Traveling to Central America is the same as traveling to any other part of the world, but as we all know, there are some things that we all have to keep in mind to make the trip as enjoyable as possible.
This might sound like paranoia speaking, but the truth is that there are some things about the places we are going to visit that we need to know but we don’t know that we don’t know them.
That’s why I thought it would be a good idea if I gave you a some pieces of advice for your Central American trip:
Children Need Paperwork
If only one parent is planning to go to a Central American country and is taking a child, you have to get a notarized letter from the other parent granting permission for the child to travel abroad. You wouldn’t believe the stories I have heard. The problem is that they won’t let you get into the country without that letter, and if they do, they won’t let you leave until it’s fixed somehow.
Be Vigilant
Pickpockets gravitate towards busy public areas where unsuspecting tourists congregate. Most of them look like regular people, so make sure that all of your possessions are stowed away safely somewhere under your clothing. I’m not saying that you have to become a human radar, just being a little more careful than normal will do.
Bedbugs Everywhere!
Central America is filled with forests and wildlife. Wherever you look there are mountains, rivers and volcanoes and most of the towns are placed very close to these. So when checking into your hotel room, do a pest inspection before unpacking your luggage. Bedbugs can be lurking, even in the cleanest and most respected hotels. They can make an overnight stay a miserable, itchy experience.
A Great Way to Hide Valuables
I have just found out about a great product that gives you a great way to hide valuables: Passport security socks. They come in different sizes and heights, from ankle socks to over-the-calf styles. They have a zipped pocket that can hold cash, passport, keys, and other small valuables. This way, you will never have to worry about losing them.