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The Glossary
Caracas Travel Guide
Even as the capital of Venezuela, Caracas does not get much love from tourists. Often, it is bypassed or used as a mere travel base to the country's natural attractions, like the famous Angel Falls, the Caribbean coasts, Pico Bolivar, and the Amazon Forest. However, those who do are likely to miss out on a city replete with colorful culture, excellent art, scenic beauty, and a bustling nightlife.
Founded more than 400 years ago in 1567 by Spanish colonists, Caracas is the country's largest city, with an estimated population of roughly 2.7 million. It is also one of the wealthiest in the continent, with a cost of living higher than even that of New York City in the USA. Still, the city has its warts: the wealth is not equally distributed (as evidenced by its derelict neighborhoods), and the crime rate is one of the highest in the world.
Urban Jungle
What is most apparent about Caracas is that it is a modern metropolis. It is truly a frenetic city - lined with contemporary architecture, high-rise buildings, complex motorways, and filled with hordes of cars, pollution, and busy markets. The fact that the city probably has one of the cheapest gasoline on the planet (at around 12 cents a gallon) because of government subsidization has only contributed to the jumbled traffic and smoke-filled atmosphere that greets the eyes every day.
On the bright side, Caracas has carved out a reputation as a place for pampering the self. It is a gastronomic destination, especially with its array of restaurants and bars that serve different cuisines. Its nightlife is equally pulsating, encouraging people to party until the wee hours of the morning in the city's many discos and clubs.
Cultural Immersion
While Caracas is a very much modern place, it hasn't forgotten its roots. A prime example is El Hatillo, a colonial village in the city that is known for its ancient churches and buildings, as well as for its traditional crafts industry. The city is also chock-full of museums that preserve the country's history and heritage, like the Museo de Arte Colonial. In addition, it is the site of many colorful festivals and events - the World Poetry Festival, Miss Venezuela, and the Festival Internacional de Teatro.
Caracas Traveler Advice
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An Aerial fiesta in Clark Pampanga
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