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Un gran equilibrio de actividad juntos y tiempo libre para explorar. Conozca nuestro destino característico de una manera significativa y fuera de lo común. Elija 3 experiencias culturalmente inmersivas planificadas por Travec según sus preferencias e intereses.

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Una recopilación de información sobre tu ciudad basada en nuestra experiencia personal e investigación en profundidad. Actividades locales Soporte de trabajo remoto Frases comunes Clases Restaurantes Seguro de viaje Planes de telefonía móvil Aduanas Consejos de viaje Información de referencia de visa ¡y más!

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Un servicio de transporte de confianza lo llevará y traerá del aeropuerto.

¡Una comunidad integrada de personas con ideas afines que valoran la cultura y ver el mundo tanto como tú!

Un servicio de transporte de confianza lo llevará y traerá del aeropuerto

Una recopilación de información sobre tu ciudad basada en nuestra experiencia personal e investigación en profundidad. Actividades locales Soporte de trabajo remoto Frases comunes Clases Restaurantes Seguro de viaje Planes de telefonía móvil Aduanas Consejos de viaje Información de referencia de visa ¡y más!

Experiencias culturalmente inmersivas planificadas por Travec para allanar el camino para vivir como un local y experimentar lo mejor que cada ciudad tiene para ofrecer. Un gran equilibrio de actividad juntos y tiempo libre para explorar. Conozca nuestro destino característico de una manera significativa y fuera de lo común.

Tu primer amigo en tu nueva ciudad. Ahí para ayudarte: Instalarse Hacer recomendaciones Muestra la ciudad Servir como contacto de emergencia

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México utiliza el peso (MX$) Una manera fácil de estimar los costos es dividirlos por 20 (aunque los números exactos fluctúan entre 17 y 20). (MX$20 ≈ $1, MX$200 ≈ $10). < strong>Conversor de divisas actualizado. Las tarjetas de crédito y débito son ampliamente aceptadas; Lleva contigo entre MX$ 200 y 500 en efectivo para puestos callejeros y tiendas pequeñas, ya que a menudo solo aceptan efectivo. Así como Estados Unidos tiene el Black Friday, México tiene El Buen Fin, que inicia las compras navideñas con importantes descuentos. Sin embargo, esto suele caer en una semana diferente al Black Friday. Al igual que en Estados Unidos, en México existe una cultura de dar propinas. Sin embargo, la cantidad que se da de propina suele ser menor. Viajes: Alrededor de MX$20 por viaje, o MX$50 para viajes largos Restaurantes: 10-20% dependiendo del servicio (15% se considera una buena propina en México) Bar: MX$10-20 por ronda de tragos, o 10-20% si pagas todo junto al final Servicios de entrega: 10-20%

Una o dos semanas antes de tu viaje, haz un plan para usar tu teléfono en México. Si viaja con su familia, considere si es necesario utilizar datos en varios teléfonos o si limitará su uso a un solo teléfono. Si su teléfono celular está bloqueado, consulte con su proveedor de telefonía celular sobre los planes y costos internacionales. La mayoría de los proveedores ofrecen un pase por $5/día que puedes elegir activar cada día, proporcionando datos ilimitados durante 24 horas. O, si no planeas usar aplicaciones y simplemente quieres enviar mensajes de texto o llamar de vez en cuando (sin conectarte a WiFi), puedes pagar la tarifa de tu proveedor por mensaje de texto o llamada desde México; verifica esto con anticipación para que lo sepas. ¡En qué te estás metiendo! O, si tienes un teléfono desbloqueado y planeas usar aplicaciones (¡piensa en el GPS!) o enviar mensajes de texto con regularidad, una opción que te permitirá ahorrar dinero y liberarte del estrés puede ser activar una eSIM. Esto proporciona información de doble SIM para que tengas un número de teléfono mexicano y un plan de datos para México mientras conservas tu número de teléfono estadounidense. A menudo, esto es mucho más barato que pagar 5 dólares al día. Descarga la aplicación Airalo o Holafly para activar tu eSIM y comprar planes internacionales.

Autobús turístico por la ciudad de Mérida : suba y baje de un autobús al aire libre o cerrado con audioguías Los recorridos están disponibles todos los días de 9:00 a. m. a 9:00 p. m. y generalmente salen desde la catedral. Boletos: MX$120 para adultos y MX$50 para niños Pistas de pádel - Si quieres disfrutar de un par de horas de ejercicio divertido mientras puedes tomar unas cuantas cervezas o incluso probar un michelada, Mérida ofrece muchas canchas del deporte de más rápido crecimiento en México; ¡Pádel! El pádel es un deporte de raqueta que se sitúa a medio camino entre el pickleball y el tenis. Las palas (raquetas utilizadas para jugar al pádel) se pueden alquilar en la mayoría de los clubes. Recomendamos visitar “Épica Padel Club”, ya que es el club más grande y tiene un ambiente muy agradable y una selección de comidas y bebidas. Incluso ofrecen Starbucks. Los precios de la cancha rondan los MX$800 por dos horas. Pelotas de pádel y Palas no están incluidas en el precio. Juego de Béisbol< /span> - A pesar de la popularidad del fútbol en otras partes de México, Mérida es una ciudad de béisbol. Los Yucatecos adoran a su equipo local, Los Leones. Los juegos son fantásticos tanto para los fanáticos del béisbol como para cualquiera que disfrute de un ambiente animado. Los vendedores venden los favoritos del estadio, como hot dogs, pizza y hamburguesas. Sin embargo, ir al parque es una excelente manera de probar la comida callejera de Mérida, mientras los vendedores caminan por el parque vendiendo los favoritos locales. Una multa probablemente te cueste menos que tu equipo local y puedes capturarla en el sitio web o en el parque. Progreso: Este animado pueblo costero se encuentra a unos 30 minutos al norte de la ciudad. El paseo peatonal conocido como El Malecón es fantástico para pasear y está lleno de varios restaurantes que ofrecen deliciosos mariscos. Muchos de estos restaurantes ofrecen asientos en la playa, para que puedas disfrutar de tu comida y bebida mientras tomas el sol. Pueblos de playa: Además de Progreso, hay varios otros pueblos de playa ubicados en la costa norte de Mérida, aunque mucho menos turísticos que Progreso (no ofrecen su propio malecón < /em>y las opciones de restaurantes son mucho más limitadas), ¡son la opción perfecta para una escapada relajada a la playa! Algunos de los más queridos tanto por turistas como locales son: Chixchulub, Sisal y San Crisanto. Rutas a pie ¡Mérida es hermosa para simplemente pasear y admirar! Paseo de Montejo, como se mencionó anteriormente, es una de las mejores zonas para simplemente caminar y disfrutar de la vista, tal vez incluso comprar unas marquesitas de los muchos vendedores ambulantes de la zona. La impresionante arquitectura, el clima cálido , variedad de restaurantes y ambiente agradable hacen de Paseo de Montejo una opción perfecta para un día relajado en familia.

¡La cultura de México está “en la calle”! Familias y amigos salen juntos a pasear . Grandes lugares en el centro incluyen: Plaza Grande, Parque de Santa Lucía, Parque de Santa Ana y Remate de Paseo de Montejo Eventos culturales semanales gratuitos: ¡muchas familias salen a pasear después de que se pone el sol! Lunes @ 9pm - Baile tradicional de Vaquería en La Plaza Grande Martes a las 8pm - Trío Trovador (grupo de serenata) en el Auditorio Olimpo Martes @ 8:30pm - Música en vivo y baile en el Parque de Santiago Miércoles @ 8pm - Proyección de un video sobre la historia de Mérida en el exterior de Casa Montejo Jueves @ 9pm - Fantástico espectáculo de danza tradicional, música y poesía en el Parque de Santa Lucía Viernes @ 8pm - Otra proyección de video histórico en el exterior de la Catedral San Ildefonso Sábados de 8:00 p. m. a 11:00 p. m. - Noche mexicana ofrece comida, artesanías, música y baile en Remate Paseo de Montejo Gran Museo del Mundo Maya - Museo que exhibe artefactos mayas desde la antigüedad hasta la actualidad. Excelente punto de partida para comprender mejor la cultura que ha prosperado en la Península de Yucatán durante miles de años. Abierto de lunes a domingo: de 9 a. m. a 5 p. m. Entradas: MX$150 y se pueden comprar en el museo Ubicado en el norte de la ciudad, cerca de la calle principal, Calle 60 Catedral de Mérida < /span>- Esta impresionante catedral es la más antigua de toda América. Construido a partir de las ruinas de un templo maya destruido por los españoles, tiene más de 400 años. La misa se dice todos los días y varias veces los domingos La entrada es gratuita, pero se recomienda una donación a la Iglesia Ubicado en el centro de Mérida frente a la plaza principal de la ciudad Paseo de Montejo - La calle más famosa de Mérida cuenta con hermosas casas del siglo XIX. Todos los domingos por la mañana (de 8:30 a. m. a mediodía), la calle principal está cerrada para la biciruta, un evento semanal donde turistas y lugareños se reúnen para recorrer el Paseo de Montejo en bicicleta y disfrutar de la vista. y el aire de la mañana. ¡Se pueden alquilar bicicletas en el lugar por MX$20 la hora! ¡Es una excelente manera de comenzar el día y hacer algo de ejercicio mientras viaja! Cenotes - Debido a que Mérida se encuentra a pocos kilómetros de donde aterrizó el famoso meteoro que destruyó a los dinosaurios, el área está llena de cenotes (dolinas) que ofrecen algunas de las los lugares más bellos de América. Estas dolinas se encuentran repartidas por toda la península pero algunas de las más famosas por su belleza natural son las siguientes: Mucuyché: esta hacienda ofrece dos hermosos cenotes semiabiertos y un recorrido por la antigua plantación de henequén que operaba allí. Ubicados a aproximadamente una hora de la ciudad, estos hermosos cenotes son una visita obligada para cualquiera que visite Mérida. Precios: 650 pesos adultos y 390 pesos niños menores de 12 años La hacienda cuenta con estacionamiento privado, además de lockers para alquiler, piscina y restaurante Es importante tener en cuenta que debes reserva un tour para visitarlo, ya que no permiten visitas sin cita previa. Cenote Xooch: Este cenote es muy diferente al Mucuyche, ya que se ha conservado en un estado más natural. Este cenote semiabierto se encuentra a 2 horas de la ciudad de Mérida, y se ha habilitado para que los visitantes accedan fácilmente agregando una escalera de hierro. El cenote Xooch luce magnífico tanto por fuera como por dentro gracias a la cúpula abierta que deja entrar la luz. Precios: MX$90 para visitantes extranjeros, este precio incluye el alquiler de un chaleco salvavidas pero no incluye suministros de snorkel como visores. El pago es sólo en efectivo Puedes reservar un recorrido por este cenote en su página de Facebook! Cuzamá Cenotes: Ubicados aproximadamente a una hora de Mérida, los cenotes de Cuzamá son una excelente manera de sumergirse realmente en la cultura de Yucatán. Este tour ofrece 3 cenotes diferentes, así como una forma única de transporte de un cenote a otro; carros tirados por mulas conocidos como trucks (se pronuncia truuk). Los cenotes Cuzamá definitivamente no son para los débiles de corazón, prepárate para un día lleno de aventuras si decides visitar estos cenotes, especialmente el segundo del recorrido, que presenta una fuerte caída desde una escalera de madera directamente a las aguas del cenote, además, para llegar a la escalera, debes sentirte cómodo con el buceo amateur en cuevas. Precios: MX$300 para adultos y niños; Estos precios no incluyen suministros de snorkel, por lo que recomendamos traer al menos una visera para poder ver las formaciones rocosas bajo el agua. También puedes reservar un tour a estos cenotes a través de Airbnb, que incluye transporte, comida y las entradas a los cenotes por un precio que ronda los MX$1,800 por persona. Haciendas - Para una cena romántica y un paseo por los jardines, visita una hacienda en las afueras. de la ciudad. Se trata de antiguas plantaciones restauradas como restaurantes, hoteles elegantes y lugares para eventos. Algunos de nuestros favoritos son Hacienda Santa Cruz< /strong> y Hacienda Xcanatún. Uxmal - Aunque las ruinas mayas de Chichén Itzá son famosas en todo el mundo, la gran pirámide de Uxmal es en realidad más grande que la de Chichén Itzá, ¡y menos concurrida! Las ruinas de la ciudad también son hasta 400 años más antiguas que las de Chitzen. Esta ubicación ofrece una oportunidad increíble para aprender sobre la cultura antigua (y aún próspera) que influye enormemente en la cultura yucateca. Los boletos cuestan alrededor de MX$500. Se encuentra a poco más de una hora de Mérida pero definitivamente está con el viaje.

Museo del Meteorito - Ubicado en Progreso, este nuevo museo ofrece información sobre el famoso meteoro que mató al dinosaurios (que desembarcaron en las aguas al norte de Progreso). Ponylandia - Ubicado fuera de la ciudad, este zoológico interactivo tiene todos los favoritos de la granja, así como paseos en pony. Los perros ganaderos australianos también corren libres por todas partes, por lo que es una gran oportunidad para que sus hijos conozcan Blueys y Bingos de la vida real. ¿Listo? Siguiente nivel - En este restaurante con temática de Mario, cada mesa viene equipada con una Nintendo Switch que los más pequeños pueden jugar mientras comen comida del menú temático de videojuegos. También se ofrecen bebidas para los padres (algunas de las cuales también tienen temática de Mario).

A diferencia de Estados Unidos, los centros comerciales siguen siendo un gran éxito en Mérida. Hay muchos centros comerciales alrededor de la ciudad, incluido Plaza Galerías Mérida, que ofrece una pista de hielo perfecta para un día de diversión familiar, además de muchas tiendas como la tienda departamental Liverpool y algunas marcas de ropa populares en México. como Zara, Bershka, Pull and Bear, H&M, etc. Otra gran opción para un día de compras es < strong>La Isla Mérida, un centro comercial ubicado en el noreste de Mérida que incluso incluye una sala de juegos y un pequeño carnaval, ideal para que los niños se diviertan. La Isla también cuenta con un excelente patio de comidas y una agradable área al aire libre que incluye varias opciones de comida y una excelente vista de su lago artificial. Algunas de las tiendas que se encuentran aquí son: H&M, Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bath & Trabajos de Carrocería, entre otros. Además, visita la tienda de lujo ¡Ay Guey! ofreciendo camisetas, bolsos, etc. mexicanos divertidos y modernos. Si buscas encontrar algunas gangas, México ofrece una oferta anual (similar al Black Friday) alrededor del tercer fin de semana de noviembre. Además, las ventas se realizan dos veces al año: a finales de junio y después de Navidad. ¡Busque carteles de rebajas en las ventanas! Si buscas comprar algunos souvenirs o artículos únicos de la región, el centro de Mérida es el camino a seguir, hay muchas tiendas abiertas especialmente alrededor de la Calle 60 y la Calle 62. También puedes encontrar artículos artesanales en Mérida en Domingo , un mercado abierto solo los domingos en la Plaza Principal del centro, este es un evento que dura todo el día donde las calles principales del centro están cerradas para permitir a los peatones caminar y comprar entre las muchas opciones. los artesanos locales tienen para ofrecer. Y, si esto no es suficiente información, consulta Yucatán hoy!

Si quieres salir y conocer gente, ¡necesitas un plan para conectarte! Aquí tienes algunas ideas, pero siempre puedes consultar con tu anfitrión de la ciudad o con tus amigos de la ciudad para obtener más recomendaciones. Dónde colgar Aunque Mérida es una ciudad grande, los mejores lugares para pasar el rato son el centro de la ciudad, el Paseo de Montejo y la parte norte de la ciudad. Estas áreas tienen una activa vida nocturna y muchas cantinas, donde seguramente conocerás gente nueva. Otro gran lugar para conocer gente nueva es el Biblioteca Inglesa de Mérida. Sirve como un centro de facto para la considerable población de Estados Unidos y Canadá de Mérida. Aunque necesitas una membresía para poder sacar libros y asistir a eventos, las cuotas de membresía son solo MX$500 para una familia entera y MX$400 para una persona, por lo que incluso podría ser una opción más económica que comprar un libro en el aeropuerto. /p> Ejercicio y gimnasios ~ El ejercicio y los gimnasios Con tanto sol y tantas opciones, es fácil hacer ejercicio en Mérida. Paseo de Montejo es una gran opción los domingos por la mañana. Para otros días, la ciudad ha instalado recientemente senderos para caminar y andar en bicicleta en el noroeste de la ciudad que comienzan en Parque Henequenes. Un parque en particular es el Parque de las Américas, que cuenta con un hermoso anfiteatro de inspiración maya así como una columna para cada país en las Américas. Después de hacer ejercicio, prueba la comida callejera local, ya que hay varios vendedores en la zona. Como hemos mencionado antes, los distintos clubes de pádel son una gran opción para hacer ejercicio en Mérida así como una forma de conocer gente nueva. Hay gimnasios ubicados por toda la ciudad y ofrecen pases de un día. Una excelente opción es el estilo gimnasio ubicado en el centro comercial Galerías. ¡El centro comercial incluso ofrece una pista de patinaje sobre hielo si estás buscando patinar! Supermercados ~ Los supermercados (comúnmente conocidos como ''supers'' ) Asegúrese de consultar los horarios de sus supermercados locales. Las tiendas en México no siempre abren tan temprano o tan tarde como en Estados Unidos. Traiga bolsas, ya que la mayoría de las tiendas las han eliminado desde COVID. La mayoría de las tiendas también ofrecen entrega de comestibles. Chedraui ofrece la selección más amplia, pero es un poco más caro. Super Aki es un favorito local y tiene precios más económicos. México también ofrece Walmart, aunque la selección no es tan amplia como en Estados Unidos. La ciudad incluso cuenta con su propio Costco con un pequeño cenote en el estacionamiento. ¡No te preocupes, tu membresía de EE. UU. también es válida en México! ¡No olvides las convenientes tiendas Oxxo! Lugares de culto Como México es un país mayoritariamente católico, la mayoría de las iglesias que encontrarás son de esa denominación y están ubicadas por toda la ciudad. Sin embargo, también hay un creciente movimiento protestante en el país y Mérida no es una excepción. Aquí hay algunas opciones si desea asistir a la iglesia. Catedral de Mérida - Además de ser un gran monumento histórico, esta catedral ofrece misas diariamente. Iglesia Presbiteriana Shalom - Esta iglesia ofrece servicios protestantes todos los domingos.

