How to Travel Safely to Venezuela

There are very few Americans traveling to Venezuela these days, but this does not change the fact that the country has incomparable natural beauty to be explored!

There is definitely much to see, but the key to a safe and successful trip is planning and lots of it. Below are some useful tips on how to take a safe trip to Venezuela.

Step 1: Obtain a Visa

• As of March 2015, all U.S. citizens are required to obtain a tourist visa to travel to Venezuela. You can request a visa at the Venezuelan Consulate in NYC and pay a $30 fee. Make sure this is done at least three months prior to your trip and that your passport will not expire within six months. 
• It is also a good idea to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so that you can stay up to date with safety and security announcements. 

Step 2: Buy Tickets

• It is fairly easy to get tickets online, but it is going to be a challenge to get nonstop flights and if you do, these will be very expensive. Tickets can run anywhere from $700 to $1,700 so looking at different options can make a heck of difference. 
• Your best bet would be to purchase tickets with connecting flights.  

Step 3: Develop an Itinerary

• Know where you're going before you get there. I would recommend you read plenty of reviews before making your final lodging selection. 
• Do not just read reviews on the hotels, but also make sure you obtain some basic knowledge of the surrounding neighborhoods. 
• Do contact tour companies ahead of time and make sure that you ask all pertinent questions prior to arriving to the country. Read plenty of reviews prior to making any commitments. 

Step 4: Pack the Essentials

• Make sure you take a folder with important numbers. This should include the contact number for the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in case you loose your travel documents or are faced with other emergencies. 
• Pack lightly to facilitate mobility and bring a lock to put on your luggage if you will be leaving it at the hotel room. 
• Leave your valuables behind. Do not bring flashy jewelry and watches. 

Step 5: Use Common Sense

• Contact credit card companies, banks, and other financial agencies prior to your trip to inform them of the dates you will be out of the country.
• Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display your phone and other electronics in public places.
• Try to avoid displaying garments that indicate that you are a tourist. This includes hats and shirts with the American flag as well as items that say "I Love New York" or things of that nature. 
• Do not hand over your U.S. passport to anyone. Never. Ever. 

As you can see, planning ahead of time is of utmost importance when traveling overseas. You will find these tips useful for traveling to other parts of the world as well. Stay tune for tomorrow's post on must see places when traveling to Venezuela!