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I E R E N M R A U N I T O A Facebook: Twitter: Facebook: JourneyLatinAmerica Pinterest: Instagram: JourneyLatinAmerica J L Journey Latin America Journey Latin share your holiday experience with us: with us: experience experience holiday holiday your your share share • London • W6 9NJ 401 King Street 8315 Holidays: 020 8747 Email: [email protected] Join our online communities and and online communities online communities our our Join Join JOURNEYLATINAMERICA.CO.UK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL ENJOY YOUR JOURNEY CONTENTS

1 DESTINATION GUIDE 5 SAFETY

2 MONEY 6 COMMUNICATIONS 2.1 Cash 7 PHOTOGRAPHY 2.2 Credit and Debit Cards 2.3 Local Currency 8 FLIGHTS 2.4 Travellers Cheques 8.1 Seating 2.5 Cost of Living 8.2 Online Check-in 2.6 Bargaining 8.3 Luggage 8.4 Document Checklist 8.5 Airport Security 3 TIPPING 8.6 Duty Free 7 HEALTH & VACCINATIONS 8.7 Airport Transfers 4.1 General Health 8.8 Baggage Allowances 4.2 Travel Health & Vaccinations 8.9 Delayed Baggage 4.3 Yellow Fever 8.10 Airport Taxes

4.4 Malaria 9 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM 4.5 Dengue Fever 4.6 Zika Virus 10 GUIDEBOOKS & MAPS 4.7 Chikungunya fever 11 LANGUAGE GUIDE 4.8 Insect Repellent 4.9 Altitude Sickness DISCLAIMER 4.10 Traveller’s diarrhoea 4.11 General

4.12 Medical kit

DESTINATION GUIDE cash and avoid having lots of Pesos left over: these are accepted at the duty-free shop in Buenos Aires airport but outside of Argentina Argentina it’s hard to exchange unwanted Pesos. Country facts Budget: Prices do vary within each Size: Total land area 2,736,690 sq km country and high end restaurants tend (approx 11.5 times the size of UK). to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. Population: 44 million. Hotel restaurants are also usually more expensive. As a rough guide at the time of Capital: Buenos Aires. writing, in Buenos Aires: Language: Spanish. • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ dinner at a mid-range restaurant = Electricity: 220-242 volts. Standard British US$25.00/$35.00 plugs will need an adapter to a two-pin plug. • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of national beer in a mid-range restaurant Time zone: GMT-3 hours. = US$4.00 Currency: Argentine peso (ARG$). • The cost of a glass of “house wine” You can exchange money at hotels or (Chilean or Argentine) = US$4.00 banks.Banking hours are Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm. Please note: Prices in Patagonia vary and can be up to 30% more expensive Argentina is cash-orientated, although in Buenos Aires and main tourist centres Entry requirements cards are widely used. In remote areas you may find only cash is accepted. It’s best to Visa and health regulations: No visa take US Dollars cash and change these into requirement for British citizens though Pesos within Argentina. This can be done other nationalities may require an entry at a Casa de Cambio (passport needed) visa or pay a reciprocity fee in advance. and at some hotels. Many (mid-range and For the most up-to-date entry and health up) restaurants will also accept US Dollars certification requirements please check for payment and give you change in Pesos. www.iatatravelcentre.com. Tips are always paid in cash, even if you On arrival make sure to check the entry pay for a meal using a card. stamp in your passport and always Although ATMs are available in Argentina keep safe any entry cards or other some clients have reported difficulties documentation handed to you by withdrawing cash so it’s best not to rely immigration officials as these are usually on them. Local ATM fees can be high and required when leaving the country. the amount you can withdraw is usually Departure tax: For international flights, much lower than in the UK. When using an airport taxes are included in the ticket. ATM with a debit card you may be offered a choice of account type from which to Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes make your withdrawal. Select ‘credit may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport card’ (not ‘checking account’ or ‘savings Taxes’) though they are generally account’ options). included within the ticket cost. Aerolineas Argentinas permit a maximum of 15kg Check your insurance limit for carrying hold luggage on all domestic flights. When the internal flight ticket is issued with an semi-arid climate at the higher altitudes international flight, the latter’s baggage and warmer subtropical climate in the allowance is respected. Alternatively, eastern parts of the region. Excess luggage can be paid for locally. Clothing tips Weather Buenos Aires: Appropriate dress is Trelew/Peninsula Valdés can get very required when dining in the high-end windy though temperatures generally restaurants. considered mild for Argentina. Iguazú Falls: Pack quick-drying clothing/ Buenos Aires & the Pampas is hot and waterproofs, essential if a boat trip is humid throughout the summer months incorporated. (Nov-Mar) with tropical rainstorms a Bariloche: Weather can be unpredictable possibility. In the winter (Jun-Sep) there and layered clothing is recommended. are pleasantly warm sunny days but it can Bathing costumes for swimming in the be cool and drizzly. lakes in the summer (Nov-Mar). Patagonia region is very unpredictable Mendoza: Lightweight clothing for with a better chance of good weather excursions. Can become much cooler in over the summer months (Nov-Mar). the evening. Winter (Jun-Sep) can be bitterly cold, but there is a chance of some cloudless skies Salta: Pack for a dry climate, warm during and great views. The southernmost parts the day but often very cold at night due to of Patagonia can experience strong winds altitude. throughout the year. Patagonia: Famous for having four Iguazú Falls has a subtropical climate with seasons in one day, pack appropriately two main seasons; summer, from Aug- (see ‘Patagonia and the Andes section). Apr, is hot (27°C) and humid, and winter, Travel Health & Vaccinations from May-Sep, is cooler (occasionally much cooler) and drier. This information is intended as an overview only. Please read Section 4: Salta has plenty of sun throughout the Health and Vaccinations and always year but it can be cool in winter. It is drier consult your GP. with little rain falling Apr-Oct. At the time of writing, no vaccinations are Mendoza is a year round destination with mandatory. plenty of sunshine. Temperatures dip from a high of 30°C to 15°C in winter but most Yellow fever: Vaccination is rain falls in summer. recommended if travelling to Corrientes and Misiones Provinces including the The weather in the Argentine lake district Iguazú Falls. Vaccination is generally is at its best in the summer months Dec- not recommended for travel to Formosa Feb. Mar-Apr and Sep-Nov can be lovely Province and designated areas of Chaco, seasons with rich autumn colours and Jujuy and Salta Provinces. Vaccination is blossoms respectively. Snow is likely in not recommended for other areas of the winter (Jul-Aug), the ski season. country. Northwest Argentina is predominantly dry Malaria: There is no risk of Malaria in and hot. In general, the climate can be Argentina. divided into 2 main types: a cold arid or Water: Make sure you drink plenty of fluids especially water. Tap water is A Funny, Dirty Little War-Osvaldo Soriano drinkable in Buenos Aires, but you might This classic novel exposes the folly and prefer to protect yourself by only drinking horror of Argentina’s “Dirty War”. Osvaldo bottled water. In other towns, avoid tap Soriano brilliantly emphasizes the farce water (even when brushing teeth) and underlying the terror. ensure ice cubes are made from purified water. Some notable events Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 Feb/Mar: Carnival (annual dates or higher), a hat and sunglasses for vary): Celebrated all over the country. protection from the harmful effects of Corrientes in the El Litoral region has a UV sun rays. Be particularly careful in lively tradition and murga groups (a form the south where the ozone layer is thin. of musical theatre) operate in Buenos Aires. Recommendations Feb/Mar: Buenos Aires Tango Festival: Eat: Steakhouses are in abundance and There are performances all over the city meats served are tender and succulent. and lots of opportunities to learn a few Meat-eaters should not miss the chance steps of the famous national dance. to try an asado barbecue, especially on 1st week of Mar: Fiesta Nacional de la an estancia or in Patagonia. Also, lamb is Vendimia in Mendoza: A world-renowned excellent in Argentina. celebration of wine and the winemaking Drink: Malbec wine characterised by its industry. A great time to sample some deep colour and intense fruity flavours. of Mendoza’s finest whilst watching the Torrontés, grown at altitude in the Salta elaborate processions. region, is increasingly popular. Also try 11-18 May: Feria de Galerias de Arte mate – the national infused hot drink with in Buenos Aires: Huge contemporary a grassy, herbal flavour. art fair showcasing painters, artists, Read: Labyrinths-Jorge Luís Borges photographers and designers from The best short stories by the father of Argentina. modern Latin American fiction. End of Oct: Eisteddfod takes place in The Honorary Consul-Graham Greene Trelew. A remarkable tribute to the Welsh Charley Fortnum is the ‘Honorary Consul’, heritage of the region. a whisky-sodden figure of dubious Nov: (week of the 10th) Día de la Tradición authority taken by a group of rebels in in San Antonio de Areco: A week of Argentina. In this spare, tense novel, celebrations in honour of Argentina’s Graham Greene explores the morality Gaucho tradition. of a political system that turns priests into killers. Bad Times in Buenos Aires: A Writer’s Adventures in Argentina-Miranda France The author shares her experiences as a young freelance journalist living in Argentina in the early 1990s. The Real Life of Eva Perón-Nicholas Fraser A well-researched, historically accurate and unbiased view of Evita’s life. DESTINATION GUIDE transmission, even if you have not visited an affected area. For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements Belize please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. On arrival make sure to check the entry Country facts stamp in your passport and always Size: Total land area 22,806 sq km keep safe any entry cards or other (approx size of Wales). documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Population: 388,000 required when leaving the country. Capital: Belmopan Departure tax: For international flights, airport taxes are usually included in the Language: English ticket. Electricity: 110V. Standard British plugs Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Time zone: GMT-6 hours. Taxes’) though they are generally included within the ticket cost Currency: Belizean Dollar. You can exchange US$ at banks, throughout the Weather country US$ are mostly accepted. Credit/ debit cards usually accepted at lodges. There are great seasonal variations in rainfall in Belize. Mar-Apr are the driest Budget: Prices do vary within the months in a dry season that runs from country and high end restaurants tend Nov-May. Between Jun-Nov heavy to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. afternoon showers can be expected. Hotel restaurants are also usually more Hurricanes threaten between Aug- expensive. As a rough guide at the time of Nov but are very few and far between. writing, in Belize City: Temperatures are high all year round, • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ often exceeding 30°C, although slightly dinner at a mid-range restaurant = cooler between Nov-Mar. US$15.00/$20.00 Clothing tips • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of national beer in a mid-range restaurant Lightweight cotton or linen clothes are = US$2.50 recommended throughout the year. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” Good walking shoes on mainland or (Chilean or Argentine) = US$6.00 sandals in the Cayes. A light sweater is recommended for cooler evenings on Prices in the Cayes and remote lodges are the coast and Mountain Pine Ridge. For generally more expensive and vary greatly. further information see The Amazon and Tropical Lowlands section. Entry requirements Visa and health regulations: No visa Travel Health & Vaccinations requirement for British citizens though This information is intended as an other nationalities may require an entry overview only. Please read, Section 4: visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate Health and Vaccinations and always may be required for entry if travelling from consult your GP. countries with risk of yellow fever virus Yellow fever: N/A (though please see ‘Entry requirements’)

Malaria: Risk is low throughout the year in some rural areas. Risk is negligible elsewhere. Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water. Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays. Recommendations Eat: Seafood is delicious, plentiful and good value. Marie Sharps has a wide range of hot sauces worth trying.

Drink: One Barrel is an award winning Belizean rum. Belikin is a ubiquitous and flavoursome full bodied beer. Read: Time Among the Maya: Travels in Belize, Guatemala & Mexico-Ronald Wright An entertaining and educational travel book about the Maya region. Highly recommended for those interested in the ancient and modern Maya.

Music: Andy Palacio-A Belizean cultural icon, Punta musician and leading cultural activist for the Garifuna people.

Some notable events

Feb/Mar: Carnival (annual dates vary according to Lent): San Pedro Carnival Ambergris Caye transforms into a huge street party with costumes, parades and music.

19 Nov: Garifuna Settlement Day in Dangriga, is an eclectic celebration of the first Garifuna settlers.

DESTINATION GUIDE keep safe any entry cards or other documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Bolivia required when leaving the country. Departure tax: For international flights, Country facts US$25.00, though usually included on Size: Total land area 1,083,301 sq km the ticket. (approx 4.5 times the size of the UK). Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Population: 11 million. may apply, approx USD $2 (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). Capital: Sucre. Weather Language: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara. The Bolivian highlands (altiplano) has Electricity: 220v, though in La Paz a temperate climate with variations in voltage is 115. A universal plug/voltage temperature according to altitude and time adapter is recommended. of day. The temperature in La Paz in the Time zone: GMT-4 hours. sunshine can be 25°C during the day and drop to freezing point at night. The wet Currency: Boliviano. Sizeable towns have season lasts from Nov-Mar. ATM’s. Visitors fare best with US dollars at casas de cambio (bureaux de change). Most rain falls between Jan-Apr in Uyuni when the roads can be very muddy. The Budget: Prices do vary within each dry season, Jun-Sep, guarantees sun and country and high end restaurants tend an easy drive across the salt flats, but due to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. to the high altitude it can be very cold at Hotel restaurants are also usually more night throughout the year. expensive. As a rough guide at the time of writing, in La Paz: Clothing tips • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ La Paz: Layered clothing recommended dinner at a mid-range restaurant = as it can get cold due to altitude. US$18.00/$22.00 Uyuni and Potosi: Hat, gloves and thermal • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of undergarments are also recommended national beer in a mid-range restaurant (hotels are basic in this region, so even the = US$3.50 best hotels can be cold at night). Lip balm recommended as the thin air is dry. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” (Chilean or Argentine) = US$7.00 Amazon: A visit to the rainforest requires a rain jacket and light, quick-drying clothes. Entry requirements See ‘The Amazon and Tropical Lowlands Visa and health regulations: No visa section. requirement for British citizens though Travel Health & Vaccinations other nationalities may require an entry visa. For the most up-to-date entry and This information is intended as an health certification requirements please overview only. Please read, ‘Section 4: check www.iatatravelcentre.com. Health and Vaccinations and always consult your GP. On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Yellow fever: Recommended for those intending to travel to the following areas building of the railway running from east of the Andes below 2,300m in Antofagasta in Chile to Potosí in Bolivia. elevation: the entire departments of Beni,

Pando, Santa Cruz, and designated areas Marching Powder-Rusty Young of Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, La Paz, and An account of a British Ex-pats experience Tarija. This does not include the cities of locked up in La Paz’s notorious San Pedro La Paz and Sucre. Prison. Malaria: There is a low risk in the Amazon Film: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid Basin and rural areas below 2500m. There The film tells the story of two Wild West is no risk in the city of La Paz or above outlaws who flee to Bolivia in search of a 2500m. more successful criminal career. Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Some notable events Avoid tap water (even when brushing Jan: Alasita festival for the god of teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made abundance “Ekeko” in La Paz. Fun from purified water. activities with stalls selling anything you Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 may wish for made in miniature. or higher), a hat and sunglasses for Feb: Virgen de la Candelaria folkloric protection from the harmful effects of UV festival in Copacabana. Pageants re-enact sun rays. Be particularly careful at high the conquest of the Andes and take to the altitude in the Andes and Lake Titicaca streets in a celebration of Amerindian and where the sun is intense. UV radiation is Christian customs. exceptionally strong at Salar de Uyuni. Feb/Mar: Carnival of Oruro-one of the Altitude: Travel in Bolivia invariably great Latin American folkloric events-a involves time spent at high altitude. Please vibrant festival of music, dance and read altitude advice in section 4: Health outlandish costumes. The finale ends with and Vaccinations (4.9 Altitude sickness). a huge water fight in the town square. Recommendations Late May/early Jun: Gran Poder street carnival in La Paz with processions of Eat: Pique a lo Macho – grilled chunks groups of indigenous dancers in historical of meat in a slightly spicy sauce with and cultural themed costumes. tomatoes and onion, on potatoes. Drink: Chicha – made from fermented corn and drunk from a bowl after a small offering to the Inca earth goddess. Mocochinchi – a non-alcoholic brew of peaches and spices in water.