Mérida es una ciudad extremadamente segura con tasas de criminalidad más bajas que todas las ciudades importantes de Estados Unidos. Sin embargo, esté alerta ante delitos menores como los carteristas. A continuación se ofrecen algunos consejos: Esté muy atento en zonas turísticas y concurridas como la plaza principal Mantenga su pasaporte en casa en su apartamento; utilice una caja fuerte si hay una disponible No guardes tu teléfono ni tu billetera en el bolsillo trasero Usa mochilas delante de ti Usa un bolso cruzado con cremallera cerrada Asegure su bolso o mochila a una silla o a su cuerpo en ambientes de comidas informales Lleva dinero en efectivo y/o tarjetas de crédito en un bolsillo interior con cremallera de tu bolso o mochila Cuando lleves mucho dinero en efectivo (no recomendado), guárdalo en diferentes lugares (bolsillo, mochila, dividido entre familiares o amigos, etc.) Aunque es menos común que muchas ciudades importantes de EE. UU., es posible que veas algunas personas sin hogar; generalmente son inofensivos. Si se acercan a ti, ayúdalos o diles No tengo nada (No tengo nada). También es común ver gente esperando alrededor de los semáforos vendiendo dulces y bocadillos locales, y varios otros artículos a las personas que se detienen en un semáforo en rojo. Es posible que algunas personas no vendan nada, sino que pidan dinero o realicen un espectáculo callejero para los que esperan en un semáforo. La mayoría de las personas no les dan propina ni les compran, sin embargo, si desea darles propina, lo habitual sería alrededor de MX$10. Esté alerta de ciertas personas que intentan limpiar sus parabrisas, ya que a menudo no preguntan y comenzarán a limpiar. Esto podría provocar que lo detengan ante una luz verde mientras la persona todavía está limpiando. Lo mejor es simplemente evitar esta situación diciendo "no" o moviendo el dedo hacia adelante y hacia atrás. Cuando viajas por la ciudad de Mérida, a menudo verás pequeñas tiendas llamadas "Oxxo". Se trata de tiendas de conveniencia, similares a un Seven-Eleven en Estados Unidos. Estas tiendas suelen tener todo lo que necesitas, desde cargadores de teléfono hasta analgésicos, snacks o cerveza. ¡Las tiendas Oxxo están en casi todas las esquinas de Mérida! La mayoría de las tiendas Oxxo están abiertas las 24 horas, pero ten en cuenta que Mérida tiene ley seca todos los días a partir de las 10:00 p. m. y los domingos a partir de las 5:00 p. m.

¡Afecto! ¡Los mexicanos son muy cariñosos y se conocen y saludan con besos y abrazos! Cuando conozcas a un nuevo amigo o te reúnas con viejos amigos, recuerda estas reglas generales: Las mujeres se besan Hombres y hembras se besan Los hombres se dan la mano Un beso, generalmente en la mejilla derecha En realidad, no beses sus mejillas, solo tócalas y bésalas al aire ¡Te invito! Si sales con lugareños, es posible que los escuches decir te invito o “te invito”. Esto significa que el café o el almuerzo es su regalo. Por el contrario, es posible que desees insistir en te invito. Dividir la cuenta no es una práctica común entre amigos.

La Chaya Maya - Votado como el mejor restaurante de Mérida, que sirve comida típica yucateca en un hermoso ambiente Mastache: microcervecería al aire libre que ofrece cervezas muy asequibles y deliciosa comida de bar. La Terraza Amarilla: situada junto a muchos de los hoteles más famosos de Mérida, este local informal sirve algunos de los mejores cochinita en la ciudad. Solo abre para el desayuno y el almuerzo de miércoles a domingo. Paseo 60 - Si decides tomar el autobús a Mérida, una de las paradas está justo en la entrada de este combo de comedor/hotel. Además de los puestos de comida, aquí hay numerosos restaurantes, incluido Crabster. La Pigua< /span> - Al estar tan cerca del mar, hay muchas excelentes opciones de mariscos en Mérida. Esto incluye La Pigua, que ofrece algunas capturas deliciosas. Puruxon Cauich - Puede que una gasolinera no sea el lugar donde esperarías encontrar comida deliciosa, pero una vez que entras aquí, tu mente seguramente cambiar. Este lugar sirve los platos favoritos de la región y tiene hermosos murales mayas pintados en las paredes. Maya de Asia : este elegante restaurante combina platos regionales favoritos con comida asiática para brindar una deliciosa experiencia de fusión. ¡Asegúrate de probar los panecillos de cochinita, que ofrecen un toque sabroso al favorito local! Crabster - Ubicado en Paseo 60, este exclusivo restaurante de mariscos ofrece cerveza gratis mientras comes. También hay un local en Progreso, aunque este no incluye cerveza gratis. Taquitos PM< /span> - Como sugiere el nombre, si sales hasta altas horas de la noche, puedes comer unos tacos aquí hasta altas horas de la noche. Esta cadena tiene locales por toda la ciudad Hacienda Teya - Una excelente opción exclusiva para cenar comida regional, este restaurante está ubicado en una hermosa hacienda e incluso ofrece una cancha de fútbol para los niños. Sanbravo: como opción elegante, Sanbravo ofrece cortes cortes/ premium por mucho menos de lo que esperarías pagar en casa. Al igual que en Crabster, aquí también se ofrece cerveza gratis mientras comes. Oliva - Mérida tiene muchas opciones excelentes cuando se trata de comida italiana y Oliva tiene varias ubicaciones en toda la ciudad. Ofrece deliciosa pasta hecha a mano si buscas mezclar las cosas.

¡México es conocido mundialmente por sus fiestas ruidosas y divertidas! Mérida cuenta con muchos bares diferentes e incluso cantinas antiguas para disfrutar de una gran variedad de bebidas y bailar toda la noche. Los bares cierran alrededor de las 2:00 a. m., pero si quieres salir de fiesta hasta el amanecer, ¡hay muchas discotecas que permanecen abiertas hasta el amanecer! McCarthys Pub irlandés & Absenta Pub - Son dos de los pubs más famosos de la ciudad, ofrecen música rock en vivo los fines de semana y tienen grandes ofertas como alitas por MX$6.9 y litros. jarras de cerveza de tamaño grande por MX$69 durante toda la semana. Mercado 60 - Ubicado en la famosa calle 60 del centro, Mercado 60 (no confundir con Paseo 60) es un patio de comidas abierto con muchas opciones para picar y beber. ¡Ofrecen música en vivo todas las noches y la multitud nunca rehuye bailar! Este es un gran lugar para probar la vida nocturna latina y conocer gente nueva gracias a su ambiente amigable. Whiskylucan - ¡Este bar es perfecto si buscas divertirte sin salirte de tu presupuesto ya que (en su mayoría) todo cuesta solo MX$24,9! Genial para tomar unas cervezas mientras disfrutas de sus numerosos aperitivos como tacos cantineros, esquites o tal vez incluso una buena hamburguesa con queso a la antigua. Clásico Península - Posiblemente el club nocturno más popular de Mérida, Classico Península es la opción perfecta para una noche llena de baile. Classico, uno de los lugares más frecuentados por estudiantes universitarios, siempre está lleno y es una forma divertida de conocer gente nueva. Dix - LGBTQ+, que presenta espectáculos drag de forma regular, esta discoteca está ubicada justo al lado del Parque de Santa Lucía en el corazón del centro de Mérida. ¡Asegúrate de revisar sus redes sociales ya que tienen un programa diferente cada semana! Bonificación: si visitas Mérida durante las vacaciones de primavera o de verano, ten en cuenta que muchos de los bares y discotecas más populares abren temporalmente en lo que se conoce como la “zona de antros” en Chicxulub.

Mérida es generalmente muy húmeda, soleada y cálida. Como Mérida está ubicada en la selva, las lluvias son muy comunes, especialmente durante los meses de junio a septiembre. Es importante recordar que las enfermedades transmitidas por mosquitos como el Dengue, Chikungunya y Zika son endémicas de la región, por lo que es muy recomendable llevar repelente de insectos, especialmente en días lluviosos o húmedos. Debido a su clima tropical, Mérida es cálida todo el año. Incluso en invierno, las temperaturas más bajas rondan los 60ºF. Sin embargo, si planeas visitar las playas cercanas, ten en cuenta que el viento hace que la temperatura se sienta un poco más fría. Además de tu ropa y calzado, piensa traer estos prácticos artículos: Una mochila y/o bolso cruzado con cremallera Considere un cargador de teléfono celular portátil si su teléfono tiende a perder carga rápidamente. No olvides tus gafas de sol y sombreros favoritos; ¡Los necesitarás en Mérida!

LLEGANDO El aeropuerto de Mérida está ubicado en la parte suroeste de la ciudad. No será más de 30 minutos en coche desde donde te alojes. Lo más probable es que la empresa donde alquila un automóvil tenga un quiosco en el aeropuerto y lo lleve a recoger su automóvil de alquiler (consulte a continuación para obtener más información sobre los automóviles de alquiler). Si planeas conseguir el tuyo más tarde o no usar uno, tu mejor opción sería llevar un Uber a tu casa. Si planeas volar a Cancún, la forma más fácil de llegar a Mérida desde el aeropuerto es tomando los autobuses ADO que salen directamente de las terminales del aeropuerto. ADO ofrece algunos autobuses al día que suelen salir por la tarde y por la noche. Si tiene problemas para encontrar dónde lo recogerá el autobús, pregúntele a uno de los numerosos vendedores ambulantes que venden autos de alquiler después de recoger sus maletas. Los boletos suelen costar alrededor de MX$1,000 y se pueden comprar aquí (solo asegúrese de compras un billete saliendo del aeropuertoy no del centro). ADO ofrece paradas tanto en el barrio Altabrisa en el noreste de la ciudad como en el Paseo 60, que es el centro. Aunque es un viaje largo en autobús, los autobuses tienen asientos muy cómodos, entretenimiento, wifi y un baño para el viaje de cuatro horas, que transcurre principalmente por zonas rurales/selvas. Si planea conducir desde el aeropuerto de Cancún a Mérida, es una buena idea alquilar su automóvil con anticipación. Lo más probable es que la empresa donde alquila su coche tenga un quiosco en el aeropuerto situado en el pasillo después de la recogida de equipaje. No se recomienda alquilar un coche a los vendedores ambulantes que lo rodearán cuando salga del aeropuerto, ya que probablemente le cobrarán más. Los autos también son más caros de alquilar en Cancún que si alquilas uno una vez que llegas a Mérida. Sin embargo, si planeas conducir, asegúrate de ir al baño y abastecerte de bocadillos antes de salir de Cancún, ya que solo hay una verdadera parada de descanso (ubicada aproximadamente a medio camino entre Cancún y Mérida) hasta llegar al afueras de Mérida. También tenga en cuenta que si planea conducir, hay dos casetas de peaje ubicadas en la ruta. Estos peajes solo se pueden pagar en efectivo y cuestan alrededor de MX$1,000 en total, así que asegúrese de obtener suficiente dinero en su banco local antes de partir. O bien, puedes acudir a un quiosco de cambio de divisas en el aeropuerto, pero no ofrecen las mejores tarifas. MOVERSE POR LA CIUDAD Los Ubers son seguros, fáciles y económicos. La mayoría de los viajes por la ciudad no cuestan más de MX$100 (US$5-6). Para comparar precios y tiempos de espera, también puedes descargar DiDi. Otra gran opción son los autobuses Va y Ven. Cuestan unos pesos más que los viejos autobuses amarillos, pero son mucho más limpios, más nuevos, más frescos y menos concurridos. Los autobuses Va y Ven también incluyen aire acondicionado, WiFi y puntos de carga para tu teléfono u otros dispositivos electrónicos. Puedes ver esta opción de autobús en Google o descargar la aplicación Va y Ven en tu teléfono. Allí podrás acceder a horarios (aunque la app está en español). Es importante señalar que para poder tomar estos autobuses debes haber adquirido previamente una tarjeta Va y Ven. Estas tarjetas se pueden obtener y recargar en Oxxo (ver “Street Smarts”). Simplemente dile al cajero “me gustaría recargar mi tarjeta del Va y Ven” y entrégale la cantidad de dinero más la tarjeta. También puedes adquirir y recargar estas tarjetas en varios quioscos ubicados por la ciudad. Por último, siempre puedes alquilar un coche. Es una buena idea reservar su automóvil ANTES de partir para fijar el precio y asegurar su viaje preferido (busque el alquiler de su automóvil aquí). Asegúrate de elegir una transmisión automática si no puedes conducir con palanca de cambios, ya que las manuales son mucho más comunes en México. Siempre que tenga una licencia en los EE. UU., podrá conducir un automóvil en México. Tendrás que comprar el seguro que ofrecen ya que tu seguro estadounidense no será válido en caso de accidente. Al igual que en el resto de México, los conductores en Mérida tienden a ser muy agresivos y a menudo tratan las señales de tránsito, como los límites de velocidad, más como una recomendación que como una ley real. Por lo tanto, puede que sea necesario un poco de tiempo para acostumbrarse a la cultura de la conducción. La gasolina en México tiende a costar más que en Estados Unidos. Aunque el precio de la gasolina se anuncia en litros en el cartel frente a la gasolinera, puedes esperar pagar lo que equivale a unos 4,50 dólares por galón. A diferencia de la mayoría de los EE. UU., las gasolineras en México tienen asistentes que llenan el tanque por usted. Si no sabes cuántos litros quieres, puedes simplemente decirle al trabajador “un tanque lleno por favor” que pida un tanque lleno. Una vez que le hayan surtido el combustible, le entregarán la máquina de tarjetas de crédito y pagará allí mismo. Asegúrate de darle al trabajador unos cuantos pesos (10-20) como propina(propina).

México es conocido por tener comida deliciosa y Mérida no es una excepción. La comida yucateca es conocida en todo México por sus sabores únicos. Mérida tiene algo que ofrecer para cada paladar y estado de ánimo: desde puestos de tacos con agujeros en la pared hasta cadenas estadounidenses que reconocerá en casa, hasta cenas elegantes con cortes de carne de primera calidad y costosas botellas de vino. Al igual que en EE. UU., te sentarás y pedirás en un restaurante. Para ordenar, simplemente diga quiero ______. Algunos lugares aceptan reservaciones, pero recuerde que es posible que el almuerzo no se sirva hasta las 2:00 p. m. y la cena hasta las 8:00 o 9:00 p. m. ¡Recuerda siempre dar propina una vez que recibas tu factura! Hablando de comida y cena, recuerda que este es el horario típico de comida: El desayuno/Desayuno al despertar: un buen momento para tomar el icónico desayuno de nachos, chilaquiles o el plato de cerdo especialidad maya, cochinita pibil . El almuerzo/Lunch (2:00-4:00 pm) - la comida más grande del día; siéntate, relájate y disfruta de una cerveza. La cena/Dinner (entre las 9:00 y las 11:00 p. m.): tiende a ser más liviana, pero si estás acostumbrado a comer una cena abundante, lo haces. ¡tú! Por supuesto, siempre puedes encontrar un Starbucks o un McDonald's, y aunque recomendamos locales locales, a veces es divertido detenerte en estos favoritos familiares y ver qué comidas o bebidas culturales forman parte del menú. ¡Prometemos no juzgar! Bien, hablemos de algunos bocados que debes probar mientras estés en Mérida: Cochinita Pibil- La carne de cerdo maya antes mencionada se sirve en tacos o en torta (sándwich de subtipo grande). Suele tomarse como desayuno y es una excelente forma de empezar el día sintiéndote como un auténtico yucateco. Panuchos- ¡No te los puedes perder para la cena! Son tortillas refritas rellenas de frijoles negros refritos y cubiertas con pollo o pavo. Agrega el repollo picado, el tomate, la cebolla morada encurtida, el aguacate y el chile jalapeño encurtido. Marquesitas: piense en un fino cono de waffle relleno con una variedad de deliciosas opciones como plátanos, mermelada, mantequilla de maní y queso crema. El favorito local es Nutella con queso Edam (queso de bola). Los carritos que los venden se pueden encontrar por toda la ciudad, en plazas, parques y en cualquier lugar con mucho tránsito peatonal. Camarones/camarones- Aunque Mérida no es una ciudad costera, el océano está cerca y a menudo hay muchos platos de camarones deliciosos y asequibles en el menú. . Piedritas: "piedras" en español. Son bolas duras de masa que generalmente se rellenan con frijoles y son un excelente aperitivo. Tradicionalmente se comen como refrigerio durante los juegos de béisbol. Kibis- Generalmente se sirven con piedritas, estas son más largas y tienen trigo como corteza. El interior está relleno de carne y, a veces, de queso. Mucbipollo- También conocido como “pib”, este plato se sirve casi exclusivamente durante el Día de los muertos, así que si estás en la ciudad entonces, prepara Asegúrate de intentarlo. Las bebidas/Drinks: Café con leche- Café con leche; la proporción es 50/50. Horchata- Esta bebida dulce hecha de arroz es una excelente manera de refrescarse. Jamaica- Conocida como té de hibisco en inglés, esta deliciosa bebida se suele servir fría en Mérida. Michelada- México es conocido por su amor por las especias. Esto también se aplica a la cerveza, ya que las micheladas combinan cerveza con jugo de lima y especias. Ojo rojo: similar en apariencia a una michelada, pero usa jugo de tomate y es menos picante. Tinto de verano- Una bebida refrescante de verano; vino tinto mezclado con Sprite. Bonus: xtabentún- Esta fuerte bebida tradicional maya no es para los débiles de corazón, pero es divertida de probar para aquellos que son lo suficientemente valientes. El hielo y el agua de los restaurantes son tratados, pero no bebas agua del grifo en ningún lugar de México. Lave bien cualquier producto que compre con jabón (o desinfectante especial para productos). También es una buena idea evitar las frutas y verduras de los vendedores ambulantes; si no tienen cáscara, es posible que no hayan sido desinfectadas.

