There are some destinations that just seem to be made for backpackers. Central America is one of them. It offers a wealth of activities and experiences, from adventure sports to exotic culture and historic architecture. Moreover, accommodation, food and transport are cheap, offering the best backpacking trips for those on a shoestring budget.
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.
Try different transport options. For long journeys, a shuttle or a first-class bus is more comfortable. Don't restrict yourself too much by taking only the more luxurious options. They're not necessarily safer and you haven't experienced Central America if you haven't had at least one ride in a 'chicken bus'.
Be sensible and safe but don't be too afraid. Countries like Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala have some of the highest murder rates in the world. Don't let this prevent you from visiting them, though. The violence is usually restricted to areas with lots of gang activity and if you take the same precautions as you would at home, you don't have too much to worry about. Keep an eye on your possessions, don't flash your relative wealth and don't walk alone in deserted areas and you'll be quite safe. Also listen to what the locals say. If they tell you to avoid a certain area, it's probably because you really should avoid that area.
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.
Central America abounds with opportunities for volunteering. This is one of the most enriching things you can do, not only for the community that benefits but also for yourself. Take the time, even if it's only a week, to get involved and to give back to the region.
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.
Try different transport options. For long journeys, a shuttle or a first-class bus is more comfortable. Don't restrict yourself too much by taking only the more luxurious options. They're not necessarily safer and you haven't experienced Central America if you haven't had at least one ride in a 'chicken bus'.
Be sensible and safe but don't be too afraid. Countries like Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala have some of the highest murder rates in the world. Don't let this prevent you from visiting them, though. The violence is usually restricted to areas with lots of gang activity and if you take the same precautions as you would at home, you don't have too much to worry about. Keep an eye on your possessions, don't flash your relative wealth and don't walk alone in deserted areas and you'll be quite safe. Also listen to what the locals say. If they tell you to avoid a certain area, it's probably because you really should avoid that area.
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.
Central America abounds with opportunities for volunteering. This is one of the most enriching things you can do, not only for the community that benefits but also for yourself. Take the time, even if it's only a week, to get involved and to give back to the region.
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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