Read: Bolivian Diary-Ernesto Che Guevara These 1966 and 1967 diaries were written during Che’s attempt to establish a guerrilla insurrectionary movement in Bolivia. A Ghost Train through the Andes-Michael Jacobs Jacobs traces the footsteps and letters of his grandfather who worked in the DESTINATION GUIDE • The cost of a glass of “house wine” (Chilean or Argentine) = US$7.00

Brazil Entry requirements Visa and health regulations: No visa Country facts requirement for British citizens though Size: Total land area 8,459,417 sq km other nationalities may require an entry (approx 35 times the size of the UK). visa (including USA). For the most up- to-date entry and health certification Population: 207 million. requirements please check Capital: Brasilia. www.iatatravelcentre.com. Language: Portuguese. On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Electricity: 127v and 220v. Mostly 127V keep safe any entry cards or other though one of few countries to use documentation handed to you by both voltage types, therefore a universal immigration officials as these are usually adapter is recommended. required when leaving the country. Time zone: GMT-3 hours on the coast and Departure tax: For international flights, -4 hours in the interior (Manaus/Cuiabá). airport taxes are included in the ticket. Currency: Brazilian Real (R$/BRL), plural Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Reais. Notes can be withdrawn from ATMs may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport at airports, larger towns and cities. Limits Taxes’) though they are generally included may be lower than your UK bank allows. within the ticket cost. Banco do Brasil, HSBC accept UK credit or debit cards. Bradesco also, but with a Weather lower limit. Other banks eg Banco 24horas do not accept foreign cards. Most towns The coolest months in Rio de Janeiro are have a Banco do Brasil. ATMs close at from May-Sep, with temperatures from 10pm. Currency also obtainable in banks 18-32°C. The city can also be subject to and money exchanges (bring US Dollars days at a time of drizzle during this period. cash to exchange into Reais locally). Paying Dec-Mar will be humid with temperatures for goods and services with credit/debit of 32-42°C. cards is possible in smarter establishments. Iguazú Falls has a subtropical climate with Budget: Prices do vary within each two main seasons; summer, from Aug- country and high end restaurants tend Apr, is hot (27°C) and humid, and winter, to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. from May-Sep, is cooler (occasionally Hotel restaurants are also usually more much cooler) and drier. Throughout the expensive. As a rough guide at the time of year it is generally sunny. writing, in Rio de Janeiro: Salvador is hot and humid with most rain • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ falling from Mar-Jul. dinner at a mid-range restaurant = The Amazon enjoys a drier season from US$25.00/$35.00 Jun-Sep (although this is when the • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of river levels are highest). In the Amazon national beer in a mid-range restaurant temperatures rarely drop below 23°C. = US$4.00 In the Pantanal, the rainy season lasts from Jan-Mar, where heavy rainfall results in widespread flooding. In Apr-Jun the There is a very low risk in the rest of Brazil. waters recede, while Jul-Sep (winter) Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, wildlife is at its most abundant. The or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. highest temperatures (up to 42°C) are Avoid tap water (even when brushing reached in Nov-Dec. teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made Southern Brazil (Santa Catarina) has a from purified water. When visiting remote semi-tropical climate, with hot summers areas water purification tablets may be (Dec-Apr, 34c) and mild winters (Jun-Oct, useful. 20c, also the whale watching season Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 Clothing tips or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of Rio de Janeiro: Casual warm weather UV sun rays. clothes. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery. Recommendations Salvador: Shorts, t-shirts and comfortable Eat: Brazil’s national dish is feijoada, walking shoes/sandals/flip-flops for a hearty stew made of black beans, cobblestone streets/beach. pork and beef. Churrasco is a Brazilian barbecue. Excellent seafood in coastal Iguazú Falls: Quick-drying clothing/ areas. In the northeast, Bahian cuisine waterproofs, especially if a boat trip is an infusion of African, Indian and incorporated. Portuguese influences. Popular ‘por kilo’ Chapada Diamantina: Sturdy hiking boots (pay by the kg) restaurants cater well for for the rugged terrain. meat eaters and vegetarians alike. Pantanal: Can get cool – take light layers Drink: Caipirinha cocktail made with and long sleeves. cachaça. Coffee is of high quality, sweet and strong. Agua de coco, coconut water. Amazon: A visit to the rainforest requires a rain jacket and quick-drying clothes. Read: Dona Flor and her Two Husbands See ‘The Amazon and Tropical Lowlands - Jorge Amado section. A lively narrative takes the reader on a tour through Bahia using the story of a young Travel Health & Vaccinations woman haunted by her late husband’s This information is intended as an ghost. overview only. Please read, Section 4: City of God-Paulo Lins Health and Vaccinations and always Based on a true story, this is a sprawling, consult your GP. magnificently told epic about the history of Vaccination must take place at least 10 gang life in Rio’s favelas. This is the original days prior to the date of entry to Brazil for novel of the hugely acclaimed film. the certificate to become valid. Futebol: The Brazilian Way of Life-Alex Yellow Fever: Vaccination is Bellos recommended for all of our holidays A study of football in Brazil, its history, its to Brazil. players, supporters and legends. Takes the standpoint that Brazilian football is one Malaria: There is a low risk in the Amazon the modern wonders of the world – ‘the basin, including the city of Manaus you beautiful game’ being an art form in itself will need to discuss the most suitable and a universally recognised trademark preventative measures with your doctor. and brand. The Hour of the Star-Clarice Lispector This lucid, charming book tell the story of Macabea, a typist who does not know how to type. She represents the underclasses in Brazil. The book gives a clear insight into life in the country.

Some notable events 31 Dec: Celebrations in Rio de Janeiro, with fireworks and ceremonies on Copacabana beach.

2 Feb: Celebration of Yemanjá (the Goddess of the Sea) in Salvador. Gifts for Yemanjá usually include flowers and objects of female vanity (perfume, lipsticks, mirrors). These are gathered in large baskets and taken out to the sea by local fishermen. Afterwards a mass street party ensues. Feb/Mar: (annual dates vary according to Lent) Carnaval: The most famous celebrations are in Rio de Janeiro and Salvador though Carnival is celebrated all over the country over 5 days.

Late Jul: Búzios Jazz and Blues Festival: Lasts four days with many free events in the town. 14-16 Oct: Paraty-Mimo is a celebration of Brazilian music conceived by producer, Lú Araújo, and an increasingly popular event in a number of Brazilian cities.

DESTINATION GUIDE requirement for British citizens though other nationalities may require an entry visa or pay a reciprocity fee in advance. Chile For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements please check Country facts www.iatatravelcentre.com. Size: Total land area 743,812 sq km On arrival make sure to check the entry (approx 3 times the size of the UK). stamp in your passport and always Population: 18 million. keep safe any entry cards or other documentation handed to you by Capital: Santiago de Chile. immigration officials as these are usually required when leaving the country. Language: Spanish. Chile has especially strict rules regarding Electricity: 220v. Standard British plugs will the import of crop and animal products, need an adapter to a round two-pin plug. including nuts, cheese, ham, tea, fruit and Time zone: GMT-3 hours (Easter Island vegetables, among others. All crop and – 5 hrs) animal products must declared at customs where bags will be checked. Infractions of Currency: Chilean peso (CLP$). Credit these rules can lead to large fines and even and debit cards are widely accepted. ATM trials. network is respectable in coverage. Departure tax: For international flights, In many hotels, when paying your final bill airport taxes are included in the ticket. for any additional charges, services, meals etc if you pay in USD$ or with a foreign Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes credit card you will be exempt from VAT may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport (19%). Taxes’) though they are generally included within the ticket cost. Budget: Prices do vary within each country and high end restaurants tend Easter Island: Visitors to Easter Island to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. are required to complete an online Hotel restaurants are also usually more entry form no earlier than 3 days prior expensive. As a rough guide at the time to arrival in Easter Island and via https:// of writing, in Santiago de Chile: ingresorapanui.interior.gob.cl/

• The cost of a 2 course lunch/ Weather dinner at a mid-range restaurant = US$30.00/$35.00 Seasons in Santiago and surrounds are the opposite to ours in the UK. Nov-early • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of Mar can be very hot with little or no rain national beer in a mid-range restaurant (Dec-Jan being the hottest). The winter is = US$6.00 cold and can be wet. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” While summers in the lake district are (Chilean or Argentine) = US$7.00 generally warm and sunny, as a rule the Please note: Prices in Patagonia vary and further south in Patagonia you go the can be up to 30% more expensive. more unpredictable the climate, with weather changing day to day and morning Entry requirements to afternoon. Generally though it follows Visa and health regulations: No visa the same pattern as Santiago, with a higher chance of warm temperatures from Nov-Mar. north where sun rays are strong and south where the ozone layer is thin. San Pedro de Atacama enjoys sunshine and warm temperatures year-round, Altitude Sickness: Please see altitude influenced by altitude and the high Andes, advice in Health and Vaccinations with cool nights Jul-Sep and a chance of Section 4.9. heavy rains in Jan-Mar. Recommendations Easter Island has pleasant temperatures all year, warmest Oct-Mar, cooler Jun-Sep. Eat: Seafood is both abundant and outstanding – particularly exotic Jun-Aug are the winter months in Patagonia shellfish. Try machas a la parmesana where it can be very cold with snow. (clams in a white wine and butter sauce topped with parmesan) and grilled lamb Clothing tips in Patagonia. Santiago de Chile: Casual warm Drink: Wine. Well known for its Cabernet weather clothes in summer, fleece and Sauvignon and Merlot but excellent Syrah waterproofs in winter. and Pinot Noir is also produced. Pisco Sour cocktails are popular. Atacama: Bring layered clothing. Early mornings and nights can be bitterly Read: The House of Spirits – Isabel cold and you’ll need warm clothes, light Allende windproof/rain jacket recommended. The An epic novel tracing Chile’s turbulent air is very dry so you should use lip balm. history through the story of the tragedies befalling successive generations of Lake district: Weather can be females within a family. unpredictable and layered clothing is recommended. A waterproof/windproof In Patagonia – Bruce Chatwin jacket is essential. An early childhood fascination with his grandmother’s scrap of giant sloth skin Patagonia: (see ‘Patagonia and the Andes drew Chatwin to Patagonia, where he section). was intrigued by odd miners, Darwin, the Travel Health & Vaccinations Welsh and the log cabin built by Butch Cassidy. (The book covers both Chilean This information is intended as an and Argentinean Patagonia). overview only. Please read, Section 4: Health and Vaccinations and always Patagonia: A Cultural History - Chris Moss consult your GP. Through various sources, Moss constructs a panoramic portrait of a region Yellow fever: N/A that continues to beguile travellers. Malaria: N/A Contemporary film, tourism and environmental issues also feature in a very Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, readable book that seeks to demystify the or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. fabled “end of the world”. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made Travels in a Thin Country-Sara Wheeler from purified water. This is Sara Wheeler’s account of a six- month odyssey which included Christmas Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 Day at 13,000 feet with a llama sandwich, or higher), a hat and sunglasses for a sex hotel in Santiago and a trip round protection from the harmful effects of Cape Horn delivering a coffin. UV sun rays. Be particularly careful in the Between Extremes– Brian Keenan and held in Rancagua each year. Rodeo was John McCarthy declared the national sport in 1962. A well-written testament to friendship 16 Jul: Fiesta de la Tirana is an annual by Keenan and McCarthy whose dream festival held in northern Chile in honour of making a million from yak farming of the Virgen del Carmen. Traditional in Chilean Patagonia was born in their music and dance, mixing both Inca and shared Beirut prison cell. Christian cultures. Clandestine in Chile – Gabriel García 18/19 Sep: Fiestas Patrias: A countrywide Márquez expression of Chilean culture and A picture of life under Pinochet, told by celebration of independence and a film director who returns under a false nationality. identity after 12 years.

Ines of my Soul – Isabelle Allende The vibrant novel from Isabel Allende takes her back to her homeland of Chile, and tells the story of the first Spanish woman to arrive on its shores with the conquistadors in the 1500s.

My Invented Country – Isabel Allende

The life story of Isabel Allende, which focuses on her relationship with Chile and its complicated history and politics. The Postman – Antonio Skármeta Subsequently adapted for the silver screen in the award-winning film, Il Postino, The Postman is a story of poetry, love, politics and life set in the years preceding the Pinochet dictatorship.

Some notable events

31 Dec: Celebration and fireworks displays in Valparaiso. Jan/Feb: Tapati Rapa Nui: A celebration of Easter Island’s traditions and cultural heritage.

Feb: Costumbrista Chilote: A celebration of Chiloé’s unique cultural and historical folklore held in the town of Castro. Mar/Apr: Fiestas de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest): Weekend-long fêtes take place annually in many of the country’s wine producing areas, but the largest such event is in the city of Curicó.

Apr: The culmination of the rodeo season is at the Campeonato Nacional de Rodeo DESTINATION GUIDE please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Colombia keep safe any entry cards or other documentation handed to you by Country facts immigration officials as these are usually Size: Total land area 1,038,700 sq km required when leaving the country. (approx 4 times the size of UK). Travellers to the island of San Andrés are Population: 50 million. required to purchase a tourist card. COP $100,000 (approx £25), payable on arrival. Capital: Bogotá. Departure tax: For international flights, Language: Spanish, (English in San Andrés airport taxes are included in the ticket. and Providencia). Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Electricity: 110V. Standard British plugs may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug Taxes’).

Time zone: GMT-5 hours. Weather Currency: Colombian peso (COP). Almost Bogotá and the central Andes has a all major banks have adjacent ATM’s. temperate climate; with an average Budget: Prices do vary within each temperature of 14°C and a mixture of country and high end restaurants tend sunshine, cloud and showers during the to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. day. There’s a dry season from Dec-Mar Hotel restaurants are also usually more and it is also drier Jul-Aug. expensive. As a rough guide at the time The Caribbean coast and islands are an of writing, in Bogotá: all-year destination, with plenty of sun • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ throughout and temperatures reaching dinner at a mid-range restaurant = 30°c. The rainy season is Aug-Nov when US$20.00/$25.00 showers can be torrential. Dec-Apr should be pretty rain-free. • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of national beer in a mid-range restaurant Cali is hot and humid all the year round = US$3.00 though it can rain at any time. Popayán, Silvia and San Agustin are at a higher • The cost of a glass of “house wine” elevation and so substantially cooler, with (Chilean or Argentine) = US$5.00 a drier feel to the air: all in all the climate is sunny, warm and pleasant. Most rain Entry requirements falls Apr-Jun but it can rain here at any Visa and health regulations: No visa time requirement for British citizens though Nuqui on the western coast is one of the other nationalities may require an entry wettest places on earth. visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry if travelling from Clothing tips countries with risk of yellow fever virus transmission, even if you have not visited Bogotá: Hot during the day it can be chilly an affected area. For the most up-to-date at night. Layered clothing recommended entry and health certification requirements Cartagena: Loose-fitting and light clothing recommended. Coffee (tinto) is of a very high quality. Medellín: It rains frequently so a Read: The Lost Steps – Alejo Carpentier lightweight raincoat is useful. A composer, fleeing an empty existence in New York City, embarks on a journey to Travel Health & Vaccinations an area relatively untouched by civilisation This information is intended as an – the upper reaches of the Amazon. overview only. Please read, Section 4: Love in the Time of Cholera – Gabriel Health and Vaccinations and always García Márquez consult your GP. A touching story of love and mortality set Yellow fever: Vaccination is in a traditional Colombian coastal town at recommended for those travelling to the turn of the 19th Century. areas below 2,300m.Vaccination is One Hundred Years of Solitude – Gabriel generally not recommended for travel García Márquez only to the cities of Barranquilla, Cali, An epic magical realist novel that tells Cartagena, and Medellín. Vaccination is the story of generations of the Buendía not recommended for travel only to areas family – founders of Macondo, a remote above 2,300m, the department of San Colombian town. Andrès y Providencia and the capital city of Bogota. The Fruit Palace – Charles Nicholl The Fruit Palace of the title sells only fruit, Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria but it happens to be in Santa Marta, the in most rural areas of Colombia below small town at the centre of Colombia’s 1,600m. There is a very low risk in areas 1980s cocaine trade. Nicholl relates his above 1,600m and in Cartagena. quest for “The Great Cocaine Story” with Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, madcap energy and vividness in this or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. classic travel book. Avoid tap water (even when brushing Killing Pablo-Mark Bowden teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made Bowden documents the spectacular rise from purified water. and fall of Pablo Escobar. Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 Some notable events or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of Jan: Hay Festival: Cartagena. An offshoot UV sun rays. of the famous literary festival in Hay- on-Wye, it attracts Latin American and Altitude sickness: Please read altitude international writers and intellectuals of advice in section 4: Health and international renown. Vaccinations (4.9 Altitude sickness). Feb/Mar: (annual dates vary according Recommendations to Lent) Carnival -The most famous Eat: Buñuelos (deep fried corn flour balls and extravagant carnival takes place in with cheese) and arepas (corn tortillas, the Caribbean city of Barranquilla, with often made with cheese). The widest frenetic dancing and parades of revellers variety of exotic and tropical fruits in Latin wearing extravagant costumes. America. Mar/Apr: (annual dates vary) Semana Drink: The national alcoholic drink is Santa: Celebrated throughout the aguardiente, which tastes strongly of anise. country, though Popayán is famed for lavish processions and celebrations. Aug: Medellín Flower Fair: Known as the “city of eternal spring”, Medellín bursts with colour as it hosts a festival of over 142 cultural, traditional, and modern events.

Sep: International Jazz Festival, Bogotá. World renowned artists performing in front of thousands of jazz enthusiasts. 11 Nov: Independence of Cartagena: The city commemorates its declaration of independence from Spain with celebrations, lavish masks and costumes, dancing, and music.

DESTINATION GUIDE please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Costa Rica keep safe any entry cards or other documentation handed to you by Country facts immigration officials as these are usually Size: Total land area 51,060 sq km required when leaving the country. (approx 2x the size of Wales). Departure tax: Domestic airport taxes Population: 5 million. may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). Capital: San Jose. Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Language: Spanish. may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). Electricity: 110V. Standard British plugs will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. Weather Time zone: GMT-6 hours. Despite its small size, Costa Rica has a Currency: Colon. ATMs can be found in number of distinct microclimates. The most cities. Credit/debit cards usually Caribbean coast is humid all year round accepted at lodges. with the driest months being Sep-Oct; The rest of the country experiences a Budget: Prices do vary within each dry season from Dec-Apr, when there country and high end restaurants tend is plenty of sun and temperatures are to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. high, and a rainy season from May-Nov. Hotel restaurants are also usually more However, this is not a hard-and-fast rule expensive. As a rough guide at the time of for all regions: for example, the rainy writing, in San Jose: season starts a month earlier in the south • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ Pacific, while the northern areas, including dinner at a mid-range restaurant = the Guanacaste coast, are not as affected US$25.00/$30.00 by the seasons and are generally much drier. The highlands and cloud forests • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of have warm temperatures during the day national beer in a mid-range restaurant but the high altitude means evenings are = US$6.00 much cooler. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” (Chilean or Argentine) = US$7.00 Clothing tips

Entry requirements Lightweight cotton or linen clothes are recommended throughout the year. In the Visa and health regulationst: No visa cloud forests a fleece can be useful due requirement for British citizens though to high elevation. Wear closed, heavy- other nationalities may require an entry soled footwear in jungle areas. (See ‘The visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate Amazon and Tropical Lowlands section). may be required for entry if travelling from countries with risk of yellow fever virus Travel Health & Vaccinations transmission, even if you have not visited This information is intended as an an affected area. For the most up-to-date overview only. Please read, Section 4: entry and health certification requirements Health and Vaccinations and always consult your GP.

Yellow fever: N/A (though please see

‘Entry requirements’)

Malaria: Risk is low throughout the year.

Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles.

Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water.

Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations Eat: Canitas – Costa Rican sugar cane beef. Gallo Pinto, a mixture of fried rice with onion, sweet pepper, red beans and garlic. Corvina (sea bass) is delicious.

Drink: Guaro is a distilled liquor with a strong, sweet taste Read: Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste - William Allen A refreshing and positive look at ways to restore the world’s tropical forests based on the authors experience.

Monkeys Are Made Of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica – Jack Ewing A collection of experiences and fascinating look at Costa Rica’s wildlife.

Some notable events Last week Feb: Puntarenas Carnival: A popular week-long fiesta with pachanga music and parades.

Mar: International Arts Festival: Every year the Department of Culture and Youth of Costa Rica organizes the International Arts Festivals for two-weeks with theatre, music, dancing, among others.

DESTINATION GUIDE US dollars are not accepted as payment in Cuba, and you will be charged 10% or more commission to exchange them.