Viajar es una excelente manera de ampliar la educación de sus hijos. Busque videos en línea y realice estas actividades con sus hijos antes de hacer las maletas. ¡Apostamos que tú también aprenderás algo! VIDEOS SOBRE MÉXICO PARA NIÑOS Datos curiosos Historia maya Cultura yucateca para niños que hablan español con fluidez DÓNDE VIVIRÉ Encuentra México en un mapa mundial: habla sobre cómo llegarás allí y cuánto tiempo llevará Explora Mérida en Google Maps Ve a "Mis mapas" y crea un mapa con todos los lugares que te gustaría visitar Descubre cómo llegar desde tu apartamento al parque, supermercado, heladería, etc. más cercano. Prueba mapas para caminar, transporte público, etc. Recorre tu barrio de Mérida en Google Street View: ¿en qué se parece o se diferencia de tu barrio de casa?

En caso de una emergencia inmediata, Mérida utiliza el 911 como número de emergencia. Los operadores hablan inglés. Si viajas con niños, asegúrate de que sepan cómo enviarte mensajes de texto o llamarte si se pierden. Si sus hijos son muy pequeños, considere escribir su número en su ropa o en un papel que lleven en el bolsillo. Enséñeles sobre el 911. Hable con ellos con anticipación y haga un plan. Hay muchos hospitales (pronunciado oh-spee-TAHL) con departamentos de emergencia. Busque Urgencias. Comuníquese con su anfitrión de la ciudad para que lo acompañe y lo guíe a través del proceso. Hay muchas opciones, pero aquí tienes dos que están abiertas las 24 horas: Hospital Star Médica de Mérida: C. 26 199, Col. Altabrisa, 97130 Hospital Faro del Mayab Grupo Christus Muguerza Calle 24 S/N, Temozón Norte, Santa Gertrudis Copo, 97305 Centro Médico de las Américas (CMA) Calle 54 365, Zona Paseo Montejo, Centro, 97000 Farmacias o Farmacias - Si no se siente bien o necesita una receta, un farmacéutico puede ayuda. Pueden proporcionar un diagnóstico y una prescripción en el acto. Muchos medicamentos que requieren receta médica en Estados Unidos están disponibles sin receta en México. ¡Quizás incluso quieras comprobar si alguno de tus medicamentos está más barato en Mérida! Sólo sepa que pueden tener diferentes nombres y/o dosis; un ejemplo básico de esto es que en México, el paracetamol (comúnmente conocido como Tylenol), se conoce como paracetamol (comúnmente conocido como Tempra). Hay muchas farmacias abiertas las 24 horas entre ellas: Farmacias Yza, Farmacias del Bazar, etc. ubicadas por toda la ciudad. Pago: el costo dependerá del tratamiento necesario. Presente cualquier comprobante de seguro médico o de viaje y comuníquese con su proveedor de seguros de inmediato en caso de que necesite tratar directamente con el hospital. Asegúrese de recibir una factura detallada.

Mérida y el estado de Yucatán tienen una gran población maya. No es raro escuchar maya en lugar de español mientras camina por la calle. Naturalmente, muchas palabras mayas han llegado a la lengua vernácula española local. Esto puede resultar confuso incluso para personas de otras partes de México que no están familiarizadas con el idioma maya. Aquí hay algunas palabras básicas que podría ser útil saber, al menos para impresionar a los lugareños: Chop-calle significa calle sin salida. Es importante saber esto en caso de que solicite direcciones, por ejemplo, "La siguiente calle es chop-calle, no se meta ahí" significa "la siguiente calle es un callejón sin salida, no entre allí". Xix, pronunciado "sheesh", significa sobras. Generalmente se usa para decir que queda poco de algo. Por ejemplo, "solo queda un xix" significa "apenas queda". ¡Fo! significa ''¡Ew!'' Escarpa (pronunciado es-scar-pah) significa acera. Miriñaque (pronunciado mee-ree-nyah-keh) significa puerta mosquitera, y la mayoría de las casas las tienen para mantener alejados a los mosquitos y permitir que entre la brisa que tanto necesita.< /p> Zatz significa rancio. Por ejemplo “no comas esas papas; están bien zatz” significa “No te comas esas patatas fritas; están muy obsoletos”. Chihuó (chee-woh) significa tarántula, así que ten cuidado si alguien grita "¡Hay una chihuó!" Perech significa apretado. Saber esto puede ser útil, especialmente considerando que la mayoría de los lugares en Mérida tienen "vienes vienes" en sus estacionamientos que intentarán ayudarlo a estacionar. Si escuchas a alguien decir “No se estacione ahí, va a quedar muy perech”, significa “No estaciones ahí, el espacio es muy reducido”. Tolok (pronunciado toh-look) significa iguana; Probablemente nunca escuches a un local decir la palabra "iguana", ya que tolok se usa mucho. Si estás interesado en el tema de la jerga maya y la cultura yucateca, te recomendamos encarecidamente el libro Pasaporte Yucateco. Está disponible por alrededor de $5 dólares en la mayoría de las librerías o tiendas de souvenirs locales. Habla sobre señales culturales, algo de historia y puntos de referencia importantes. También puedes conseguirlo en la página web del creador aquí!

Madrid is beautiful to simply pasear (walk around) and admire! Use this incredible guide to map out your preferred route. Pages 11-37 offer seven different routes.

You can find anything at the heralded Spanish department store El Corte Inglés. There are many throughout Madrid, some even six stories with their supermarket on the lowest level, and home goods, clothing and anything else you need on the upper levels. You may not find the best bargains here, but you will find good quality items. Take a break from shopping at the Corte Inglés café! Speaking of bargains, sales run twice a year–in late June and post-Christmas. Look for rebajas signs in the windows! Other typical Spanish stores are Zara, Mango, Desigual, and Aldolfo Dominguez. Sol and Goya are great clothes shopping areas. A plethora of shoe stores (often with high-quality shoes) are found on la calle (street) Augusto Figuerora. La Plaza Mayor and Sol offer fun touristy stores, as well. Looking for art? Buy prints at the museum gift shops or check out the artists dotting the Paseo del Prado or Retiro Park. Lastly, find it all at El Rastro flea market from 9am–3pm on Sundays. El Rastro is located in La Latina neighborhood, in the triangle-shaped area formed by Calle Embajadores and Ronda de Toledo. It runs along the street Ribera de Curtidores and through Plaza de Cascorro. Fun and colorful, but it’s crowded and beware of pickpockets! Metro: La Latina (L5) or Puerta de Toledo (L5). And, if we haven’t told you enough, here is an amazing Comprehensive Tourism Guide!

If you want to get out and meet people, you need a plan for plugging in! Here are some ideas, but you can always check with your city host or city friends for more recommendations. Where to hang Madrid is made up of different neighborhoods, each with its own personality. For example, Moncloa/Argüelles and Salamanca are known as luxurious, Malasaña and La Latina as hipster or trendy, Lavapiés for it’s diversity and Chueca for it’s LGBTQ+ crowd, to name a few. Find out more with this Neighborhood Guide Exercise and Gyms ~ El ejercicio y los gimnasios With so much sunshine and so many parks, it’s easy to exercise outside in Madrid. Check out the trails and pathways at Madrid Rio Park, Casa de Campo, or Retiro Park to name a few. Many parks also offer biking or tennis and padel (reserve your court ahead of time). Check out this guide to outdoor exercise. Madrid also offers many excellent public sports facilities. Reserve a tennis court or swim laps at an indoor pool. Reserve online or check hours here. Looking for a gym? Here are some ideas or try Gymage on Gran Vía for day/week passes. Supermarkets ~ Los supermercados Be sure to check the hours of your local supermarkets. Stores in Spain aren’t always open as early or as late as in the U.S. Bring bags or a pull-cart. Most stores also offer grocery delivery. Carrefour and Carrefour Express are the most prevalent, average prices Día and Lidl are more economical options Find out more with this helpful guide Places of Worship Get involved with a church, temple, or mosque. This list is a good place to start. Although it is on the outskirts of town, Iglesia Salem is a large diverse, evangelical church with many groups and classes to join. Metro: San Francisco (L11), Carabanchel Alto (L5) Co-working Spaces The Shed and Area offer day, week, and month passes. If you need a place on the cheap, here are some recommended coffee shops or find a public library near you.

Sights to See Prado Museum* - World-renowned, featuring art from the 12th–early 20th centuries; famous painters include Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and Sorolla Open Monday–Saturday: 10am–8pm and Sunday: 10am–7pm Tickets: 0-24€ - Check all options; under 18 and students 18–25 are free; also different prices for certain art collections Free (but busy!) Monday to Saturday: 6pm–8pm and Sundays and Public Holidays: 5pm–7pm Metro - Banco de España (L2), Estación del Arte (L1) Reina Sofia Museum* - One of the city’s best, featuring art mainly from the 20th century; famous artists include Picasso, Dalí, and Miró Open Monday, Wednesday–Saturday: 10am–9pm and Sunday: 10am–2:30pm (Closed Tuesday) Tickets: 0–16.50€ online - Check all options; under 18 and students 18–25 are free; also different prices for certain art collections Free (but busy!) Monday, Wednesday–Saturday: 7–9pm and Sunday: 12:30–2:30pm Estación del Arte (L1), Lavapiés (L3) Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum* - Another excellent museum, featuring art from the middle ages to the late 20th century; famous artists include Caravaggio, Rubens, Monet, Degas, and Lichtenstein Open Monday (FREE): 12–4pm and Tuesday–Friday and Sunday: 10am–7pm and Saturday 10am–10pm Tickets: 0–13€ online - Check all options; under 18 and students 18–25 are free; also different prices for certain art collections Banco de España (L2), Sevilla (L2) *Visit all three museums one day each with the Art Walk Pass for 32€ Temple of Debod and beautiful view - admire this Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BC and the gorgeous view of the city below; beautiful at dusk or night! Free, outdoors Metro - Plaza de España (L2, L3, L10), Príncipe Pío (L6, L10, R), Ventura Rodríguez (L3) Royal Palace (included in all Group Adventures) - built in the 18th century, boasting over 3000 rooms and beautiful gardens Open April–September Monday–Saturday: 10am–7pm and Sunday: 10am–4pm Tickets: 0–12€ check options online Changing of the Guard (free): Wednesdays and Saturdays on la calle (street) Bailén from 11am–2pm and 10am–12pm June 19–September 18 Ópera (L2, L5, R), Plaza de España (L2, L3, L10)

Una o dos semanas antes de tu viaje, haz un plan para usar tu teléfono en España. Si viaja con su familia, considere si es necesario que utilice datos en varios teléfonos o si limitará su uso a un solo teléfono. Si su teléfono celular está bloqueado, consulte con su proveedor de telefonía celular sobre los planes y costos internacionales. La mayoría de los proveedores ofrecen un pase por $10/día que puedes elegir activar cada día, proporcionando datos ilimitados durante 24 horas. O, si no planeas usar aplicaciones y simplemente quieres enviar mensajes de texto o llamar de vez en cuando (sin conectarte a WiFi), puedes pagar la tarifa de tu proveedor por mensaje de texto o llamada desde España; verifica esto con anticipación para que lo sepas. ¡En qué te estás metiendo! O, si tienes un teléfono desbloqueado y planeas usar aplicaciones (¡piensa en el GPS!) o enviar mensajes de texto con regularidad, una opción que te permitirá ahorrar dinero y liberarte del estrés puede ser activar una eSIM. Esto proporciona información de doble SIM para que tengas un número de teléfono español y un plan de datos para España manteniendo tu número de teléfono americano. A menudo, esto es mucho más barato que pagar 10 dólares al día. Descarga la aplicación Airalo o Holafly para activar tu eSIM y comprar planes internacionales.

Madrid is generally dry and sunny, but it does rain occasionally or have a rare snow in the winter. It can be cool when the sun goes down so scarves/pashminas or light jackets are great to carry with you if you’re out and about at dusk. Layers and comfortable shoes or sandals are always a good idea. Spaniards generally dress a bit more formally than Americans and save flip-flops only for the beach. In addition to you clothes and footwear, plan to bring these practical items: A backpack and/or crossbody purse that zips A converter/adapter for electronics (the converter is especially important if you are packing a hair dryer or curling iron) Consider a portable cell phone charger if your phone tends to lose charge quickly Perhaps a jar of peanut butter if you or your kids can’t live without it; while Nutella is prevalent, peanut butter can be hard to find Don’t forget your favorite sunglasses; you will need them in Madrid!

Madrid is very easy to navigate, especially if you use an app. In Google Maps, you can choose walking directions or select the train icon for public transportation. The train icon will provide step-by-step instructions for both subway and bus. Other helpful apps are Metro Madrid or Citymapper. The Metro (subway) is easy, safe, and reliable. Here are a few tips: Save money by buying a 10-pass ticket for 12.20 euros. This is shareable! Keep your ticket–you need to insert it again to exit. You can change lines on one trip/ticket, just don’t exit through the turnstiles. Places will often publish the closest metro stop like this: Metro Sol (L1, L2, L3). This means that the stop is Sol, on lines 1, 2, or 3. Rush hours can be crowded (7:30–9:30am and 6:00–8:00pm) The Metro runs 6:00am–1:30am. Check out these 10 Tips for more details! Public Buses are a great way to get around while also seeing the city. They are timely, clean and used by many locals. You can use your Metro ticket for the bus or cash is accepted, as well. Trains or buses will take you anywhere in Spain. The two main train stations in Madrid are Atocha (center/south side of the city) and Chamartín (north side). There are buses out of town from various stations. Access bus information here and the train information here. Taxis and ride shares are also prevalent, and if traveling with a family, they may be easier and cheaper. Simply hail a cab (they are white with green) or use a rideshare app like Uber, Lyft, or the Spanish app, Cabify.

Kids’ Corner Travel is a great way to expand your childrens’ education. Do these activities with your kids before packing your bags. We bet you’ll learn something, too! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPGODwWDFXg Money Videos for Kids that Know Spanish Euros explained Euros explained + addition Shopping with Euros Where I will Live Find Spain on a world map - talk about how you will get there and how long it takes Explore Madrid on Google Maps Go to “My Maps” and create a map with all of the places you’d like to visit Find out how to get from your piso (apartment) to the closest park, grocery store, ice cream shop, etc. Try walking maps, public transportation, etc. Tour your Madrid neighborhood in Google Street View - how is it similar to or different from your neighborhood at home? Webquest - explore online to find out more about what you will see, do, and eat! The Segovia Castle ~ El Alcázar de Segovia - What famous king and queen once lived here? What does it have to do with Disney? Soccer ~ El fútbol - What are the two rival teams of Madrid? Where do they play? Which team is better? Who are their star players? Retiro Park - Find it on the map. How can you get there from your piso (apartment)? What can you do there and what would you like to do? The Royal Palace ~ El Palacio Real - Does the royal family still live there? Who is the royal family? When was it built? How many rooms does it have? What is flamenco? Find a video! What is your favorite part about flamenco? Do you like to look at famous works of art? Search for famous paintings by Dalí, Goya, Miró, Picasso, or Velázquez. Which one is your favorite? Why? In what museum can you see it? What are some of these foods and drinks? Are you ready to try them? Tortilla española, Colacao, Paella, Bocadillos de jamón, Flan More Interesting Sites and Videos National Geographic Kids - Spain All About Spain for older Spanish-speaking kids and teens

El Mercado (Market) de San Miguel - upscale food market with many cafés and restaurants; directly west of La Plaza Mayor El Corte Inglés Gourmet Experience - enter the Corte Inglés Department Store in Plaza Callao and head to the 9th floor; many restaurants to please the pickiest of eaters with a common eating space and great views El museo de jamón - a bit touristy, but a very Spanish experience enjoying the iconic jamón serrano Bar el Brillante - bocadillos de calamares; Metro line 1, stop: Estación del arte La Chocolatería de San Ginés - historical café for churros and chocolate just north of La Plaza Mayor La Casa Botín - the oldest restaurant in the world; enjoy a classy and classic Spanish meal; just south of La Plaza Mayor; reserve online La calle (street) de Cava Baja - the best street to go tapeando in Madrid; try a tapa or two at each bar and keep strolling; Metro - La latina (L5)

Deets on the Eats Spain is known for seafood, tapas, and wine! When dining out, you can choose between a bar or a restaurant. Bars are family-friendly and located on about every street corner. They are casual and inexpensive, open all day for coffee, fresh-squeezed orange juice, tapas, and alcoholic drinks. You order at the bar by saying ponme _______. Then sit right there or at a table. When you finish, just toss your napkin on the floor! Many bars have terrazas or patios to enjoy the Spanish sun. Here are a few pointers for these coveted spots. First of all, the patio is the priciest. Most menus will show three prices: the cheapest is the bar, then the inside tables, and the patio price is the most expensive–you pay for that sunshine! If you find a table, go ahead and grab it; you don’t need to be seated (but you do need to be quick). Lastly, one bar’s seating will often run into the seating next door. Or, the seating will be across the street from the bar. Double-check the tables to see if they match the bar where you want to be. Like in the U.S., you will sit down and order at a restaurant. To order, simply say quiero ______. Some places will take reservations, but remember lunch may not be served until 2:00pm and dinner until 8:00 or 9:00pm. Remember, tipping is only a euro or two, if you want. Speaking of lunch and dinner, remember that this is the typical meal schedule: El desayuno/Breakfast when you wake – a croissant or piece of toast with coffee; think light El almuerzo/Early lunch (11:00am–Noon) – normally un bocadillo La comida/Afternoon lunch (2:00-4:00pm) – the largest meal of the day; sit down, relax and enjoy una copa de vino La cena/Dinner (between 9:00–11:00pm) – tends to be lighter Of course, you can always find a Starbucks or a McDonald’s (with a walk-up window!), and while we recommend local joints sometimes it’s fun to stop into these familiar faves and see what cultural foods or drinks make the menu! We promise not to judge! Okay, let’s talk terms with some of these common menu words: Tapas – a small plate of food, often to share; some bars or restaurants may offer light tapas complimentary with drinks Pinchos/Pintxos – a single tapa, often easy to grab on a baguette slice or served with a skewer or toothpick; a menu may give a price per unit (2€/ud. for example) of pinchos and sometimes tapas Bocadillos – think sub sandwich but on a crustier bread with fewer ingredients; typically with jamón (Spanish jamón serrano, not American ham!) or queso manchego but not both; or try one with tortilla española Menú del día – the menu of the day is often posted outside of a restaurant at lunchtime (2pm–4pm); it typically includes bread, soup or salad, one of two or three main dishes offered, dessert, and a drink (including wine or beer); these multi-course meals are the way to go as they are filling and economically priced! Una caña – a small glass of the house beer Agua – un vaso de agua or agua del grifo is free, clean tap water; if you don’t specify, you will be paying for bottled water; you may be asked natural o con gas (natural is non-carbonated and con gas is carbonated) Lastly, everyone’s favorite part–what to eat! Don’t leave Madrid without trying these local faves: Las bebidas/Drinks Café con leche – coffee with milk; the proportion is 50/50 Colacao – (pronounced cola-cow) chocolate milk, cold/frío or hot/caliente; delicious for kids and adults alike Un vaso de jugo de naranja – a glass of OJ, typically room temp and always fresh-squeezed and delicious Un tinto de verano – a refreshing summer drink; red wine mixed with lemon Fanta (order con limón) or seltzer water (order con Casera) Una clara – another great refresher; beer mixed with seltzer water Sangría – um…no explanation necessary, but don’t forget to drink it while sitting on una terraza Las comidas/Foods Quesos – cheeses; typical, tasty chesses are queso de cabra (goat cheese) or queso manchego Jamón serrano – cured pork cut thin; served alone or with bread Chorizo – different from Mexican chorizo, Spanish chorizo is sliced, served cold or as a hot tapa Morcilla – blood sausage served hot; don’t knock it till you try it! Tortilla – AKA tortilla española or tortilla de patatas; found in every bar, consisting of egg, potato and onion cooked in olive oil; order on a bocadillo or as a pincho with bread; some places will offer ingredients other than potato Croquetas – a breaded and fried tapa filled with creamy bechamel and typically ham (order de jamón) Gazpacho – cold, refreshing tomato-based soup Calamares – squid, normally in rings; sometimes on a bocadillo with mayonnaise Cocido madrileño – a traditional winter stew with chickpeas, meat, and vegetables Paella – well-known globally; rice and seafood dish from the Mediterranean coast but found throughout Spain Churros y chocolate – fried dough with a thick chocolate sauce for dipping

In case of an immediate emergency, Spain’s 911 is 112. Operators speak English. If you are traveling with children, be sure they know a way to text or call you if they get lost. If your kids are very young, consider writing your number in their clothing or on a paper that they keep in their pocket. Teach them about 112. Talk to them ahead of time and make a plan. There are many hospitals (pronounced oh-spee-TAHL) with emergency departments. Look for Urgencias. Contact your City Host to go along and guide you through the process. There are many options, but here are two that are open 24-hours: Maternal and Child Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Calle de O’Donnell, 48, 28009 (Metro: O’Donnell L6) Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital, C. del Dr. Esquerdo, 46, 28007 (Metro: O’Donnell L6) Farmacias or Pharmacies – Look for the green cross! If you’re not feeling well or need a prescription, a pharmacist can help. They can provide a diagnosis and prescription on the spot. Many drugs that require a prescription in the U.S. are available over-the-counter in Spain. You may even want to check if any of your medications are cheaper in Madrid! Just know that they may have different names and/or doses. There are many 24-hour pharmacies including Farmalife pharmacy Santa Ana, Pl. del Ángel, 14, 28012 (Metro: Sol L1, L2, L3). Homeopathic medicine is widely available in Madrid, as well. Payment – cost will depend on the treatment needed. Present any proof of Travel/Medical Insurance and contact your insurance provider immediately in case they need to deal directly with the hospital. Be sure to get a detailed bill.

Spain is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, be alert to pickpockets; even at the airport! Here are some pointers: Be very vigilant in tourist areas and crowded areas like subways Keep your passport at home in your apartment; use a safe if one is available Don’t keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket Wear backpacks in front of you Use a crossbody purse with a closed zipper Secure your purse or backpack to a chair or your body in casual dining environments Carry cash and/or credit cards in an inside zipper pocket of your purse or pack When carrying a lot of cash (not recommended), keep it in different places (pocket, pack, divided among family or friends, etc.) It is not uncommon to see homeless people; they are generally harmless. If they approach you, either help them out or say No tengo nada (I don’t have anything).

Spain uses the Euro Credit cards and Apple Pay/Phone apps are widely accepted; keep 5-10€ on you for street stands Bonus! Sales tax (IVA) is already included on the pricetag Sales and coupons are not common when shopping; Rebajas or sales usually begin late June and after Christmas Tipping is not as common or as expected as in the U.S. Here are some optional recommendations Rides: No tip for Uber, Lyft or Cabify; Taxis – round up to leave the change Restaurants: 0-10% depending on the service (check your bill for servicio incluído in case gratuity was already added) Bar: leave the change back in coins or a euro or two Delivery services: 10%

Affection! Be ready to witness some public displays of affection in Spain. Folks don’t hang out at home very often, so kissing becomes a public passtime! Spaniards also meet and greet with kisses! When you meet a new friend or get together with old friends, remember these general rules: Females kiss Females and males kiss Males shake hands Two kisses – left cheeks, then right cheeks Don’t actually kiss their cheek, just touch cheeks and air kiss Saying it like it is! Madrileños are very genuine…very! This means that their way of speaking is direct and to the point. Por favor and gracias are optional and excellent customer service is uncommon. Don’t let this ruffle your feathers – appreciate the honesty and remember that tipping is not expected. ¡Te invito! If you go out with locals, you may hear them say te invito or “I invite you”. This means that coffee or lunch is their treat. Conversely, you may want to insist te invito. Splitting the bill is not common practice among friends.

Fun Activities Madrid City Tour Bus - hop on/hop off open-air or enclosed bus with audio guides Buy online and save 10% Tickets: 6 and under free; 11-25€ Retiro Park - Madrid’s lung and UNESCO Heritage Site; enjoy the scenery, rent a paddle boat, play some tennis, have a caña, or just people watch; Metro - Retiro (L2), Atocha (L1), or Ibiza (L9) Casa de Campo Park - An expansive park on Madrid’s west side; Batán (L10), Casa de Campo (L5, L10), Lago (L10), Puerta del Ángel (L6) Indoor/Outdoor Community Pools Open daily in the summer 9:30am–2:00pm and 4:00pm–8:30pm Must buy pool tickets ahead of time online; city host can help Lago (L10), Puerta del Ángel (L6) Cable Cars See the city from above Buy tickets online to bypass the line Metro - Argüelles (L3, L4, L6), Batán (L10), or Lago (L10) Zoo Aquarium Check website for times, shows and buy online to save Tickets 25-40€ Casa de Campo (L5, L10) Parque de atracciones (Theme Park) Check website for times, shows and buy online to save Tickets 22-45€ Batán (L10) Flamenco Show (included in all Group Adventures) - This passionate performance of rhythm, guitar, and dance is a must! We like the intimate Las Tablas venue, but there are many to choose from. Bullfight - Bullfighting season is the end of March through mid-October. This cultural tradition is highly controversial and has even been banned in Catalonia (northeast Spain). If you are up for it, check out the online schedule and tickets for La Plaza de Toros, Las Ventas. Or, consider a tour! Soccer Match - The two rival teams of Madrid are Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. Real Madrid’s stadium is on the north side of town and Atletico’s is on the south. If you are visiting during the season (late May–early November), try to catch a game. The skill of the players and passion of the fans is unparalleled! Buy your Real Madrid or Atlético tickets ahead of time. Warner Theme Park - take the light rail or Uber and enjoy at day riding roller coasters; check the site for times and tickets and check here for more details and how to get there

¡Mucha marcha! Madrid knows how to party! When going out in Madrid, the night starts with dinner (remember, this may start between 10:00pm and midnight) at a restaurant and/or drinks at a bar. Bars close around 2:00 or 3:00am, and then it’s time to dance at a nightclub or discoteca until dawn. Know your neighborhoods to find the scene that fits you: Malasaña – rock Huertas – pop; young crowd and tourists Argüelles/Moncloa – college Chueca – LGBTQ+ Kapital is Madrid’s most iconic discoteca, boasting seven different floors and a rooftop! Metro: Atocha (L1) This USA Today Top 10 includes jazz clubs, rooftops, and other discotecas or check out Nightflow for extensive info on where to let loose. Whatever your scene is, you’ll find it in Madrid. When the party’s over, get home by cab, rideshare or take the night city buses (buhos or owls). Be sure to check the schedules as they are different than the day buses. Or, party till the Metro opens again at 6:00am. ¡Hasta los churros! Until the churros – party until the churrerías open for breakfast.

Fun for Kids Los Secretos de Lola - flowery and fancy; Make your reservation online for Spanish food with some variation (be warned that you will not find typical “American kid food” here); Metro - La Latina (L5) Comic Planet - fun superhero-themed setting with American fare; Metro - Cuzco (L10) Lamucca de Plaza de España - varied menu including pizzas and a few kid options; play area inside for the little ones; Metro - Plaza de España (L3, L10)

Deets on the Eats In Quepos/Manuel Antonio, you will have the chance to eat food from all over the world. Local, typical food can be found at Sodas. Sodas are local mom and pop restaurants where locals will go to grab a quick breakfast or lunch. Gallo Pinto or Pinto is a staple in Costa Rica! This mix of rice and beans is eaten daily for breakfast and often served with eggs, natilla (sour cream), and fried plantains. Some restaurants also add corn tortillas or fried cheese to their breakfast plates. Salsa Lizano is a mild, flavorful sauce that you will find on tables and is often added on top of pinto. When you order your eggs, they will ask if you want them fritos o revueltos/picados (fried or scrambled). Over-medium, sunny side up, and poached are not common or understood terms, so keep it simple- fried or scrambled! Many restaurants will serve fried eggs with a very runny yoke- if this is a problem, ask for the yema (yoke) to be bien cocida (well cooked). Casados literally translated as “married”, this is a complete typical meal. A plate will include rice, beans, a small salad (cabbage, tomato and lime, a potato salad or ensalada rusa made with beets and mayo), and a form of picadillo (translated “chopped up”, this could be one of many chopped and sauteed vegetables, often cooked with ground beef). Choose your protein and you will have a complete meal! Costa Rican food is not spicy. There may be hot sauce on the table that you can add. You may see a glass jar of pickled vegetables on your table. This encurtido is not spicy, but adds some vinegar-based zing to your food. A chilero on the other hand, often has a reddish tint, and will be spicy. When in doubt, ask your waiter! Grabbing a cup of coffee? A diet coke? Most places do not have unlimited free refills, so you will be paying for each cup or glass. Like in the U.S., you will sit down and order at a restaurant. If you want to sound local, when you order, use the phrase “me regala…” This is literally translated as, “gift me with..” It is a more subtle and polite way to say “I would like/I want”. Drinking water is generally very clean in Costa Rica, but If you want bottled water, ask for “una botella de agua”. If tap is okay, you can order “agua del tubo”. Most restaurants will not bring your bill. They do not want to rush you and will let you sit and relax. If you are in a hurry or when you are ready to leave, simply tell the waiter la cuenta, por favor (check please) and they will bring it to your table. You can also make a gesture of signing your name in the air, and they will know to bring the check. Double check restaurant schedules online when possible. Many restaurants will be closed one day a week, often on a Monday or Tuesday, to give their employees a day off. In September or October, it is not uncommon for restaurants to close for a week or two to give employees vacation during low tourist season. Lastly, everyone’s favorite part–what to eat! Don’t leave Quepos without trying these local faves: Las bebidas/Drinks Café con leche - coffee with milk; the proportion is 50/50. Tapa dulce - a sweet drink made with sugarcane and warm water. This drink isn’t to everyone’s liking, but is quite typical, eaten with a homemade churreado (sweet corn tortilla). Batidos - fruit smoothies. Costa Rica has an amazing selection of fresh fruit! These can be ordered en leche (with milk) or en agua (with water). Some of our favorites to try: mora con leche (blackberry with milk), sandía en agua (watermelon with water), papaya con leche (papaya with milk), or limonada con hierba buena (mint lemonade- don’t knock it until you have tried it!) Fresh orange juice - local vendors have carts on the street and will make you fresh squeezed orange juice! For 1.000 colones, it is worth it! Pipa fría - coconut water straight from the coconut! A local vendor will cut one open and hand you a straw. A good pipa will be sweet, and is an excellent source of hydration! Granizados - these are snow cones on steroids! Vendors walk the beach selling granizados or copos for about $3. Flavors range from mixed fruit to zarza (rootbeer - a personal favorite; if you are a fan of root beer floats this is a must try). Vendors will shave the ice fresh from an ice block and ask if you want it con los dos leches- which means with sweetened condensed and powdered milk. Dont be a gringo, try it con dos leches! This is a great beach treat! Sunset happy hours. There is an array of local restaurants that have 2x1 happy hours with fruity tropical drinks like pina coladas and daiquiris. Made with fresh fruit, these are a treat after a hot day in the sun! Find one that has an ocean view and enjoy while watching the sunset. Scavenger hunt! If you are on the beach, keep an eye out for a vendor named “Don Jugo”. Every morning he makes fresh juices, boards the bus with his cooler, and walks the beach selling bags of juice from his cart. Bite a small hole in the corner of the bag and enjoy zanahoria naranja (carrot orange juice) o frutas (juice with finely cut fruit). Las comidas/Foods Ceviche - fishing boats daily bring in fresh fish to the local markets. Ceviche can be made with shrimp or a fish like dorado (mahi mahi). It is made with raw fish, cured with lime juice and flavored with cilantro, onion, and red pepper. It is often served with saltine crackers and some locals add ketchup and mayonnaise or hot sauce on top. Really want to try something local? Try a caldosa which is ceviche on top of a dorito-like chip served in the chip bag! Manguito verde - sliced mango before it is ripe, often served with salt and lime and can be purchased from local street vendors Patacones con frijoles molidos o carne mechada. Fried and smashed green plantains (known as tostones in other Latin American countries) paired with refried beans or shredded beef. A great dinner or late night snack! Our favorite- Soda El Muelle, tucked in a local neighborhood with amazing shredded beef! Arroz con pollo o arroz con camarones - this is the Costa Rican version of a fried rice. With chicken (pollo) or shrimp (camarones), this is often served with a side salad, and potato chips or french fries. Olla de carne- a typical Costa Rican stew. It is made with beef broth, big chunks of beef and root vegetables and served with rice on the side. This is a great cozy meal for a rainy afternoon. Tamales (Christmas season) - Costa Rican tamales are very different than those from Mexico. They are made with a potato/corn flour base, filled with pork and vegetables, and wrapped in plantain leaves. These are great with a splash of Lizano seasoning. Every family has their own recipe, and they are handed out to friends and family during the Christmas season. Worth the venture! Chicharrones con yuca (grilled pork meat and cassava root)- The best local place is Kokis- 15 minutes outside of Quepos in the small town of Naranjito, this is a small family owned business with the best Chicharrones! If you have a chance, shoot them a Facebook message or Whatsapp just to confirm they are open, as their hours change based on their family needs. The menu is simple- Chicharrones by the kilo, boiled yuca, beer and bottled Cokes. Simple, delicious, worth the effort! Diet Specific tips: Gluten Free. Costa Rica is great for those with Celiac or gluten intolerances. With the base of foods being rice, beans, and corn tortillas, you will find something on every menu that will be filling and diet friendly. Vegan or Dairy Free. Dairy free alternatives are available in Costa Rican supermarkets (almond milk, oat milk, etc.) but expect to pay at least double the price that you would in the U.S. It is unlikely that you will find alternative protein options like tofu on local menus, but with an abundance of beans and legumes, you can still get alternative proteins on your plate. Most restaurants cook with oil, and not butter, but make sure to clarify if that is a concern. Tree nut and other allergens. Nut butters and tree nut products are not typically on local menus (but more common at restaurants serving different cuisines, like Thai food). Always let your server know about allergens before you order.

Cultural Cues Affection! Be ready to witness some public displays of affection in Costa Rica. Folks don’t hang out at home very often, so kissing becomes a public passtime! Costa Ricans also meet and greet with kisses! When you meet a new friend or get together with old friends, remember these general rules: Females kiss Females and males kiss Males shake hands One kiss - usually right cheeks Don’t actually kiss their cheek, just touch cheeks and air kiss ¡Te invito! If you go out with locals, you may hear them say te invito or “I invite you”. This means that coffee or lunch is their treat. Conversely, you may want to insist te invito. If you ask a new friend to go out, consider picking up the tab, as dining out may not be in their regular budget.

Money Matters Costa Rica currency is the colón (plural colones) Instability in the international market has caused the exchange rate to fluctuate between 500-700 colones to 1 USD. An easy way to estimate costs is to use the 500 benchmark. (1,000 colones = $2, 5,000 colones = $10). Up-to-date Currency Converter . Know that local street vendors may just use the 500 rate for convenience- be generous if this happens, recognizing they are adapting to US currency. If you are carrying cash with you, it is not necessary and not recommended that you exchange currency in the airport, as the rates are often inflated. If you have larger bills that you want to exchange into dollars, it is better to do so in a local Costa Rican bank. Bank attendants will ask for your passport at the time of the exchange. When you go into the bank, don’t be surprised if you are stopped by an armed guard as you walk in. They may wave you down with a metal detector or ask to look in your backpack or purse. Many banks will have you take a number based on the type of transaction, and you can take a seat until your number is called. The elderly, handicap, and pregnant are always attended as a priority, and it is not uncommon to have to wait for other individuals to be served, even if you arrived before them. In Costa Rica, the US dollar is accepted almost everywhere (even on the bus or in local restaurants!). It is recommended to travel with smaller denominations ($20 bills or smaller) as vendors are wary of larger bills or may not be able to give large amounts of change. Similarly, because it is a foreign currency, you may find a vendor unwilling to accept a bill that has a rip or tear in it. Credit cards and Apple Pay/Phone apps are widely accepted; keep 2,000-5,000 colones on you for transportation or street vendors. Double check- some menus and prices include sales tax (IVA) while others add it to the final bill. Look for notes on the menu that say “IVA included”, or “prices do not include sales tax or gratuity”. Sales and coupons are not common when shopping; ofertas or sales may be marked, but are often more of a marketing strategy than a significant discount. Tipping is common for foreigners, but not as excessive or as expected as in the U.S. Here are some recommendations Rides: No tip for Uber or Taxis - round up to leave the change Restaurants: 10-20% depending on the service (check your bill for a line item/ servicio- 10% is often automatically added) Bar: leave the change back in coins or un rojo (1,000 colones bill that is, not surprisingly, red and is about $2)

Emergency Info In case of an immediate emergency in Costa Rica, emergency service is also 911. Operators speak English. If you are traveling with children, be sure they know a way to text or call you if they get lost. If your kids are very young, consider writing your number in their clothing or on a paper that they keep in their pocket. Teach them about 911. Talk to them ahead of time and make a plan. Farmacias or Pharmacies - Local pharmacies have doctors on staff who are able to help diagnose and prescribe medicine. With the exception of psychiatric medication, certain painkillers, and antibiotics, most medication can be purchased over the counter. You can usually describe what you need to the pharmacist, most of whom know English. Most medications are purchased per pill. (You can buy a single bandaid or two ibuprofen if needed!) Healthcare System Costa Rica has a socialized health care system, with affordable care for foreigners. While the public hospital is always an option in an emergency, travelers will find that privately owned Urgent care is a more convenient option. Costa Rica MediRed (downtown Quepos, near the soccer field) Hospital Metropolitano (at the Marina) Payment - cost will depend on the treatment needed. Present any proof of Travel/Medical Insurance and contact your insurance provider immediately in case they need to deal directly with the hospital. It is likely that you will need to pay upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement to your insurance company. Be sure to get a detailed bill.

