Central America is a backpacker's paradise. The region not only offers everything from Mayan ruins to stunning beaches, volcanoes and jungle adventures but it's also very cheap to travel here. The following are some ideas that will help you have the best backpacking trips in the region.
While booking your accommodation ahead can restrict you, there are times when it's better to know that there's a room waiting for you at your destination. Usually it's quite easy to find cheap accommodation, especially during the rainy season. However, you may want to book ahead for that first night after a long flight or bus trip. It's also wise to book ahead for Holy Week, especially in places that are famous for their celebrations, such as Antigua in Guatemala.
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.
The quintessential Central American travel experience is the 'chicken bus'. These buses are cheap and often safer than shuttles that scream 'tourists with money and iPods'. For longer journeys, however, they can be very uncomfortable and you may prefer a tourist shuttle or a first-class bus.
Many people will tell you that Central America is extremely dangerous. While it's true that there is a high crime rate and gang violence, it's not quite as lawless as you may think. Most people are very helpful and protective towards tourists and if you're sensible, you'll be perfectly safe. Leave the flashy jewelry at home, keep valuables out of sight and don't leave your possessions unattended. If the locals tell you not to go into a certain area, listen to them.
You may find that illegal drugs are very easy to find throughout the region. Remember though that the drug trade is responsible for most of the crime and gang violence. A responsible traveler wouldn't encourage the trade by buying drugs, no matter how tempting. Be respectful towards the local communities too. For instance, most people in the region dress conservatively and modestly and so should you as a guest in their country.
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.
While booking your accommodation ahead can restrict you, there are times when it's better to know that there's a room waiting for you at your destination. Usually it's quite easy to find cheap accommodation, especially during the rainy season. However, you may want to book ahead for that first night after a long flight or bus trip. It's also wise to book ahead for Holy Week, especially in places that are famous for their celebrations, such as Antigua in Guatemala.
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.
The quintessential Central American travel experience is the 'chicken bus'. These buses are cheap and often safer than shuttles that scream 'tourists with money and iPods'. For longer journeys, however, they can be very uncomfortable and you may prefer a tourist shuttle or a first-class bus.
Many people will tell you that Central America is extremely dangerous. While it's true that there is a high crime rate and gang violence, it's not quite as lawless as you may think. Most people are very helpful and protective towards tourists and if you're sensible, you'll be perfectly safe. Leave the flashy jewelry at home, keep valuables out of sight and don't leave your possessions unattended. If the locals tell you not to go into a certain area, listen to them.
You may find that illegal drugs are very easy to find throughout the region. Remember though that the drug trade is responsible for most of the crime and gang violence. A responsible traveler wouldn't encourage the trade by buying drugs, no matter how tempting. Be respectful towards the local communities too. For instance, most people in the region dress conservatively and modestly and so should you as a guest in their country.
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.
About the Author:
Experience the best backpacking trips at www.grabbabackpack.com. Let us organize your next adventure tour when you visit our online page http://www.grabbabackpack.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment