pato23
From: El Salvador
1/18/2010 12:57 EST
San Salvador City Guide
San Salvador
San Salvador is the capital city of El Salvador,approximately in the
center of the country in a valley near the base of the San Salvador
volcano. The city has a long history, with origins dating back to the
Spanish conquest of the Pipil tribes.
San Salvador lies in the "Valle de las Hamacas" (literally "Valley of
the hammocks", as it was called by the Pipil, due to its intense
earthquake activity) at the foot of the San Salvador volcano. It
covers an area of 600 square km and is home to nearly 2 million
people. It is home to one-third of El Salvador's population and
one-half of the country's wealth. The downtown area is filled with
shops and modern buildings, but unfortunately earthquakes have damaged
or destroyed many of the city's historic buildings.
The people of San Salvador are generally friendly, though as in any
large city, less inclined to engage in conversations with strangers on
the street as opposed to other parts of the country. The wealthy live
in exclusive suburbs behind tall security walls or luxury condominium
buildings. Wealthier areas such as San Benito, Colonia Escalon,
Colonia San Francisco, Colonia Maquilishuat, Santa Elena (where the
U.S. embassy is located) and Ciudad Merliot have tree-lined avenues,
the biggest malls in Central America, bars, clubs, gyms, restaurants,
luxury hotels, modern high-rise buildings, plazas, boutiques, cafes,
luxury salons, jewelry stores, etc. Some of these neighborhoods are
located in the hills surrounding the city and have breathtaking views.
A number of new gated housing communities complete with parks,
swimming pools, fitness facilities & tight security are popular with
middle class families. Most of the city's hotels can be found in these
suburbs.
There are middle class neighborhoods and residential areas close to
the wealthy neighborhoods. Poorer areas are located in the northern &
eastern districts, along with an abundance of shanty towns sprawling
along the city's fringes.
San Salvador's climate is tropical, although the weather can vary; the
nights may be cool (especially in December), however, most of the time
it is sunny and warm. Wearing t-shirts, jeans, and possibly a light
rain jacket is usually sufficient.
Whilst not on most tourists' "to do" list in El Salvador, the capital
provides a good base for exploring the rest of the country as it's a
transportation hub, with most major roads running through it due to
it's central location. Spending a few days exporing this cosmopolitan
& internationally-conscious city can be a rewarding experience. Whilst
parts can seem like a maze of confusion, rich vs poor, modern vs
dilapitaded, cars vs pedestrians, the city has played a major role in
defining and shaping the rest of this small yet intruiging country,
once at the forefront of the Cold War. To understand this polarized
country, it is essential to understand it's political, cultural and
social headquarters.
Arrival
Travelers arriving by air will fly into ANSEL Comalapa Airport, the
biggest airport in Central America, which is located 45 minutes by
highway from the city.
For budget travelers the local bus can take you from the airport into
downtown San Salvador for 0,70USD. It is slower than the shuttles and
can take up to an hour to get into town. To reach the local buses;
cross the big parking lot. Then go through an open building to reach
the road. There is a bus-stop. Do not bring a lot of luggage or large
backpacks, though, the mini bus gets very crowded no luggage racks!!!!
NOTE: If driving to the city from Comalapa, please exercise extreme
caution. There are many residents who walk this highway as well as
cross it. With this said there are many accidents with vehicles
speeding as well as people who are hit.
To Get around best hire a native guide/owner driver, pay by hour or
per day, no extra insurance costs and driver is liable in case of
accident.
for more information E mail
Taxi drivers tend to overcharge foreigners, often double local rate,
be aware a 3-4 km. taxi ride should cost no more than $5.00, perhaps
$6.00 if raining or rush hour.
elsalvadorinfo at gmail.com
If driving, rental car agencies include Budget , Alamo and Hertz City
(Inter urbano) Buses and taxis also provide good ways of getting
around. Negotiating the cost of your taxi as soon as you step in is
common practice and expected. Carry small denominations of money and
have exact change for your taxi fare. If you do not have exact change,
taxi drivers conveniently won't be able to make change for you and
will try to convince you to make the change a tip instead. Distances
between sights make walking an unpopular option, as does the street
layout in the city; San Salvador is not a square city, but has long
avenues that are straight and streets that aren't. That said, in some
areas walking is a great option, such as from Zona Rosa to Las
Terrazas (Sheraton hotel) which are close together and within sight of
one another. The Micro Buses have the reputation to drive fast and
sometimes very dangerously. Take caution in using the Micro Buses as
they are places where tourists are most likely to be robbed.
If taking public transportation be very aware at the bus stops and
extraurban bus terminals, never carry fanny pack on your waist nor
camera around your neck, or wear expensive watch or jewelry, if you
must carry valuables on buses such as laptop, hide in a shopping bag.
