Rescue of your trip to Latin America: 5 tips for tourists
Latin America is indeed a paradise for travelers, offering a wide range of destinations, from beaches to ancient monuments and modern cities. However, navigating the vast cities in this region can be a real challenge due to their size and the multitude of attractions they offer.
Exploring these big cities can be an adventure in itself. To help make your trip smoother, the website latinamericanpost.com has compiled some valuable tips.
How to Travel in Latin America Without Any Problems
Familiarize yourself with public transportation options
Many Latin American cities have heavy traffic congestion, including Bogotá, Caracas, São Paulo, and San Juan. However, cities like Buenos Aires, Lima, Medellín, and São Paulo have developed efficient public transportation systems, including Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) networks.
A subway ticket in Mexico costs $0.3, in Santiago during rush hour - $1.1, in Lima - $0.5. A ticket in São Paulo costs $5; here you can use an integrated system that extends beyond the subway around the clock. Pay attention to electronic maps of different types of transport, which will allow you to save money.
Try the local cuisine
If you are heading to Lima and considering visiting McDonald's, you may want to reconsider your plans. While it may seem that the famous hamburgers are cheaper and more accessible, the local cuisine offers many more opportunities to immerse yourself in the country's culture.
The cost of ordering 5 tacos on the streets of the Mexican capital starts at only $1.5. Try arepas in Venezuela or Colombia, Peruvian ceviche - the choice of dishes is endless and exciting.
The secret is to eat in places where the locals eat. They will always share the best recommendations and national dishes. Tips can be found on resources such as La Vanguardia or by asking taxi drivers, visiting local markets, and following places where crowds of locals are enjoying authentic food.
Be careful with souvenirs
Buying souvenirs in every city is commonplace, but it's not always easy to find authentic items. No one wants to find out that the flag of Argentina or Ecuador they bought was made somewhere in China.
During Mexico's national holidays in 2017, Verne El Pais released information about the sale of "traditional" dolls made in China, highlighting the issue of counterfeit souvenirs sold in department stores. Therefore, it is recommended to visit traditional markets, and if you are looking for something unique to give as a gift, it is best to purchase an item made by local artisans to support the local economy and acquire genuine handmade products.
The same applies to alcoholic beverages: opt for something that is not readily available in your country. For instance, purchasing a bottle of red wine in Chile that you can find at your local Walmart is not always the best idea.
Don't pack too much
The principle of traveling light applies to any journey, particularly in large cities where hauling around large suitcases or bags can be cumbersome. This is especially true when relying on public transportation or navigating crowded streets. Traveling light helps you keep better track of your belongings and makes your journey more comfortable.
Utilize new technologies
The internet offers vast opportunities with numerous apps that streamline mobility. You can discover affordable airfares, find accommodations at better prices, and even estimate trip costs in advance if services like Uber or Cabify are available in the city.
In February, the Argentine edition of La Nación reported a significant surge in the popularity of Airbnb in the region and the expansion of accommodation options to cater to all types of travelers. This alternative enables you to immerse yourself more deeply in the local culture and potentially discover better deals.
Online platforms also offer coupons for purchases ranging from clothing to airplane tickets, providing significant savings for your budget.