Transportation Tips Quepos is a small town, and easy to navigate. The local bus is a great way to get around! Less than $1, the bus from Quepos to Manuel Antonio is easy and safe to use! The last stop is at the local beach, near the Manuel Antonio National Park, where it turns around and returns to Quepos. The bus leaves Quepos every 20 minutes with the first bus at 5:40am, and the last bus at 10pm. Bus etiquette: Have money for your fare in hand so that you can hand it to the driver without fumbling through your wallet. Try to have smaller denominations- drivers have lots of change in coins, but may not be happy to exchange a large bill for a small fare. Try not to have denominations of more than $5/2.000 colones for a single fare. Don't stop on the bus stairs. It is better to wait a moment until the person in front of you has completely boarded. There are bars on the stairwell that count passengers. If you stand between the bars, it could give an inaccurate count, so the driver might yell at you to keep moving, or to wait to board. People will be allowed to board until the aisle is full with standing passengers. There are handrails to keep you from losing your balance, use them! If you are standing, move as far back as you can in the bus to allow for more passengers to board. If you are seated, and a pregnant or elderly individual boards the bus, you should give up your seat if you are able. Signaling for the bus to stop: There are buttons on the hand rails throughout the bus that you can push to signal that you need the driver to stop at the next bus stop. The bus stops are not announced, and the driver won’t stop at every location- only at the stops indicated by the passengers. Many of the bus drivers on the main route have been driving for years! If you are not sure where your stop would be, don’t hesitate to tell them where you are going, and they are often happy to let you know the correct bus stop. Local Taxis When in San Jose, Uber is a great option for getting around, but in small towns like Quepos, the service may not have many drivers and may not be available. Red taxis are licensed. While they have a meter (a maria), in Quepos and rural areas, taxi drivers often use their own system for charging. A taxi from the beach back to Quepos will be between $10-15 depending on where you are dropped off, and may vary slightly depending on the cab driver/size of the vehicle. Getting dropped off outside of town or at a home that has a steep or difficult driveway will cost more. Shorter fares within Quepos could be as low as $3-5. The local taxi dispatch number is 2777-0425 to order a taxi. The dispatcher may have limited English, but this is a great opportunity to practice your Spanish! Make sure to give the dispatcher your pickup location, the number of passengers, and your destination when you call. Wait on the line until the dispatcher gives you a taxi number, which will be displayed on the yellow triangle on the cab. Many taxi drivers have a limited understanding of English- enough to get you to the correct location and communicate the cost of a fare. If you are at a hotel, restaurant, or business, employees are often more than willing to call a cab for you. Make sure you wait for the assigned cab to arrive, even if another shows up. This is a way of respecting the person who called the cab for you, as they will be scolded or asked to pay the fare if a cab arrives and you have left. When downtown, you can find taxis lined up in front of the bus station. Proper etiquette is to go to the taxi at the front of the line. If you find a taxi driver that you like, ask him or her for their business card! Many use WhatsApp and you can call them directly when you need a ride. You can also hail a cab from the road. If a driver says colectivo, he is offering individuals a collective ride back to the bus station, meaning they will stop for anyone along the way. You can stop and get out anywhere on the main route, and the cost is 700 colones per person (no matter the distance). Pirates! Piratas is the slang name for unlicensed taxis. These are individuals using their personal cars. They are not insured for passengers and will change their routes if they know that traffic police are in the area. These cabs are often running colectivo routes, and may slow down or stop at bus stops along the route to try to fill their cars. While most of these drivers are well known in the community and safe to ride with, it is better to avoid these rides unless you are with someone who can vouch for the driver. Renting a Car Renting a car has lots of advantages- from day trips to hitting some hotspots off of the bus route, it can be convenient for a few days when you have some specific activities planned. A few tips for car rentals: Car rental agencies are required by law to charge you for car insurance. This insurance is not usually listed in the total price when you are booking online. The minimum limited insurance is about $13 per day. This price goes up if you want full coverage. Full coverage is highly recommended as navigating insurance claims can be time consuming. You cannot waive this insurance, even if you are insured through your US car insurance or credit card. The insurance on your US insurance/credit card may cover charges not covered by the minimum insurance policy, but know that you may be asked to pay for charges upfront and collect paperwork for your US insurance to reimburse you. GPS devices are available for rent at car rental agencies. If you are opting not to pay for international data or getting a local phone, this is a great option for getting around. If you have roaming data on your phone, download the WAZE app. This is the most common App used for driving directions in Costa Rica. It will have the most updated information on road closures, traffic stops, and alternative routes. The main highway from San Jose to Quepos is a toll road. Tolls or peajes, will cost about $10 for a one-way trip. Have cash on hand for tolls (US dollars or colones). When parking near the beach or at tourist stops that do not have parking lots, you may meet watchies. These are individuals who will offer to watch your parked car for a fee. It is not mandatory to pay them, but you are welcome to give them 1,000 colones/$2 when you return to your car. They may be wearing reflective vests or have whistles to try to get your attention. The watchies may or may not actually watch your car while it is parked. Traffic police do not pull over cars the same way as they do in the US. They will often park on the side of the road and signal cars to pull over by waving them to the side of the road. Sometimes these are routine checks to make sure cars have up to date insurance and license plates. Traffic tickets are expensive. You may be warned about this at your rental car agency. Stick to the speed limit to avoid costly penalties. While in Costa Rica, your US driver's license is valid for the duration of your visa. Tourists are given 90 day visas upon entering the country, and your driver's license is valid for the entirety of the visa. Make sure the driver has his or her passport with them when driving.

Sights to See, Things to Do, Where to Shop and Eat! Around Town La Feria, the local farmer's market Friday afternoon (from around 5pm)–Saturday around noon In the parking lot behind the bus station, downtown Quepos Buy local produce, a great place to discover new seasonal and local fruits Bring cash and reusable shopping bags if you have them! If there is a fruit you have not seen, often vendors will cut a slice for you to try! Scavenger hunt! Ask for guava, mangosteen, jocotes, or mamón chino. All have specific seasons, but are among the many fun and unique fruits to try! Parque Nahomi Local park, open to the public with beautiful views Kayak rental available during some seasons A great place to watch the sunset, enjoy a playground, or check out the “exercise” machines Local soccer matches If the lights are on at the Plaza, a game is about to start! Grab an ice cream cone and join other local community members watching a soccer match. ¡Las playas! While in the Quepos area, there is no shortage of beaches to check out! Some beach tips: Bring cash if you are interested in chair rentals, buying food from vendors, or renting surfboards or other beach equipment. Check out the tide table! Low tide is a great time to be on the beach, offering lots of space, room to walk and play! Check out the local tide chart here. Leave valuables at home when possible, and watch your belongings while you are at the beach. Bring a sarong or purchase one at the beach! The sand doesn’t stick, they are lightweight and dry fast. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas- a great option if you will be making a day of it. Parking can be tricky- expect to be approached by individuals wanting you to pay to watch your car. This a great time to try the bus and avoid the hassle! Local Beaches Playa Espadilla (the main public beach) Easy access, with multiple bus stops Local restaurants close to the beach if you want to grab lunch or a happy hour drink Local super markets within walking distance if you need to purchase water or snacks Expect to be approached by individuals offering to rent you chairs, offer surf lessons, or sell food/jewelry. The farther north you walk down the beach, the fewer vendors there are. A great place for an early morning walk before it gets too hot! Playa Biesanz Local beach tucked away off of the main road. 5 minute drive from the main road, with a very steep slope, better to arrive by car. 10 minute hike from the entrance to the beach. Chair, kayak and snorkeling rental available Small isolated beach, smaller waves and weak currents- great for kids! Manuel Antonio National Park Purchase tickets online at least a day before (linked above). Tickets will run out! Have your passports handy as you will need ID numbers to pay for tickets. You cannot buy tickets at the gate. Tickets cost Adults (over 12 years old) $16 + tax Children (from 2 to 12 years old) $5 + tax Children under 2 are free A great place to hike, see wildlife, and swim. The earlier you go, the more wildlife you will see! Park guides are available for an additional fee if you would like a guided tour with the opportunity to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Beaches within the park are beautiful, typically have smaller waves, great for small children. Watch your bags! Monkeys and racoons are known for opening zippers in the hunt for snacks. Drones and food are not permitted in the park. Local Excursions There are plenty of options for local excursions in the Quepos areas. Here are a few of our favorites! Sunset Sails Catamaran Tours $80 per person Morning/lunch or dinner/sunset times available Food, snorkeling, and time on the water! Rafiki White Water Rafting Starting at $100 per person Class II/III Rapids, Savegre River El Santuario Canopy Tour (Zip Line) $80 per person Zip through the rainforest, lunch included! Damas Mangrove Boat Tour $70 per person Explore this unique habitat by boat with expert local guides. Day Trips Nauyaca Waterfalls One hour drive time $10 walk/hike to waterfall $80 horseback riding tour 4x4 tour $34-$80 Uvita, Marino Ballena National Park One hour south of Quepos $6 entrance fee “Whale tail” beach Ecocontales Waterfall hike 45min drive 3.000 colones ($6) Food for purchase Open 8.30 AM until 4 PM. Recommended Restaurants Pricing for dining out is comparable to eating out in the states. La Panera Two locations- one a great stop for fresh baked bread and pastries, and the second location with premade salads and sandwiches for a quick lunch or coffee break with a friend Emilios A great place for a breakfast with a view, or live music and dinner Cafe Milagro Local Coffee Roasters, with a quaint cafe that serves up delicious meals! Ronny’s Place Cocktails, sunsets, and local ambiance! Fenix Cevichera Grab a caldosa, ceviche, or manguito while exploring town. A great place for a local snack El Wagon Wood Fired pizzas that do not disappoint! La Anaconda Great breakfast place, great view, frequently visited by monkeys in the morning! One of the few places with free coffee refills! L’Angolo This small Italian Deli has both incredible pasta dishes and is a great place to pick up fresh cured meats and cheeses for your charcuterie board! Shopping Souvenirs can be purchased around town in local souvenir shops and grocery stores. There are also vendors that set up stands at the entrance of the Manuel Antonio National Park. Costa Rica is renowned for its coffee, and there is a Britt Souvenir shop in the Airport where you can buy product in bulk and even get it shipped to your home address if you don’t have enough carry-on space! Local places to check out Ummara’s Swimwear Ummara is a local woman who creates custom-designed swimwear. Buy off the rack or let her take your measurements and pick out your own design!

Street Smarts Costa Rica is a safe country with low violent crime rates. However, be alert to pickpockets; even at the airport! Here are some pointers: Be very vigilant in tourist areas and crowded areas like urban bus stops Don’t carry more than necessary. When going to the beach, don’t leave belongings unattended, as they may “disappear”. Keep your passport at home in your apartment; use a safe if one is available Don’t keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket Wear backpacks in front of you Use a crossbody purse with a closed zipper Secure your purse or backpack to a chair or your body in casual dining environments Carry cash and/or credit cards in an inside zipper pocket of your purse or pack When carrying a lot of cash (not recommended), keep it in different places (pocket, pack, divided among family or friends, etc.) If you are renting a car, make sure it is locked. If you are in transit and have a car full of luggage, try to park in a place where you can keep your vehicle in sight. It is not uncommon to see homeless people; they are generally harmless. If they approach you, either help them out or say no tengo nada (I don’t have anything).

Nightlife Bambu Jam - Dining, bar, live music and salsa dancing Open 6-10pm, not a late night hangout Republik Disco Lounge Local dance hangout where you will hear lots of reggaeton! Ladies nights and special events are posted on their social media pages.

Kids’ Corner Travel is a great way to expand your childrens’ education. Search for videos online and do these activities with your kids before packing your bags. We bet you’ll learn something, too! Where I will Live Find Costa Rica on a world map - talk about how you will get there and how long it takes Explore Quepos on Google Maps Go to “My Maps” and create a map with all of the places you’d like to visit Find out how to get from your condo to the closest park, grocery store, ice cream shop, etc. Try walking maps, public transportation, etc. Tour your Quepos neighborhood in Google Street View - how is it similar to or different from your neighborhood at home?

Packing Pointers Costa Rica has two seasons- dry and rainy. The hottest months are January and February and the rainy season starts in June and goes through November. During the rainy season, you often still have a beautiful sunny morning, with afternoon rains cooling things down through the evening. Quepos is hot so to plan for the weather, make sure you pack accordingly: A raincoat and sandals or shoes that do not absorb water Clothes that dry quickly if you are caught in a sudden downpour We love to keep a reusable wet bag or Ziplock bags on us in case you need to travel with a wet change of clothes or bathing suit! Sunscreen! Even when you are not laying out in the sun, you are close to the equator and there are few things that ruin a vacation like a nasty sunburn. Reapply often, consider bringing aloe or after sun care lotion. Sunscreen is expensive in Quepos, so it is better to purchase it and bring it with you. Bug spray, especially during rainy season More of what to pack: A backpack and/or crossbody purse that zips Packing clothes in Ziplock bags keeps them protected if your luggage is being transported in the rain and gives you a stash to use throughout your trip. Toiletries tend to be significantly more expensive in Costa Rica, so pack your favorites for the duration of your stay! Consider a portable cell phone charger if your phone tends to lose charge quickly. Perhaps a jar of peanut butter if you or your kids can’t live without it; while you can find Jiff at some stores, anything that is imported carries a high price. Don’t forget your favorite sunglasses; you will need them in Quepos!

Living the Local Life If you want to get out and meet people, you need a plan for plugging in! Here are some ideas, but you can always check with your city host or city friends for more recommendations. Quepolandia is a monthly magazine printed and available at local restaurants and hotels. Check out the online site to see what is new in the area, read about local developments or look into local classifieds. Where to hang Marina Pez Vela The marina is so much more than a harbor for boats! Dining and gift shops (We recommend Runaway Grill for dinner and Gelateria Amorosi for Gelato or coffee made in-house!) Soccer games, movies, and light shows. Follow them on Instagram to stay updated with their calendar- they do an incredible job of offering free outdoor events for the local community. If you are there in December, make sure to catch the musical light show! Exercise and Gyms If you want to go out for a run, make sure you are setting your alarm clock! The sun is up by 5:30 and the first few hours of the day are the best time to get moving and beat the heat! Make sure you are staying hydrated as it is easy to underestimate the power of the sun! It is NOT recommended to walk on the main road from Quepos to Manuel Antonio. With large buses going up and down the steep slope with sharp turns, and no sidewalks, it is not a safe option! Instead, take a walk from Quepos to Parque Nahomi. Want a challenge? Start at Emilio's cafe and walk down to Playitas or Playa Biesanz and back up! This hike is sure to get your heart rate up and give you buns of steel! There are various gyms and trainers in the area, but here are a few to get you started! Quepos Cross Training A great place for drop in CrossFit classes, pay per class or per month Julian, owner and trainer, speaks English, Spanish, and French MA Fitness $10 for a day pass A variety of weights and cardio machines Holis Wellness Center Unlimited Yoga class package for $60/month, drop-in specialized classes from $20/class Supermarkets ~ Los supermercados Be sure to check the hours of your local supermarkets. Stores in Quepos aren’t always open as early or as late as in the U.S. Bring bags or a pull-cart. Most stores also offer grocery delivery. A few of our favorites: MiniPrice - The perfect place to look when you are craving something from home! Stocked with both local and U.S. favorites, as well as housewares and travel essentials. The owner, Emilio, is a joy! Grocery Delivery Available! Super Jordix - Located right downtown, it has all the local staples and fresh meats, in a clean and accessible location. Grocery Delivery Available! MaxiPali - Just outside of the city, think of this as your Mini-Walmart. One-stop shop for food, produce, office supplies, and a pair of cheap sandals when yours wash away with the tide! Places of Worship Costa Rica is a Catholic state, but there are many Evangelical churches throughout the country. Evangelical church services are often at night to accommodate the tourism work schedule, and may last for two to three hours. Local Catholic Church Manuel Antonio Beach Church, meets at the local beach, in English, led by missionaries from the FourSquare Church Casa de Pan local church in Manuel Antonio

Una o dos semanas antes de su viaje, haga un plan para usar su teléfono en Costa Rica. Si viaja con su familia, considere si es necesario utilizar datos en varios teléfonos o si limitará su uso a un solo teléfono. Si su teléfono celular está bloqueado, consulte con su proveedor de telefonía celular sobre los planes y costos internacionales. La mayoría de los proveedores ofrecen un pase por $10/día que puedes elegir activar cada día, proporcionando datos ilimitados durante 24 horas. O, si no planeas usar aplicaciones y simplemente quieres enviar mensajes de texto o llamar de vez en cuando (sin conectarte a WiFi), puedes pagar la tarifa de tu proveedor por mensaje de texto o llamada desde Costa Rica; verifica esto con anticipación para que ¡Sabe en lo que te estás metiendo! O, si tienes un teléfono desbloqueado y planeas usar aplicaciones (¡piensa en el GPS!) o enviar mensajes de texto con regularidad, una opción que te permitirá ahorrar dinero y liberarte del estrés puede ser activar una eSIM. Esto proporciona información de doble SIM para que tengas un número de teléfono de Costa Rica y un plan de datos para Costa Rica mientras conservas tu número de teléfono estadounidense. A menudo, esto es mucho más barato que pagar 10 dólares al día. Descarga la aplicación Airalo o Holafly para activar tu eSIM y comprar planes internacionales.

