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Smart Travel Tips - Major Cities
Venezuela offers visitors a surprising mix of beautiful scenery, adequate and safe infrastructure, and warm and friendly people. Still, as when travelling in any part of the world far from home, there exist a few norms one should follow here in order to gurantee that the trip is enjoyable and memorable. Among these are:
- Airline/Hotel Reservations:
Always confirm all your airline, transfers, and hotel reservations.
- Clothing:
Venezuela is a tropical country. Clothing should be light and cool, although bringing a light sweater or jacket for going out at night is recommended. If you are planning to visit the Andes, it is strongly recommended that you bring a warm jacket. Also, most fine restaurants and nightclubs have dress codes. Pack a coat and tie, or long dress, if you want to dine and dance in elegance.
- Sun protection:
Venezuela is located just 8 degrees above the Equator. The sun here is very direct and protection is recommended when planning to spend long periods of time outdoors. A hat, or a visor, is also recommended.
- Insect protection:
When travelling to Guayana, Los Llanos, and the coast it is recommended that you bring insect repellent (non-aerosol).
- Nature walks and observing wildlife:
Always wear trekking boots, or other types of shoes, that protect your ankles. Also, observe the rules of most National Parks when walking on trails or setting camp. It is also recommended that you wear long trousers to ward off against ticks while engaging in this type of activity. Be mindful of where you step, lean, or sit.
- Respect nature and local cultures:
When visiting wildlife preserves and parks, pay close attention so as not to disturb the environment and its ecosystems. Be respectful of indigenous cultures. You should also request these norms be followed by your guide or tour operator.
- Purchasing goods:
Avoid purchasing any goods or crafts that combine feathers, beaks, paws, or other animal parts. Besides being illegal, the demand for these types of products puts in danger the survival of many species.
- Tipping:
Most restaurants include approximately a 10% service fee in your bill. Still, leaving an additional 5-10% on your way out is widely expected. Also, tipping hotel porters, help at posadas, and tour guides, is customary. Taxi drivers, however, do not expect a tip unless they help you with your luggage.
- Taxis:
Always use taxis belonging to a legitimate Taxi company. Do not accept rides for pay from people in unmarked vehicles.
There are no meters that can establish a cost for a distance traveled. Always agree on a fare before boarding a cab.
- Personal safety:
When in most metropolitan areas, it is strongly recommended that you dress down and not wear flashy jewelry.
Never accept a ride from a stranger, no matter how cordial and friendly he/she may appear.
Never accept the help of a stranger when carrying bags or luggage.
Visit bank machines that are lighted, and in areas where there is activity and high visibility.
Never leave anything of value in your car.
Carry your passport, or a copy of it, with you at all times.
- Driving:
The maximum velocity in most Venezuelan roads is 80kmph (55mph), but speed limits are not widely enforced. Although most highways are in good condition, roads in the countryside may have potholes which can be dangerous at high speeds. Also, farm animals and wildlife cross roads frequently in these parts-- drive with caution.
Venezuelans are known to make their own rules when they get behind the wheel. Most drivers consider the symbolic references of traffic lights as mere suggestions-- so be careful when crossing an intersection, even when your light is green!
- And the final tip...
bring a sense of adventure, a camera, and lots and lots of film!
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