Don't ask directions on teh street if you become lost, go into a store
and speak with manager or employees safely out of sight of street
people, everywhere in the city. Also avoid crowded outdoor markets,
carry only as much cash as you will think you will require for small
purchases. Leave Credit Cards and Passports locked up in your lodging
place.
Boulevards
San Salvador has wide avenues and boulevards, including the two widest
boulevards in Central America: Boulevard de los Proceres and Boulevard
de los Heroes. Other important boulevards include Alameda Roosevelt,
Paseo General Escalon, Av. Jerusalem, Boulevard Constitucion and Av.
Juan Pablo Segundo.
Monuments
San Salvador has many beautiful monuments, some of them dating back to
the early 20th century, while others are more modern. Some of the most
important monuments include the National Palace, Plaza Gerardo
Barrios, Plaza Morazan, Water Clock, Monument to the Sea, Atlacatl
Monument and the Proceres Monuments (it has 10 monuments). One of the
most recognizable monuments in El Salvador is the Monumento a El
Salvador del Mundo, or "Monument to the Saviour of The World".
Business
Feria Internacional de El Salvador is the largest convention center in
Central America. El Salvador is rated third best place for investment
in Latin America by Moody's. Some of the very wealthy business
families in San Salvador & through out El Salvador are, Siman (owners
of the largest department store chain in Central America), Poma
(owners of Grupo Roble and Grupo Poma), Quiros (owners of Grupo Q in
Central America), Kriete (owners of TACA Airlines) www.taca.com/ check
daily for online special fares., Dueñas (owners of La Gran Via), the
family that owns Biggest, Pops, Nash and Mister Donut, and a lot of
other important families. In addition, San Salvador is one of the only
two cities in Central America that have a World Trade Center.
Parks
San Salvador has the large urban park, the "Parque de los Pericos".
There is another park called Parque Cuscatlan (close to downtown),
which is very elegant, with lights, trees and paths. Popular with
locals, the beautiful botanical gardens of La Laguna (close to the the
U.S. embassy) showcase much native fauna. Zoologico Nacional (The
National Zoo), and Parque Saburo Hirao (with a collection of native
plants) are in the SE part of the city by the old Presidential House.
If you don't get a chance to visit smaller towns & villages outside
the capital, a must see destination is Los Planes De Renderos. 1000
Metres above sea level, the mountain offers a spectacular view of San
Salvador, and is a popular oasis for locals from the hectic city.
Check out the restaurants, walking tracks & parks ideal for picnics.
Visit the nearby colonial town of Panchimalco , one of the few towns
in the country with a large indigenous population.
Museums
San Salvador has many museums, the two most important are "Museo David
J Guzman" and "Museo de Arte MARTE". David J Guzman National Museum of
Anthropology contains a variety of Mayan and Pipil artifacts, while
Museo de Arte MARTE[6] displays an extensive collection of
international art. Both are located in the Zona Rosa district. There
is also a children's museum, the Tin-Marin museum, where kids can
experience the world in a fun way. The old national palace is being
restored to house the "National Archives," and the "National Museum."
Also a new display of early mammal fossils, including a giant sloth,
mastodon and more than twenty other species is being set up in the
"Museo de Historia Natural," or "Natural History Museum" situated in
the SE section of Saburo Hirao park by the National Zoo. Close to the
zoo is the "Museo Militar," or Military Museum which is housed in the
old castle-like "El Zapote" barracks built in 1895. In the military
museum you can find weapons and army uniforms from the 17th, 18th, and
early 20th centuries, which were historically used by the Salvadoran
army. Other highlights of this museum include the original copies of
the 1992 peace accords and the Pope Mobile used when Pope John Paul II
visited the country. Entrance is free and a guide service is provided
at no charge.
Theatres
San Salvador has numerous theatres, including the beautiful Teatro
Presidente (located near Zona Rosa), where the symphony regularly
performs expensive and inexpensive concerts, and the Teatro Nacional
(downtown), which was recently restored to its full splendor. Here you
can step back and experience the grandeur once reserved for the city's
elite in the early 1900s.
Aquarium
There are plans for an aquarium to be built in El Salvador. This
Aquarium will be built in El Parque de los Pericos, next to the
Multiplaza mall.
Entertainment
San Salvador has several entertainment venues. You can go to
restaurants, bars, clubs, casinos, or if you are traveling with kids
you can go to the cinemas, bowling, bingo, arcades etc. Cinemas in San
Salvador include
* Cinemark Various locations throughout El Salvador, Ph:503
22294315, Plaza Merliot also MetroCentro Mall
* Multicinema Various locations throughout El Salvador, Ph:503
22439269, Multiplaza
* Cinepolis, Galerías Escalón, [
You can also play video games at World Games in all the Malls and El
Mundo Feliz.
Families may also want to visit Central America's largest toy store:
* Jugueton San Salvador. boulevard de los proceres #2000. Ph:503
22481253 this a toy store similar to toys r´ us you will find all
types of variety of toys and other fun crafts.
* Also, you can go via cable car to an amusement park on top of
Cerro San Jacinto mountain. Update..Cable Car no longer running.
The trendiest night spot to visit is called Zona Rosa. Some of the
best hotels are located there, including the Sheraton Presidente as
well as one of the most luxurious hotels in Central America, the
Hilton Princess. Although Zona Rosa doesn't cover a large area (around
1sq mi), it's home to many exclusive, upscale bars and nightclubs (Los
Alambiques, Code), and the best restaurants in town (Paradise, 503, A
lo Nuestro). If you want to visit a nightclub without the probable
inconvenience of not being let in, you should visit Las Terrazas
(Stanza, Envy) at Multiplaza Mall or La Gran Vía (Llenya, El
Alebrije), a life style center. Update, recently many places have
closed in Zona Rosa due to drugs, violent crime. Visitors be aware
when walking around Zona Rosa late night, La Gran Via is an enclosed
area with 24 hour security.
Learn
There are many private schools and universities, including numerous
language schools. Some of the best private schools are
* Colegio Español Padre Arrupe (Colegio Arrupe), Calle padre
Salazar-Simpson Finca el Espíritu Santo. Soyapango Ph:(503)2516-6899
[12]
* Colegio Externado San Jose (Externado San Jose), 33 Av. Norte,
Final Pasaje San José, Residencial Decapolis. Ph:503 2261-4000, .
* Liceo Salvadoreño Col. Flor Blanca, ph:503 2260 9888- 503 2260 7459. [13]
* The American School (Escuela Americana), San Benito, ph:503
2257-8336,
* The British Academy (Academia Britanica Cuscatleca) in front of
CA1 Santa Tecla. Ph:(503) 2241 4400,
* The Panamerican School (Escuela Panamericana), Colonia Escalón,
ph:503 2209-6000,
* The German School (Deutsche Schule) Jardines de Guadalupe. Ph:
503 22438120,
* The French School (Lycée Français St Exupéry) Next to the
British Academy ,
* The International School of San Salvador Calle La Reforma. Ph:
(503) 224-1330,
A list of El Salvador's Universities and their websites can be found
here: http://www.internationaleducationmedia.com/elsalvador/index.htm
Bookstores
Not much variety in English, travelers best buy your guidebooks and
other reading matter at home before departure. La Casita is the best
and cheapest, La Cieba mostly books in Spanish..expensive.
* La Casita. Locations in both Centro comercial multiplaza, San
Benito and Centro comercial Plaza San Benito.
* Bookmarks Centro Comercial Basilea, Zona Rosa (Next
to the Hilton).
* La Ceiba, Galerias, Col.Escalon Av. Paseo Gral.Escalon. There
are Many other la ceiba stores in the city.
Malls
Some of the shopping malls include: Loma Linda, Multiplaza ,Las
Fuentes, Galerias (elegant), Metrocentro (said to be the largest in
Central America), El Paseo (expensive), Plazamundo , Plaza Merliot
,La Gran Via (a lifestyle center / "city walk"), Las Cascadas, Basilea
(unique), Plaza San Benito, Villas Españolas and many more. These
malls have luxury boutiques, the latest in international fashion,
specialty stores, large foodcourts (some even have 3 food courts) and
many other amenities
.
Local Crafts
For local arts & crafts, visit the Ilopango markets east of the city.
Test your bargaining skills & take home some unique, handmade goods.
For cheap souvenirs such as hammocks and other local crafts try the
Mercado Cuartel, dangerous area downtown. A good hammock can be yours
for under 15USD, depending on bargaining skills.
For special trips to Villages dedicated to the elaboration of hand
made Arts and Crafts with a native guide E mail, Skype or telephone:
ARDM, Cinquera, El Salvador
a non profit organization dedicated to cultural and
ecotourism in El Salvador.
Rain Forest project in Cinquera
E mail elsalvadorinfo at gmail.com
Skype visitcentralamerica
Phone +(503)7009-7646 7 days a week for more information English or Spanish from a volunteer..
Fuel
There are many gas stations, including Texaco, Shell, Puma, Petrotec,
Esso and others all over the city. No need to step out of the car.
Self service now common and cheaper. Credit Cards accepted.
Department stores
San Salvador and some Mexican cities are the only cities in Latin
America with Sanborns (restaurant and store chain) and Dorians (or
Sears). Other department stores include Siman,
Carrion and Almacenes Europa.
Supermarkets and Other Retail Stores
* Super Selectos. Everywhere in the city.
