If you love adventure, Central America is the destination for you. From trekking through the jungle to climbing a volcano, you'll find it here. In addition there are mysterious Mayan ruins to explore. Best of all, it's cheap. By following a few tips, you can have one of the best backpacking trips of your life in this region.
Many backpackers refuse to book their accommodation ahead of time. However, you may want to have book ahead for your first night in the region so that you don't have to walk around looking for a place to sleep in a strange place when you're tired after a long journey. Most of the time you'll find room in a hostel of a budget hotel without too much trouble but especially the time around Easter can be very busy and pre-booking is a good idea.
There is a definite gringo trail through Central America and it's often defined by the guide books. However, stray off the beaten track and you'll have a much richer experience. For instance, don't only visit El Tunco in El Salvador, but spend some time in the east or in the lovely towns of the western highlands too. Share tips with other travelers along the way and you'll find some real gems no guide book knows about.
Try different transport options. For long journeys, a shuttle or a first-class bus is more comfortable. Don't restrict yourself too much by taking only the more luxurious options. They're not necessarily safer and you haven't experienced Central America if you haven't had at least one ride in a 'chicken bus'.
While Central America has a high rate of crime and violence, this shouldn't deter you from visiting the region. Tourists are generally quite safe as long as they're sensible and take the usual precautions. You wouldn't walk alone at night through the bad part of your hometown so it would be a stupid thing to do in a foreign country. Heed the locals' warnings about areas to avoid and don't get involved in illegal activities and you should be safe.
One of the greatest reasons for the high crime rates in Central America is the drug trade. By buying illegal substances, you only perpetuate the problem, so just say no. In the same way, you encourage ongoing corruption if you offer bribes. Instead, be a responsible and respectful traveler. Another aspect to remember is that most communities in the region are rather conservative. Unless you're on the beach, cover up.
Enrich your travel experience by making some time for volunteering. It's a great way to mix with the local people and to give back to the world. The region has many opportunities for volunteering, from working with orphans to conservation projects such as working with sea turtles in Costa Rica.
While many travelers get by without knowing how to speak Spanish, you'll find that knowing at least the basics will open doors for you. It also earns you the respect of the local people if you make the effort to try and speak to them in their own language. You'll find good and affordable Spanish schools throughout the region so that you can return from one of the best backpacking trips you can imagine with an extra skill.
Many backpackers refuse to book their accommodation ahead of time. However, you may want to have book ahead for your first night in the region so that you don't have to walk around looking for a place to sleep in a strange place when you're tired after a long journey. Most of the time you'll find room in a hostel of a budget hotel without too much trouble but especially the time around Easter can be very busy and pre-booking is a good idea.
There is a definite gringo trail through Central America and it's often defined by the guide books. However, stray off the beaten track and you'll have a much richer experience. For instance, don't only visit El Tunco in El Salvador, but spend some time in the east or in the lovely towns of the western highlands too. Share tips with other travelers along the way and you'll find some real gems no guide book knows about.
Try different transport options. For long journeys, a shuttle or a first-class bus is more comfortable. Don't restrict yourself too much by taking only the more luxurious options. They're not necessarily safer and you haven't experienced Central America if you haven't had at least one ride in a 'chicken bus'.
While Central America has a high rate of crime and violence, this shouldn't deter you from visiting the region. Tourists are generally quite safe as long as they're sensible and take the usual precautions. You wouldn't walk alone at night through the bad part of your hometown so it would be a stupid thing to do in a foreign country. Heed the locals' warnings about areas to avoid and don't get involved in illegal activities and you should be safe.
One of the greatest reasons for the high crime rates in Central America is the drug trade. By buying illegal substances, you only perpetuate the problem, so just say no. In the same way, you encourage ongoing corruption if you offer bribes. Instead, be a responsible and respectful traveler. Another aspect to remember is that most communities in the region are rather conservative. Unless you're on the beach, cover up.
Enrich your travel experience by making some time for volunteering. It's a great way to mix with the local people and to give back to the world. The region has many opportunities for volunteering, from working with orphans to conservation projects such as working with sea turtles in Costa Rica.
While many travelers get by without knowing how to speak Spanish, you'll find that knowing at least the basics will open doors for you. It also earns you the respect of the local people if you make the effort to try and speak to them in their own language. You'll find good and affordable Spanish schools throughout the region so that you can return from one of the best backpacking trips you can imagine with an extra skill.
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