Venezuela Tourist Traps

 
by Renteboy
 
  •   Tourist Traps
    by Renteboy
  • night shot in Isla Margarita
      night shot in Isla Margarita
    by Renteboy
  • children of the jungle :-)
      children of the jungle :-)
    by Renteboy
  • Avendia 4 de Mayo
      Avendia 4 de Mayo
    by marshadfern
  • Rattan Plaza
      Rattan Plaza
    by marshadfern
 

Reviews from VirtualTourist Members

Tour expedition operators in Cuidad Bolivar

by LeaB

We have just returned from a very nice 3 week trip to Venezuela. Despite all the warnings we found the people very kind and hospitable, although we of course took precautions.In fact the only time we were ripped off was with our RIO Caura trip organized through the Posada Don Carlos (Soana Travel) in Cuidad Bolivar. The posada - especially the common sleeping area is still a good place to stay (=cheap and clean), but the organised trips are overpriced and low quality.From what I have heard our experience was not an exception, the quality of the trips seems to have gone down significantly. Groups with other organisations (i.e. Adreneline tours - seem excellent!!!) were much better catered for and guided. We were often left to our own devices, running out of food and water, despite the high cost. Furthermore we had other people on our trip who paid signficantly less than we did because...

Americans going to VE

by mike77761

Read below First I will say that 90% of the Venezolanos are great people, but like every country, you also have to beware of the scum. Here are some examples: I have lived in San Cristobal, VE and have visited VE many times, and if you are an American, they WILL try to rob you. They wont hold a gun to you head and rob you, but they will try to charge you ridiculous amounts for everything. As soon as you pass customs and pass through the glass doors at Simon Bolivar Airport, you will see taxi drivers. If you look american, they will come to you like they are dogs and you are a piece of meat. they will try to trade bolivares for dollars and asking you if you need a ride. dont trade even $1 to these people unless you know what you are doing as far as the exchange rate is concerned. A ride from the airport to my hotel is 90,000 bolivares, which is about $45 and the taxista wanted to charge...

MONEY EXCHANGE

by swesn

OK, the situation could have changed now since the many years this has occurred. But this was what I understood at the time: End-2002 to early-2003, there were massive political troubles in Venezuela. At that time, many Venezuelans started buying US dollars and left the country. So, the government had to put a stop before the whole situation went out of control. A law was created such that only the government could buy US dollars.If a Venezuelan wishes to travel, he has to show proof of his travels, like a visa and an air-ticket and stuff, before he is issued a letter from a ministry something which he can then take to a bank. The bank would then process this and he could buy up to US$400 and he would be issued a credit card which he has up to US$4000 to spend. In a way, Venezuelans can still buy US dollars but only for those who really need them, and only in this complicated way.In...

WITHDRAW BRAZILIAN REAIS BEFORE CROSSING BORDER

by swesn

If you are crossing into Venezuela from Brazil, it is best that you withdraw quite a handful of Brazilian Reais first. Just before the border-crossing, some guys would board the bus and change the Reais into Venezuelan Bolivares. To be honest, the rates here are quite reasonable and you definitely need some Venezuelan Bolivares when you arrive in Santa Elena, which is a very small town indeed.

Finca Hosteria El Gaban

by Bogi15

The accommodation was awful, the air-condition was to noisy, not very clean. The last time they invested money in maintenance was in the ’70. If you are going to the Llanos, drive a few hours more to the Hato El Cedral.

Isla Margarita

by Schnorf

Of course, Margarita island is a real tourist trap. It is a tax-free zone and is therefore popular among both foreigners and Venezuelans. At the same time, some areas of this not-so-big island are still very authentic and unspoilt. Even the 'old town' of Porlamar (around the Plaza de Bolívar) has a real village atmosphere. But, on the whole, there is not a lot to do on the island (except for sunbathing and other beach attractions) and so I would advice you not to stay there for weeks.

Tip Photo
Caribbean coast

by Luchonda

The coastline restaurant called "Atlantico" - on our way from Maracay to Cora offers fresh seafood - but be careful - next to a plant of gas and petro production - also located at the sea coast - i have my doubts. I didn't have a bite - but my fellow travellers confirmed that the food was .......The toilets are maybe typical SA - but the meaning of the door at the right side, on the first floor ???? Another questionmark. Wait untill the next station and have some real good food - even snacks

Tip Photo
Puerto de la Cruz

by AndreSTGT

You don't like Waikiki, Torremolinos, El Arenal?Good, then don't even think about visiting Puerto de la Cruz. It's the most popular beach resort for Venezuelans, which is something i really cannot understand, given the fact that there are so many beautiful unspoilt beaches just around the corner.PLC is ugly, the beach is dirty and prices for food and accommodation are outrageous. Since this is the place were young Venezuelans spend their vacation, it might be fun to hang out with them and party. The alternative for some relaxing days on the beach is pretty much ANYWHERE else along the coast.If you're into partying, however, this might be the place to go.

The beach in Caracas - La...

by OrlandoBR

The beach in Caracas - La Guaira region.To get there, one must cross the huge mountain that separates the city and the ocean - which takes some 20 minutes by car. The coast there is not particularly nice, and that part of town is ugly and dirty. Besides, the traffic is awful there. That's where the airport is located. Much better to stay in Caracas.

The dive trip was not worth...

by jake22

The dive trip was not worth the effort. A long wait to get to the boat, Poor equipment used, regulators not usable on some. Poor water to dive in, A long wait getting first timers in the water, Dangerous area where fishermen might hook divers.

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Questions and Answers

wales123 profile photo

Q:  hi, i am planning to leave columbia by bus and head for cucuta???? then hopefully catch a bus over to canaima, is this... 

cgf profile photo

A: I don't think it is not possible to get to Canaima by land. probably by river/land, you should check by some local agency. don't forget to have repellent with you,... 

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