Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Helpful Travel Tips When Visiting Isla Margarita

Transportation: The public transportation systems on Isla Margarita will take you around the island, but if you are in a hurry it is better to choose another alternative, such as a taxi.

Water: The consumption of tap water is not recommended, instead drink mineral or filtered water.

Travel: Isla Margarita offers many different ways to get to the island. The easiest way is by plane from Caracas, via the Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, using any major international airline to reach Caracas, and then taking a local airline to the island itself. Another way to get to Margarita Island is by ferry from Puerto La Cruz or Cumaná. Today, the ferry company offers different types of ferries, some of them will take you in about 4 hours however the ferry express will only take you 2 hours.

Currency: US dollars are widely accepted in the commercial establishments, as well as traveler’s checks and credit cards. Almost any foreign currency is negotiable in banks or an exchange house, as well as in hotels.

Communication: On the island you can find newspapers, both regional and national; they have five TV channels as well as 9 broadcasting AM and FM stations. Isla Margarita has direct international calling, but if you prefer, you will be able to access an operator for assistance by calling 122. You can also find companies offering all types of communication services, fax, e-mails, satellite access, etc.

Documentation: In order to enter, it is necessary to have a valid passport, a tourist visa, or a tourist card that is given in the port of origin.

Public Telephones: You will find many public phones spread throughout airports, hotels, restaurants, and streets. These phones operate with prepaid phone cards, which can be bought in any library, drug store, newspaper stand and many other kinds of shops. Santiago Mariño International Airport also rents out cell phones for those looking to take a phone with them where they go.

Tipping: At the bottom of the restaurant and bar bills, you will notice a percentage added for service. Apart from that, and naturally depending on your satisfaction with the service, it’s custom to leave around an additional 5%. Tips are also very welcome at tourist excursions, bellboy services at the hotel, etc.

To learn more about Isla Margarita, please visit www.caracolabeachsparesort.com.

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