If you love adventure, Central America is the destination for you. From trekking through the jungle to climbing a volcano, you'll find it here. In addition there are mysterious Mayan ruins to explore. Best of all, it's cheap. By following a few tips, you can have one of the best backpacking trips of your life in this region.
While booking your accommodation ahead can restrict you, there are times when it's better to know that there's a room waiting for you at your destination. Usually it's quite easy to find cheap accommodation, especially during the rainy season. However, you may want to book ahead for that first night after a long flight or bus trip. It's also wise to book ahead for Holy Week, especially in places that are famous for their celebrations, such as Antigua in Guatemala.
Talk to other travelers. Many backpackers only go to the destinations and hostels recommended by their guide books. However, other travelers are great sources of information about experiences that aren't on the gringo trail.
No trip to Central America is complete without taking the 'chicken bus' at least once. These buses aren't the most comfortable but they're a great way to taste local culture. If you're going to undertake a long journey, however, a tourist shuttle or a more luxurious bus may be a better option.
Many people will tell you that Central America is extremely dangerous. While it's true that there is a high crime rate and gang violence, it's not quite as lawless as you may think. Most people are very helpful and protective towards tourists and if you're sensible, you'll be perfectly safe. Leave the flashy jewelry at home, keep valuables out of sight and don't leave your possessions unattended. If the locals tell you not to go into a certain area, listen to them.
Be responsible and respectful. This not only means that you should be environmentally and socially responsible. It also means that you should stay away from drugs. Drugs are very easy to find throughout the region but when you support the drug trade, you also support and perpetuate the gang violence and corruption that come with it. It's also good to remember that most Central American communities are quite conservative and you will show respect by dressing modestly.
Enrich your travel experience by making some time for volunteering. It's a great way to mix with the local people and to give back to the world. The region has many opportunities for volunteering, from working with orphans to conservation projects such as working with sea turtles in Costa Rica.
Learn at least some Spanish. You'll find English speakers in the most surprising places but with the exception of Belize and all along the Caribbean coast, most people in Central America speak Spanish. Learn at least the basics to make your travel experience easier and to show respect towards the region's people. In fact, you may want to consider going to a local Spanish school for a week or two to help you prepare for one of the best backpacking trips of your life.
While booking your accommodation ahead can restrict you, there are times when it's better to know that there's a room waiting for you at your destination. Usually it's quite easy to find cheap accommodation, especially during the rainy season. However, you may want to book ahead for that first night after a long flight or bus trip. It's also wise to book ahead for Holy Week, especially in places that are famous for their celebrations, such as Antigua in Guatemala.
Talk to other travelers. Many backpackers only go to the destinations and hostels recommended by their guide books. However, other travelers are great sources of information about experiences that aren't on the gringo trail.
No trip to Central America is complete without taking the 'chicken bus' at least once. These buses aren't the most comfortable but they're a great way to taste local culture. If you're going to undertake a long journey, however, a tourist shuttle or a more luxurious bus may be a better option.
Many people will tell you that Central America is extremely dangerous. While it's true that there is a high crime rate and gang violence, it's not quite as lawless as you may think. Most people are very helpful and protective towards tourists and if you're sensible, you'll be perfectly safe. Leave the flashy jewelry at home, keep valuables out of sight and don't leave your possessions unattended. If the locals tell you not to go into a certain area, listen to them.
Be responsible and respectful. This not only means that you should be environmentally and socially responsible. It also means that you should stay away from drugs. Drugs are very easy to find throughout the region but when you support the drug trade, you also support and perpetuate the gang violence and corruption that come with it. It's also good to remember that most Central American communities are quite conservative and you will show respect by dressing modestly.
Enrich your travel experience by making some time for volunteering. It's a great way to mix with the local people and to give back to the world. The region has many opportunities for volunteering, from working with orphans to conservation projects such as working with sea turtles in Costa Rica.
Learn at least some Spanish. You'll find English speakers in the most surprising places but with the exception of Belize and all along the Caribbean coast, most people in Central America speak Spanish. Learn at least the basics to make your travel experience easier and to show respect towards the region's people. In fact, you may want to consider going to a local Spanish school for a week or two to help you prepare for one of the best backpacking trips of your life.
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