Fun for Kids Kids Saving the Rainforest A local non-profit started by an expat youth who wanted to make a difference in her community. Take a tour and visit the wildlife sanctuary to learn more about what they are doing to protect the biodiversity in Costa Rica. Quepos Malecón Check out the playground or skate park located on the Quepos Bay. Get a picture by the large Quepos sign at the entrance. This is also a great place to watch the sunset! Marina Pez Vela special events often include soccer games on a giant screen or holiday presentations that are free to the public. Eat at El Avión! A restaurant built around an aircraft! Kids can go inside and sit in the cockpit before having dinner. A great place to watch the sunset. Jungle Night Tours See all the creepy crawlies that abound in the rainforest and come out after dark! $55 per person Surf Lessons and Boogie Board rentals

Medellin is a safe city despite its complicated past, but like any big city there are pickpockets; even at the airport! Here are some pointers: Be very vigilant in tourist and crowded areas Don’t take your phone out when walking on the street (tricky when you are using it for directions we know) and consider leaving your watch at home. Don’t wear flashy jewelry Keep your passport in your apartment; use a safe if one is available Don’t keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket Wear backpacks in front of you or consider a belt bag instead Use a crossbody purse with a closed zipper Secure your purse or backpack to a chair or your body in casual dining environments Carry cash and/or credit cards in an inside zipper pocket of your purse or pack When carrying a lot of cash (not recommended), keep it in different places (pocket, pack, divided among family or friends, etc.) It is not common to see homeless people but they do exist in a city of nearly 3 million; they are generally harmless and unlikely to approach you. If they do, feel free to spare some change or say ‘No gracias’ (No thank you).

Medellín is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and charming towns that make for excellent day trips, especially for families. Here are some top day trip options from Medellín: 1. Guatapé and El Peñol Distance: Approximately 2 hours by car Highlights: The colorful town of Guatapé is known for its vibrant zócalos (painted bas-reliefs) that adorn the buildings. Nearby, El Peñol Rock (La Piedra del Peñol) offers stunning panoramic views after climbing its 740 steps. Activities for Families: Climb El Peñol for breathtaking views. Take a boat tour of the reservoir. Explore the town's colorful streets and enjoy local treats. 2. Santa Fe de Antioquia Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours by car Highlights: This colonial town is known for its well-preserved architecture and historic charm. The Puente de Occidente, a suspension bridge over the Cauca River, is a notable landmark. Activities for Families: Walk through the historic streets and visit the main plaza. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour. Visit local museums and the cathedral. 3. Jardín Distance: Approximately 3 hours by car Highlights: A picturesque town known for its vibrant central plaza, beautiful gardens, and coffee farms. The surrounding mountains offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Activities for Families: Ride the cable car to a scenic viewpoint. Visit a coffee farm and learn about coffee production. Explore the town's charming streets and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. 4. Rio Claro Nature Reserve Distance: Approximately 3 hours by car Highlights: A natural reserve offering stunning scenery, crystal-clear rivers, and plenty of adventure activities. It’s a great place for nature lovers. Activities for Families: Go tubing or swimming in the clear river. Take a guided hike through the lush forest. Explore the caves and spot wildlife. 5. El Retiro Distance: Approximately 1 hour by car Highlights: A small, tranquil town known for its artisanal crafts and beautiful countryside. It’s less crowded and offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Activities for Families: Visit local workshops to see artisans at work. Enjoy a picnic by the lake or in the countryside. Explore the local market and try traditional foods. 6. San Rafael Distance: Approximately 2.5 hours by car Highlights: A town known for its natural beauty, including rivers, waterfalls, and lush landscapes. It’s a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities for Families: Swim in natural pools and enjoy the waterfalls. Take a nature walk and enjoy the scenery. Visit local farms and learn about rural life. 7. Parque Arví Distance: Accessible by the Metrocable from Medellín Highlights: A large nature reserve offering extensive hiking trails, picnic areas, and ecological tours. It’s easily accessible via the Metrocable from the city. Activities for Families: Hike the well-marked trails and enjoy the flora and fauna. Have a picnic in one of the designated areas. Participate in guided tours and activities offered by the park. 8. San Jerónimo Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours by car Highlights: Known for its warm climate and water parks, it’s a popular spot for families looking to relax and have fun. Activities for Families: Spend the day at one of the local water parks. Enjoy the town’s warm weather and local cuisine. Visit nearby farms and natural attractions. 9. Sabaneta Distance: Approximately 30 minutes by car Highlights: A small town with a lively atmosphere, known for its local food and charming main plaza. Activities for Families: Visit the main plaza and the Church of Santa Ana. Enjoy traditional Antioquian dishes at local restaurants. Explore nearby parks and natural areas. 10. Rionegro Distance: Approximately 1 hour by car Highlights: A historic town with a beautiful main square, colonial architecture, and interesting museums. Activities for Families: Visit the historic center and main plaza. Tour the Catedral de San Nicolás. Enjoy the local parks and green spaces. These day trips offer a variety of activities and experiences, from exploring charming colonial towns to enjoying outdoor adventures, ensuring that families can find something to suit everyone's interests.

Affection! Be ready to witness some public displays of affection in Medellin. Paisas (the name for people from Medellin) don’t hang out at home nearly as much as Americans, so kissing becomes a public passtime! Colombians also meet and greet with one kiss (on the right cheek)! When you meet a new friend or get together with old friends, remember these greetings (optional for you): Females kiss Females and males kiss Males shake hands One kiss - right cheek Don’t actually kiss their cheek, just touch cheeks and air kiss Personal Space! This is not a value in Colombia nor one that Colombians will offer foreigners. Whether in line at the grocery store or crossing the street, be prepared for a total lack of personal space, and consider letting your guard (or bubble) down a bit if you’re comfortable. ¡Te invitó! If you go out with locals, you may hear them say te invito or “I invite you”. This means that coffee or lunch is their treat. Conversely, you may want to insist te invito. Insisting on paying can become quite the competition among ‘Paisas’. Splitting the bill is not common practice among friends.

Medellin is easy to navigate, especially if you use an app. The city is in a valley that runs North and South and the Metro mostly runs in those two directions, with an additional short line running East to West. There are also the metro cables and outdoor escalators! It’s a fun city to explore especially as there is always a breathtaking background view. In Google Maps, you can choose walking directions or select the car to know how long to expect an Uber or Lyft. The Medellin Metro system is easy, safe, and reliable. Here are a few tips: Find out what the civica ticket for tourists is and download the app! Use the same ticket for the metro, cables and metro buses. Keep your ticket–you need to insert it again to exit. You can change lines on one trip/ticket, just don’t exit through the turnstiles. Rush hours can be crowded (7:00–9:30 am and 4:30–7:00 pm) The Metro runs 4:30 am–10:30 pm. Check out these routes to familiar favorite destinations and plan your days! Taxis are also prevalent, but we recommend Uber and Lyft. They are often easier, more comfortable and the same price as the metro.

El Poblado in Medellín is known for its diverse and vibrant dining scene, with a mix of touristy spots and hidden gems. Here are some of the best local (not touristy) restaurants in El Poblado and Provenza: 1. Hacienda - Junin Cuisine: Traditional Colombian Location: Carrera 43A # 6 Sur 15 Highlights: Known for its authentic Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa, ajiaco, and sancocho. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, offering a genuine taste of local cuisine. Why Visit: It's a great place to experience traditional Colombian flavors in a relaxed setting. 2. Al Alma Cuisine: American/European brunch Location: Cl. 8 #35- 37 Highlights: Avocado toast, omelets, sandwiches, croissants and pastries Why Visit: Familiar brunch and breakfast foods with a Colombian twist, think granola with yogurt but served with fresh flowers and local fruits. 2. Ammazza Cuisine: Pizzas and Italian fusion Location: Cra. 34 #7-40 Highlights: Woodfired pizzas and gin cocktails Why Visit: If pizza is your comfort food, Ammazza is your spot, with fresh local ingredients and the perfect woodfire crust, also great for kids. 3. La Octava Cuisine: Latin American Fusion Location: Carrera 37 #8A-39 Highlights: Offers a creative menu with a mix of Latin American dishes. Known for its friendly service and vibrant atmosphere. Why Visit: Perfect for those looking to try innovative takes on traditional dishes. 4. Mondongo's Cuisine: Colombian Location: Calle 10 #38-38 Highlights: Famous for its mondongo soup, a hearty stew we mentioned earlier, served with a side of banana you have to see to believe. Also offers other traditional dishes like arepas and chicharrón. Why Visit: A favorite among locals for a taste of comfort food with a homey feel. 5. Hato Viejo Cuisine: Colombian Location: Calle 16 #28-60 Highlights: Specializes in Antioquian cuisine, with popular dishes like bandeja paisa and carne asada. The restaurant has a traditional rustic charm. Why Visit: Known for its consistent quality and Colombian flavors, and nice terrace with a view. 5. Alambique Cuisine: Contemporary Colombian Location: Cra. 41 #10-41 Highlights: Combines traditional Colombian ingredients with modern culinary techniques. The rooftop setting adds to the appeal. Why Visit: Offers a unique dining experience with a modern twist on local cuisine. 6. Mistura Cuisine: Asian fusion and sushi Location: Cra 33 #7-55 Highlights: Beautiful dining spot offering asian inspired dishes and sushi. Why Visit: Great for an upscale meal that feels fancy but for a fraction of the cost in the US and as all places in Medellin, very kid friendly. 8. Herbario Cuisine: Modern Colombian Location: Calle 8 #43B-66 Highlights: Focuses on fresh, local ingredients with an innovative menu. The decor is stylish, and the atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed. Why Visit: Ideal for a modern take on Colombian cuisine in a chic setting. 9. Moshi Cuisine: Asian Fusion Location: Calle 8 #43B-36 Highlights: Offers a mix of Japanese and other Asian dishes with a Colombian twist. Known for its sushi and ramen. Why Visit: A favorite among locals for its unique fusion flavors and high-quality ingredients. 10. Ocio Cuisine: Contemporary Colombian Location: Carrera 33 #7-21 Highlights: Known for its innovative menu and beautifully presented dishes. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish. Why Visit: Perfect for a special meal with a focus on creative culinary techniques. 11. Crepes & Waffles Cuisine: Wraps, savory crepes salads and desserts Location: Various locations in Poblado and in all malls Highlights: Known for their gorgeous desserts and family fun atmosphere this restaurant is a local favorite. Why Visit: Crepes employs single mothers for every single job and the food is as delicious as this mission is meaningful. Medellín is of course known for its coffee and surrounding coffee farms. Don’t leave without visiting Pergamino (and bring some bags home for friends and family!) It’s a favorite for locals, expats and tourists alike. 11. Pergamino Cuisine: Croissants and pastries Location: Various locations in Poblado, malls and the airport Highlights: The most popular specialty coffee in the city from a nearby farm. Why Visit: Trendy atmosphere and a beautiful cup of Colombian coffee of course! Lastly, Colombians love their ice cream, froyo and gelato and in the spirit of trying new things we encourage you to taste test as much as possible! You’ll work off all the extra calories we promise! 12. Pércimon Cuisine: Froyo Location: Various locations throughout the city and in all malls Highlights: All the beautiful toppings including local fruits Why Visit: Need we say more? 13. Antonio's Gelato & Cafe Cuisine: Gelato, cakes and cookies Location: Cl. 31 Sur #43A-81, Zona 2, Envigado Highlights: The best gelato outside of Italy and a corner patio to people watch while you enjoy Why Visit: Tucked into a neighborhood and with gelato flavors like passionfruit it’s a must-try

Medellin uses the Colombian peso (COP) Up-to-date Currency Converter or use the currency converter on your iPhone’s calculator Credit cards and Apple Pay/Phone apps are widely accepted; keep 50,000 - 100,000 COP (preferably in smaller bills) for fruit stands or vendors Bonus! Sales tax (IVA) is already included on the pricetag Tipping is always optional, but is expected. Waiters will ask you if you want to ‘incluir el servicio’, ‘include the service’ in the bill which is 10% and we always recommend agreeing by saying ‘si!.’ They will also ask if you want an electronic receipt (factura electronica) for all purchases, including meals which we don’t recommend unless needed. The other question you’ll hear at meals and when shopping is ‘Cuántas cuotas?’ In Medellin you have the option to split any purchase into smaller payments. But since this isn’t something you’ll need to do, simply answer ‘una’. Here are some other optional recommendations Rides: Tip for Uber, Lyft or Cabify if service was exceptional; Taxis - round up to leave the change, they’ll be pleasantly surprised (remember to shut all car doors lightly!) Restaurants: Remember the 10% is optional, but we always recommend it unless the service is really awful, which is hard to imagine in Medellin! Bar: 2,000 COP per beer and 5,000 COP per cocktail Delivery services: 10%

As previously mentioned Colombians take their malls very seriously and many of them visit malls weekly for entertainment, food and fun, but you can also shop too! All have grocery stores in addition to clothing, shoe and accessory stores. Grocery stores like Carulla, Euro and Exito can be found in stand alone locations and malls as well. Carulla is more upscale and Exito is more like Walmart with household items and food. Colombian designers are known for their swimsuits and leisure wear. Colombian brand Punto Blanco is their version of Lululemon with soft buttery fabrics in soothing colors, and brands like Maaji and Agua Bendita have gorgeous swimwear and coverups. You can find a lot of Spanish brands as well like Zara, Mango and Desigual. Arturo Calle is great for men’s clothing and Offcorss is a stylish but affordable kids clothing store in case you’ve forgotten anything! Falabella is their Macy’s. And keep an eye out for cute shoe stores as well, there are many! Looking for art? Buy prints at the museum gift shops or check out the galleries in Poblado for one of a kind pieces. Lastly, for touristy trinkets and little treasures your kids can take home to friends, check out the open air market in El Poblado square, there’s sure to be a gem there and the kids can practice their bargaining skills! Only cash for these vendors. Supermarkets ~ Los supermercados Be sure to check the hours of your local supermarkets. Bring bags. Most stores also offer grocery delivery but so do local ‘tiendas’ or convenient stores that deliver the basics like milk and eggs (and beer!). If there isn’t a number posted in your Airbnb be sure to ask your host for the nearest tienda. Carulla - carries many brands we know and some we don’t, upscale and good quality Éxito - more like Walmart or Target with toiletries, household items and groceries

Family activities in Medellin Medellín offers a variety of culturally immersive activities that are perfect for families with kids. Here are some of the best options to explore: 1. Explora Park (Parque Explora) Location: Carrera 52 #73-75 Highlights: This interactive science and technology museum features over 300 exhibits, including a dinosaur exhibition, a planetarium, and one of the largest inland aquariums in South America. Why Visit: In addition to the splash pad outside, kids can engage with all kinds of hands-on experiments and interactive displays, making learning fun. It’s a great place for the whole family to explore science and nature. 2. Medellín Metrocable Location: Various stations throughout the city Highlights: The Metrocable is an integral part of Medellín’s public transport system, enabling the most remote communities and people to commute to work and access the city. The experience offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding mountains. Why Visit: Riding the Metrocable provides a unique perspective on Medellín’s neighborhoods and geography. Families can visit Parque Arví at the end of the L line for outdoor activities like horseback riding, nature trails, and a market with fun foods and goods. 3. Parque de la Conservación Location: Cra. 52 #20-63 Highlights: This zoo and animal rehabilitation site is magical for kids. With iguanas walking the grounds, more monkey varieties than you have likely ever seen, and animals native to South America (think poison dart frogs, capybaras and macaws) it’s a fun way to experience the species of the Amazon. Why Visit: In addition to exotic species of snakes, reptiles, monkeys and birds there are also some familiar favorites like hippos and zebras as well as a nice playground for smaller kids and a decent food court. You can spend a good chunk of the day and much of the walkways are shaded by the lush greenery so it’s a comfortable experience. 4. Pueblito Paisa Location: Cerro Nutibara Highlights: A replica of a traditional Antioquian village, Pueblito Paisa offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past with its colorful buildings, church, and central plaza. Why Visit: It’s an educational and picturesque spot for families to learn about local history and culture, shop for souvenirs and taste traditional foods. The location on Nutibara Hill also provides panoramic views of Medellín. 4. Botero Plaza and Antioquia Museum Location: Carrera 52 #52-43 Highlights: The plaza is home to 23 sculptures by renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The small but beautiful nearby Antioquia Museum features a large collection of Botero’s works as well as other Colombian art, a kids studio and playroom and rotating exhibits. Why Visit: Kids will enjoy the playful, larger-than-life sculptures and the vendors in the square blowing bubbles, dancing and selling balloons. The museum offers educational insights into Colombia’s artistic heritage, and a nice cafe and gift shop so there’s something for everyone. 5. Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour Location: Comuna 13 Highlights: Once one of the most dangerous areas in Medellín, Comuna 13 is now known for its vibrant street art and murals. Guided tours explain the history and transformation of the neighborhood. You can buy a piece from a local artist at the end of the tour if you’d like to support the creative community. Why Visit: The tour is an inspiring way to learn about the city’s resilience. It’s educational for kids to see how art can drive social change. 6. La Mayoría Location: Cra 25A #36D sur, 05, Quinta Del Palmar, Envigado Highlights: An impressive horse show on Saturday and Sunday afternoons where horses and riders decked out in mariachi matching outfits show off moves, dance to traditional salsa music and even bow to guests eating lunch. Why Visit: In addition to the delicious traditional Colombian brunch and horse show, the stables also let you sign your kids up for an hour riding lesson and there’s a large playground for kids to play and make friends. 7. Parque de los Deseos Location: Carrera 52 #71-117 Highlights: Adjacent to the University of Antioquia and the Planetarium, this park features interactive exhibits related to science and astronomy. Why Visit: Kids can participate in activities like star-gazing and science experiments, making it both entertaining and informative. 8. Medellín Christmas Lights (Alumbrados Navideños) Location: Various locations throughout the city (mainly along the Medellín River) Highlights: Every December, Medellín transforms with spectacular Christmas light displays. The entire city is adorned with millions of lights, creating a festive atmosphere. Why Visit: It’s a magical experience for kids and families to walk through the illuminated streets and enjoy the holiday spirit. 9. Centro Comerciales Tesoro, Santa Fe & Viva Location: Various locations throughout the city Highlights: These are not your American malls. All have huge play areas, Tesoro has an amusement park on the ground floor and even an indoor wave pool with surfing on the top floor. Santa Fe has a bowling alley and trampoline park on the top floors and Viva has a ferris wheel and huge arcade. Why Visit: Colombians spend their weekends at these malls enjoying all of the fun activities more so than shopping so you’ll be one with the culture in these huge, fun spaces that act as much as amusement parks and shopping centers. 10. Joaquín Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden Location: Calle 73 #51D-14 Highlights: A lush, green space featuring a wide variety of plants, butterfly house, orchid garden, and a lake. Why Visit: It’s a peaceful retreat where families can learn about local flora and fauna. The garden offers educational programs and workshops for children.

