofongo . And transportation will be a breeze, since you'll have tons of local tips about how to get around. 

Welcome to seeing Puerto Rico like a local. 

Looking for more info?

And for more on Puerto Rico travel, check out: 

• Puerto Rico Tourism Update 2024
• What to Do in Puerto Rico: 1 Weekend
• Travel to San Juan: The Ultimate Guide
• Puerto Rico Travel Advisory 2024
• 6 TripAdvisor Puerto Rico Tips We Love
• San Juan Travel in 2024: What I Learned

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When Buying a Home Is Treated as a National Security Threat

A new Florida law prohibits many Chinese citizens from buying homes because of national security concerns. Critics say it has fueled discrimination and chilled the local property market.

By Amy Qin and Patricia Mazzei

Amy Qin reported from Miami and Orlando, Fla., and Patricia Mazzei from Miami.

After years of living in dorms and subpar apartments, Lisa Li could not wait to close on her new home.

The one-bedroom condo in Miami’s financial district had a view of the river, was in a safe neighborhood and, Ms. Li heard, had neighbors who were much like her — less party, more chill. So Ms. Li, a 28-year-old who came to the United States 11 years ago as a college student from China, put in an offer, had her bid accepted and began ordering furniture.

Then things took a sharp turn. At the last minute, the title company raised concerns about a small United States Coast Guard outpost near South Beach a few miles away. Her purchase, the company said, might run afoul of a new Florida law that prohibits many Chinese citizens from buying property in the state, especially near military installations, airports or refineries.

Under the law, Ms. Li could face prison time, and the sellers and real estate agents could be held liable. The deal collapsed.

“The whole experience was very hurtful and tiring,” Ms. Li said in a recent interview at a cafe in Miami, where she is still renting. “I just feel that, as someone who has lived and worked in this country for many years, and as a legal taxpayer, at the very least I should have the ability to buy a home that I can live in.”

More than three dozen states have enacted or are considering similar laws restricting land purchases by Chinese citizens and companies, arguing that such transactions are a growing threat to national security and that the federal government has failed to stop Chinese Communist Party influence in America.

Florida’s law, which went into effect in July, is among the furthest reaching. In addition to barring Chinese entities from buying agricultural land, it effectively prohibits most Chinese individuals without a green card from purchasing residential property. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the measure just before launching his Republican presidential campaign, warning voters that China represented the biggest threat to the United States.

“Today, Florida makes it very clear: We don’t want the C.C.P. in the Sunshine State,” Mr. DeSantis said last year.

In more than a dozen interviews, Chinese residents in Florida voiced frustrations about being cut off from the ultimate American dream . Other residents of Chinese descent said they faced discrimination as they tried to buy a home. Some said they lived in fear over whether they may have inadvertently violated the law.

Civil rights and Asian American groups are unaware of anyone being charged with violating the law. But some people of Chinese descent said they feel the anti-China sentiment intensifying. The law is currently being challenged in federal court.

“I never felt any discrimination here before this law,” said Jin Bian, a Chinese software developer who works in Tampa and is among those now barred from buying property. “But now I’m wondering if I need to leave Florida.”

The law has also had an apparent chilling effect on the real estate industry, an important part of the state’s economy. Developers often rely on Chinese investors to help build projects in Florida, and the law appears to have barred such financing, prompting pushback from a prominent real estate lobbying group.

Yukey Hoo, a real estate agent in Winter Garden, a suburb of Orlando, estimated that she has turned away 10 potential clients — about one-fifth of her usual business — because she could not determine whether they were eligible to buy property.

The law technically applies to people who are “domiciled” in China and don’t hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and much of the confusion has centered on what “domicile” means. Sellers and real estate agents can face up to one year of prison time for violating the law.

“Every day I am getting phone calls from people asking if they can buy a house under the law,” said Ms. Hoo, who has sold real estate in Florida for 10 years. “I tell them to talk to an attorney, but for those who aren’t sure about their status, we don’t want to take the risk.”

The Florida law restricts “foreign principals” from six other “countries of concern,” like Venezuela and Cuba, from owning property. But the most onerous restrictions — and harshest penalties — are specifically aimed at Chinese citizens.

The law was part of a broader package passed by the Florida Legislature last spring that included a bill restricting the state’s public universities and colleges from offering research positions to students from China and other countries. That law is also being challenged in court .

“The deeper that you look under the hood, the deeper that you see China has been clandestinely going after land grabs in the United States,” said State Representative David Borrero, a Republican from the Miami area who was one of the sponsors of the land law. “We can’t just have that in our backyard.”

Mr. Borrero disagreed with critics who said the property bill was discriminatory. “Our national security interests come first,” he said.

