El Salvador🇸🇻
El Salvador, located in Central America, is the smallest and most densely populated country in the region. Bordered by Honduras to the east and northeast, and Guatemala to the west, El Salvador lies on the Pacific Coast. Its relationship with its neighbors varies, with respect to both economic cooperation and occasional territorial disputes. With Mayan ruins and beautiful Pacific beaches, it is known for its stunning landscapes and important archaeological sites like Joya de Cerén and San Andrés. Its local traditions are rich, especially around religious holidays when elaborate festivals take place. Besides, El Salvador is known for its coffee and indigo plantations. When visiting, marine exploration, enjoying local cuisine and visiting natural parks are highly recommended.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid flashing wealth or valuables in public to deter potential thieves.
- Getting involved with local gangs or organized crime groups is highly dangerous and should be avoided.
- Restrict your swimming to recognized safe beaches to avoid dangerous currents.
- Avoid public demonstrations as they can turn violent.
- Avoid unprotected sex to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
- Avoid traveling at night, especially alone, due to the risk of crime.
- Avoid drinking tap water unless it has been treated or purified.
- Avoid hiking alone, particularly in remote areas, due to potential safety risks.
- Avoid areas prone to natural disasters, such as live volcanoes or flood-prone areas.
- Avoid exchanging currency in the street or non-official places due to potential scams or counterfeit money.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
3
El Salvador has one of the highest crime rates in Latin America, primarily driven by gang violence. The cities of San Salvador, Santa Ana, and San Miguel are particularly notorious for criminal activity. Homicides, extortion, and kidnapping cases have been reported, although law enforcement efforts have resulted in a decline in crime rates in recent years.
Terrorism 💣
7
El Salvador is not significantly affected by international terrorism. Nevertheless, internal gang-related violence can sometimes resemble domestic terrorism, particularly in areas where criminal groups like MS-13 and Barrio 18 are active. These gangs have been known to use tactics such as bombings, assassinations, and public intimidation.
War ⚔️
8
El Salvador emerged from a brutal civil war in 1992, so the country has been at peace for about three decades. However, high levels of crime and gang violence can sometimes give the impression of an ongoing conflict. Generally, the threat of war is low, but social unrest can occasionally occur.
Natural Disasters 🌊
4
El Salvador is prone to various natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and severe weather conditions like hurricanes and flooding. It is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, and there are over 20 volcanoes, out of which two, San Miguel and Santa Ana, are the most active.
Medical Care 🏥
5
While major cities in El Salvador provide adequate medical care, immediate access to high-quality emergency care may be limited in rural areas. Hospitals sometimes require upfront payment, and medical evacuation may be necessary for complex or serious illnesses or injuries.
Tap Water Quality 💧
3
Tap water quality varies significantly throughout the country and is generally not safe for consumption without proper treatment. Bottled water is commonly used and readily available across the country.
Disease Burden 🤒
5
The risk of diseases like dengue, zika, and chikungunya due to mosquitoes is high in El Salvador. Moreover, incidents of gastrointestinal diseases also occur due to poor water quality.
Corruption 💸
3
El Salvador has faced a significant issue with corruption, impacting various levels of government and law enforcement. Despite some progress in recent years, corruption remains a concern, impeding social and economic development.
Safety for Women ♀️
4
While the government in El Salvador has taken steps to protect women's safety, violence against women, including domestic violence, is still a significant issue. Women should take precautions when travelling, particularly when alone and at night.
Safety for Queer People 👬
5
While the LGBTQ+ community is legally protected in El Salvador, societal attitudes are not always accepting, and discrimination occurs. In recent years, there have been significant steps towards embracing diversity and promoting LGBTQ+ rights.
Censorship 📺
6
El Salvador exhibits moderate levels of censorship. While freedom of the press is constitutionally protected, journalists face occasional harassment, and there have been reports of government attempts to influence or control media outlets.
Public Transportation 🚌
4
Public transportation in El Salvador is frequently targeted by criminal elements, especially gang members. Accidents are also common due to poorly maintained vehicles and reckless driving. Travelers are often recommended to use registered taxis or private transportation networks.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Given its high crime rate and occasional natural disasters, El Salvador requires caution, especially in certain areas. Avoid traveling alone at night, stay vigilant, and follow local authorities' advice, especially concerning natural disasters. It is also advised to make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance and high-quality medical cover.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Most major nations have embassies in San Salvador, the capital city, which include the United States Embassy, British Embassy, Canadian Embassy, and the Australian Consulate.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before traveling to El Salvador, vaccines for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, and Meningitis are recommended. Regular vaccines like Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) should be updated.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
El Salvador is home to a variety of dangerous animals, these include the Fer-de-lance snake and the Black widow spider. Crocodiles can also be found in rivers and lagoons. Mosquitoes in El Salvador can carry tropical diseases. Use repellents and sleep under mosquito nets if possible.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Citizens of most countries, including the USA, Canada, EU, Australia, and New Zealand, can enter El Salvador and stay for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they have a passport valid for at least six months. Others need to apply for a visa in advance.
💲 Currency
The United States Dollar (USD) is the official currency of El Salvador. ATMs are widely available, and money exchange facilities can be found in cities and airports.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are generally accepted in major cities, tourist sites, and accommodations. However, outside of these places, such as smaller towns and rural areas, you may need to have access to cash. Always check whether a specific venue accepts cards beforehand.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
While working in El Salvador as a foreigner is possible, it can be difficult without local connections or language proficiency. Opportunities mainly lie in teaching English, volunteering, or in the aid sector. It is worth noting conducting work on a tourist visa is technically illegal, so the proper work permits are necessary.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
El Salvador is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. Accommodation, food, and local transportation can often be secured for a fraction of the cost of what one might expect to pay in North America or Europe. However, costs can vary widely based on the area and the level of luxury.