Cuba Credit card transactions (not permitted from cards issued by US banks), including Country facts withdrawals from ATM’s, are subject to local commission charges of between Size: Total land area 109,820 sq km 11-13%. (slightly smaller than England). We do not recommend taking travellers Population: 11 million. cheques to Cuba as these can be difficult to exchange. Capital: Havana. Note also that there is a Cuban peso Language: Spanish. (peso cubano), which is the currency Electricity: Most older hotels have a Cuban nationals / citizens use. At the time voltage of 110, but newer ones have 220V. of writing, the Cuban government has A universal plug adapter is recommended. indicated they will be abolishing the two- tiered currency though this is yet to come Time zone: GMT-4 hours. into effect. Currency: Cuban peso convertible Internet: Internet and WiFiaccess is now (CUC$). Visitors to Cuba should carry available in most towns (usually around the as much cash in small denomination central plaza) and in decent-sized hotels. notes of sterling and/or euros as their However, it is currently only available in the travel insurance policy will cover. These hotel common areas and not in rooms. If currencies are changed into pesos staying connected is essential, be aware convertibles – CUCs – a Cuban “dollar” that bandwidth is weak and connection at banks or CADECA (exchange house). unreliable. To access WiFi you first need to On arrival, cash can be exchanged for purchase a NAUTA scratch card from either CUCs at the airport CADECA though a hotel reception desk or ETECSA office. please be aware there are usually very Budget: Prices do vary within each long queues. Our local representatives country and high end restaurants tend can reserve up to CUC$100.00 on request to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. at least 72 hours prior to arrival to avoid Hotel restaurants are also usually more the queues. When leaving, any remaining expensive. As a rough guide at the time of CUCs can be exchanged at the airport writing, in Havana: CADECA prior to check-in but not airside. • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ There are ATM machines in Havana and dinner at a mid-range restaurant = other tourist cities such as Trinidad and US$20.00/$25.00 Santiago de Cuba. Coverage is improving but reliability can be variable. • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of national beer in a mid-range restaurant Check with your bank before you travel = US$3.00 to confirm that your debit/credit cards will work and will be accepted in Cuba. Visa • The cost of a glass of “house wine” is more widely accepted than Mastercard. (Chilean or Argentine) = US$6.00 There are virtually no ATM’s available for drawing cash against Cirrus or Switch Entry requirements cards in Cuba. Visa and health regulations: British passport holders require a tourist card to Travel Health & Vaccinations visit Cuba. We can issue these if you are This information is intended as an making your travel arrangements through overview only. Please read, Section 4: Journey Latin America. A yellow fever Health and Vaccinations and always vaccination certificate may be required for consult your GP. entry if travelling from countries with risk of yellow fever virus transmission, even Yellow fever: N/A (though please see if you have not visited an affected area. ‘Entry requirements’). Other nationalities may require an entry Malaria: N/A visa. For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements please Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, check www.iatatravelcentre.com. or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing On arrival make sure to check the entry teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made stamp in your passport and always from purified water. keep safe any entry cards or other documentation handed to you by Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 immigration officials as these are usually or higher), a hat and sunglasses for required when leaving the country. protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays. Departure tax: For international flights, airport taxes are included in the ticket. Recommendations Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Eat: Although Cuban food can be bland may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport things are changing and food is improving. Taxes’). In Cuba pork is the most popular meat and reasonably priced lobster is Weather commonplace. Moros y cristianos (rice and Cuba has a tropical climate and is mostly beans) accompanies many meat dishes. hot and sunny throughout the year, The best cuisine tends to be found in local although it is susceptible to storms and paladares or homestays. occasional hurricanes from Jul-Nov. The Drink: Rum. Cuba is famous for mojito humidity and high temperatures (up to cocktails (rum, lime, sugar, mint leaves, 33°C) in Jul-Aug can be stifling. During club soda) and Daiquiri (rum, lime juice the dry season, Dec-Apr the weather and sugar). is more benign, with slightly lower temperatures. Most rain falls between Read: Our Man in Havana: An Jun-Sep. Entertainment – Graham Greene makes light of spying during the Cold Clothing tips War. A vacuum cleaner dealer is recruited Havana: Light clothing, cotton and natural as a spy for a secret British organisation fibres; sensible flat comfortable shoes for in Cuba. The main character struggles to walking tours. keep his life in check and his conscience within bounds. Trinidad: Comfortable walking shoes while exploring the colonial cobblestone Islands in the Stream – Ernest Hemingway streets. The novel was written inspired by Jardines del Rey Archipelago (one of Hemingway’s Viñales: Can get cool in the evening, so favourite getaways in Cuba). a long sleeved shirt/sweater is useful. Music: Alejo Carpentier Not only the best and most extensive showcasing both local and international study of Cuban musical history, it musicians. is a work of literature. Drawing on 19-24 Dec: Las Parrandas de Remedios: such primary documents as church An extravagant Carnival in the small circulars and musical scores, Carpentier village of Remedios near Santa Clara. encompasses European-style elite Cuban Expect fireworks and a big street party on music as well as the popular rural Spanish the 24th. folk and urban Afro-Cuban music.

Explosion in a Cathedral-Alejo Carpentier Regarded as one of Latin America’s greatest historical novels, Explosion in a Cathedral deals with the impact of the French Revolution on the Caribbean. The narrative deals with the cyclical nature of control, destruction, and development during revolution. Stylistically, it contains elements of existentialism and magical realism, and it mirrors the tension between Europe and Latin America found in many of Carpentier’s other works

Film: Guantanamera is a 1995 comedy film from Cuba which depicts life in Cuba during the ‘special period’ of the 1990s. Some notable events

18-26 Jul: (may vary) Santiago de Cuba Carnival: Cuba’s most famous festival. The best days are towards the end, when the city literally never sleeps. See the exciting annual performance at the Cuartel Moncada, and there are colourful scenes everywhere you stroll along Avenida Trocha.

8-15 Aug: Havana Carnival: Music, dancing, rum and lots of fun are the ingredients of the fantastic Havana Carnival every year. Parades run the length of the Malecón and rich traditional music competes with more contemporary sounds. Oct/Nov: Festival de Ballet de La Habana. Performances by the Cuban National Ballet company, still one of the most highly regarded troupes in the world.

Dec: Festival Internacional Jazz Plaza in Havana. A world renowned jazz festival DESTINATION GUIDE other nationalities may require an entry visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry if travelling from

Ecuador countries with risk of yellow fever virus transmission, even if you have not visited Country facts an affected area. For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements Size: Total land area 276,841 sq km please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. (slightly larger than the UK). On arrival make sure to check the entry Population: 16 million. stamp in your passport and always keep safe any entry cards or other Capital: Quito. documentation handed to you by Language: Spanish. immigration officials as these are usually required when leaving the country. Electricity: 120v. Standard British plugs will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. Departure tax: For international flights, airport taxes are included in the ticket. Time zone: GMT-5 hours. (Galápagos islands -6 hours) Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes may apply, approx USD $7 (See section Currency: US dollar (US$). High 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). denomination bills can be difficult to change. ATM’s are found in most cities and Galápagos Islands: Maximum checked even in smaller towns, though they are luggage allowance for the flight to the occasionally out of order. Credit cards are Galápagos is 20kg (one suitcase/bag). widely accepted. ATMs in the Galápagos Islands are notoriously unreliable. Weather Budget: Prices do vary within each There are only two seasons, wet and dry. country and high end restaurants tend The dry season in the Andean highlands to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. lasts from Jun-Sep, and on the coast from Hotel restaurants are also usually more May-Dec. Although Feb-Apr is traditionally expensive. As a rough guide at the time of the green (wet) season, there is a chance writing, in Quito: of showers throughout the year. Due to altitude, Quito and the Andean highlands • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ can be chilly in the evenings. dinner at a mid-range restaurant = US$24.00/$28.00 The coastal areas are especially hot, wet and humid from Jan-Apr. • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of national beer in a mid-range restaurant It can rain at any time in the Amazon = US$4.00 but the wettest months are Apr-Jun. In the Amazon and Pacific lowlands, • The cost of a glass of “house wine” temperatures of 30°C are not uncommon. (Chilean or Argentine) = US$6.00 Galápagos Islands: See ‘The Galápagos Please note: Prices in the Galápagos Islands’ section. Islands tend to be a little more expensive. Clothing tips Entry requirements Quito and Andes: Weather can be Visa and health regulations: No visa unpredictable and layered clothing is requirement for British citizens though recommended (see ‘Patagonia and the Guayaquil. Andes section. Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, Guayaquil: Hot and generally humid so or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. loose-fitting and light clothing preferred. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made Galápagos Islands: See ‘The Galápagos from purified water. Islands’ section. Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 Amazon: A visit to the rainforest requires or higher), a hat and sunglasses for a rain jacket. See ‘The Amazon and protection from the harmful effects of Tropical Lowlands section. UV sun rays. Mindo Cloudforest: Long sleeves Altitude sickness: Please read altitude and trousers, a warm layer for cooler advice in section 4: Health and evenings, a rain jacket, and comfortable Vaccinations (4.9 Altitude sickness). walking shoes. Recommendations Travel Health & Vaccinations Eat: Ecuador offers a wide variety of This information is intended as an exotic foods. Locro de papa is a famous overview only. Please read, Section 4: Ecuadorian soup with avocados, potatoes Health and Vaccinations and always and cheese. Also ceviche (raw seafood consult your GP. marinated in lime juice). Yellow fever: Vaccination is Drink: The national drink is rum. Canelazo recommended for all travellers to the is a hot drink made with aguardiente following provinces east of the Andes (fermented sugar cane). Fresh tomate de below 2,300m: Morona-Santiago, Napo, árbol juice – a sweet-and-sour local fruit. Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbios and Zamora-Chinchipe, and the province west Read: Saddled with Darwin-Toby Green of the cordillera, Esmeraldas. An interesting voyage in the footsteps of Darwin by a young, intrepid explorer Vaccination is generally not with a fantastic sense of humour. A good recommended for travellers whose balance of history and adventure. itineraries are limited to the following provinces west of the Andes including Floreana: A Woman’s Pilgrimage to the below 2,300m: Guayas, Los Rios, Santa Galápagos – Margret Wittmer Helena, Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas An account from one of the first settlers on and designated areas of Azuay, Bolivar, the Galápagos and full of exotic adventures. Canar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, The Panama Hat Trail –Tom Miller El Oro, Imbabura, Loja, Pichincha, The Panama hat is not from Panama! Tungurahua. The book provides an insightful look at Vaccination is not recommended for Ecuadorian culture from the capital city travel only to areas above 2,300m, the of Quito set high in the Andes to the cities of Quito and Guayaquil and the tropical town of Guayaquil on the coast. Galápagos Islands. Satan Came to Eden – Dore Strauch Malaria: On mainland Ecuador, there is a Originally published in 1936. low risk of malaria in areas below 1,500m, Satan Came to Eden meticulously including the coastal provinces and recounts Ritter and Strauch’s often Amazon basin. There is no risk of malaria bizarre, true-life struggle from a survivor’s in the Galapagos islands or the city of point of view—an account lost to the public for nearly 80 years. Editor Joseph Troise supplements Strauch’s original memoir with previously unpublished photographs and an informative preface, introducing a new generation of readers to one of the strangest stories of the twentieth century. Nan magazine is a bi-monthly bilingual travel magazine about Ecuador produced by Ecuadorans, expats and visitors. www.nanmagazine.com/en

Some notable events Mar/Apr: Semana Santa (annual dates vary) Ecuador is a very religious country, the Andes and urban areas are very interesting places to experience festivities, such as Cuenca.

21 Apr: Riobamba Independence Festival: Lively parades throughout the city. 3rd week in Jun: Los San Juanes: Three festivals including Inti Raymi. A week-long celebration including music, dance, and interesting indigenous rituals.

Jun: Septenario in Cuenca: Corpus Christi festival lasts a week with fireworks and ‘vacas locas’. Thousands of balloons are sent into the sky over the city on closing night. 1st week of Nov: Fiesta de la Mama Negra in Latacunga, a traditional parade to celebrate the mixture of indigenous, Spanish and African influences found in Ecuador.

1st week of Dec: Fiestas de Quito: A week of various parades, performances and music culminating in the all-night event of 5 Dec.

DESTINATION GUIDE On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always keep safe any entry cards or other El Salvador documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Country facts required when leaving the country. Size: Total land area 20,721 sq km Departure tax: For international flights, (approx size of Wales). airport taxes are included in the ticket. Population: 6 million. Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Capital: San Salvador. may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). Language: Spanish. Weather Electricity: 120v. Standard British plugs will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. The dry season runs from late Nov-Apr. Time zone: GMT-6 hours. Temperatures are tropical, around 30°C, and it feels even hotter and more humid Currency: US Dollar (US$). ATMs on the coast, especially towards the widespread except in more isolated towns. beginning of the wet season in May. San Salvador, at 680m above sea level, enjoys Budget: Prices do vary within each a slightly more temperate climate. The country and high end restaurants tend wet season is characterised by daily to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. downpours which relieve the heat Hotel restaurants are also usually more somewhat but travel by road can be expensive. As a rough guide at the time of difficult. writing, in San Salvador:

• The cost of a 2 course lunch/ Clothing tips dinner at a mid-range restaurant = Lightweight cotton or linen clothes are US$15.00/$20.00 recommended throughout the year. • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of Casual loose-fitting clothing in Suchitoto national beer in a mid-range restaurant which can be stifling. = US$3.00 Travel Health & Vaccinations • The cost of a glass of “house wine” (Chilean or Argentine) = US$5.00 This information is intended as an overview only. Please read, Section 4: Entry requirements Health and Vaccinations and always consult your GP. Visa and health regulations: No visa requirement for British citizens though Yellow fever: N/A (though please see other nationalities may require an entry ‘Entry requirements’) visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria in may be required for entry if travelling from rural areas of Santa Ana, Ahuachapán and countries with risk of yellow fever virus La Unión provinces in western El Salvador. transmission, even if you have not visited an affected area. For the most up-to-date Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, entry and health certification requirements or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water.

Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations

Eat: Pupusas made from thick, hand-made corn tortilla and filled with refried beans and cheese. Drink: Licuados (juices) made with locally sourced fresh fruit, milk, and usually ice.

Read: Small Hours of the Night – Roque Dalton One of Latin America’s most compelling poets, and an active member of El Salvador’s revolutionary movement. This collection of his work enunciates in a direct, conversational tone his preoccupation with social injustice. The Martyr of El Salvador: The Assassination of Oscar Romero-Reagan Martin Although much more in depth works about the life of Monsenor Romero are available, this short book gives a good background to El Salvador’s revered icon.

Some notable events

1st Sunday in May: The Flower and Palm Festival in Panchimalco is an intriguing and colourful traditional ceremony and procession.

31st Aug: Bolas de Fuego in Nejapa. In a tradition dating back to 1658, the festival of fire involves two teams waging a pitched battle of fire balls. Watching (not participating) is advised.

DESTINATION GUIDE travelling via LATAM this will need to be paid on departure at the airport in cash only (dollars, euros or sterling).

Falkland Islands Alternatively you can pay at the Customs and Immigration Office located in Stanley. Country facts If travelling via MOD the departure tax will be included on your flight ticket. Size: 12,173 sq km (slightly smaller than Northern Island). Weather Population: 3,398. The Falkland Islands have a chilly climate characterised by strong winds, particularly Capital: Stanley in the spring (Sep-Oct). Rain falls on Language: English approximately 180 days per year, but totals are small. The islands are at their Electricity: 242V using square 3-pin UK warmest in Jan, the mid-point of the type plugs. southern summer, but temperatures Time zone: GMT-3 hours. (averaging 10°C) don’t vary much throughout the year. A little-known fact Currency: Falklands Pound is that the islands are bathed in the same Budget: There are only 2 main restaurants number of sunshine hours as southern in Stanley with a few other pubs which England. Visitors benefit from long hours serve food and an American style diner: of daylight Oct-Mar, when migratory birds and mammals arrive. November is the • The cost of a 2 course lunch/dinner breeding time for penguins. at a mid-range restaurant = £20/£30 US$18.00/$22.00 Clothing tips • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of Casual clothing is the order in the Falkland national beer = £2.50 Islands. Travellers should bring clothes similar to those worn in Britain in the • The cost of a glass of “house wine” in a spring. Particularly important are a wind pub = £2.50 & waterproof jacket or anorak with a Entry requirements hood or hat and a stout pair of walking boots or shoes, as you may have to cross Visa and health regulations: No visa some rough ground to see the best requirement for British citizens though wildlife. Sun/ wind screen and lip salve are other nationalities may require an entry essential when spending time outdoors in visa. For the most up-to-date entry and the remarkably clear, unpolluted air. Shoes health certification requirements please or slippers for indoor use are also useful check www.iatatravelcentre.com. as it is customary to remove outdoor On arrival make sure to check the entry footwear when entering lodges/houses, stamp in your passport and always particularly in camp (outside of Stanley). keep safe any entry cards or other Travel Health & Vaccinations documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually This information is intended as an required when leaving the country. overview only. Please read, Section 4: Health and Vaccinations and always Departure tax: £25 per person. If consult your GP. 14 Jun: Liberation Day commemorates the end of the Falklands War in 1982 and At the time of writing, no vaccinations are key date for the islanders. mandatory. Yellow fever: N/A 26-28 Dec: The Christmas Races is a century long tradition of horse racing and Malaria: N/A gymkhanas held in Stanley. Water: Make sure you drink plenty of fluids especially water. Tap water is drinkable

Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher) and Sunscreen lip balm (SPF

20 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations

Eat: Patagonian Tooth fish, local Lamb, local squid along with ‘smoko ‘ treats which include an array of homemade biscuits, cakes, and confectionary Drink: Falklands Brewery makes a selection of local ales and the Falklands also makes its own vodka and more recently gin.

Read: Little black Lies: By Way of the Falkland Islands - Sharon Bolton – a dark suspense thriller set on the Islands with vivid descriptions of community life, geography, wildlife, and landscapes. Falklands Diary: Winds of Change in a Distant Colony - Jean Austin – Austin’s husband was appointed Colonial Secretary of the Falkland Islands in 1969 and in this memoir she describes life on the remote outpost of the British colonies as well as the Islands’ growing geopolitical significance.

Some notable events

24 Mar: Stanley Marathon – The world’s most southerly AIMS certified marathon affording magnificent views around the capital.