If you want to get out and meet people, you need a plan for plugging in! Here are some ideas, but you can always check with your city host or city friends for more recommendations. Where to hang Calle de buena mesa in the neighborhood of Envigado is a great spot for families with two of our gelato recs within a couple blocks. So why not explore this cute neighborhood full of restaurants, cafes and bakeries and try both?! Provenza is the neighborhood adjacent to Poblado and is an elegant compliment to Poblado’s bustling tourist scene. Both are best enjoyed before the late hours of the night. Manila, close to Poblado and more artistic, is eclectic and creative with antique stores and local restaurants boasting personality and charm. Parks like Lineal La Frontera or Casa Teatro have gorgeous gardens, outdoor workout equipment and happy dogs and both are popular with locals. Parque Uva in front Mall El Tesoro has playgrounds and a library for you and your family to explore and enjoy. Hoping to workout while you’re in town? If scaling the hills walking around isn’t enough there are lots of spots with outdoor equipment for you to workout even more. Scattered throughout the city, free and outdoors these are fun spots to workout like a local. A huge local bonus is Ciclovia, which happens every Sunday unless it is a holiday weekend. On Ciclolvia many of the main roads in Medellin are closed for walking, biking, scooting, roller skating and all types of movement. Free salsa and hip hop dance classes line the streets while free balance bikes are provided for kids in designated areas and vendors sell fresh juices, healthy snacks and doggie ice cream for all the furry friends who join in the fun. Craving some pool time and a piña colada? Consider visiting the Hotel Dann Carlton in Poblado a short cab ride or downhill walk from your Airbnb and purchasing a ‘día de sol’ or day of sun to hang at their gorgeous pool and use their jacuzzi and turco (steam room with fresh eucalyptus from the trees outside). The kids can play and you can really chill vacation style in this beautiful hotel for the day.

Dale! Medellin knows how to party! What starts with rooftop cocktails evolves to dancing to Reggaeton or salsa. Bars close around 2:00 am and the night winds down from there with late night (early morning) street food. Know your neighborhoods to find the scene that fits you: Calle 70 - salsa Calle 10 - Reggaeton Sabaneta - drinks and snacks in the square When the party’s over, get home by Uber or Lyft, only walk if you’re sober enough to be alert and also handle the hills.

Una o dos semanas antes de tu viaje, haz un plan para usar tu teléfono en Medellín. Si viaja con su familia, considere si es necesario utilizar datos en varios teléfonos o si limitará su uso a un solo teléfono.

In case of an immediate emergency, Medellin’s 911 is 123. Operators speak English. If you are traveling with children, be sure they know a way to text or call you if they get lost. If your kids are very young, consider writing your number in their clothing or on a paper that they keep in their pocket. Teach them about 123. Talk to them ahead of time and make a plan. There are many hospitals (pronounced oh-spee-TAHL) with emergency departments. Look for Urgencias. Contact your City Host to go along and guide you through the process. There are many options, but here are two that are open 24-hours: Clinica el Rosario Clinica Las Americas Farmacias or Pharmacies - Look for the green cross! If you’re not feeling well or need a prescription, a pharmacist can help. They can provide a diagnosis and prescription on the spot. Many drugs that require a prescription in the U.S. are available over-the-counter in Medellin such as antibiotics. You may even want to check if any of your medications are cheaper in Medellin! Just know that they may have different names and/or doses. There are many 24-hour pharmacies. Homeopathic medicine is widely available in Medellin, as well. Payment - cost will depend on the treatment needed. Present any proof of Travel/Medical Insurance and contact your insurance provider immediately in case they need to deal directly with the hospital. Be sure to get a detailed bill.

Passport Validity: Six months recommended Blank Passport Pages: One page required for entry stamp Tourist Visa Requirements: No visa needed for stays less than 90 days Vaccinations: Yellow Fever vaccine required for travelers from some areas. Check with your doctor. Additional Information for US Citizens

Medellín is renowned for its vibrant culture and hosts several popular annual festivals that attract both locals and tourists. Here are some of the most celebrated festivals in the city: 1. Feria de las Flores (Festival of Flowers) See "Flower Festival" section! 2. Festival Internacional de Poesía (International Poetry Festival) When: July Highlights: One of the most significant poetry festivals in Latin America, it features readings, workshops, and discussions with poets from around the world. Why Visit: Ideal for literature enthusiasts and those interested in the arts, providing an opportunity to experience global poetry in a unique setting. 3. Feria de las 2 Ruedas (Two-Wheel Fair) When: May Highlights: This is a major event for motorcycle and bicycle enthusiasts, featuring exhibitions, competitions, and showcases of the latest models and accessories. Why Visit: It's a must-attend for biking aficionados, offering a comprehensive look at the two-wheel industry. 4. Festival de la Trova (Trova Festival) When: During the Feria de las Flores Highlights: A part of the Flower Festival, this event celebrates the traditional musical improvisation style known as “trova.” Participants compete in friendly battles of wit and rhyme. Why Visit: It offers a unique insight into a traditional Colombian art form and is highly entertaining. 5. Colombiamoda When: July Highlights: Known as the largest fashion event in Colombia, it features runway shows, trade exhibitions, and networking events for the fashion industry. Why Visit: Fashion enthusiasts can witness the latest trends and innovations from Colombian and international designers. 6. Festival de Tango When: June Highlights: Celebrating Medellín’s deep connection with tango music and dance, this festival includes performances, dance competitions, and workshops. Why Visit: It's a tribute to tango culture, offering passionate performances and the chance to learn tango. 7. Alumbrados Navideños (Christmas Lights) When: December to early January Highlights: Medellín is famous for its elaborate Christmas light displays, with millions of lights illuminating the city. Key areas include the Medellín River, Parque Norte, and various public spaces. Why Visit: The light displays are breathtaking and create a festive holiday atmosphere. 8. Festival Internacional de Jazz (International Jazz Festival) When: September Highlights: Featuring performances by renowned jazz musicians from Colombia and around the world, this festival offers concerts, workshops, and jam sessions. Why Visit: Jazz lovers can enjoy world-class performances in an intimate setting. 9. CicloVida When: Every Sunday and public holidays Highlights: Major streets are closed to motorized traffic, allowing cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians to take over the streets. Various activities such as aerobics, yoga, and dance classes are held. Why Visit: It's a great way to experience Medellín’s community spirit and enjoy a healthy, active day.

Travel is a great way to expand your childrens’ education. Do these activities with your kids before packing your bags. We bet you’ll learn something, too! Colombia Videos for Kids Colombian facts for kids Coffee kids version Colombian traditions Soccer in Medellin Where I will Live Find Colombia on a world map - talk about how you will get there and how long it takes Explore Medellin on Google Maps Go to “My Maps” and create a map with all of the places you’d like to visit Find out how to get from your apartamento (apartment) to the closest park, grocery store, bakery, etc. Try walking maps, public transportation, etc. Tour your Medellin neighborhood in Google Street View - how is it similar to or different from your neighborhood at home? Webquest - explore online to find out more about what you will see, do, and eat! Salto Del Buey ~ How many meters is this impressive waterfall? What else is there to do in this special place? Guatapé ~ Who were the first inhabitants here? What happened in the 1970s to make El Peñol-Guatapé what it is today? Coffee Farm ~ How is coffee made? What part of the process are you most excited about learning or doing? Chocolate Class ~ What is the strangest or most surprising dish that boasts cacao (chocolate) as one of the ingredients? What is your favorite thing to make with chocolate? More Interesting Sites and Videos Natl Geo Kids - South America Destination World A few more ‘must-do’ activities in Medellin

Medellin is called the city of eternal spring, so that means gorgeous flowers and vibrant green trees but also occasional rain and necessary layers. It is usually cooler in the morning and downright hot by afternoon, with occasional tropical showers. Layers and comfortable shoes are always a good idea. Temps cool down in the evening and the sun always sets around the same time of 6:10pm. Paisas rarely wear sandals when walking in the city, and men almost never wear them. Paisas also dress a bit more formally than Americans and save shorts and flip-flops for the beach, but feel free to dress comfortably, you’re a tourist afterall! In addition to comfortable clothes and footwear, plan to bring these practical items: A backpack, belt bag and/or crossbody purse that zips Consider a portable cell phone charger if your phone tends to lose charge quickly Perhaps protein bars or any favorite snacks you or your kids can’t live without; while snack food is definitely available it’s different brands and flavors Don’t forget your favorite sunglasses and a hat if you wear one! The sun is intense in this close to the equator city

1. Smart Fit - El Poblado Location: Carrera 43A #6 Sur-15, Centro Comercial Santafé Highlights: A popular gym chain in Latin America, Smart Fit offers modern equipment, a variety of fitness classes, and flexible membership plans. Why Visit: Great for visitors due to its affordability and high-quality facilities. The location in Santafé Mall makes it convenient for combining workouts with shopping and dining. 2. Bodytech - Vizcaya Location: Calle 10 #32-115, Centro Comercial Vizcaya Highlights: Bodytech is a well-known fitness chain in Colombia, offering state-of-the-art equipment, personal training services, and a wide range of classes. Why Visit: Known for its comprehensive facilities and professional staff, Bodytech is ideal for visitors looking for a complete fitness experience. The Vizcaya location also offers scenic views of the city. 3. Komodo Gym Location: Carrera 35 #8A-135 Highlights: Komodo Gym is a boutique fitness center with a focus on personalized training, high-quality equipment, and a friendly community atmosphere. Why Visit: Perfect for visitors who prefer a smaller, more intimate gym environment with personalized attention. 4. Ultra Wellness Center Location: Carrera 42 # 3 Sur-81 Highlights: This gym offers a comprehensive range of wellness services, including fitness classes, spa treatments, and nutritional counseling. Why Visit: Ideal for those looking to combine fitness with relaxation and wellness services. The modern facilities and holistic approach make it a great option for health-conscious visitors. 5. CROSS Training Gym Location: Carrera 43A #8-52 Highlights: Specializes in CrossFit and functional training, offering group classes and personalized coaching. Why Visit: Perfect for visitors who are into high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and looking for a challenging workout in a supportive environment. 6. Fitpal Location: Multiple locations in El Poblado Highlights: Fitpal offers access to various gyms and fitness studios through a single membership. You can try different types of workouts, including yoga, pilates, and martial arts. Why Visit: Great for visitors who want flexibility and variety in their fitness routine. Fitpal’s app makes it easy to find and book classes at participating gyms in El Poblado. 7. Wellness Spa Gym Location: Calle 10 #32-115, Centro Comercial Vizcaya Highlights: Combines gym facilities with spa services, offering a luxurious fitness experience. Amenities include modern workout equipment, personal training, and spa treatments. Why Visit: Ideal for visitors who want to relax and rejuvenate after their workouts. The upscale environment and range of services make it a standout option.

Medellin is considered the midwest of Latin America! Both in Spanish accent and cuisine, this city is familiar to the midwest meat and potato sensibilities. In traditional Colombian dishes there are very few spices used, besides salt and cilantro, which is surprising for a lot of people. The staple meals here are hearty soups called sancocho and ajiaco. There are empanada storefronts on virtually every street corner selling the fried meat and potato pocket, and there are also a lot of delicious French-inspired bakeries with the kind of fluffy, buttery croissants we dream of. And don’t forget the fresh juices and fruit stands! From mango to coconut lime, Colombian’s love fresh juice and often drink multiple cups a day (more than coffee). What is an expensive treat in the states is an everyday beverage in Medellin. Lunch is the biggest meal of the day, and many people take a full two hours to meet for lunch, socialize and maybe catch a little siesta nap afterwards. Most casual restaurants have a ‘menú del día’ which is their specialty for the day and very affordable. This usually consists of a soup, a meat or fish for your main dish, rice, plantains, a salad and fresh juice. Like in the U.S., you will sit down and order at a restaurant. To order, simply say regalame (give me/I’ll have)______. Some fancier places will take reservations for dinner, but unlikely for lunch, which usually starts at noon. Remember, tipping is optional but highly encouraged and the waiter will ask you at the end of each meal if you would like to ‘include the service.’ Speaking of lunch and dinner, remember that this is the typical meal schedule: El desayuno/Breakfast when you wake - scrambled eggs with tomato and onion (you can also ask for plain) and an arepa with quesito, the kind of cheese you have to taste to understand – usually served with coffee or hot chocolate. Unless you go to one of the bakeries mentioned for a croissant, traditional breakfast in Medellin is pretty sizable. El almuerzo/Lunch (Noon-2:00 pm) - normally a ‘menú del día’ as described above with a soup, main dish and rice, salad and plantain as well as fresh squeezed juice. La cena/Dinner (between 7:00–9:00 pm) - A lighter meal if you’re in a household but at a restaurant this could be anything from pizza to paella depending on the cuisine and your selection. Of course, you will see Starbucks around (as of a few years ago) but please consider the original Starbucks called Juan Valdez! We promise similar flavors but cheaper prices and some flavorful surprises. There are enough family friendly familiar foods at local restaurants in Medellin that we’re hoping you’ll explore and save the American faves for your return! Okay, let’s talk terms with some of these common menu words: Menú del día - menu of the day, usually very reasonably priced includes a soup, main dish, sides and a juice Menú infantil - menu for the kids, usually consists of burger, pizza, nuggets, a chuzo de pollo (grilled chicken on a skewer) or salchipapas (hot dogs cut up in little pieces and french fries) Pesca del día - same as the menu of the day but with fish as your main Algo para tomar - something to drink Una fría - the local way of ordering a beer Agua - un vaso de agua is free, clean tap water; if you don’t specify, you will be ordering a bottled water; you may be asked con gas o sin gas (sparkling or still) Pitillo - a straw, almost always paper Servilletas - napkins, important for empanadas especially! Lastly, everyone’s favorite part–what to eat! Don’t leave Medellin without trying these local faves: Las bebidas/Drinks Café o café con leche - coffee or coffee with milk with a proportion of 50/50 Chocolate caliente con agua panela - hot chocolate with sugar cane water, sometimes with cinnamon; delicious for kids and adults alike Jugo de naranja, pina, mango, maracuyá o fresa - a glass of OJ, typically room temp and always fresh-squeezed, fresh pineapple, mango, passionfruit or strawberry, always with fresh fruit and delicious. We recommend saving the berries for at home and trying something more exotic! Limonada de coco - coconut lemonade, freshly blended and so yummy, a must try Club Colombia Roja o Dorada- Colombians staple beer – they will be impressed that you ordered one and it’s cheaper than the imports! Aguardiente - if you dare! Colombians staple liquor, translated as fire water and tastes like Jägermeister; Great mixed with coffee if that’s your kind of thing! Las comidas/Foods Empanadas - a fried turnover typically with meat and potato, sometimes just cheese, a staple Colombian snack. A treat that’s replicated in name all over the world but different in each country and definitely worth a try! Chorizo - different from Mexican and Spanish chorizos, hot sausage often served with lime and an arepa. Morcilla - blood sausage served hot and with lime; sounds strange but is very savory and popular in Medellin, don’t knock it till you’ve tried it! Chicharrón - like bacon, but thicker Salpicón - a fruit cup usually with fresh papaya, mango, watermelon and pineapple. Colombians like this with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Buñuelos - Fried dough balls Pan de yuca - a fluffy roll with a hint of a cheesy flavor Mondongo - another one of their famous soups but this one is with bites of cow belly well cooked and soft and in the soup with potatoes and veggies. Lots of Colombian cred if you try this or lengua, cow tongue!