* Hiperpaiz, Blvd. Los heroes and Las cascadas hipermall Antiguo
cuscatlan. A Wal-Mart company.
* La despensa de Don Juan. Everywhere in the city.
* Pricesmart (Costco in the U.S.A.), Blvd. De los Heroes and Santa
Elena. Members only.
All supermarkets are air conditioned. Generally most are very clean.
International Credit Cards accepted, most supermarkets have ATM
machines inside.
Eat
The restaurant scene in San Salvador is influenced by many different
cultures. Food options include Italian Korean, Japanese, Thai, French,
Chilean, American, Peruvian, Mexican, Spanish, Middle Eastern, German,
Chinese, Argentinian and others. Local food options include Tipicos
Margot where one can purchase the famous Salvadoran Pupusas. Perhaps
the biggest indictment against the quality of the San Salvador
restaurant scene however is the sheer number of chain restaurants
referenced in this article.
Budget
* Burger King
* McDonald's
* Wendy's
* Biggest
* Pollo Campero
* Pollo Campestre
* Pollo Tip-Top
* KFC
* Subway
* Quiznos
* Pollo Tropical
* Pizza Hut
* Domino's
* Little Caesar's
* NASH
* Típicos Margoth
At lunch time 12 Noon to 2PM are open in San Salvador hundreds of
Comedores which offer well balanced meals, chicken, meat, fish, soups,
vegetables, etc. for $2.50 and less, cafeteria style. Eat there or
take out. After 4PM these comedores offer only typical El Salvadorian
foods.
Best bet for those who disdain fast food places, make sure the place
is clean before ordering.
When you are in El Salvador you won't have to worry about not finding
a place to eat there is food everywhere you go.
Mid range
* Tony Romas, Blvd. el Hipódromo, Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa Ph:
(503) 2-298-5050, Fax:(503)2-298-5964, [31]. American casual. There
are 3 more Tony roma's in the city.
* La Panetière, San Benito, Zona Rosa Ph: (503) 2-263-8792, Fax:
(503) 2-264-1759. There are many other La Panetière in all San
Salvador.
* Punto Literario. In El Museo de Arte Marte col. San Benito. Zona Rosa.
* Sal y pimienta, Tercera calle poniente #3877 entre 73 y 75 av.
Norte Col. Escalon, Ph: (503) 2-298-1766, Fax: (503) 2-245-0998.
* Restaurante Chileno Hey, 97 av Nte. calle Pte. #4509, Col.
Escalon. Ph/Fax: 503-22637281
* Restaurante Basilea, Blvd. El Hipódromo 2-502, col. San Benito,
Zona Rosa Ph: 503-22236818 Fax:503-22790056
* Pasquale, Paseo Gral. Escalón, Col. Escalón frente a Galerías
shopping center. Ph:503-2263-1693 Fax: 503-22635445. Italian food.
* Tre fratelli, Blvd. El Hipódromo #307, Zona Rosa Ph/fax:
503-2224-2951 Italian Food.
* Al Pomodoro, Paseo Gral. Escalón #3952 Ph: (503) 2514-4455 or
2257-2545 Italian food.
* Diva, Blv. El Hipódromo, centro comercial San Benito, Zona Rosa
PH:503-22790814 Fax:503-2223-6026
* Dynasty, Frente a Blv. el Hipódromo y Av. Las mangolias Col. San
Benito, Zona Rosa Ph: 503-22639955 Fax:503-22638615. Chinese food.
* Sushi-Itto. Zona Rosa Ph:503-22241900 Fax:503-22982676
* Chili's, Paseo Gral. Escalón #4220 col. escalon Ph: 503-2637556
Fax:503-22638352
* Café Café, calle el tanque #13099 av. Norte y 7a calle poniente
Bi. Col. Escalon, Ph: (503) 226-32413, Fax: (503) 226-34024 Peruvian
food.
* Pueblo Viejo, Blvd. Los Heroes, MetroSur 2 nivel.
Ph/Fax:503-22611256 Salsa Dancing to 2AM every Friday night. Lively.
Local crowd.
* Tequila y Botanas Hotel Real Intercontinental , Blvd. de Los
heroes Ph:503-22113333 fax:22114444 Mexican food.
* Los Balcones, km 40.5 autopista al aeropuerto Ph:503-23660000 fax:...01
* Tanoshii sushi bar, Centro Comercial El Paseo, Col. Escalón,
Paseo Gral. Escalon. and Tanoshii Hotel Real Intercontinental Blvd. de
los Heroes Ph: (503) 221-13333, Fax: 221-14444, [34]. Japanese food.
* Royal, Col. Escalón in front of Pops escalón. Chinese Food.
* Sanborns rastaurant and store, Multiplaza, mexican food.
* Rj, multiplaza. Peruan food
* Inka Grill, Blvd. El Hipódromo, Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa Peruan food.