DESTINATION GUIDE an affected area. For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. Guatemala On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Country facts keep safe any entry cards or other Size: Total land area 107,159 sq km documentation handed to you by (approx ½ the size of UK). immigration officials as these are usually required when leaving the country. Population: 15 million. Departure tax: For international flights, Capital: Guatemala City airport taxes are included in the ticket. Language: Spanish (English in Livingston) Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Electricity: 120V. Standard British plugs Taxes’). will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. Time zone: GMT-6 hours. Weather Currency: Quetzal. You can exchange The dry season runs from Nov-May and US$ at banks throughout the country. the wet season between Jun-Oct. The ATMs generally widespread except in more wettest months are Aug-Oct, when heavy isolated towns. afternoon showers are to be expected. Budget: Prices do vary within each Temperatures vary greatly depending country and high end restaurants tend on the altitude. The tropical jungles to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. of the Petén and coastal lowlands Hotel restaurants are also usually more are hot and humid year round whilst expensive. As a rough guide at the time the western Highlands (including of writing, in Antigua: Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango) experience a much • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ more comfortable spring-like climate dinner at a mid-range restaurant = with sunny days and temperatures US$18.00/$22.00 averaging 22C. Nights and early mornings • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of are much colder at altitude, particularly national beer in a mid-range restaurant so in Huehuetenango, Todos Santos = US$3.50 Cuchumatanes and Quetzaltenango which lie between 1900-2500masl. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” (Chilean or Argentine) = US$5.00 Clothing tips

Entry requirements Lightweight cotton or linen clothes are recommended throughout the year. Visa and health regulations: No visa Antigua and Lake Atitlan can get cool in requirement for British citizens though the evening, take a long sleeved shirt and other nationalities may require an entry a sweater. visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry if travelling from In Tikal/Petén take shoes with good ankle countries with risk of yellow fever virus support and grip for exploring the Mayan transmission, even if you have not visited ruins and jungle trails. Travel Health & Vaccinations The testimony that catapulted an indigenous Guatemalan woman onto the This information is intended as an political stage. Menchu’s powerful voice overview only. Please read, Section 4: records the plight of the Guatemalan Health and Vaccinations and always people during the Civil War. consult your GP. Yellow fever: N/A (though please see Some notable events ‘Entry requirements’) Mar/Apr (annual dates vary): Semana Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria in Santa: Antigua, is particularly famous for Guatemala below 1,500m. There is no risk its vibrant and colourful celebrations and in Guatemala City, Antigua and Lake Atitlan intricate floral carpets that decorate the and areas above 1,500m. streets. Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water. Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations

Eat: Tamales – an ancient Mayan food made from maize and wrapped in plantain leaves with many different varieties. Pepian, a hearty Mayan stew with many roasted spices. Drink: Atole de Elote, a corn based drink best consumed when hot.

Read: The President – Miguel Ángel Asturias A dark, often harrowing account of life under the Guatemalan dictator, Manuel Estrada Cabrera, which denounces the atrocities committed by those who held absolute power. A real life tale that, disturbingly, creates some parallels with Orwell’s fictitious novel 1984 The Lost Chronicles of the Maya Kings – David Drew Explores the collapse of the Maya Empire, including a fascinating and well-crafted portrait of the Maya world.

I, Rigoberta Menchu – Rigoberta Menchu DESTINATION GUIDE On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always keep safe any entry cards or other Guyana documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Country facts required when leaving the country. Size: Total land area 196,849 sq km Departure tax: For international flights, (slightly smaller than the UK). airport taxes are included on the ticket. Population: 735,000. Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Capital: Georgetown. may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). Language: English, Amerindian dialects, Creole. Weather Electricity: 242v. Standard British plugs Guyana is typically hot with average daily will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. temperatures of 27°C and it remains warm during the night. The north of the country Time zone: GMT-4 hours. experiences two wet seasons – from May Currency: Guyanese dollar (GYD). ATM’s -Jun and Dec-Feb. and credit card use are very limited. The south and the Rupununi region has Take as much cash in US$ as your travel only one wet season – from May-Aug. insurance will allow. Budget: Prices do vary within each Clothing tips country and high end restaurants tend See ‘The Amazon and Tropical Lowlands to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. section). Hotel restaurants are also usually more expensive. As a rough guide at the time of writing, in Georgetown: Travel Health & Vaccinations • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ This information is intended as an dinner at a mid-range restaurant = overview only. Please read, Section 4: US$18.00/$25.00 Health and Vaccinations and always • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of consult your GP. national beer in a mid-range restaurant Yellow fever: Vaccination recommended = US$2.00 for visitors to all areas. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” Malaria: There is a risk of malaria in all (Chilean or Argentine) = US$5.00 interior regions of Guyana. There is a very Entry requirements low risk of malaria in Georgetown and the coastal regions. Visa and health regulations: No visa requirement for British citizens though Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, other nationalities may require an entry or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. visa. British citizens do require a visa Avoid tap water (even when brushing if travelling to Suriname. For the most teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made up-to-date entry and health certification from purified water. requirements please check Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 www.iatatravelcentre.com. or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations Eat: Pepper pot. A spicy dish made with cassareep and beef, served with split peas and rice.

Drink: El Dorado is an award winning, dark Caribbean rum. Read: Wild Coast: Travels on South America’s Untamed Edge – John Gimlette John Gimlette tells of his travels through the three Guianas, which took him deep into the jungle, from the hideouts of runaway slaves to penal colonies, outlandish forts, remote Amerindian villages, a ‘Little Paris’ and a space port.

Some notable events

The festivals of all the main religions represented by the population are celebrated, Christian Christmas and Easter; Hindu Diwali; Muslim Eid and Amerindian Mashramani. Feb 23: Mashramani. A country-wide celebration of Guyanese Republic Day. Expect spectacular costume competitions, float parades, masquerade bands, and plenty of dancing to steel drums, soca, calypso and chutney music.

Oct/Nov: Diwali, Georgetown: The ‘festival of lights’ celebrates Indian cultural life and traditions with a grand parade of decorated floats and firecrackers.

DESTINATION GUIDE countries with risk of yellow fever virus transmission, even if you have not visited an affected area. For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements

Honduras please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. On arrival make sure to check the entry Country facts stamp in your passport and always Size: Total land area 111,890 sq km keep safe any entry cards or other (slightly smaller than England). documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Population: 9 million. required when leaving the country. Capital: Tegucigalpa. Departure tax: For international flights, airport taxes are included in the ticket. Language: Spanish (English in the Bay Islands) Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). Electricity: 110V. Standard British plugs will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. Weather Time zone: GMT-6 hours. The coastal lowlands have a hot tropical Currency: Lempira. Bring US$ to change climate all year round with temperatures to local currency. ATMs can be found in approaching 30oC. The mountainous most cities. interior has a milder climate and in Dec- Jan temperatures hover around 18oC Budget: Prices do vary within each and it is cool at night. The rainy season country and high end restaurants tend runs May-Nov with afternoon showers- to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. although precipitation is more persistent Hotel restaurants are also usually more on the north coast. Sep-Nov is the expensive. As a rough guide at the time season when rainfall may be heavy and of writing, in Tegucigalpa: hurricanes are possible. • The cost of a 2 course lunch/dinner at a Clothing tips mid-range restaurant = US$15.00/$19.00 Lightweight cotton or linen clothes • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of are recommended throughout the national beer in a mid-range restaurant year. Sensible shoes to explore the = US$2.50 cobblestone streets and ruins at Copán. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” In the Bay Islands taking your own (Chilean or Argentine) = US$4.00 snorkelling gear and mask is beneficial. Please note: Prices in The Bay Islands and remote lodges are generally more Travel Health & Vaccinations expensive and vary greatly. This information is intended as an overview only. Please read, Section 4: Entry requirements Health and Vaccinations and always Visa and health regulations: No visa consult your GP. requirement for British citizens though Yellow fever: N/A (though please see other nationalities may require an entry ‘Entry requirements’) visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry if travelling from Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria below 1,000m and in Roatán and other Bay Islands. There is no risk of malaria in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa and areas above 1,000m.

Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles.

Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water.

Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations Eat: Sopa de caracol (Conch soup) made with coconut milk. Tamales are an ancient Mayan food made from maize and wrapped in plantain leaves. Many different varieties

Drink: Horchata made from rice, morro seeds, ground nuts and spices and mixed with milk and sugar. Read: The Mosquito Coast-Paul Theroux A breathtaking adventure as an inventor takes his family to live in Central America determined to build a utopia in the Honduran jungle.

Some notable events

12th Apr: Punta Gorda Festival in Roatan commemorating the day in which Garifuna people were placed on the island. Punta Gorda has the biggest celebrations. May: Feria de San Isidro, La Ceiba, Honduras: The Honduran version of Carnival where neighbourhood carnivalitos culminate in a big parade an all-night party along Avenida San Isidro and beach.

DESTINATION GUIDE (Chilean or Argentine) = US$7.00 Entry requirements Visa and health regulations: No visa Mexico requirement for British citizens though other nationalities may require an entry Country facts visa. For the most up-to-date entry and Size: Total land area 1,943,945 sq km health certification requirements please (approx 8 times the size of UK). check www.iatatravelcentre.com. Population: 125 million. On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Capital: Mexico City. keep safe any entry cards or other Language: Spanish. documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Electricity: 127V. Standard British plugs required when leaving the country. will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. Departure tax: For international flights, Time zone: There are four time zones in airport taxes are included in the ticket. Mexico: Internal flights: (See section 8.10 on Southeastern Time Zone: GMT -5hours ‘Airport Taxes’) though they are generally (including Cancun and Riviera Maya) included within the ticket cost. Central Time Zone: GMT -6hours (including Mexico City and the Yucatan) Baja California: Visitors to Baja California are required to pay a tourist tax of $18.50 Mountain Time Zone: GMT -7hours at the airport on arrival. (Northern Mexico including Copper Canyon and Baja sur) Weather Pacific Time Zone GMT: -8hours South of the Tropic of Cancer, which (including Baja Norte slices the country in half, there is a hot and humid climate along both coasts, Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN$). Best to especially from May-Sep, whereas in the use major international credit card or debit highlands the weather tends to be drier card which are widely accepted. ATM’s are and more temperate. plentiful. Mexico City is generally dry from Nov-Apr Budget: Prices do vary within each and experiences some rain (often only an country and high end restaurants tend hour or so a day) from May-Sep. The high to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. altitude (2,200m) means that it is rarely Hotel restaurants are also usually more oppressively hot. expensive. As a rough guide at the time of writing, in Mexico City: The Yucatán tends to be hot and humid throughout the year. Jul-Sep is the green • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ (wet) season when afternoon showers dinner at a mid-range restaurant = can be expected. Although few and far US$16.00/$20.00 between, hurricanes are possible on the • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of Caribbean coast. national beer in a mid-range restaurant Palenque is in the tropical lowlands, with = US$4.00 temperatures in the low 30°C throughout • The cost of a glass of “house wine” the year. The heaviest rainfall occurs in May-Oct. flavours and spices. Popular dishes include tacos, burritos, quesadillas, San Cristóbal de las Casas has a pleasant chimichangas, enchiladas, tamales. temperate climate with temperatures Cochinita pibil a traditional Mexican slow- in the low 20°C throughout the year. roasted pork dish Maximum sunshine hours in Jan-Feb. Most rain falls Jun-Sep. Drink: Tequila distilled from agave (cactus). Mescal, less well known and from In the Copper Canyon evenings can get the Oaxaca region is also produced from very cold when temperatures drop below agave. Michelada – beer mixed with lime zero, especially in Jan-Feb. Deep snow is common especially in the area between juice and various sauces and spices. Creel at 2,336m and Mexico’s highest Agua de Jamaica – a (non-alcoholic) town, San Juanita (2,350m). infusion of dried red hibiscus flowers. Clothing tips Read: Like Water for Chocolate – Laura Mexico City: Casual loose-fitting and light Esquivel clothing. The city is at an altitude of 2,242m Set in turn-of-the-century Mexico, it so can get cold at night and in winter. tells the tale of the youngest of three daughters whose fate is to remain single Yucatán: Light clothing, cotton and so that she can take care of her mother natural fibres and good walking shoes. in old age. Forbidden love and family Caribbean coast: Bathing suits, traditions are mixed together with a hint sunglasses, strong sunscreen, a hat. of magical realism. Labyrinth of Solitude – Octavio Paz Travel Health & Vaccinations A beautifully written and deeply felt This information is intended as an discourse on Mexico’s quest for identity overview only. Please read, Section 4: that gives us an unequalled look at the Health and Vaccinations and always country hidden behind ‘the mask’. consult your GP. The Death of Artemio Cruz – Carlos At the time of writing, no vaccinations are Fuentes mandatory. Chronicling a family history from the pre-Revolution period through to 1960s Yellow fever: N/A. allows Fuentes to show the failure of the Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria in Mexican Revolution. Mexico. The Savage Detectives – Roberto Bolaño Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, Bolaño’s award-winning epic tale of two or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. poets, Ulisses Lima and Arturo Belano, and Avoid tap water (even when brushing their lives in Mexico City in the 1970s and teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made subsequent travels in Europe and Africa. from purified water. Tinisima – Elena Poniatowska Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 A biography of the Italian-American or higher), a hat and sunglasses for photographer Tina Modotti, focusing protection from the harmful effects of UV largely on the Mexican cultural revolution sun rays. and its leading protagonists, including Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Recommendations Eat: Mexican food is known for varied Some notable events

Mar/Apr: Semana Santa (annual dates vary): Celebrated all over the country.

Particularly colourful celebrations are held in San Miguel de Allende, Taxco and

Pátzcuaro.

1st week of Apr: A colourful fair with the streets and parks filled with flower booths and displays with light and sound show in the evening.

End of Jul: Guelagüetza in Oaxaca:

An annual indigenous cultural event of traditional dance and costume.

15-20 Aug: Dia de la Asunción de la Virgen in Huamantia: Processions, parades, floral designs carpet the streets, and the running of the bulls.

1-2 Nov: Día de Todos los Santos and Día de los Muertos (nationwide): An annual remembrance of the dead, encapsulating

Mexico’s upbeat treatment of mortality.

The celebrations in Pátzcuaro are particularly notable.

16 Sep: Independence Day, Celebrations throughout the country. The day is celebrated with fireworks, flags, food, and parades. On the night of September 15th the cry of Dolores is re-enacted by local politicians in the public squares of most cities and towns throughout the country.

DESTINATION GUIDE transmission, even if you have not visited an affected area. For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements

Nicaragua please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. On arrival make sure to check the entry Country facts stamp in your passport and always Size: Total land area 119,990 sq km keep safe any entry cards or other (slightly smaller than England). documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Population: 6 million. required when leaving the country. Capital: Managua. Departure tax: $35.00 though airport taxes are sometimes included in the Language: Spanish (English in the Corn ticket. Islands and Bluefields). Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Electricity: 120V. Standard British plugs may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. Taxes’). Time zone: GMT-6 hours. Weather Currency: Cordobas. Bring US$ to change to local currency, though dollars are widely Situated well within the tropics, Nicaragua accepted in tourist areas. ATMs can be has a typical tropical climate with high found in most cities but uncommon in temperatures all year round. Temperatures rural areas. are significantly modified by altitude – higher up in the Matagalpa region it can Budget: Prices do vary within each get fresh at night. country and high end restaurants tend to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. May-Nov is rainy season, but places on Hotel restaurants are also usually more the eastern coast, the Caribbean side, expensive. As a rough guide at the time of tend to be rather wetter, and to have a writing, in Granada: longer rainy season, than those on the Pacific coast to the west. There’s a risk of • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ tropical storms or hurricanes Jun-Nov. dinner at a mid-range restaurant = US$18.00/$22.00 Clothing tips

• The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of Lightweight cotton or linen clothes are national beer in a mid-range restaurant recommended throughout the year. On = US$1.50 the Atlantic side, Rio San Juan is one of • The cost of a glass of “house wine” the wettest places on earth and a raincoat (Chilean or Argentine) = US$4.00 is advised. See Amazon and Tropical Lowlands section. Entry requirements Travel Health & Vaccinations Visa and health regulations: No visa requirement for British citizens though This information is intended as an other nationalities may require an entry overview only. Please read, Section 4: visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate Health and Vaccinations and always may be required for entry if travelling from consult your GP. countries with risk of yellow fever virus Yellow fever: N/A (though please see Procesión de San Jerónimo on first ‘Entry requirements’). Sunday of Dec.

Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria in

Nicaragua.

Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water.

Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations

Eat: Gallo Pinto, a mixture of fried rice with onion, sweet pepper, red beans and garlic. Rundown (“Rondon”) is a coconut based stew popular in the Caribbean. Drink: Flor de Canene rum is one of Latin Americas most prestigious rums.

Read: Jaguar Smile: A Nicaraguan Journey – Salman Rushdie Travel tales and social commentary set in Nicaragua. Stirring and original in its simple descriptions that provide an impressionistic picture of the country in bright, patchwork colours unavailable in usual journalistic dispatches. Selected Writings – Rubén Darío Originally from Nicaragua, Darío is considered the father of Latin American poetry.

Some notable events

19/20 Jan: Diriamba: Celebrated by all Nicaraguans. Even though it is now a Roman Catholic festival, the dances, songs, and costumes reflect indigenous culture.

End of Sep: Fiestas de Masaya, Nicaragua: A three-month celebration on Sundays of parades, tamarindo music, and includes Fiesta del Toro and Fiesta de los Agüisotes in late Oct and ends with the impressive 1. DESTINATION GUIDE entry and health certification requirements please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Panama keep safe any entry cards or other documentation handed to you by Country facts immigration officials as these are usually Size: Total land area 74,342 sq km required when leaving the country. (slightly smaller than Scotland). Departure tax: For international flights, Population: 4 million. airport taxes are included in the ticket. Capital: Panama City. Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Language: Spanish. Taxes’).

Electricity: 110V. Standard British plugs Weather will need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. Situated well within the tropics, Panama Time zone: GMT-5 hours. has a typical tropical climate with high Currency: US$ Dollar. ATMs can be temperatures (30°C) all year round at low found in most cities. Credit cards widely altitudes. Temperatures are cooler at night accepted. in the highlands round Boquete. Budget: Prices do vary within each Apr-Nov is rainy season, with the country and high end restaurants tend Caribbean side receiving more rainfall than to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. the Pacific. Although there is plenty of sun Hotel restaurants are also usually more in Bocas del Torro the province receives expensive. As a rough guide at the time of copious rainfall throughout the year. writing, in Panama City: There’s a small risk of tropical storms on • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ the Caribbean coast but the country lies dinner at a mid-range restaurant = outside the main hurricane belt. US$16.00/$24.00 Clothing tips • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of national beer in a mid-range restaurant Lightweight cotton or linen clothes are = US$2.00 recommended throughout the year due to high humidity. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” (Chilean or Argentine) = US$7.50 Travel Health & Vaccinations

Entry requirements This information is intended as an overview only. Please read, Section 4: Visa and health regulations: No visa Health and Vaccinations and always requirement for British citizens though consult your GP. other nationalities may equire an entry visa. A yellow fever vaccination certificate Yellow fever: Vaccination is recommended may be required for entry if travelling from for those travelling to all mainland areas countries with risk of yellow fever virus east of the area surrounding the Canal (the transmission, even if you have not visited entire comarcas of Emberá and Kuna Yala, an affected area. For the most up-to-date the province of Darién and areas of the provinces of Colón and Panama that are gusto in Panama City, costumed revelry, east of the Canal). music and dancing culminate in a big Shrove Tuesday parade. Vaccination is not recommended for travellers whose itineraries are limited Mar: Jazz and Blues Festival: Held every to areas west of the Canal, the city of year in Boquete. Panama, the Canal area itself, Balboa Islands (Pearl Islands), and San Blas Islands.

Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria east of the Canal Zone in Panama. There is a very low risk of malaria west of the Canal Zone. There is no risk of malaria in Panama City or the Canal Zone itself. Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water.

Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations Eat: Sancocho – the national Panamanian dish, a chicken stew with local vegetables.

Drink: Chichas – which come in a variety of flavours such as watermelon and pineapple as well as chicha de marañón from the fruit of the cashew tree. Read: The Tailor of Panama-John le Carré A tailor living in Panama reluctantly becomes a spy for a British agent.

Panama Fever: The Epic Story of One of the Greatest Human Achievements of All Time- the Building of the Panama Canal – Matthew Parker Some notable events

Jan: Feria de las Flores y del Café in Boquete, Panama. A grand and picturesque festival of flowers. Feb/Mar: (annual dates vary according to Lent) Carnival is celebrated with much DESTINATION GUIDE may be required for entry if travelling from countries with risk of yellow fever virus transmission, even if you have not visited

Paraguay an affected area. For the most up-to-date entry and health certification requirements Country facts please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. Size: Total land area 397,302 sq km On arrival make sure to check the entry (approx 1.5 times the size of UK). stamp in your passport and always keep safe any entry cards or other Population: 7 million. documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Capital: Asunción required when leaving the country. Language: Spanish. Departure tax: USD$35.00 though usually Electricity: 220v. Standard British plugs included on the ticket. will need an adapter to a round two-pin Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes plug. may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Time zone: GMT-4 hours. Taxes’).

Currency: Guaraní. You can exchange US$ Weather into Paraguayan Guaranies at numerous casas de cambio in Asuncón and The climate of this low-lying country throughout the country. ATMs available but is sub-tropical. Summer is extremely only in Asunción and larger towns and cities hot and humid (Oct-Mar), with average (Visa is the most reliably accepted at ATMs). temperatures in Feb reaching 35°C. In winter (May-Aug) temperatures are Budget: Prices do vary within each variable and it can be very cold at night. country and high end restaurants tend Most precipitation falls Oct- Apr but it can to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. rain at any time of the year. Hotel restaurants are also usually more expensive. As a rough guide at the time Clothing tips of writing, in Asuncion: Asunción: Lightweight cotton or linen • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ clothes are recommended. In winter it dinner at a mid-range restaurant = can get chilly at night so bring a sweater. US$15.00/$20.00 Travel Health & Vaccinations • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of national beer in a mid-range restaurant This information is intended as an = US$3.00 overview only. Please read, Section 4: Health and Vaccinations and always • The cost of a glass of “house wine” consult your GP. (Chilean or Argentine) = US$5.00 Yellow fever: Vaccination recommended Entry requirements for all travellers. Visa and health regulations: No visa Malaria: There is no risk of malaria in requirement for British citizens though Paraguay. other nationalities may require an entry visa. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water. Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays. Recommendations

Eat: Chipa Guasu – a Paraguayan staple is a moist corn cake made with cheese – often delicious! Highly popular are empanadas (meat/egg stuffed in a pastry and baked).

Drink: Tereré – mixed herb beverage drunk from a guampa like Argentinean mate, but served cold because of the hot climate. Read: At the Tomb of the Inflatable Pig: Travels through Paraguay-John Gimlette A celebration of the beauty, horror and charm of South America’s obscure and remote ‘island surrounded by land’, a fascinating piece of travel journalism.

Watch: Landfill Harmonic follows the Recycled Orchestra-a beautiful story about the transformative power of music, which highlights two vital issues of our times: poverty and waste pollution. Some notable events

03 Feb: Dia De San Blas a celebration of Paraguay’s patron saint. Saint Blas festival sees its biggest celebrations in the city of Ciudad del Este. Feb/Mar: (annual dates vary according to Lent): Carnival as in other countries, pageants and parades through the streets, and lots of music and dancing into the night.

DESTINATION GUIDE check www.iatatravelcentre.com. On arrival make sure to check the entry stamp in your passport and always Peru keep safe any entry cards or other Country facts documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Size: Total land area 1,279,996 sq km required when leaving the country. (approx 5 times the size of UK). Departure tax: For international flights, Population: 31 million. airport taxes are included in the ticket. Capital: Lima. Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes Language: Spanish, Quechua. are usually included on the ticket. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport Taxes’). Electricity: 220v. Many Peruvian electricity outlets accept both round or Weather flat two pin-plugs. A universal adapter is In Cusco and the highlands, Jun-Sep can recommended. be very cold at night, but days are usually Time zone: GMT-5 hours. extremely clear with sun. Nov-Apr are the wettest months of the year (the Inca Trail Currency: Nuevo sol. ATM’s are found in is closed throughout Feb) – note that nearly every city and town in Peru and at rains tend to be in short, heavy bursts, airports. Casas de cambio (bureaux de rather than continual showers, with rains change) are considered the best places to clearing towards the end of Apr. Nights exchange money. In smaller towns it can are cold throughout the year at altitude. be difficult to use credit/debit cards, so make sure that you take enough cash. Lima has a mist (la garúa) that comes in from the sea, principally from May-Oct, Budget: Prices do vary within each but is otherwise fairly dry throughout the country and high end restaurants tend year. to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. Hotel restaurants are also usually more In the Amazon the climate is generally hot expensive. As a rough guide at the time of and humid (about 30°C). The dry season writing, in Cusco: is from Apr-Oct and the wet season from Nov-Apr. The wet season is characterised • The cost of a 2 course lunch/dinner at a by a few hours of rain each day and mid-range restaurant = US$17.00/$22.00 temperatures that can reach up to 42°C. • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of In May there is often a layer of low cloud national beer in a mid-range restaurant over the rainforest. = US$5.00 Clothing tips • The cost of a glass of “house wine” (Chilean or Argentine) = US$9.00 Lima: Casual warm-weather clothing for day and light jackets and sweaters for the Entry requirements evenings. Visa and health regulations: No visa Amazon: A visit to the rainforest requires a requirement for British citizens though rain jacket. See ‘The Amazon and Tropical other nationalities may require an entry Lowlands section. visa. For the most up-to-date entry and Puno and Colca Canyon: Whilst hot health certification requirements please during the day, a jacket is important as the high altitude means it can get very cold at Avoid tap water (even when brushing night. teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water. Cusco and Sacred Valley: Layered clothing recommended. (see ‘Patagonia Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 and the Andes section. or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV Travel Health & Vaccinations sun rays. Be particularly careful at high This information is intended as an altitude in the Andes and Lake Titicaca overview only. Please read, Section 4: where the sun is intense Health and Vaccinations and always Altitude sickness: Please read altitude consult your GP. advice in section 4: Health and Yellow fever: Vaccination is Vaccinations (4.9 Altitude sickness). recommended for those travelling to Recommendations the following areas at altitudes below 2,300m: the Regions of Amazonas, Cuzco Eat: Peru’s excellent gastronomic (for Cuzco city, Machu Pichu and the reputation is well deserved. The national Inca trail see below), Huánuco, Junín, dish ceviche (raw seafood cooked in Loreto, Madre de Dios, Pasco, Puno (for citrus juices, red onion and chilli) is Puno city see below), San Martin, Ucayali widespread but best in Lima and along and designated areas of the following the coast. Roasted Guinea Pig (cuy) is Regions far-north-eastern Ancash; far- one of the more unusual traditional north of Apurimac; northern and north- Andean delicacies you will find and Alpaca eastern Ayacucho; northern and eastern a surprisingly lean and tender meat. Cajamarca; far northern Huancavelica; Quinoa, held to be sacred by the Incas, eastern La Libertad, and eastern Piura. is used inventively in many dishes and Lúcuma, one of many exotic fruits native Vaccination is generally not to Peru, makes delicious milkshakes and recommended for travellers whose ice-cream. itineraries are limited to areas west of the Andes: regions of Labayeque and Tumbes Drink: Pisco Sour cocktails – the national and designated areas of south, west and drink. Popular with locals is Chicha central Cajamarca and western Piura. de Jora a traditional drink made with fermented corn. Mate de Coca, a tea Vaccination is not recommended for made from the leaves of the coca plant. travellers whose itineraries are limited Inca Kola, Peru’s unique luminous yellow to the following areas: all areas above soft drink. 2,300m altitude, areas west of the Andes not listed above, the cities of Cuzco, Read: Deep Rivers – Jose María Arguedas Puno and the capital city of Lima, Machu An account of the influence of pre- Picchu, and the Inca Trail. Hispanic cultures on modern life in Peru. Good descriptions of Cusco and the Malaria: There is a low risk of malaria Sacred Valley. in the Amazon basin of Peru along the border with Brazil, particularly in Loreto A World for Julius-Alfredo Bryce province and in the other rural areas of Echenique Peru below 2,000m including that part of This lyrical, richly textured novel, first the Amazon Basin which borders Bolivia. published in 1970 opens new territory in Latin American literature with its focus on Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, the social elite of Peru. In this postmodern or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. novel Bryce Echenique incisively charts May/Jun: Qoyllur Rit’i : A festival and the decline of an influential, centuries-old huge pilgrimage of native indians in aristocratic family faced with the invasion honour of the Lord of Qoyllur Rit’i in of foreign capital in the 1950s. Cusco region. Conquest of the Incas – John Hemming 24 Jun: Inti Raymi in Cusco: Homage to A readable and authoritative book of the Sun, an important god in Inca culture, Pizarro’s conquest of Peru and his held on the esplanade of Sacsayhuamán. search for El Dorado in the 1530s. An 16 Jul: Virgen del Carmen in astonishing account of war strategies Paucartambo near Cusco is a colourful and upsets between unequal forces with mix of Andean pre-Columbian and vastly different technologies. It gives Catholic ceremonies. Festive costumes, a real understanding into present-day music and dance abound. relationships between Spanish and native peoples in South America. Oct: El Señor de los Milagros: A religious Exploring Cuzco – Peter Frost procession through the streets of Lima An excellent book giving up-to-date to the venerated mural, lasting 24 hours information on where to go and what to and involving tens of thousands dressed see in and around Cusco. (Best bought in purple. on arrival in Cusco from one of the shops around the main square.)

General Song – Pablo Neruda

The Latin American continent through history and poetry. In section 2, ‘The

Heights of Machu Picchu’, Neruda chronicles his own journey to the ancient

Inca citadel.

The White Rock – Hugh Thomson An exploration of the Inca heartland. Part travelogue, part history lesson – British filmmaker Thomson relates his travels through Peru and Bolivia.

Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter – Mario

Vargas Llosa

Highly original novel set in 1950s Lima.

The anxieties of an aspiring writer, his fears, doubts, failures and experiences are conveyed using Peruvian society as a microcosm of Latin America. (There are many more excellent novels by the Nobel

Prize laureate.)

Some notable events

2 Feb: Main day of the Mamacha Candelaria festival in Puno, a lavish folkloric festivity. DESTINATION GUIDE requirement for British citizens though other nationalities may require an entry visa. For the most up-to-date entry and Uruguay health certification requirements please check www.iatatravelcentre.com. Country facts On arrival make sure to check the entry Size: Total land area 175,015 sq km stamp in your passport and always (approx 2/3 the size of UK). keep safe any entry cards or other documentation handed to you by Population: 3 million. immigration officials as these are usually required when leaving the country. Capital: Montevideo. Departure tax: For international flights, Language: Spanish. airport taxes are included in the ticket. Electricity: 230v. Standard British plugs Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes will need an adapter to a round two-pin may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport plug. Taxes’). Time zone: GMT-3 hours. Weather Currency: Uruguayan Peso. You can exchange US$ at the numerous casas de Uruguay is an all-year destination, but cambio throughout the country. ATMs also probably best enjoyed in summer (Nov- available in both Colonia and Montevideo. Feb). Temperatures range from 10-16°C in the southern hemisphere winter, while When paying for hospitality services in the summer they hover in the mid- (restaurants, bars, hotels) with a foreign 20s. Wet and windy conditions outside credit card you are exempt from paying high summer are not unheard of, and VAT (22%). can make it feel very chilly. Rainfall is Budget: Prices do vary within each moderate and varies little over the year, country and high end restaurants tend apart from Jul-Aug when there are to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. prolonged wet periods. Hotel restaurants are also usually more Clothing tips expensive. As a rough guide at the time of Montevideo: A warm jacket for evenings writing, in Montevideo: in Spring (Sep-Oct) and Autumn (Apr- • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ May). dinner at a mid-range restaurant = Punta del Este: Smart-casual evening US$25.00/$28.00 wear when dining on the main strip. • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of Shorts during the day. national beer in a mid-range restaurant Colonia: Sensible shoes to explore the = US$4.00 cobblestone streets. • The cost of a glass of “house wine” Travel Health & Vaccinations (Chilean or Argentine) = US$4.00 This information is intended as an Entry requirements overview only. Please read, Section 4: Visa and health regulations: No visa Health and Vaccinations and always consult your GP. Yellow fever: N/A Malaria: N/A

Water: Tap water is drinkable in Montevideo, but you might prefer to protect yourself by only drinking bottled water. In other towns, drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water. Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for protection from the harmful effects of UV sun rays.

Recommendations

Eat: Steak which rivals that from Argentina. Drink: Tannat red wine – unique to Uruguay, full-bodied.

Read: The Tree of Red Stars-Tessa Bridal Set in 1960s Uruguay, the story charts the toll of political events on a young woman and those close to her.

Some notable events Jan 5: Epifania: a big family event with presents exchanged and large meals prepared. Traditionally it marks the beginning of the country’s carnival season.

Feb 2: Candlemas: A religious holiday celebrating the presentation of Jesus to the temple 42 days after his birth. Colourful processions, dancing and live music throughout the day.

DESTINATION GUIDE may offer you an exchange rate which is double or more than the official rate. It’s technically illegal, but our suppliers turn a Venezuela blind eye, since it’s a reasonable alternative to the parallel-market. Country facts Note that you’ll need to provide official Size: Total land area 882,050 sq km exchange slips if you want to change (approx 3.5 times the size of UK). money back from bolívares. Population: 31 million. Budget: Prices do vary within each Capital: Caracas. country and high end restaurants tend to be similarly priced to a UK equivalent. Language: Spanish. Hotel restaurants are also usually more expensive. As a rough guide at the time of Electricity: 120 Standard British plugs will writing, in Caracas: need an adapter to a flat two-pin plug. • The cost of a 2 course lunch/ Time zone: GMT-4 hours. dinner at a mid-range restaurant = Currency: Bolívares (BsF). At the time US$18.00/$25.00 of writing Venezuela is going through • The cost of a small (0.33l) bottle of a difficult period of hyper-inflation. national beer in a mid-range restaurant However, we advise you to take US$ in = US$4.00 cash (as much as your insurance will cover you for), because travellers cheques are • The cost of a glass of “house wine” not accepted and in large cities outside (Chilean or Argentine) = US$7.00 Caracas, many ATM’s don’t recognise British credit/debit cards. In cities, cards Entry requirements are acceptable in shops and restaurants Visa and health regulations: No visa –at the official rate. Branches of Banco requirement for British citizens though Mercantil and Banesco have worked for other nationalities may require an entry some travellers. Sometimes the ATM will visa. For the most up-to-date entry and ask you for a 2-digit identification number health certification requirements please after you have selected the amount to check www.iatatravelcentre.com. withdraw. If you are asked for this, input 00 and it should work. (This is a security On arrival make sure to check the entry measure as all Venezuelan bank cards are stamp in your passport and always linked to an identity document, which UK keep safe any entry cards or other bank cards are not.) documentation handed to you by immigration officials as these are usually Parallel-market (black market) traders required when leaving the country. often offer rates which are much more attractive than banks, ATMs and bureaux Departure tax: For international flights, de change (casas de cambio), however airport taxes are included in the ticket. previous travellers have reported money- Internal flights: Domestic airport taxes exchange scams taking place. So the safest may apply. (See section 8.10 on ‘Airport option is to change money through the Taxes’). official channels. The least safe is to get involved with shady men in sometimes Weather not-so-dark corners. If we are providing transfers for you, the driver or guide There are two main seasons: Dec-Apr, when it’s hot and dry, and May-Nov, when protection from the harmful effects of it’s hot and wet. The Orinoco plains are UV sun rays. usually flooded from Jun-Oct; Angel Falls is typically inaccessible by canoe from Recommendations mid-Dec to mid-Apr due to low river Eat: Arepas – stuffed tortillas are the levels. As expected, altitude influences quintessential Venezuelan dish. Try ‘reina temperature – it is about 4°C colder for pepiada’ (chicken and avocado) and every 1,000m above sea level. Caracas domino (beans and cheese) variations. lies at 900m. Drink: A popular non-alcoholic drink Clothing tips is chicha made from rice or corn flour. Chicha Andina incorporates fermented Caracas: Lightweight cotton or linen pineapple. clothes are recommended throughout the year. Read: In Trouble Again: A Journey Between the Orinoco and the Amazon – Mérida: Can get chilly at night so bring a Redmond O’Hanlon rain jacket or sweater. O’Hanlon ventures into the Venezuelan Los Roques: Pack light as there is a 10kg jungle encountering poisonous snakes, luggage restriction on flights. Beachwear Yanomami indians and recalcitrant guides. and light clothes for the evening. With an enthusiasm and attention to detail rivalling that of the 19th Century explorers Angel Falls: Sturdy walking shoes and who influenced him (such as Henry Walter Teva-style sandals. Bates) he adds his own brand of satirical Orinoco: (See ‘The Amazon and Tropical observation making his Amazon account Lowlands osection. an extremely witty and intelligent read.

Travel Health & Vaccinations Some notable events This information is intended as an 14 Jan: Divina Pastora: A colourful overview only. Please read, Section 4: procession from Santa Rosa to the Health and Vaccinations and always Metropolitan Cathedral of Barquisimeto. consult your GP. Millions of people take to the streets with musicians, celebrants and devotees. Yellow fever: Vaccination recommended for all travellers visiting any area outside 28 Jun: Feast of John the Baptist, the main cities in Venezuela. Caracas: An unusual mix of traditions, and displays of dancing and purification Malaria: There is a risk of malaria in all rituals as African drums are pounded and areas of Venezuela south of and including mantras chanted. the Orinoco River and Angel Falls, rural areas of Apure, Monagas, Sucre and Zulia states. Water: Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water (even when brushing teeth) and ensure ice cubes are made from purified water.

Sun protection: Use sunblock (SPF 30 or higher), a hat and sunglasses for DESTINATION GUIDE heavier clothing can be beneficial.

