Venezuela Information

Venezuela is more often than not tied to beauty. As a virtual factory for beauty pageant winners, it readily proclaims itself as home to some of the most beautiful women in the world. Sixteen beauty titles are hard to ignore: six for Miss Universe, five for Miss World, and five more for Miss International. In fact, being beautiful is such a big thing here that girls who are barely in their teens undergo surgical enhancements such as breast implants, and modeling courses are offered in most schools.

The country's beauty doesn't just apply to its populace, but its landscape as well. Tucked between the Caribbean coasts and the Amazon forests, Venezuela oozes with natural beauty. Turquoise waters, long beaches, picturesque islets and unique wetlands compose its scenery. Not to mention that it has one of the highest waterfalls on earth: the famous Angel Falls.

Amazonian AdventuresM

Given such a diverse and rugged terrain, it is no wonder that Venezuela is a haven for the true-blue adrenaline junkies. A foray into the Amazonas, the country's share of the Amazon forests, is always popular among visitors. Treks and wildlife tours are common here, with the chance to see rare fauna like the infamous giant anacondas and caimans. The Cordillera de Merida peaks, as well as Pico Bolivar (highest point in Venezuela), are ideal for mountain climbing and biking activities.

Of course, it is not only the adventurers who may enjoy a trip to the country, but also the beach lovers. Venezuela claims to have the longest Caribbean coastlines than any other in the continent. The resorts at Margarita, Coche, Los Roques and La Blanquilla are perfect for swimming and water sporting, and are popular tourist hang-outs.

Salsa, Crafts, and More

Venezuela is no slouch when it comes to culture, though. Inhabited by ancient people since more than 15,000 years ago, visitors to the land can still find indigenous tribes that have retained their traditions in places like the Delta del Orinoco, and Amazonas. The biggest influence, however, came during the Spanish colonization in 1522. Even after more than a century has passed since their independence in 1821, the effect of foreign occupation can still be felt strongly to this day.

Take for instance, Venezuela's traditions, language, religion, and cuisine. The country's official language is Spanish, and a vast majority of the population is Roman Catholic. The salsa is one of its favorite dances, and sites like Ciudad de Bolivar and Coro is home to an array of impressive colonial architecture.