* Voi-la, Av. Masferrer infront of Texaco. French food.
* Restaurante Club Campestre, Av. masferrer , Col Escalón 550 mts
arriba de Redondel Masferrer. Buffet and à la carte. Ph:503-22633555.
* Diva Bistro Multiplaza.
* San Martín Multiplaza and El Paseo. Bakery.
* El Rincon de mi Tía Multiplaza. Café and restaurant.
* Olivos Multiplaza and Hilton princess Hotel at Zona Rosa. Salads
and Sandwiches.
* Benihana La Gran Via - International Japanese Steak House
* Bennigans La Gran Via - International - Irish
* Señor Tenedor, Av.Olimpica #3544 plaza Jardin, Ph: 2-298-1766,
Fax: (503) 2-245-0998.
* La Media Cancha, Steakhouse Restaurant and Sports Bar with TV's
for watching sport - 79 Avenida Sur #48, Zona Rosa
* Basilea, Centro Comercial Basilea, Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa,
Ph: (503) 2223-6818 [35]. International food.
* 168ChineseRestaurant, 89Av. Nte y 9a calle poniente #4612 Col.
Escalon, Ph: (503) 2264-1168, 2264-6168
Chinese food.
* Cuatro Restaurante Bistró, Calle Padres Aguilar No. 4, Colonia
Escalón, Ph: (503) 2263-4593 [37]. Spanish Fusion and Tapas.
Splurge
* 503, Blvd. del Hipódromo, Zona Rosa. Upscale, international
cuisine and sushi lounge. Ph: (503) 2223-4770.
* A lo Nuestro, Calle la Reforma #225-A Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa
Ph:503-22235116 Fax:503-22791920
* La Pampa Argentina, In Zona Rosa, in Col. Escalon 1000mts arriba
del redondel masferrer, in Santa Elena Boulevard Orden de Malta, and
Boulevard. Constitución Col. Escalón Ph: 2-2786057.
* Los Ranchos, Calle La Mascota #232 Interseccion Pje. A y Pje #3
Col.La Mascota, Zona Rosa.
* Angus, La Gran Vía
* Hacienda de los Miranda, Jardines de Guadalupe frente a CA1, La
Libertad Ph:503-22431108, Fax: 503-22434841. Buffet and à la carte.
[38]
* Finisterre, Col. La Mascota Pje. A#30 Ph/Fax: 503-22637691
* Escorial, Hotel Real intercontinental Blvd. de los Heroes
Ph:503-22113333 Fax:503-21144444, [39] or [40]
* Las Orquideas, Hotel Terraza 85Av. Sur y calle Padres Aguilar
Ph:503-22630044 Fax: 503-22632828
* El Mirador, Hotel Radisson Col. Escalón. Buffet and à la carte.
* Hunan, Upmarket Chinese Restaurant specialising in Szechuan,
Pekin & Shanghai in elegant surroundings - Paseo General Escalón y 99
Avenida Norte. Plaza Villavicencio
* Paradise, Blvd. El Hipódromo, Zona Rosa. Ph: 503-2223-4832 fax:
503-22244201 [41]
* Faisca Do Brasil, Authentic Brazilian 'Rodizio' style dining in
luxurious surroundings. Hotel Real intercontinental Blvd. de los
Heroes Ph:503-22113333.
* Fire Of Brazil, Brazilian Steakhouse - Churrascaria. Modern
Restaurant and Bar with indoor and outdoor dining. World Trade Centre,
San Salvador [42]
If you need to buy something, there are a lot of supermarkets in this
city. Some are international, which come from Guatemala called Hiper
Paiz, located in Soyapango & Las Cascadas Mall km. 9 for Santa Tecla
next to La Gran Via entertainment zone.
From the USA, Price Smart by Membership only. The supermarkets,
mainly Super Selectos and Despensa de Don Juan located all over the
metropolitan area and in Santa Ana, San Miguel, Sonsonate and Puerto
de La Libertad as well. contain products such as food, clothing,
candies, tools, shampoos, toys, cosmetics, soaps, etc.
Drink
San Salvador is well-known for its nightlife. Clubs and bars can be
found in the Zona Rosa, Basilea Mall, La Terraza (Sheraton Hotel), Las
Terrazas (Multiplaza Mall), Boulevard de Los Heroes, Temptation Plaza,
and the bars and restaurants area in La Gran Via (Mall and night
lifestyle center). These places have many bars, discos, restaurants,
DJ centers and boutiques.
Visit the laid back bohemian bars (university crowd) around Calle San
Antonio Abad to meet interesting locals or head to the Zona
Rosa/Multiplaza Mall area to dance the night away with the city's
style-conscious upper class youth.
