SEEING
san salvador
AND BEYOND
BY JENNY PETERS
Jiquilisco Bay Biosphere Reserve
Credit: Mayorarre on Flickr Commons
There’s a lot to see in and around San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador,
the small Central American nation sandwiched between Guatemala and
Honduras on the Pacific Ocean. The country, once devastated by a 13-
year civil war that ended 25 years ago, is a place of natural wonders and
ancient history, juxtaposed with modern skyscrapers, chic restaurants
and fascinating artwork everywhere you turn.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
El Salvador is a Spanish-speaking country, but you’ll find many locals
who also speak English, especially in the larger hotels and tourist
spots. The official monetary unit is the U.S. dollar, so money changing
isn’t necessary when visiting from the United States. Prices are very
reasonable throughout the country and credit cards are accepted
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in the major tourist areas, but be sure to have cash if you go off the
beaten tracks. The El Salvador Ministry of Tourism and the U.S. State
Department suggest that visitors engage the services of the POLITUR,
tourist police who will travel with you both in the city and to the
outlying areas, for an added level of personal security.
SAN SALVADOR EQUALS HISTORY, CULTURE AND CUISINE
Getting into the heart of San Salvador from the international airport
(SAL) takes about 30 minutes. A taxi will cost around $30, shuttle
services less and public buses are very cheap. You’ll find reasonably
priced hotel accommodations everywhere in El Salvador, with hotels
like the Real Intercontinental Hotel, the Sheraton Presidente or the
Crowne Plaza in the heart of San Salvador offering rates of $100 per
night or less.