The Chinese government has a record of using economic coercion and espionage to further its geopolitical goals and, in recent years, both the United States and China have stepped up efforts to advance their spying capabilities around the world.

State lawmakers have been especially worried about Chinese investment in agricultural land and territory near military installations, fearing that China could throttle America’s food supply or use the land as a spy post. Chinese interests own less than 1 percent of foreign-held agricultural land in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

National security experts said that the specific threat posed by Chinese people owning homes has not been clearly articulated.

Holden Triplett, a former F.B.I. counterintelligence official who led the bureau’s offices in China, said that Chinese citizens are more likely to have family ties to China that could be weaponized by state security agencies there. But he said categorical bans could further alienate a Chinese diaspora community that could be of particular help to the United States in the event of a conflict with China.

“We need to be careful about these blunt instrument laws,” said Mr. Triplett, who left the F.B.I. in 2020 and co-founded Trenchcoat Advisors, a risk management consultancy. “Let’s do the work to find out what’s happening and to see if there is another way we can address this problem.”

Civil rights groups and residents have challenged the Florida law in federal court on grounds that it violates the Equal Protection Clause and the Fair Housing Act, and that it undercuts the federal government powers on foreign affairs.

“There’s no evidence that Chinese homeownership poses harm to national security,” said Ashley Gorski, senior staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union, one of several groups that brought the suit.

Mae Ngai, a professor of history and Asian American Studies at Columbia University, said the Florida law recalled the alien land laws from the early 20th century, which effectively prohibited Asian immigrants from buying farmland and, in some cases, homes in many states.

“They saw Asians as an alien invasion that was going to take over America,” Dr. Ngai said.

After the bill was introduced last spring, the Chinese community in Florida began frantically organizing rallies and door-knocking sessions.

In Texas, opposition from the Asian American community, including a former Republican lawmaker of Chinese descent , helped roll back some provisions in a similar bill . But in Florida, the Chinese community is just 0.6 percent of the population. Many are first-generation immigrants who moved to the state to study or work at universities. And there are very few Asian American politicians in the Legislature.

The Florida activists’ dissent barely registered.

Lobbyists for the prominent hedge fund Citadel, which moved to Miami from Chicago in 2022 and employs a large number of Chinese citizens, were more effective and managed to secure an exemption for Chinese people on valid work visas to buy one primary residence as long as the property is smaller than two acres and not within five miles of a military installation.

But most of the initially proposed restrictions were kept in place, and the impact of the law was felt almost immediately.

Sunny Long, a real estate agent in Tallahassee, said that she now pores over Google Maps to approximate where her Chinese clients could be eligible to buy property. Florida has around 20 major military bases, many small military outposts and even more critical facilities like airports and water treatment plants that could be covered under the law.

“Many of my clients would like to buy in a certain neighborhood that has a good school district, but it’s too close to the airport,” she said. “It’s been a big test for me.”

Asian Americans are also concerned that the law has led to profiling of anyone perceived to be Chinese, no matter their citizenship or residency status.

One man said a real estate agent at an open house asked him if he was qualified to buy the house after he chatted in Mandarin with his parents.

Evelyn Yang, a real estate agent in Palm Beach Gardens, said that shortly after the law went into effect, she repeatedly made inquiries about an apartment in Miami on behalf of a Chinese client who had permanent residency. She didn’t hear back from the seller’s agent for days, she said.

“When they finally returned my calls, they just said, ‘Can your buyer buy? Can’t Chinese people not buy right now?’” Ms. Yang recalled. “They see that our names are Chinese and assume that we can’t buy.”

Such interactions could be considered intentional discrimination based on national origin, which is prohibited by the Fair Housing Act of 1968, said Scott Chang, senior counsel for the National Fair Housing Alliance. On Monday, the alliance and several other groups announced a new lawsuit making that allegation.

Nearly one year after her home-buying attempt fell through, Ms. Li, the renter in Miami, still vividly recalls the days spent frantically trying to salvage her deal.

The desperate calls to attorneys and state lawmakers. The time spent calculating distances. Ms. Li’s real estate agent even drove to the Coast Guard outpost on South Beach to try to determine if it was a “military installation” under the law.

Ms. Li said she still loved living in Miami. It was clean compared to New York City, where she lived before. She loved taking tennis lessons at the courts in Palm Island Park and exploring the diverse food scene with her friends.

But the experience left her with a bitter taste.

“I think I may just have to leave,” she said. “Who knows what policies they might come up with next?”

Amy Qin writes about Asian American communities for The Times. More about Amy Qin

Patricia Mazzei is the lead reporter for The Times in Miami, covering Florida and Puerto Rico. More about Patricia Mazzei