* wine-o (the wine outlet), Blvd. del Hipodromo #575, San Benito,
San Salvador, ? +503 2263-5576, 9AM-10PM. the place for excellente
value wine with the best selection $9.
Bars and Clubs
* La Luna Casa Y Arte' [44] - Art Gallery/Restaurant/Bar, popular
with artists, art exhibitions, poetry, live acts, reggae nights, jazz
nights etc, check out their website for extensive list of events.
http://www.lalunacasayarte.com/?sec=9&event=781
* Los Rinconcitos, Zona Rosa.
* Code(Mario's), Zona Rosa.
* Zanzibar Zona Rosa. Great live party music on Saturday
afternoons and Acoustic Thursdays quality faves. Centro Comercial
Basilea.
* La Taberna, Beer House 79 Av. Norte. Col. Escalon
* Tabú, Zona Rosa. Next to Code
* Stanza, Las terrazas (multiplaza).
* Bliss, Las terrazas (multiplaza).
* MaiThai, Las Terrazas (multiplaza).
* Envy, Las Terrazas (Multiplaza).
* El Alebrije, La Gran Vía.
* Llenya, La Gran Vía.
* Republik, La Gran Vía.
* Dolce Fiero, Popular with younger Salvadorans
* Malibu Santa Elena, Boulevard Orden de malta, Santa Elena.
* El Arpa, San Salvador - Popular with expats, Avenida "A" 137,
Col. San José
* La Ventana, Colonia Escalon. This is not a club, more of a
lounge/coffee spot with food available, and a full bar. Owned by a
German who now resides in El Salvador.
* Scape (Gay),Centro Comercial Juan Pablo Segundo, Local 311A,
Prolongacion Juan Pablo Segundo, San Salvador.
* Millenium (Gay), 50 meters south of Scape.
For the latest information on gigs, raves,dance parties, international
acts & concerts in San Salvador check here http://www.musica.com.sv/
(Site is in Spanish).
Larger events & conventions are generally held in the Feria
Internacional enroute to Santa tecla, 5 km. west of the city center.
Sleep
Budget/Backpackers
* Hostal Esencia Nativa, el Zonte beach www.surfer.com.sv mail to
esencianativa@yahoo.com(503) 2301-4322 or 7737-8879 dobles rooms from
$7.5 per person per night, room with A/C and private bath available,
surf lessons, laundry, english speakers.
* International Guest House, 35 Avenida Norte No. 9, Breakfast,
internet, laundry, safety box. From $16-$26.
* La casa de Ivonne, 2910, Calle Sisimiles, Colonia Miramonte, Ph:
(503) 2262-7346 or call from USA direct at
(514)461-3446.ivonneport123@hotmail.com Shared rooms from $6 per
night, private rooms $12 per night including breakfast, private
bathroom available , Internet, Cable television in the living room,
access to kitchen, laundry service available, inside parking available
for an extra $1,00. It is located at one block from the shopping mall
Metrocentro where you can find everything including Cinemas. All the
major buses pass at one block from the house. Spanish and English
spoken.
* Laguna Verde Guest House The domo shaped house is located at the
border of an ancient, deep, secondary crater with vertical walls, the
"Cuajusto" extinct crater in Apaneca town (1 hour from San Salvador).
From here you can catch some impressive panoramic views and do hikes
to the nearby Laguna Verde, Black Forest and other natural beauties.
Ph (503) 2262-0879,(503) 7859-2865,(503) 2260-2481.
[www.apanecasguesthouse.netfirms. com], mailto:gpssal@intercom.com.sv.
Dormitory rooms from $7 to $10 per night.
* Mariscal Hotel & Suites, Paseo Escalón 3658 (comfortable), from $28
* Tazumal Guesthouse, 35 Avenida Norte, Casa 3. Aircon, cable TV,
free internet use. From $10 to $40.
* Ximenas Guest House, Calle San Salvador #202, Ph: (503)
2260-2481,cel: 7981-4517 ximenas.guesthouse@gmail.com, [48]. Dormitory
rooms from $7 (cold water) to $9 (hot water) per night, single rooms
from $16 to $30 per night, doubles from $23 to $35 per night, and
triples are $38 per night.+ add 13% sales tax. Private rooms feature
hot showers, cable TV and ceiling fan, some have A/C. The common TV
room has cable TV, book exchange,and internet service.(wireless
throughout the hotel) Restaurant serve meals around the clock, try the
fruit salad with home made yogurt and granola. Has laundry
service,roof terrace, safe deposit lockers, luggage storage and free
tourist information. Ximena's has been a favorite for international
travelers for over 25 years. Its located in a safe and quiet
residencial area just one block off the main street; Blvd. de Los
Heroes and is a perfect base while exploring El Salvador. Malls,
banks, pharmacies, post offices, coffee shops, bars and restaurants
are all within walking distance and safe even after dark.