The Amazon and Travel accessories Tropical Lowlands • Insect repellent (50% deet). • Sunglasses (suitable for strong UV Clothing should be casual, comfortable conditions). and resistant. Light colours are beneficial against sun and bugs. Dark clothes attract • Torch/head torch with extra batteries mosquitoes. The best colours to wear are (those with infrared setting attract fewer light tones, brown, beige and green, insects) which don’t highlight you in the • Water bottle/canteen. landscape, scaring the animals. Avoid • Antihistamine tablets and an EpiPen for strong colours such as yellow, blue and people with serious allergies to stings. red. • Zip-lock bags to keep things dry. It is important that you always keep • Silica bags (recommended for at least one set of dry clothes for the electronic equipment in humid regions) evening. • Binoculars The following items may prove useful: • Sunscreen or Sunblock Clothing • Daypack For some excursions to the jungle • Short and long-sleeved shirts/T-shirts and some lodges, you may find you (lightweight wicking fabric controls are restricted to a maximum baggage perspiration and dries quickly). allowance of 10kg (owing to limited space • Long-sleeved shirts in a light colour in canoes or light aircraft). In these cases, (cotton). the local operator will provide secure • Lightweight trousers. storage of the remainder of your luggage. • Shorts. • Swimsuit. • A light sweater (it can get surprisingly chilly in the rainforest, especially on boat trips). • Sun hat/cap.

Footwear • Comfortable outdoor shoes/trainers for evening use.

• Teva-type sandals Foul-weather gear

• A lightweight raincoat or waterproof poncho. • Cold fronts sometimes pass through the Amazon very suddenly and temperatures can drop drastically; DESTINATION GUIDE provide them. • Sun hat/cap.

The Galápagos Islands Footwear The Galápagos Islands are on the Equator, • Sandals (for the boat). but the tropical heat is tempered by • Trainers (for dry landings and rocky ocean breezes. You may require a light shores). sweater for the evening and between • Teva-style sandals (for wet landings). Nov-Mar there is a chance of rain. In Aug- Sep you may experience garúa (mist), but Travel accessories the rest of the year skies should be clear • Sunscreen or sunblock (Water-resistant and sunny, though we would suggest SPF 50 or higher). that you take a waterproof just in case. In • Sunglasses. addition to bringing good walking shoes, a pair of sports/trekking sandals are highly • Water bottle/canteen. recommended to negotiate ‘wet landings’ • Camera and memory cards or film ashore. Please note that the national park (underwater camera beneficial). prohibits the introduction of any kind of • Binoculars. seeds, fruits, vegetables or food to the • Most yachts will provide snorkelling Galápagos Islands. equipment (but if you have your own, Clothing requirements on board boats we recommend bringing it for an cruising the Galápagos range from very assured fit). informal to “smart casual”, depending on • Vaseline (creates a seal on snorkelling the grade of vessel. mask for those with facial hair). The following items would prove useful: • Small umbrella (for sun protection and comfort when walking on trails during Clothing the hottest months of the year). • Lightweight trousers. • Insect repellent. • Shorts. Tipping on cruises • Short-sleeved shirts/T-shirts (cotton is cool in hot climates, but lightweight The convention is usually US$15 per wicking fabric controls perspiration and person per day, although this is only a dries quickly). suggestion as we understand that tipping • Long-sleeved shirts in a light colour is a personal choice and solely based (cotton). upon the service provided. You will be given specific guidance on board, though • Light sweater or sweatshirt (nights can some companies recommend upwards get rather cool and you don’t want to of US$15 per day per person for the crew, miss stargazing on deck). and the same again for your guides. This • Wind resistant jacket. is often aimed at some travellers, who • Long sleeved ‘rash vest’ (for sun routinely tip at 15% or even 20% and we protection when swimming) believe these figures to be somewhat • Shorty wetsuits are recommended inflated. Please do not feel pressured into tipping at this level. in the cold water months (Jul-Sept). These can be hired locally; some boats DESTINATION GUIDE cold (and possibly wet) weather. We recommend to layer with synthetic clothing (such as polypropylene, capilene,

Patagonia and The Andes or pile) as synthetic fabrics are the most effective barriers against the cold. They The following information will be useful provide the best insulation, are light in even if hiking is not included on your weight, wick away perspiration, and dry itinerary. quickly if wet. Wool and wool/ synthetic blends are also suitable. We discourage Patagonia: Weather is very unpredictable, the use of cotton garments in cold or and can change drastically and wet mountain conditions. When layering, unexpectedly. On a sunny day, daytime the innermost layer should be long temperatures can be very pleasant, underwear. The middle layer can be ranging between 13-20°C (low 60s to a synthetic jumper or wool shirt, and low 70s °F). However, rain, high winds, trousers. The outermost layer should and cold air can blow in quickly even be a synthetic or down jacket, and/or a during the summer months, making good quality Gore-Tex wind/rain parka the temperatures drop to freezing. In and over-trousers. We have not included Patagonia it is particularly important quantities for each item listed. Use your that you have windproof and waterproof own judgment, based on the length of garments and to wear a hat as the ozone your trip and overall packing/weight layer is thin and sun can be intense. restrictions for your luggage. The Andes: Nov-Mar are the wettest months. The rest of the year, it’s very Underwear sunny and hot during the day, but cold at • Regular underwear. Synthetics are night. Temperatures can drop below 0°C easier to wash and dry. at night, especially in the dry season from • Synthetic thermal underwear. You need Jun-Sep. a lightweight long underwear top and Before undertaking a hike involving points bottom of a polyester-type fabric. Wool of altitude we suggest spending several and wool/synthetic blends are also days acclimatising during which time you suitable. should drink plenty of water, gradually Shirts increasing your physical activity and avoid drinking too much alcohol. • Long-sleeved, synthetic or wool shirt. In the Andes it is particularly important to • Short-sleeved synthetic or cotton use sunblock because the sun is intense. synthetic T-shirts. If you have any heart or respiratory Sweater/jacket conditions, you should consult your • Medium-weight sweater or jacket of doctor before going to high altitudes. synthetic fabric, such as fleece. Please read altitude advice in section • Medium-weight down or synthetic-fill 4: Health and Vaccinations (4.9 Altitude jacket. sickness). Trousers Clothing • Full-length trousers, preferably of quick- Hiking in Patagonia and the Andes drying synthetic fabric. requires you to bring comfortable and • Hiking shorts, preferably of quick-drying adequate clothing to protect you from synthetic fabric. capacity. Bring two and make sure they • Fleece-lined trousers, ideal for around are leak-proof, heavy-duty plastic. camp. • Toiletry kit—soap, toothbrush, etc. Headwear • Moisturising lotion. The air in Patagonia is very dry. • Sun hat with wide brim, preferably with • Insect repellent. a chinstrap to keep it from blowing off. • Sunglasses. (suitable for strong UV • Bandana – it will keep your neck from conditions). getting sunburned • Sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. • Wool or pile hat or ski cap. • Sunscreen lip balm of SPF 20 or higher. Foul-weather gear • Small torch with spare batteries. • Gore-Tex rain/wind parka (must fit over • Plastic bags of various sizes for keeping bulky clothing). things sorted out in your backpack. • Optionally, a sturdy poncho to protect • Zip-lock bags work well (they’re also daypack and camera gear from rain. great for camera gear). • Gore-Tex rain/wind trousers, preferably • Small medical kit. Personal first aid kit to with full-length side zipper (must fit include: painkillers, plasters, antibiotic over your other trousers). cream, rehydration salts and any Hands personal medication. • Gloves or mitts (wool or pile). Optional travel accessories • Waterproofed shell gloves or mitts. • Camera and memory cards or film. Socks • Binoculars. • Daypack. • Thick/trekking socks. • Hiking poles (Rubber tipped). These are • Athletic socks (synthetic for easy helpful to relieve the impact on your washing and drying). knees during long downhills. Footwear Tipping • Medium-weight, waterproof, sturdy hiking boots with padded ankle, • Tipping is always a personal choice and good arch support, and a lug sole based solely on the service provided. traction. Your hiking boots should However, detailed below are the be waterproofed, well broken in, and conventions as suggested locally: suitable for prolonged walking on rocky For the Inca Trail in the Andes, the terrain and possibly snow. suggested rates are as follows: • Running shoes are NOT appropriate for • US$20 per porter distributed amongst this trip. the group. • Tennis shoes or Teva-type sandals to wear in camp (optional). • US$20 per person to the cook. • Gaiters. • US$25 per person to the guide. Travel accessories This works out at a total of approximately US$85-$100 depending upon the number • Wide mouth water bottles, 1-litre in the group. Please also note that the weight a porter may carry of an individual client’s personal belongings is set at 8kg (in addition they will be carrying camping and cooking equipment to a maximum weight of 16kg). We would also encourage you to donate any unwanted outdoor clothes or sleeping bags to the porters.

For the W Trek in Patagonia, the suggested rates are approximately US$10-

15 per guest per day as a tipping guideline for the Ecocamp, with around half of this going to the main guide and rest distributed amongst the drivers, porters and staff.

2. MONEY restaurants, souvenir shops and stores. They are also acceptable as ‘proof of Our advice to clients is the same as funds’ at some borders. Visa is the most that which we follow ourselves when widely accepted for both purchases and travelling: for most destinations in Latin cash advances, followed by MasterCard. America, it is easiest to take a mixture of American Express is not as widely cash (US dollars or euros which can be accepted. exchanged for local currency) and credit/ debit cards (multiple cards, in case of Credit card purchases are charged at any problems). We do not recommend the official rate of exchange, which can travellers cheques which can be very be lower than that generally available difficult to exchange. in exchange houses. There may also be taxes or surcharges added (up to 10%). We also suggest keeping loose change Cash advances are straightforward on and small denominations in local currency Visa, MasterCard and American Express upon arrival for tipping and other small in most countries. Advances are widely purchases. available using ATM’s (cajero automático), for which Cirrus, Maestro, Plus and Delta Please see specific currency section under cards may also be used. The rate of each country overview. exchange is often the most favourable, and long bank queues can be avoided. 2.1 Cash Before leaving you should check with your It is a good idea to carry as many US bank or credit card company whether dollars cash as your insurance limit will they impose any handling charges. Make allow – Dollars are easier to change sure you have a separate note of the into local currency than Sterling and number and validity of your cards, as well lower denomination notes more readily as the phone numbers to call should they exchanged. The exception to the rule is be lost or stolen. Before departure you Cuba where pounds can be exchanged should advise your bank that you intend and Argentina where lower denominations to use your card abroad (and in which can be a problem. countries). Some banks detect an irregular Do not take out from your home country, spending pattern, assume the card stolen or accept as change in Latin America, any and suspend the account, which can take US dollar notes that are dirty, damaged days to sort out. Check your account (even a tiny rip) or defaced. You will not be carefully on return from Latin America to able to spend or exchange them. ascertain that payments for the card are legitimate. Despite it being theoretically There are many counterfeit $50 and $100 possible to ‘live off’ your credit card, we dollar bills in circulation in Latin America, also advise you to take sufficient funds in It is extremely difficult to spot a forged bill, cash (preferably as much as your travel but you should be aware that they may insurance provider will cover you for) for be slightly discoloured, printed on inferior the following reasons: paper or lacking a watermark. • It is generally cheaper to use cash than cards due to bank fees 2.2 Credit and debit cards • In some places it can be difficult and Credit cards are widely accepted to time-consuming to obtain a cash make payments in larger hotels, better advance. • When a currency is unstable, credit cards, difficult to exchange and we no card transactions may be temporarily longer recommend their use as a means suspended. of obtaining local currency. • If a credit card is lost, it usually takes at least 4 working days to have a 2.5 Cost of living replacement sent, and this service is not always available. The cost of living in Latin America differs enormously between countries and • ATM’s often run out of cash, or are out can fluctuate wildly over time within a -of-order and may impose transaction single country or region. Please see the limits after a certain time in the evening. estimated budgets in the country sections • In some countries, credit cards impose which are estimates at the time of writing limits on the amount of cash you can and exchange rates. withdraw per day. As is the case the world over, it should 2.3 Local currency be mentioned that sometimes services directed at tourists (e.g. hotels and Generally speaking, it is not advisable to restaurants) are disproportionately more try to acquire Latin American currency expensive. before you travel (ie in the UK). If a currency is available in high street banks The price of restaurant meals in Latin or foreign exchange outlets the exchange America varies as much as it does in rate is usually very poor (and they will not Europe. At the bottom of the scale, cheap, be interested in buying any Latin American filling and often none-too-hygienic meals currency back when you return). can be obtained in markets, for just a

couple of dollars. This is usually the best You should be able to change dollars at source of regional food, but be aware of the airport or land frontier upon arrival. the high risk of stomach upsets. In Central America, small denominations of US$ cash are often as readily accepted A bit more upmarket, you will find as the local currency, although may restaurants with pleasant décor, incorporate small rounding up of prices. uniformed waiters and menus offering

both international and local dishes. If travelling between neighbouring Large towns will always have a supply of countries in Latin America any surplus expensive restaurants similarly priced to local currencies can usually be exchanged their equivalents in Europe. into the next local currency, but normally only at border posts or airports, and at a Special tastes are catered for to a certain loss. It is best not to have too much local degree, more so in specifically tourist currency left over at the end of your trip. destinations. Vegetarians are catered It is not always easy to buy back dollars, for sporadically, and though menus are though this facility has improved over the often unimaginative, they are rarely at the past few years. expensive end of the scale. It is extremely

difficult to find a range of gluten- and 2.4 Travellers cheques wheat-free products in Latin America, though at higher-end hotels most such Travellers cheques are increasingly less requirements can be catered for with favoured by travellers who find their use sufficient notice. cumbersome in comparison with bank

Since taxi fares vary widely, you should to tip anyone who provides a service, always find out how the tariffs operate including waiters, guides, drivers, porters, before you get in. Some taxis in large and room-service. For everyone it is cities use a meter. They are usually more convenient to receive a tip in local cheaper than in the UK. Otherwise, be currency. sure to agree on a price before taking an Since many employers assume that unmetered cab. gratuities will be given, refraining from tipping as a statement to discourage such 2.6 Bargaining practice will only serve to deprive the workers in question of an amount upon Bargaining is normal procedure in most which they have normally come to rely. street and indoor markets, though no If several people have been involved, it is fair generalisation can be made about better to tip each one individually rather the amount by which the price can be than expect one to share out the gratuity reduced. Tourists can usually expect to among the others (eg porters on hiking have to pay more than locals. trips, guides and drivers). Street side vendors working from a With this in mind, previous clients have makeshift or portable stall and selling commented that it is useful to take a items such as cigarettes, sweets and fruit number of sealable envelopes into which are usually extremely poor so bargaining is you can put the individual tips before not appropriate. passing them on. Hotels 3.TIPPING • Tip hotel porters for handling bag calculate an amount of currency equal The Spanish word for tip is ‘propina’ -a to about $1 for every two bags. synonym of ‘reward’. The Portuguese • If you are happy with the housekeeping word is ‘gorjeta’. We cannot stress you may want to consider tipping the enough that tipping is a personal choice maid between US$0.50 – $1 per night. and based upon the quality of service provided. Nobody should expect a tip and • You might also tip the concierge staff if you have used them to arrange dinner do not feel obligated to give one if you are reservations, transportation or leisure unsatisfied with the service. activities.