If you are in Medellín in August, you can see The Flower Festival (Feria de las Flores), honoring the region's rich cultural and floral heritage. The event features parades, live music, traditional dancing, and a stunning display of flowers, including the famous "Silleteros" parade, where farmers carry intricate flower arrangements on their backs. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, showcasing the city's vibrant culture and its transformation from a once turbulent past to a thriving, welcoming metropolis. Don’t worry - if your Group Adventure isn’t there in August, you will get a tast of The Flower Festival at Travec’s Welcome Dinner. The ten-day event is spread throughout the city, with highlights in key locations such as: Parque de los Deseos – Often a venue for concerts, cultural activities, and performances. La Alpujarra Administrative Center – Where official events and exhibitions occur. Calle 33 (Flower Parade Route) – The iconic "Silleteros" parade, with farmers carrying beautiful flower arrangements, takes place along this street. Jardín Botánico – The Botanical Garden hosts flower exhibitions and family-friendly activities. The festival’s activities and parades typically center around the downtown area, but events can be found throughout the city’s parks and public spaces. Check out these videos about The Flower Festival: Quick Video about the Parade in Spanish Informational Video in Spanish Informational Video in English

As you prepare for your stay in Peru, please consider potential health risks. The Peruvian government does not require any immunizations for entry to the country but you may consult with your personal physician, infectious disease specialist or travel clinic before deciding what preventative measures to take. In addition, be sure to discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with your physician. Vaccinations recommended for travelers to Peru by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19 You should have 2 doses (preferably 3) of the COVID-19 vaccine before traveling to Peru. Entrance is restricted to many areas to vaccinated persons and as such as required for participation in the program (e.g. malls, regional buses, airports, etc). Yellow Fever CDC yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers to Peru who are planning on visiting areas east of the Andes Mountains or who intend to visit any jungle areas of the country. Travelers who are limiting travel to the cities of Cusco and Machu Picchu do NOT need the vaccination. Vaccination should be given 10 days before travel and at 10-year intervals if there is on-going risk. Hepatitis A Vaccine should be administered at least four weeks before departure. If long-term protection is desired (ten years), follow-up with second dose 6-12 months after the first dose. If departing within two weeks, a dose of immune globulin is recommended, and lasts 3 months. Typhoid fever Both oral and injectable vaccines are available. The oral vaccine should be finished at least one week before travel and will last 5 years. The injection should be given at least 2 weeks before travel and will last 2 years. Recommended if visiting small cities, villages or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or Water. The Center for Disease Control Malaria Branch no longer recommends that travelers to Peru take oral prophylactics unless they plan to travel to remote regions of Peru. In this case, the recommendation is Malarone and doxycycline as there is confirmed mefloquine, chloroquine and fansidar resistance there. Make sure you are up to date with routine shots such as MMR vaccine, DPT, polio, etc. Traveler’s Diarrhea Travelers' diarrhea (TD) is the most common illness affecting travelers. Each year between 20%-50% of international travelers, an estimated 10 million persons, develop diarrhea. The onset of TD usually occurs within the first week of travel but may occur at any time while traveling, and even after returning home. Travelers can minimize their risk for TD by practicing the following effective preventive measures: ● Avoid eating foods or drinking beverages purchased from street vendors or other establishments where unhygienic conditions are present ● Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat and seafood ● Avoid eating raw fruits (e.g., oranges, bananas, avocados) and vegetables unless the traveler peels them. If handled properly well-cooked and packaged foods are usually safe. Tap water, ice, unpasteurized milk, and dairy products are associated with increased risk for TD. Safe beverages include bottled carbonated beverages, hot tea or coffee, beer, wine, and water boiled or appropriately treated with iodine or chlorine. *Consider speaking with your physician or campus travel nurse about bringing along medicine in case you are affected by traveler’s diarrhea during your time abroad. --Health Information taken from www.cdc.gov

“Blanqui” – Breakfast specials, tea time and excellent pies. “Caramel” – Coffee, crepes and filling salads. (This one has two branches) “Litos” – BBQ-type of dishes, traditional “anticuchos”, cheap French fries and beer, happy hour every hour. Chifa “Heng Long” – Traditional Peruvian-Asian fusion on a budget. “Conchitas Negras” – Typical seafood dishes: ceviche, chicharrón, chilcano. “Mr. Lucas” – Great cheap hamburgers (sadly, no French fries). “Dulcinelly” – Best bakery in the neighborhood. “Koi Maki bar” – Great sushi, some Asian classics with a Peruvian twist. “Real Plaza Mall” – Starbucks, KFC, Pizza Hut, Bembos, TGI Friday’s. “Tatami Sushi Bar” – Japanese Peruvian fusion makis. “Nina Cafe” – Offers a wide variety of sandwiches, desserts, coffees and main dishes in a nicely furnished environment accompanied by cats. “Squalos” – One of the best seafood restaurants in trujillo “Mr. Tang” – One of the most delicious fusion restaurants of Chinese and Peruvian food. “Sonqo” – Offers one of the most famous street dishes in Peru called “Anticuchos”. “El Cuatrero” – The perfect choice when it comes to steaks and grills. “Alaska” – Offers delicious cremoladas which are a fusion of ice and fruit juice that is smoother than ice cream. Additional places: 17. Restaurante Romano Criollo – A classic in Trujillo with traditional dishes and a cozy family-friendly atmosphere. 18. “Café Buho” – A café with delicious desserts and specialty coffee, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. 19. “La Bodega de Don Lucho” – A place with homemade food and highly recommended menu options. 20. “Fina Estampa” – A restaurant offering Peruvian and Creole dishes, with a welcoming ambiance for families.

Trujillo, on Peru’s northern coast, is known for its flavorful criolla cuisine, fresh seafood, and refreshing local drinks. When dining out, you can choose between a cevichería (seafood spot), a traditional picantería, or a modern restaurant. You’ll also spot plenty of cafés and juice bars on nearly every corner. Cevicherías are a must-visit and usually open for lunch hours. They serve fresh ceviche with sweet potato, corn, and cancha (toasted corn). In more casual spots, you can order at the counter by saying “Ponme un ceviche mixto, por favor” and then sit at any available table or barstool. Terraces or patios are common too, especially in the city center. While there’s no tiered pricing like in Europe, touristy places might be more expensive than traditional joints. If you see a free table, go ahead and grab it—no need to wait to be seated, but be quick! At restaurants, you’ll usually be seated and can order by saying: “Quiero un arroz con mariscos” (“I’d like a seafood rice dish”). Some places take reservations, but lunch is typically served between 12:30 and 3:00pm, and dinner starts around 7:00 pm. Tipping isn’t expected, but leaving a few soles is appreciated. Typical Meal Schedule in Trujillo: Desayuno (Breakfast) – light, often bread with avocado or tamales and café pasado El break de media mañana (Mid-morning snack) – a juice and bread with cheese or jam Almuerzo (Lunch, 12:30–3:00pm) – the biggest meal of the day with multiple courses Cena (Dinner, 7:00–9:00pm) – lighter, like soup or a small sandwich with tea Local Drinks You Have to Try Café pasado – strong Peruvian-style coffee, often brewed ahead and poured to order Emoliente – a warm herbal drink with linseed, barley, and medicinal herbs Maracuyá juice – always fresh and made to order Chicha morada – sweet, spiced purple corn drink with pineapple, cinnamon, and cloves Inca Kola – Peru’s most iconic soda, bright yellow and sweet Cusqueña or Pilsen Trujillo – local beers, perfect with seafood or grilled meats Pisco Sour – Peru’s national cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, egg white, and bitters Must-Try Trujillo Dishes Ceviche – fish or mixed seafood marinated in lime juice with red onion, chili, and cilantro Arroz con mariscos – rice cooked with Peruvian spices and loaded with shellfish Cabrito con frijoles – tender stewed goat meat with flavorful beans and rice Shambar – hearty Monday soup with wheat, legumes, pork, and spices Seco de cabrito or seco de res – slow-cooked meat in cilantro sauce, served with rice and cassava Causa rellena – seasoned mashed yellow potatoes filled with tuna, chicken, or seafood Papa a la huancaína – boiled potatoes topped with a creamy cheese and yellow chili sauce Anticuchos – skewers of grilled beef heart, served with potatoes and spicy sauce Tamales and humitas – corn-based dough wrapped in banana leaves, sweet or savory Chicharrón de pescado or calamar – crispy fried fish or squid, often served with sauces For Dessert King Kong de manjar blanco – Trujillo’s signature sweet, made of cookie layers, caramel, and fruit Alfajores or suspiro a la limeña – rich, traditional Peruvian treats full of flavor Of course, if you're craving something familiar, you can always find a Starbucks or McDonald’s in malls like Mall Aventura. But we highly recommend trying out the local joints—you won’t regret it (and we won’t judge your guilty pleasure stop either)!

● Chachapoyas: Explore the famous ruins of Kuélap and hike to the world’s 3rd largest waterfall, Gocta. ● Chiclayo: Explore a metropolitan city and see the famous ruins and treasure of the Lord of Sípan, the Latin American King Tut! ● Máncora: Relax on beautiful white sand beaches in this international tourist town. ● Cajamarca: Enjoy the highlands of Peru in this city famous for its wonderful dairy products, cheeses, and the Inca baths. ● Huaraz: The adventure capital of the Andes. Hike through the beautiful national park to glaciers and lakes, which are also a UNESCO world heritage site. ● Otuzco: A rural town in the Andes, a great place to experience traditional Peruvian farming techniques and hike in the mountains. ● Pacasmayo: Learn how to surf and enjoy the beaches. Walk the boardwalk and enjoy the shops.

Trujillo is very easy to navigate, especially if you use an app. In Google Maps, you can choose walking directions or select the car icon for transportation. The car icon will provide step-by-step instructions in case you want to take a ride to a specific place. Taxis are also prevalent, and if traveling with a family, they may be easier and cheaper. Simply use an app like inDrive. You can ask for some recommendations of taxi drivers who work with some people from the staff.

National Geographic Kids - Peru Kids World Travel Guide - Peru Peru Video for Kids Kids World Citizen

Peru uses the Sol (or Nuevo Sol) ● Credit cards and Apple Pay/Phone apps are widely accepted; keep S/.20 - S/.50 on you for street stands ● Bonus! Sales tax (IGV) is already included on the price tag ● Sales and coupons are not common when shopping; Rebajas (sales) usually depends on the store. ● Tipping is not as common or as expected as in the U.S. Here are some optional recommendations ○ Rides: No tip for Uber, Lyft or Cabify, and also for other Taxis ○ Bar and Restaurants: It’s not mandatory to do it. ○ Delivery services: Some Delivery apps give the option to leave a tip.

Pizarro Street: Various shops for traditional handicrafts. Enjoy the typical food and sweets. Appreciate the colonial houses, art exhibits and surprise shows along the street. In Pizarro Street you can buy souvenirs and many gifts related to Peruvian culture, for instance llamas or alpacas ornaments, traditional clothing such as ponchos, chullos, bags, etc. Trama Perú: Variety of Peruvian handicrafts from nativity scenes to t-shirts. Quality and prices are high. From Monday to Saturday, office hours. Mall Plaza: Bigger than Real Plaza. Find clothing stores such as Ripley and Saga Falabella, visit the large supermarket Tottus. You also can see the large hardware store Sodimac, the entertainment place for kids Coney Park. One of 3 cinemas of Trujillo is here, it is called Cinemark. Are you hungry? Visit the friendly food court where you can find establishments such as KFC, Starbucks, La Lucha and more. To get there you can take a taxi (S/. 8.00 approx.) or take the Huanchaco bus (S/. 2).

We asked our City Host, Rachel... What do you think are the biggest cultural differences between Peru and the USA? What will surprise our families? "You may not notice the biggest differences in just one week, however here are a few things that may surprise you... 1. The driving! Although the traffic laws are mostly the same as in the US, it will be hard to tell from the way drivers navigate the roads. Luckily you'll be safe with our staff and transportation. However, it is quite surprising to see how the rest get around. Definitely look both ways at least twice before crossing the street! 2. The bathrooms. Although this is something small, you'll notice it right away. Many bathrooms don't have toilet paper and sometimes do not have running water. We always recommend you carry toilet paper, sanitizer, or baby wipes with you at all times. 3. How friendly Peruvian people are. You might be surprised at how genuinely excited the people are for you to be visiting their country and how excited they are for you to love their food, culture, and everything about it. Be ready to share something you love about Peru from day one."

Things to do while in Trujillo on a boring day: Weekdays: Visit art galleries downtown Visit the colonial houses downtown Go to the local markets for fresh fruits and veggies Have some coffee or fresh juice downtown Try a new dessert Watch the sunset at the beach in Huanchaco Visit the National University Mural (largest of its kind in the world) Discover the city using public transportation or just walking around Go to your nearby park and practice a sport with the locals Read a book in the “Jardín Botánico” on America Sur Avenue Take a salsa class! Weekends: Enjoy a traditional breakfast in Huanchaco beach Watch the parade on Sunday morning in the Main Square Enjoy the nightlife Look for street festivals and fairs downtown and in parks around the city Practice sports (surfing, longboarding, sandboarding)

Trujillo is generally dry and sunny, with mild winter weather in June. Days are pleasantly warm, but temperatures can drop in the evening, so it’s a good idea to bring layers. A light jacket, pashmina, or scarf will keep you comfortable if you’re out at dusk. Comfortable shoes or sandals are ideal for walking around the city, exploring ruins, or visiting the beach. While the vibe is relaxed, Peruvians tend to dress a bit more formally than Americans—save flip-flops for the beach, and opt for smart casual wear when heading out around town. Here is a suggested packing list: Peru packing list Recommendations: pack light! Laundry services are widely used in Trujillo if you need to refresh clothing. This saves on the amount of luggage you need to bring and leaves room for goodies you may want to take home. Lightweight clothes and layers are great for traveling between the beach and the mountains! Documents: Passport Photocopies of important documents kept in a separate place Second form of ID (such as a drivers license) Copy of any important prescriptions or medical information from your doctor Bug spray Sunscreen Lightweight daypack/beach bag Secure “purse” or bag with zipper for walking around Electricity adapter Hand sanitizer for carrying around Reusable water bottle Travel journal Swimming suit Towel (recommend Turkish towels, fast drying, lightweight, fold up small!) Tennis shoes/hiking shoes/comfortable walking shoes Sunglasses Cotton slippers or flip flops for indoors Hat Optional: Small gifts for city friends or new friends you meet along the way. Machu Picchu and Salpo A lot of layers!!! Cusco and Salpo are very chilly in the shade and warmer in the sun. Warms socks, hats, light gloves, jacket/coat Hiking shoes/boots

We take every precaution to ensure families are safe during their stay. However, be alert to pickpockets; even at the airport! Here are some pointers: ● Be very vigilant in tourist areas and crowded areas like downtown. ● Keep your passport at home in your apartment; use a safe if one is available ● Don’t keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket ● Wear backpacks in front of you ● Use a crossbody purse with a closed zipper ● Secure your purse or backpack to a chair or your body in casual dining environments ● Carry cash and/or credit cards in an inside zipper pocket of your purse or pack ● When carrying a lot of cash (not recommended), keep it in different places (pocket, pack, divided among family or friends, etc.) It is not uncommon to see homeless people; they are generally harmless. If they approach you, either help them out or say No tengo nada (I don’t have anything).

One-two weeks before your trip, make a plan for using your phone in Peru. If you are traveling with your family, consider whether it’s necessary for you to use data on various phones or whether you will limit your use to one phone. If your cell phone is locked, check with your cell phone provider about international plans and costs. Most providers offer a pass for $2/day that you can choose to activate each day, providing unlimited data (low speed) for 24 hours. Or, if you don’t plan to use apps and simply want to text or call once in a while (without connecting to WiFi), you can pay your provider’s rate per text or call for Peru– check this ahead of time so you know what you’re getting into! Or, if you have an unlocked phone and plan to use apps (think GPS!) or texting on the regular, a money-saving and stress-free option may be activating an eSIM. This provides dual SIM information so that you have a Peruvian phone number and data plan for Peru while keeping your American phone number. Often this is much cheaper than paying $2/day. Download the Airalo App or the Holafly App to activate your eSIM and shop international plans.

Affection! Be ready to witness some public displays of affection in Peru. Folks don’t hang out at home very often, so kissing becomes a public passtime! Peruvians also meet and greet with kisses! When you meet a new friend or get together with old friends, remember these general rules: ● Females kiss ● Females and males kiss ● Males shake hands ● Don’t actually kiss their cheek, just touch cheeks and air kiss Saying it like it is! This means that peruvian’s way of speaking is direct and to the point. Por favor and gracias are optional and excellent customer service is uncommon. Don’t let this ruffle your feathers– appreciate the honesty and remember that tipping is not expected. ¡Te invito! If you go out with locals, you may hear them say te invito or “I invite you”. This means that coffee or lunch is their treat. Conversely, you may want to insist te invito. Splitting the bill is not common practice among friends.

If you're used to the American way of doing things — where being on time means being early, meetings start right on the dot, and every minute is scheduled — Peru might feel like a bit of a time warp at first. But don’t worry — you’re not in the wrong place, just on Peruvian time. Time Is Flexible Here In Peru, people don’t usually treat time like a ticking clock. It’s more like a suggestion. Things happen when they happen, and that’s not seen as rude — it’s just the way life flows. Being late doesn’t necessarily mean someone’s being disrespectful; they’re probably caught up in something important, like a family matter or a good conversation. “Ahorita” Doesn’t Always Mean Now One of the first things you’ll notice is how people use time-related words. “Ahorita” (literally “right now”) could mean in a few minutes, in an hour, or maybe later. Same with “ahí nomás” ("just over there") — it might be close, or it might be a little hike. It’s all part of the cultural rhythm — and once you settle into it, it starts to feel kind of nice. Plans Are More Like Guidelines Making plans in Peru is more like setting an intention. If someone invites you to dinner at 7, showing up at 7:30 is often totally fine. People are more focused on the connection than the clock. It’s a culture that puts relationships over rigid timing. What This Means for You If you're traveling or working in Peru, it helps to just relax your grip on the schedule a bit. Try to stay flexible, laugh off delays, and enjoy the slower pace. People aren't being flaky — they're just tuned into a different kind of time. Bottom Line: In the U.S., time is like a race. In Peru, it’s more like a dance. Don’t stress — just find the rhythm and go with it.

Galería “Azur” – Alianza Francesa: Small art gallery located in the French School. Exhibits change every month and are mostly from local artists. Screenings of European movies for freeevery Friday. Open Monday to Saturday. Casa de la Emancipación: One of the best-preserved colonial houses downtown where the Independence of Trujillo was signed. Art exhibits and different cultural events held permanently. Open from 10am to 7pm. Municipalidad: The City Hall is open to visitors interested in Trujillo’s history. Free tours around the main rooms of this iconic building and a great view of the Main Square. Open from 10am to 8pm. Chan Chan: The ruins of an old Chimú city and the world’s largest site built from adobe. Get a feeling of this pre-Inca civilization, its living conditions and enjoy their unique architecture. Address: Carretera a Huanchaco (taxi or Huanchaco bus). Open daily until 4pm, with tickets. Huacas del Sol y la Luna: The ruins of an old Moche city, another important pre-Inca civilization. You can see both huacas but you can only explore the Huaca de la Luna because of preservation work. Address: Campiña de Moche (take a taxi there). Open daily until 4:00pm aprox. Modern Art Museum: Led by Trujillo’s most iconic artist, Gerardo Chávez. It hosts exhibits from local and international artists. Address: Prolongación Av. Federico Villarreal s/n, esquina con Carretera Industrial (take a taxi there). Open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am-5pm.