Mid range: 3 & 4 Star Lodgings
The staff of all the hotels speak English and Spanish, but there are
also others who speak other languages. All the hotels include room
service.
* Real Comfort inn, Calle el Carmen y Prolongacion Juan Pablo,
(503) 2237-7000, Fax: (503) 2237-7001, [49]. 4-Stars Located in the
heart of the business district close to important residential areas.
Special in-room amenities for long stay guests include mini fridge,
microwave, and coffeemaker. Check in time:1:00 PM Check out time is
12:00 PM. Take Prolongacion Juan Pablo II north until you reach 75th
Avenue where you will turn left. Advance on 75th Avenue and then turn
left again onto Calle El Carmen.
* Ramada Inn, 85 Ave. Sur y Calle Juan José Cañas, Col. Escalón
San Salvador, Ph: (503) 2263-0033, Fax: (503) 2263-4099. The hotel
includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms,
restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 4-stars.
* Quality Real Hotel Aeropuerto San Salvador, KM 40.5 Carretera Al
Aeropuerto de El Salvador, (503) 2366-0000, Fax: (503) 2366-0001,
[50]. Just 3 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from the sandy
beaches of Costa del Sol. In house restaurant. Room service, business
center, bar and pool. Check in time is 12:00 PM, check out time is
4:00 PM.
* Hotel Happy House, Avenida Los Sisimiles, #2951, Colonia
Miramontes, Phone and Fax (503) 22 60 15 68. Hotel includes air
conditioning, double bed rooms and free wireless internet access.
[51], [52]. 3-stars
* Siesta Casino-Hotel, Hotel Siesta Final Boulevard Los Proceres,
Ph: (503) 2-283-0100, Fax: (503) 2-283-0125, info@hotelsiesta.com,
[53]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds,double bed
rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 4-Stars.
* Holiday Inn, Urbanización y Boulevard Santa Elena a 400 mts. de
la Embajada Americana, Ph: (503) 2-241-4000, Fax: (503) 2-241-4070 or
(503) 2-241-4067, [54]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size
beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities.
4-Stars.
* Terraza Hotel, 85 Ave. Sur y Calle Padres Aguilar Colonia
Escalón, Ph: (503 )2263-0044, Fax: (503) 2263-3223,
hterraza@terraza.com.sv, [55]. The hotel includes air conditioning,
king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and many other
amenities. 4 stars.
* Hotel Alameda, 43 Ave. Sur y Alameda Roosevelt #2305, Ph: (503)
2267-0800 / 2267-0801, Fax: (503) 2260-3011, [56]. The hotel includes
air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar
and many other amenities. 3-Stars.
* Hotel Alicante, Col La Sultana, calle las rosas y ave los
Laureles #1, Ph:(503) 2243-0889 / 2243-5838, [www.alicante.com.sv].
The hotel includes air conditioned, king size beds,double bed
rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 3-Stars.
* Hotel Casa Berlin, Avenida El Espino Lote No 62-64, Santa Elena,
Madreselva, Antiguo Cuscatlán, Ph: (503) 2243-8877, Fax: (503)
2243-8872, [57]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size
beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities. The
staff speaks Spanish, English and German. 3-Stars.
* Hotel Capital, Autopista Sur, Boulevard La Sultana y Pasaje
Monelca, Ph:(503) 2247-7100, Fax (503) 2243-8018, [58]. The hotel
includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms,
restaurant, bar and many other amenities.
* Hotel Grecia Inn, Avenida Sisimiles 2922, Colonia Miramonte, Ph:
(503)2261-0555 / (503) 2261-0566 / (503) 2261-0577, [59]. A 50 metros
de Hotel Real Intercontinental, frente a Metrocentro, the hotel
includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms,
restaurant, bar and many other amenities. The staff speaks English,
Spanish and Greek. 4-Stars
.
* Hotel Mediterraneo Plaza, 15 Calle Pte. No. 4319, Col. Escalón,
Ph: (503) 2263-4592, Fax: (503) 2263-4612, [60]. The hotel includes
air conditioned, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and
many other amenities.
* Hotel Mirador Plaza, Calle El Mirador y 95 Ave. Norte Col.
Escalón, Ph: (503) 2244-6000, Fax: (503) 2244-6099, [61]. The hotel
includes air conditioned, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant,
bar and many other amenities.
* Novo Aparthotel, Final 61 Ave. Nte. Col. Escalon, Ph (503)
2260-2288, Fax: (503) 2260-5053, [62]. The hotel includes air
conditioned, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and
many other amenities. 4-Stars.