It is difficult to give firm guidelines as to Taxi drivers how much to tip a provider of services in Latin America, as the cost of living varies • Though it is not obligatory to tip taxi widely from country to country. However, drivers, it is common practice to round over the years a significant number of our up the fare, and indeed, it is usual to clients have mentioned that they would agree rates in advance if the taxi does have appreciated more advice on tipping. not have a meter or it is turned off. For that reason we cautiously present the Restaurants following guidelines to help plan your holiday budget. • The general rule of thumb for restaurants is to leave 10%, though General a service charge equal to or slightly It is normal practice in Latin America above that is usually added to the final bill. Even when service charge is the United States. It is therefore essential included, it is customary to round it up that you take out comprehensive health to the nearest full figure. However, in insurance so you can make use of private smaller cafes, there is usually no service health care. charge included on the bill. In isolated places, there are few facilities of any kind, and if you intend to travel Local guides off the beaten track, you should take • Local guides may be relying on their with you a well-equipped first aid kit. tip as a significant proportion of their (See paragraph 4.12 below). Virtually all income. Most people prefer to tip first aid posts, surgeries, health centres according to their level of satisfaction and hospitals now use only disposable with the service. However the following needles which the staff will unwrap in rule of thumb may be helpful: if you are front of you, so it is not necessary to in a group of more than four people, come armed with these. Pharmacies in accompanied on a half-day tour by an Latin America are well stocked and most English-speaking guide, a tip in local products (even antibiotics) can be bought currency to the value of a standard over the counter. Check the validity dates meal and a drink in that country is on the packaging. reasonable (as a general guide, around $5 per couple per half-day); if you are 4.2 Travel Health & Vaccinations in a smaller group or a full-day tour, All the inoculations/vaccinations you will you might double this amount ($10 per need (with the common exception of couple). Many clients who have been yellow fever), are available from your local particularly satisfied give more. GP or from a travel clinic (these centres will make a charge). Your GP will normally Drivers require notice to acquire them. In the UK, • Don’t forget your driver who, in many GPs usually refer to www.fitfortravel.nhs. cases, may have shown extreme skill uk-the same resource we use. on difficult roads. In general terms, he/ Yellow fever vaccinations are available she should be tipped a lower amount at yellow fever vaccination clinics and than the guide. Wages paid to people in occasionally at GP’s surgeries. There often employment of this type are normally appears to be a shortage of the yellow very low. fever vaccine, so you should guard against this by having the vaccination as early as possible before travelling. The charge 4. HEALTH & VACCINATIONS does vary but on average costs about £50. The following travel clinics provide 4.1 General health inoculation services as well as advice on healthcare whilst abroad. Please call to General safety and sanitary standards in make an appointment. Latin America are often not as high as those in Europe. Public health facilities Nomad Travel Clinics: Full details can be are available, but these are often only found at www.nomadtravel.co.uk/pages/ rudimentary. In most countries, private nomad-travel-clinics. facilities are both modern and of an MASTA Travel Clinics: For details look at excellent standard, and many private their website www.masta-travel-health. doctors have had training in Europe or com, or email [email protected] For the latest information on endemic on www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk. diseases, like malaria, dengue fever If you are travelling to coastal and jungle and vaccination requirements for Latin regions within the tropics, you may America you can check the NHS Fit for enter infected zones and should take Travel website: www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or an appropriate preventative measure. the websites of the National Travel Health Which anti-malarials to take depends on Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at: a number of variables, such as current www. nathnac.org/travel/index.htm illnesses and medication, previous Period of validity of recommended illnesses, pregnancy, previous travel and vaccines: duration of intended stay, so seek advice Yellow fever: Life (WHO amended their from your GP or Health Centre before advice in July 16 from a 10-year validity). travelling. Typhoid: 3 years 4.5 Dengue fever Hepatitis A: 10-20 years (depending on Dengue fever occurs in Latin America the vaccine) and the Caribbean throughout the year. Polio: 10 years There has been a marked increase in the Tetanus: 10 years number of reported cases in recent years. Dengue fever is transmitted by the Aedes 4.3 Yellow fever aegypti species of mosquito which mainly bites during the day; you should take Yellow fever is a viral infection that is extra precautions against being bitten (see spread by the bite of an infected Aedes paragraph 4.8). aegypti mosquito which mainly bites during daylight hours. Travellers are 4.6 Zika Virus advised to use personal protective measures when entering areas where ZIKV is spread by the Aedes species yellow fever is present. This includes using of mosquito which predominantly insect repellents and wearing appropriate bites during the day. Based on current clothing. (See paragraph 4.8). knowledge this virus poses no greater threat to most visitors than other A vaccine called Stamaril is available mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue for travellers to protect against yellow or malaria found in tropical regions fever. Certain countries have yellow fever around the world and similarly you should requirements. Always carry with you your take precautions against being bitten International Certificate of Vaccination, (see paragraph 4.8). There are, however, signed by a doctor and validated with an two groups of people who should show official stamp, as you may be required by caution: those who will be pregnant (or local health authorities or border control may be pregnant) during, or immediately to prove that you have been inoculated following, their visit and those with against yellow fever. severe chronic illness or immune system 4.4 Malaria disorders. More information can be found at www.cdc.gov/zika/about/index.html Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles; you should take 4.7 Chikungunya fever extra precautions against being bitten (see Introduced to the Americas in 2013, paragraph 4.8). Mosquitoes that transmit Chikungunya is spread by the Aedes malaria typically bite after sunset. Malaria aegypti species of mosquito which maps for each destination can be found predominantly bites during the day. Outbreaks often occur after the rainy • Use fans and air conditioning in season when mosquitoes breed more bedrooms (at highest speed) – these actively. Within a few days the illness make it difficult for mosquitoes to fly. usually resolves and serious complications • If sleeping outdoors, a mosquito net are uncommon. (which should be impregnated with 4.8 Insect Repellent insecticide) is a sensible precaution. You should take precautions at all times • Garlic, Vitamin B and ultrasound devices against being bitten by mosquitoes. The do not prevent bites. best widely available insect repellent • In areas where infections are (in the UK) is the Jungle Formula range. prevalent keep covered up at all times The effectiveness of repellents depends mosquitoes which transmit Zika, on the percentage of diethyl toluamide dengue and chikungunya infections (deet), the active ingredient. We bite predominantly during the daytime recommend no less than 50% deet. and at dusk; mosquitoes which transmit If you prefer something natural, Incognito malaria bite predominantly in the and Mosiguard can be effective. Many evening and at night. other brands, eg Boots’ own or Autan, have only 10-15% deet and are therefore 4.9 Altitude sickness not very effective. Some repellents have up to a 100% concentration – this is very At altitudes over 2,500m, most travellers powerful and should not be used for long notice a headache and dizziness or periods though it also has a deleterious breathlessness and this usually improves effect on leather, plastics and Lycra. Be with acclimatisation. So rest, take it easy sure to wash your hands after applying it. and stay hydrated (drink plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine) as you When sunscreen and DEET are used get used to the thin, dry air. If you are together, DEET should be applied after pregnant or taking the contraceptive pill, sunscreen. The effectiveness of repellent have a medical condition such as heart reduces more rapidly than sunscreen, or lung condition, anaemia, asthma, therefore, repellent may have to be high blood pressure you should seek the reapplied on top of sunscreen. advice of your GP. We also recommend For those allergic to DEET, alternatives you check your travel insurance covers include Icardin, Dimethyl Pthalate or travel to high altitude. If you’re taking the Eucalyptus oil. family, remember small children may be Tips to avoid mosquito bites less capable of communicating altitude- related symptoms effectively: keep an eye • Wear clothing that covers as much on them too. Further advice on travel to of the body as possible such as long altitude is available on Nathnac: sleeved clothing and long trousers. www.travelhealthpro.org.uk/altitude- Don’t go barefoot. illness. Local remedies are available • Wear loose fitting light coloured clothes including various local drugs and mate de (insects can reach skin through tight coca (an infusion of coca leaves). Please clothing). note that on no account should you attempt to bring these teabags back to the • Mosquitoes may bite through thin UK or across any border – they contain clothing, so spray an insecticide or coca leaves, which are prohibited. repellent on them. Insect repellents Oxygen is available in good hotels and on should also be used on exposed skin. trains, if necessary. maintain a high intake of liquids in tropical The thin, dry air at altitude also exposes and semi-tropical regions. travellers to the risk of sunburn, skin You should also be aware that the sun is cracking, sore eyes and bunged-up much stronger than at temperate latitudes noses. Wear a hat in direct sunlight and and sunstroke is a danger. Avoid midday use high factor sun cream (minimum sun sun on tropical beaches, especially in protection factor of 30). Some people the summer. Take plenty of high-factor prefer not to wear their contact lenses at sunscreen lotion and sunblock. altitude. There is also a marked difference in temperature between sun and shade at 4.12 Medical kit high altitudes. • Anti-diarrhoea tablets and Dioralyte sachets of rehydration salts 4.10 Traveller’s diarrhoea • Antiseptic/antibiotic cream Traveller’s diarrhoea can be caused by change of climate, water and food. You • Insect bite ointment and insect repellent can reduce the risk of contracting it by (please see section 4.8) drinking only bottled or sterilised water • Sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. (never tap water), avoiding ice in drinks, fruit juices to which water has been • Sunscreen lip balm of SPF 20 or higher. added, peeling all fruit, not eating salad • After-sun lotion or seafood and avoiding ice cream not of a recognised brand. If suffering from • Sticking plasters diarrhoea, it is advisable to eat little but to drink plenty of clean water with mineral • Painkillers replacement supplements, or fizzy • Alcohol based hand sanitizer drinks (no fruit juice or milk). Rehydration products, such as Dioralyte, should be • Personal medication taken to replenish lost salts. Where NB: Most of these items and many more unavailable, you can mix an oral hydration can be purchased over the counter in solution with 1litre clean water, 6tsp sugar, pharmacies throughout Latin America. ½ tsp salt. If it does not clear up or is accompanied by a fever, you should seek medical 5. SAFETY advice as you may need to take a course At Journey Latin America we of antibiotics. Take with you some anti- are continually working with our diarrhoea tablets such as Lomotil or accommodation and ground service Imodium, but we don’t recommend these providers to endeavour to raise safety be used as a preventative. standards as much as possible and we will 4.11 General do our best to ensure that your holiday is safe and trouble-free. As part of our Water-purifying tablets are a useful commitment, we do ask that you take that standby in the jungle, or when trekking little bit of extra care whilst away. off the beaten track, but are ineffective We want you to have an enjoyable holiday against amoebae and give the water an but please remember that when you unpleasant taste. Boiling water for 10 are overseas you should exercise more minutes will kill amoebae. Mineral water care than you do at home. Part of is available at most jungle lodges that we the enjoyment of travelling abroad is book. It is important to ensure that you experiencing a different way of life and • Study the fire instructions in your room. cultures but it may also mean experiencing lower safety and hygiene standards than Glass safety those we are used to in the UK. • Glass doors and windows may not be For the latest travel advice from the toughened glass. Foreign and Commonwealth Office check • Take care in bright sunlight, it may not www.gov.uk/travelaware and follow @ be obvious doors/windows are closed. FCOtravel on Twitter and Facebook.com/ • Check to see if anti-collisions stickers FCOtravel. are in place at adult & child height. Balcony safety • Never lean over, sit or climb on the balcony. • Balcony heights vary from country to country – Families with small children should request ground floor rooms whenever possible. Travel and Transportation If you are unhappy with the balcony then please request to be moved rooms. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) To reduce the risk of DVT on long haul Pool safety flights drink plenty of water and follow • Familiarise yourself with the pool and its simple exercises or occasionally move layout, deep and shallow ends. around the cabin. • Take note of the depth markings and Transport safety any hazards such as submerged objects • In vehicles always wear a seat belt or non-slip surfaces. if one is provided-though it is not • Most pools do not have life guards, so compulsory in many countries to do so please take care and ensure you know and we cannot guarantee that vehicles how to raise help. will be fitted with seat belts. • Observe pool rules and information • We have worked alongside our local signs at all times. partners to ensure driving standards are safe. If you are unhappy with the Gas safety standard of driving please inform the driver immediately and report this to us • Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly or our local representatives. poisonous odourless gas capable of escaping from stoves, fires, boilers and Accommodation some heaters if not properly installed or maintained. Fire safety • An indication that gas appliances are • Ensure you know where your nearest not working properly include having a fire exit is. lazy yellow or orange flame instead of a crisp blue flame or black stains around • Check the location of the nearest fire the appliance. extinguisher. • CO alarms are rare overseas so you times. might consider taking one with you. • Ensure your room is left secure when you go out and place all valuables in a Out and About safety deposit box where available (use Food safety of these are often a condition of your insurance policy), or with reception. In order to avoid the possibility of stomach upsets... • Never leave windows or balcony doors open. • Make sure your food has been thoroughly cooked. • Ensure your main luggage can be locked when left unattended in rooms, • Hot food should be hot, cold food carriages, luggage rooms etc. should be cold. • Do not take any valuable jewellery on • Avoid any uncooked food, except fruit holiday with you. and vegetables you can peel or shell yourself. Insurance • Always drink bottled water and ensure • Ensure you have appropriate insurance the seal is intact when purchasing. for your holiday and that it covers any • Use boiled or bottled water for brushing activity you intend to undertake. your teeth. • If participating in any risk activity, • Avoid ice in drinks as this is generally appraise yourself of the safety standards made from unsafe tap water. being operated by the supplier. • Avoid purchasing food from street • Avoid purchasing activities or excursions vendors. from anyone not connected to Journey Latin America as they often have Excursion safety unchecked safety standards. • Always follow the instructions of the • Any accident or injury should be guide and any safety briefing. reported immediately to our local • If you are concerned about the safety representative or tour leader and of an activity, do not participate and Journey Latin America. contact our local representatives or • In the event of theft, always obtain a Journey Latin America as soon as police report for insurance purposes. possible. Dangers and annoyances Personal safety Visits to Latin America are usually trouble • Ask our local representatives for free and the majority of crime tends not guidance on arrival. to affect tourists. As anywhere, visitors • Check the foreign and Commonwealth should be particularly vigilant to petty Office ‘Travel Advice by Country’ at theft particularly when walking in urban www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice areas and should avoid unnecessary • Avoid walking in poorly lit areas. displays of wealth. The following tips are • Be aware, stay away from situations worth noting: where you do not feel comfortable. • Avoid demonstrations if possible. • Avoid carrying too much money and/or Protests are common in some regions valuables. and can arise without warning. • Use of a money belt is encouraged at all • Beware of bogus taxi drivers ‘Piratas’ especially on arrival at the airport hotels. where they can target tired tourists and • Respect the marine environment (see charge exorbitant fares. If your transfer wildlife section) is booked, ask the local ‘representative’ • Be particularly careful in murky waters to tell you your name, hotel and local supplier rather than volunteering this • Use biodegradable sunblock – non- information to be sure your driver is biodegrade lotions can harm wildlife. legitimate. • Swim with a ‘buddy’ and stay close to • Book a taxi through your hotel or use a others. known radio taxi service. If a taxi has no • If you feel uncomfortable at any point, meter it is better to negotiate the fare in seek support and get out of the water. advance. Ask for advice from our local Earthquakes representatives. • Credit card cloning is on the rise In the unlikely event that an earthquake worldwide-try to use ATMs inside banks should take place while you are travelling, or shopping centres. received practice is to drop to the ground and take cover under sturdy furniture, in • Counterfeit dollar bills can be a a doorway or next to an inside wall, away concern and it can be difficult to spot a from windows or objects which may fall. forged bill: be aware that they may be Cover your head with a pillow or your discoloured, printed on inferior paper arms and wait for the earthquake to stop, or lacking a watermark. Ensure any cash before moving to a safe area outside. you take with you is in crisp, unmarked notes. Tropical storms and hurricanes • Be alert to distraction techniques. For If travelling to a region where tropical example, pickpockets have been known storms can arise, be aware that it’s dif- to rob tourists whilst an accomplice ficult to accurately predict where, when pretends to help remove ketchup or and at what strength these may strike, as mustard that has been ‘accidently’ they often veer off-course, change their sprayed on them. tracking speed and intensify or weaken • Use hotel safes wherever possible and quite suddenly. It is advisable to follow the only carry small amounts of money with advice of our local representatives who you. Keep excess cash well hidden in a will be closely monitoring the situation. money belt. • In the unlikely event of a robbery do not Wildlife resist. • Respect wildlife – give it space, avoid Environmental Dangers getting too close or following as you may be considered a threat. Swimming & Snorkelling • Do not use the flash on your camera or Take care when swimming and mobile when taking photos as it may snorkelling, particularly in the ocean. startle the animals. There are strong currents and undertows • We discourage the use of ‘selfie sticks’ – in some areas that can make swimming these can be intrusive to wildlife and in hazardous and many beaches do not have water their reflections can be mistaken lifeguards. for fish by predators - better to focus on the experience. • Follow the advice from local guides or • Do not feed wildlife or leave behind any Procedure and prices vary. food waste. Mobile phone coverage abroad depends • Always follow the instructions and on your network and phone model. You advice of the local guide and stick to should contact your service provider for the specified route. details. Note that in remote areas there • Ask your guide beforehand of any will be no mobile coverage or indeed potential risks - what will happen in the telephone line. The service is constantly wildlife interaction, how to behave and improving – there is now coverage, for the expected behaviour of the animals. example, at Machu Picchu. • Wear neutral tones (including If your network has no coverage or swimwear). Bright colours can attract to avoid roaming charges clients and unnecessary attention or scare the tour leaders have found it beneficial to animals. purchase a local pay as you go SIM card upon arrival in each country. You will Waivers/Disclaimers need to ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. The use of waivers/disclaimers is becom- ing more common globally, particularly Internet and email for more active and adventurous activities Internet access is widely available in (eg, snorkelling, zip-lining, rafting etc). Latin America in cities and tourist areas In the main these are helpful in draw- (although limited in Cuba). However, ing participants attention to the nature there are notable exceptions such as the of any specific risks and what they can Galápagos Islands, Antarctica and remote do to manage those. However, some- rainforest destinations, among others. times disclaimers may include clauses to If keeping connected is essential please limit rights in respect of the local opera- speak to your travel consultant who can tors negligence. We consider these to check your itinerary to advise. be unreasonable and, where we can, we discourage such practice. It is however worth noting that such clauses have no 7. PHOTOGRAPHY jurisdiction under English Law and, under European package travel legislation, Practical info: booking any activity as part of a package • Remember to always carry a (fully with Journey Latin America ensures we charged) spare battery. Flash are responsible for the proper perfor- photography and making videos can mance of all services on the itinerary. drain batteries surprisingly quickly. Battery life is also shorter in colder climates (Antarctica, Patagonia, high 6. COMMUNICATIONS altitude destinations). Telephone services • Make sure you have a waterproof bag large enough to fit both your Phone calls can be made from most camera and any electrical or delicate hotels of 3 stars and above, though there accessories; unexpected and heavy is a fee charged and it can be expensive. rainstorms can occur in many parts of Always check with the hotel prior to the continent, even in dry season. Even calling. a supermarket plastic bag is better than It is cheaper to go the local phone centre nothing! (telefónica) to make an international call. • The worst thing about losing your air-conditioned vehicle. Keeping your camera is never the loss of the actual camera in a ziplock bag and in as camera, it’s always about the memories warm an environment as possible (e.g. that were on the memory card inside. in the non air-conditioned bathroom If you can, upload the photos you’ve with the door to the air-conditioned taken to the internet (try iCloud, bedroom closed; keep your camera in Photobucket, Flickr, Dropbox or even the ambient temperate of the trunk, or Facebook) or a small laptop at the end close to your body if travelling in an air- of each day’s shooting. If you don’t have conditioned vehicle for a long journey). access to the internet, take a USB flash drive with you and use any computer How to take better photographs handy to move the images onto it. Remember to keep the USB separate • Light is the most important factor in from the camera bag. taking good photos. The best light • Include a luggage tag (or similar) with occurs early in the morning or in the your email address on it in your camera late afternoon when the sun is lower. bag. That way, if you do misplace It is softer then with more contrast your camera bag, there will at least and the yellow magenta dominance be a chance that whoever finds it can to the hues makes them richer and contact you easily and inexpensively more vivid. The best light often comes (without the need to call a foreign during a storm or after the rain so don’t telephone number). limit yourself to just sunny days for photography. Rainy or misty conditions • Similarly, write your email address can also produce some wonderfully on your memory cards and any atmospheric photo opportunities. Also, other storage system you may be watch how the light falls. A ray of light downloading your images onto whist illuminating your subject can transform away. That way, if you are unlucky a photograph. enough to lose your camera or storage system whilst away, there is a better • Look for unsightly objects that detract chances of being reunited with it. from the main subject and then see if there is a way of omitting them from • If travelling in humid climates the frame by repositioning yourself or (rainforest, cloudforest or anywhere in the camera. the Tropics) it is a good idea to pack a silica gel sachet in your camera bag. • Follow the ‘rule of thirds’ which They can be bought easily online or in a essentially means that instead of good camera shop. automatically placing the main subject in the middle of the frame, it is much • When travelling in hot and humid more aesthetically pleasing to frame regions, moving from an air- the subject off-centre either one-third conditioned environment into the heat or two-thirds of the way across your will often cause your camera lens to fog picture. up as you step outside. It can take quite a while for your camera to warm back • Some cameras will let you place a grid up and for the moisture to evaporate over your view as you shoot. This is a – very annoying if you see that perfect handy guide for following the above- but urgent photographic opportunity mentioned ‘rule of thirds’, but also to as soon as you step out of your wildlife help keep a straight horizon in your lodge’s air-conditioned room or an compositions. If you don’t have this function, use a street sign, a paving 8. FLIGHTS stone or building as your guide. Whilst the majority of flight arrangements • Don’t be afraid to come in really run smoothly, inevitably some clients close to a subject: it can create a will encounter problems. You should bold photograph without any clutter be prepared for the possibility of delays, distracting the eye. cancellations or rescheduling and the • You will no doubt want to photograph resulting necessity to reorganise your the main sites, but do remember to itinerary. include some observations of everyday Please be sure to check flight details on life in your collection; observe the your e-ticket and be at the airport at least people’s dress, the food being sold in the three hours before departure, both on markets, their transport, their crafts, how outward and inbound international flights. their houses and gardens are decorated. Photograph entrance tickets in hands Passengers travelling via the USA/ & your travel companions looking at Canada must complete the online ESTA/ maps or signs. You will come back with a ETA forms no later than 72 hours before much more rounded photographic diary departure. Failure to do so will result in of the place you visited. being denied boarding. • Finally, don’t immediately delete a shot On routes requiring a flight change within simply because it looks dark or appears the USA, you will be expected to pick to be slightly blurred. The viewing up or identify your luggage and clear screens on many cameras are of a customs without leaving the airport or low resolution meaning that you can’t re-checking in. This applies even when necessarily see the true quality of the your luggage has been checked through image until you have downloaded it and to your final destination. viewed it on a computer. Similarly, don’t If for any reason you miss a connection, delete an image purely because you even if it’s not your fault, be careful to didn’t get the composition quite right. check that the airline has not treated you Image editing software is nowadays as a no-show. If they do, it will mean very user friendly and widely available that all your onward connections will be meaning that cropping, brightening or automatically cancelled. This can happen sharpening images on your computer even if the airline has cancelled the back home is easy and can yield flight you were originally booked on (as fantastic results. opposed to your having missed it). • If you are planning to take video 8.1 Seating footage of your trip, or shoot in low light then a tripod is an essential piece If you wish to reserve a specific seat of kit. It means your footage will be (window or aisle) or ensure that you steady and low-light images sharp. are seated together with your travelling You will definitely notice the difference companions, this can usually be purchased between hand held and tripod steadied on the operating carrier’s website. Most footage. The downside is having to international airlines have followed the so- carry a tripod but there are many called low cost airlines’ policy of charging lightweight travel tripods available. for seat reservations, some even extending this to Business class cabins (eg British Airways). Depending on the particular aircraft, rows of economy seats with extra legroom may also be available at charge. the airlines website). It is useful to have Many airlines allow seat selection for free luggage that can be locked, however see once online check-in has opened, so if section 9.5 if you are travelling via the USA. you do not wish to pay for a chosen seat in Pack strategically by carrying some advance, it is worth checking in promptly essentials as part of your hand luggage, when more seats are available (circa 30-24 namely: Household and car keys, travel hours before scheduled departure time). documents including passport, itinerary However, be warned that some airlines and any important contact details, (notably Iberia and BA via Madrid) – if a essential medicines, wallets or purses with specific seat has not been purchased in money and credit cards and electronics advance – will allocate a random seat and other valuables. You should also take once online check-in has opened, at which one full change of clothing. point it is not possible to change – even for a fee. Journey Latin America has no 8.4 Document checklist influence or control over seat allocation Check you have the following in your and charges, and payments for these hand luggage before departure: extras must be made directly between traveller and airline. • Airline tickets/e-ticket printouts. Although it is not strictly necessary to 8.2 Online check-in take printed e-tickets, you may wish to do so for peace of mind in case of any The vast majority of airlines are providing problems. passengers with the facility to check in online on their websites, whereby you can • Hotel/service vouchers and final print off your boarding card in advance. itinerary (for bespoke itineraries or This facility is usually available either 30 extensions to escorted group tours or 24 hours before departure. You will these are usually given during the initial need your name, e-ticket number and/or transfer service in each area). reservation locator code, depending on • Cash the airline. • Credit/debit cards 8.3 Luggage • Travel insurance documents • Passport (keep an electronic copy of Baggage handling in Latin America is your passport containing personal neither worse nor better than anywhere information and any relevant visas) else in the world. Remember that you will probably accumulate luggage as you • Vaccination certificates (please read, travel. Accordingly, it is best to pack light, Section 4: Health and vaccinations. and with spare capacity. Otherwise, as well We strongly recommend that items you as having the inconvenience of carrying cannot afford to lose be kept in a money around a couple of plastic bags full of belt – worn inside your clothing. articles acquired en route, you are also more vulnerable to theft. 8.5 Airport security We recommend a sturdy suitcase, or Security arrangements at both domestic soft-sided resilient backpack/holdall and international airports have increased (depending upon the nature of your trip). greatly in recent years. It is strictly You will also need a daypack (which should prohibited to carry any sharp objects such be taken as hand luggage if it falls within as penknives, scissors, syringes or needles the permitted dimensions as detailed on in your hand luggage – they should instead be packed in your main suitcase. Baggage allowances vary from one carrier Currently, it is prohibited to carry any to another – please refer to your e-tickets liquids, creams or gels in containers of for allowances on your individual flights. more than 100ml in size of your hand ‘Checked’ baggage means luggage which luggage. Lighters and matches are also is carried in the hold. ‘Hand’ luggage widely prohibited. is what you carry onto the plane with For the latest information on hand you. Infants (under 2) have no baggage luggage item restrictions please check the allowance, but parents are allowed to Department for Transport website carry reasonable accoutrements for the www.gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions baby, free of charge. Children (aged 2-11 If you have a padlock on your bag, be years inclusive) have full adult baggage aware that at airport security (when allowance. changing planes or in transit, especially Club and First Class passengers have a via the USA) your bag may be opened and higher baggage allowance than Economy your padlock destroyed. Class, usually at least 30kg in total. 8.6 Duty Free Some domestic carriers within Latin America do not include checked baggage If you buy alcohol (duty free or on their airfares: this must be purchased otherwise) at your departure airport, separately at check-in (or occasionally via there’s a chance that it will be confiscated the carrier’s online web portal). Aerolíneas if you’re changing planes (transiting) in Argentinas only permit 15kg checked Europe or the USA. They won’t tell you luggage on domestic flights. Airlines this when you buy it! operating planes with fewer than twenty seats often have a limit as low as 5kg. 8.7 Airport transfers This is particularly likely to be the case on If you are going to be met at the airport flights into small airports in the Amazon in Latin America by a Tour Leader or by basin, Venezuela and to some of the jungle private transfer, a guide and/or driver will lodges in Central America. wait for you in the arrivals hall and identify Many international carriers offer a second themselves to you with a Journey Latin checked bag at a fee, which can be America board or a card with your name purchased in advance via the operating on it. The agency’s name will be printed carrier’s website. However, please bear in on your Journey Latin America final mind that any additional checked luggage itinerary. on the outbound long haul flight will need In the unlikely event no-one comes up to be paid for again for each subsequent to you immediately, please wait near the flight within Latin America, and back home Customs exit for somebody to find you. again, according to each airline’s own Don’t volunteer your name until your baggage policy. contact announces it. In that way you can be sure that you are being met by the 8.9 Delayed baggage correct person. If your baggage has been delayed, we Remember that you might not be advise you to fill in the appropriate instantly recognisable. Please try to have ‘property irregularity report’ (PIR)’ with the the Journey Latin America baggage labels airline responsible as soon as possible. clearly visible on your luggage. There are specific airline computer codes to describe all types of baggage, and 8.8 Baggage allowances visual-aid sheets to assist. Give as much information as you can and ask them to be as much as possible of the money spent as specific as possible about which flight filters back to the local economies. We, your bags are/will be on. Try to get them to and everyone we ask to deliver services give you a printout of the entries they make to you, take considerable pride in offering in the computer. sustainable holidays with minimal impact Regrettably, tour operators such as on the environment and maximum ourselves have very little influence over support for community development, and the behaviour of airlines and are usually in ensuring good working conditions. unable to speed up the process of getting For more information about our your luggage returned to you. If you are initiatives, please visit the sustainable ultra-cautious, you might consider making travel section on our website: a list in advance of everything in your bags www. journeylatinamerica.co.uk/ (including colour, make, size and value of information/sustainability clothes)-it will save you a lot of time if you How can you help? later end up claiming on insurance. We have seen for ourselves how tourism, 8.10 Airport taxes if well-managed, eco-friendly and sustainable, can and does benefit the In Latin America, airport taxes are destination. While you are on holiday, sometimes not included in the ticket just a small effort will help to protect price. Airport taxes are, in effect, a tax for the natural environment, traditions and the privilege of using the airport (usually culture of your destination-the things that when your flight departs) and as such they make it so special in the first place. often have to be paid there. These can usually be paid in either local Before you go currency or US$. Credit cards are not • Learn something about the countries generally accepted for paying either you plan to visit to find out about the domestic or international airport taxes. culture, politics, geography, religion Make sure you leave sufficient US$ or and local customs. local currency in cash. • Try and remove unnecessary packaging Taxes for internal flights generally have from any products you are taking with to be paid in local currency. Domestic you, and dispose of it at home first. airport taxes usually range between US$3 Recycling has yet to really take off in and US$10, though they can occasionally Latin America so the less you leave the be more expensive. Unfortunately, it is better! impossible to give an exact guide as rules • Offset the carbon emissions from your differ within each country and city to city. transatlantic flight by supporting our carbon reduction project. Out and about 9. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM • Ask permission before photographing Our responsibility indigenous people and events, particularly religious processions. To us, sustainable tourism is nothing new. Ever since we started in 1980, we • Ask for an address and send photos to have believed that it’s our responsibility the people you photographed-many to do all we can to protect the places to won’t have photos of their families. which we send clients and to ensure that • Simple gifts for children, such as crayons, balloons, colouring books or your experience and interaction with even a mini football can bring a huge the local people. smile to a child’s face. Resist handing • Traditions and ways of life differ greatly out sweets as dental care is often across the cultures of Latin America. inaccessible. As a rule of thumb, people in lowland • Giving money to children on the regions are more gregarious and street only encourages begging; relaxed than those who live a more instead consider donating to schools austere life in the mountains, and or local conservation or charitable many Latin Americans are modest and organisations. camera-shy. • Pack for a Purpose (www. • Please try to be sensitive to local packforapurpose.org) provides travellers customs. The pace of life outside the with information about taking supplies main cities is slower than in the UK, and for community-based projects in a you may have to draw on your reserves number of countries in Latin America of patience in some situations. and around the globe. We sell a number • There is still widespread poverty of properties where supplies can be in many countries: you may like to dropped at the accommodation and consider taking clothes, shoes or toys delivered directly to the chosen project. with you that you might be happy to In the market leave behind. • Buy local handicrafts and support local Minimise your environmental impact artisans. • Stick to the paths and walkways • When bargaining, remember that a whether you are in the jungle, on small saving for you could make a big a mountain trek or at a ruin. They difference for the seller. are there for your safety and also to • Don’t buy ancient artefacts or anything preserve the local wildlife and help to made with endangered animals or avoid further erosion of the landscape. plants eg hardwoods, shells, exotic • When snorkelling or diving take care not feathers, coral, furs or eggs. to touch marine life and coral. Eating out In your hotel • Where possible, choose smaller local • Clean water is a precious resource, restaurants, bars and cafes; your so use it sparingly. Try and take quick money will benefit individuals instead showers rather than baths as this helps of chains, plus you will enjoy a far more to save water. authentic gastronomic experience • Advise your hotel that you don’t need by sampling typical dishes at very towels or sheets laundered daily. This reasonable prices. can save on water and energy. Speaking with people • Conserve electricity by switching off lights, air-conditioning or heating when • Why not try and learn some of the you leave your room. lingo? Speaking a few words of the local language, even if it is just ‘hola’ • Use environmentally friendly shampoos or ‘gracias’, will change the way people and detergents, particularly when you react to you. You’ll get a much warmer are outside big cities ‘in the wild’ and welcome and this in turn can enrich your shower water is going to end up in a river! Bradt • Try to reuse and refill your drinking Aimed at walkers, naturalists and water bottles where possible or bring adventurous travellers. More emphasis is your own water canteen. Many hotels laid on useful maps and trail-routes than have water ‘garrafones’ filled with practicalities. A good read and useful treated ‘agua potable’ that is perfectly companion to the general travel books. safe to drink. If your hotel does not, you could leave a suggestion that they ITM Road Maps provide one. ITM maps are good if you are travelling to one particular area. They are more detailed and each map is annotated with historical and geographical descriptions. 10. GUIDEBOOKS & MAPS Collins Below is a brief summary of some of the publishers that provide guidebooks and Clear maps of Latin America and the maps to Latin America. Their publications Caribbean. Ideal for general use. are widely available in major bookshops, or online.

Footprint

Publishers of the South American

Handbook since 1923, Footprint now produces single country titles too. The most comprehensive guides for budget, upmarket and business travellers alike.

Compact and updated regularly. Highly recommended.

Lonely Planet

Generally aimed at the independent traveller. Travel tips, clear street maps and cheap food and accommodation listings make these books good value for money.

Lonely Planet also produces phrasebooks, city guides and travel atlases.

Rough Guides

Useful off-the-beaten-track information and excellent sections on history, music and literature. What they lack in practical tips Rough Guides make up for in background information.

Insight Guides

Glossy, coffee table guides containing excellent photographs and cultural and historical essays.

11. LANGUAGE GUIDE Food & drink A number of clients have recommended Fish-Pescado the Google Translate app whilst abroad. Shellfish-Mariscos Users can add words or phrases in Vegetables-Vegetales English then simply read or listen to your Chicken-Pollo translated phrase in the chosen language. However, here are some simple yet Meat-Carne (often used to refer to red essential phrases you can lean to use on meats only) your trip: Cheese-Queso Spanish Bread-Pan Butter-Mantequilla General Pork-Carne de cerdo Hi-Hola Beef-Carne de res Please / Thank you- Por favor / Gracias Lamb-Cordero Good morning / Good afternoon / Good Well done/Medium/ rare-Muy bien hecho/ evening-Buenos días / Buenas tardes / medio/crudo Buenas noches I am Vegetarian-Soy vegetariano/a How are you?-¿Cómo estás? I am allergic to ... Soy alérgico/a Nice to meet you-Mucho gusto Gluten-Gluten I would like-Me gustaría Nuts Nueces I need-Yo necesito Dairy products-Productos lácteos Do you have?-¿Tiene? Soda (fizzy drink)-Gaseosa Where is?-¿Dónde está? Freshly squeezed juice-Jugo natural How much does it cost?-¿Cuánto cuesta? Still/Sparkling water-Agua sin gas / con What time is it?-¿Qué hora es? gas On the right / On the left / Straight With/without ice-Con/sin hielo ahead-A la derecha / A la izquierda / Siga Ice made with purified water- Hielo hecho derecho con agua purificada In one block / In two, three, four blocks-A (A glass of) red wine / white wine-(Una una cuadra / A dos, tres, cuatro cuadras copa de) vino tinto/vino blanco The bathroom-El baño Beer-Cerveza Bank / Money / Change / The bill-Banco /

Dinero / Cambio / La cuenta Directions/meeting & useful phrases Money I am looking for-Estoy buscando ATM machine-Cajero automático Today-Hoy Are debit/credit cards accepted?-Aceptan Tomorrow-Mañana tarjeta de débito/crédito? Yesterday-Ayer (What is) the exchange rate-(Cúal es) el Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs/Fri/Sat /Sun- tipo de cambio Lunes/Martes/Miércoles/Jueves/Viernes / Do you have small denomination notes Sábado/Domingo please?- Por favor tiene billetes pequeños When?-Cuándo? Do you have change for...?-tiene cambio How Many-Cuántos? para…? In the morning-Por la mañana Money In the afternoon-Por la tarde ATM machine-Caixa automática In the evening/at night-Por la noche Are debit/credit cards accepted?-São There-Allí / allá aceitos cartões de débito / crédito? Here-Aquí (What is) the exchange rate-(Qual é) a taxa This-É sto de câmbio My name is-Me llamo Do you have small denomination notes?-Você tem notas de pequena What is your name?-Cómo te llamas? denominação? Goodbye/See you later-Chau / hasta Do you have change for...?-Você tem luego troco para…? And finally, if all else fails: Food & drink I (don’t)understand -Yo (no) entiendo Fish-Peixe Do you speak English? ¿Habla inglés? Shellfish-Marisco Vegetables-Legumes Chicken-Frango Meat-Carne (often used to refer to red Portuguese meats only) General Cheese-Queijo Hi-Oi Bread-Pão Please / Thank you- Por favor / Obrigado Butter-Manteiga Good morning / Good afternoon / Good Pork-Porco evening-Bom Dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite Beef-Bife How are you?-Como você está? Lamb-Cordeiro Nice to meet you-Muito prazer em te Well done/Medium/ rare-Bem pasado / conhecer ao ponto / mal passado I would like-Eu gostaria I am Vegetarian-Eu sou vegetariano I need-Eu preciso I am allergic to ... Eu sou alérgica… Do you have?-Você tem? Gluten-Glúten Where is?-Onde é? Nuts-Nozes How much does it cost?-Quanto custa Dairy products-Produtos lácteos isso? Soda (fizzy drink)-Refrigerante What time is it?-Que horas são? Freshly squeezed juice-Suco natural On the right / On the left / Straight Still/Sparkling water-Água mineral sem ahead-À direita / À esquerda / gás / com gás Diretamente à frente With/without ice-Com / sem gelo In one block / In two, three, four blocks- Ice made with purified water- Gelo feito Daqui a um quarteirão / Daqui a dois, três, com água filtrada quatro quarteirões) (A glass of) red wine / white wine-(Um The bathroom-O banheiro copo de) vinho tinto / vinho branco Bank / Money / Change / The bill-Banco / Beer-Cerveja Dinheiro / Cambio/ A conta

Directions/meeting & useful phrases I am looking for-Estou à procura de... Today-Hoje Tomorrow-Amanhã Yesterday-Ontem Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs/Fri/Sat /Sun- Segunda/ Terça/ Quarta/ Quinta/ Sexta/ Sábado/ Domingo When?-Quando? How Many-Quantos? In the morning-De manhã In the afternoon-À tarde In the evening/at night-À noite There-Lá Here-Aquí This-Esta My name is-Meu nome é What is your name?-Qual é o seu nome Goodbye/See you later-Adeus, até logo And finally, if all else fails: I (don’t) understand-Eu (não) entendo Do you speak English?-Fala inglês?

DISCLAIMER The information in this dossier has been compiled with all reasonable care and is accurate to the best of our knowledge. We try to update the printed version once a year, but the information is inevitably subject to change without notice. Journey Latin America accepts no responsibility for the dossier’s accuracy, and will entertain no claim for compensation, for inconvenience or contingent liability should information prove to be incorrect or out of date. Where possible we have given website addresses for you to check the latest information. See also our website, www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk We suggest you consult the FCO website which gives the latest information and advice on where it is safe to travel: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice © Copyright Journey Latin America January 2020 NOTES NOTES