Splurge: 4-5 Star accomidations
* Real InterContinental San Salvador, Boulevard de Los Héroes. San
Salvador, 544. El Salvador, ? +503 2211 3333 (fax: +503 2211 4444),
[63]. The InterContinental San Salvador Hotel has 228 rooms, 6 suites
and 2 Club InterContinental floors. It has 13 conference rooms, 3
restaurants, gym, spa, pool and business center. Prices range between
$100 - $450. edit
* Hilton Princess San Salvador, Av. Magnolias y Boulevard del
Hipod, Ph: (503) 2268-4545, Fax: +503-2268 4500, [64]. Located in the
center of Zona Rosa, and offering quality comparable to Hilton Hotels
found elsewhere in the world. Rooms from $109 per person, per night.
Wi-Fi in All Rooms
* Radisson Plaza Hotel, 89 Avenida Norte y 11 Calle Poniente,
Colonia Escalón, Ph: (503) 2-257-0700, Fax: (503) 2-257-0710, [65].
Rooms from $139 per person, per night. "rack rate"
* Sheraton Presidente, San Benito (in front of El Chulon), Avenida
la revolucion, Ph: (503) 2-283-4000, [66].
* Suites Las Palmas Aparathotel, Av. Las Palmas y Pje. 6 Col. San
Benito, Ph: (503) 2210-3111, Fax: (503) 2210-3100
Visit the hotel websites for specials.
Stay safe
San Salvador has had a history of violence. San Salvador was
considered the most dangerous city in the world in 1992. Since the end
of the civil war in 1992 San Salvador has seen a significant reduction
in crime rates. Today San Salvador, and El Salvador in general,
experience some of the highest homicide rates in the world, it is also
considered an epicenter of the gang crisis, along with Guatemala and
Honduras.[68] The homicides reported in 2006 reached up to 3,906, in
2005 3,779 were reported; 57.2 violent deaths per every 100,000
people.[69]. Crime rates in general have been steadily growing
throughout the years, from 2005-2006 crime rose 7.5%. Most tourists
will experience few problems in the city as they are not specifically
targeted. Whilst the homicide rates don't paint the city in a good
light, it's important to remember that the majority of these murders
are committed by, and upon, gang members.
To stay safe there is some advice:
* Don't walk on streets that look abandoned and dark.
* Use only licensed taxis or rent a car. If you're adventurous,
watch your valuables and put away jewelry when using the public buses.
Most major hotels have taxis that they have approved as safe and
legitimate. If unsure about a taxi, call your hotel and they can
generally have a safe taxi dispatched to your location.
* At best, walk in tourist areas and not STRANGE areas.
* If you don't have a place to sleep then don't go to old and dirty motels.
* Be careful with your handbag or purse while walking on crowded streets.
* Don't flaunt jewelery/Mobile Phones etc on public transport or
crowded areas - remember, common sense prevails!
You won't have a problem in the malls or inside major stores or
museums, and most public buildings are full of security guards,
alarms, fire extinguishers, etc. If you go out of the city into some
national parks, volcanoes or the country and such, it is better to
hire an armed escort or guide because you can get robbed. There is
much gang violence in El Salvador, especially in San Salvador and in
its poorer neighborhoods; but in the downtown areas, the malls, the
Zona Rosa, most tourist attractions, and the upmarket neighborhoods
where the hotels are it's generally safe. Doing your homework and
avoiding gangland areas will ensure you have a hassle free and
enjoyable experience. The government tried controlling the gangs with
a tactic called "Super Mano Dura" which means "Super Strong Hand",
however it has not been successful and crime rates have continued to
rise.[70] No matter how adventurous you may feel, it is strongly
advisable to stay away from the city's poorer districts of
Soyapango/Apopa & its surroundings on the east side of the city.
Health services
San Salvador is a city full of pharmacies. Hospital services are also
very good and facilities include Hospital de Diagnostico in
Villavicencio Plaza.
Banks
Finding a bank is not a problem within the city. Banks include HSBC,
Citibank, Banco Agricola, BanTpym, Banco Centromericano, Scotiabank
Embassies
* United States, ? Urb. Santa Elena Tel. 2501-2999
(fax: 2501-2150)
For Embassies and Consulates of other countries in El Salvador visit www.embassyworld.com/
Never travel by local public transportation nor taxi carryong an original of your Passport. Always carry a scanned copy in case of emergency. US, Canadian, UK, European Union passport command high prices on black market!!!!
Women going to even upscale bars in city at night, never accpet drinks and rides from strangers except at your own risk, never become so intoxicated you become vulnerable. San Salvador late night is amixture of Good, Bad and Ugly 'nightlifers' so stick with friends, best to have a ride.
Pato23
Web article: http://www.vivatravelguides.com/central-america/el-salvador/el-salvador-articles/welcome-to-cinquera
many more travel bloqs on El Salvador on vivatravelguides.com
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