By Virginia Franco
Margarita Island has clear and sunny weather 340 days per year
Margarita Island is one of three islands off the coast of Venezuela that make up what is known as "Nueva Esparta" and is probably the most popular travel destination of the three. Nicknamed "The Pearl of the
Caribbean," the island is divided into two areas. The east end of Margarita Island is where a full array of
resorts and upscale shopping are located, while the west end known as the Macanao Peninsula is more mountainous and undeveloped. The combination of these two distinct areas attracts many visitors, as do its 50+
beaches and the fact that it is one of the few islands in the Caribbean that does not feel the effects of the Atlantic hurricane season. When traveling to this foreign destination there are a few things to keep in mind that are different from traveling within the U.S.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Things You'll Need:
- Passport
Tourist entry/exit card
Credit card
ATM card
- Passport
- Tourist entry/exit card
- Credit card
- ATM card
Step 1
Make sure to bring a current passport on your trip to Margarita Island. You will not be allowed onto the island without it. You will also need to complete the tourist entry/exit card to present to customs officials. Your airline flight attendant will provide you with this card during your flight.
Step 2
Confirm with your physician if you have any special physical requirements, but the U.S. and Venezuela both agree there is no need for special vaccinations when traveling to Margarita Island.
Step 3
Rent an international cell phone to avoid the costs of making expensive calls overseas. The island hosts a cell phone rental service with pick-up and drop-off at the airport. Phones can be rented for $2.50 per day with a $20 deposit and come loaded with ten minutes. Additional minutes can be purchased at the airport and all around the island.
Step 4
Include the cost of bottled water in your budget. The water piped into Margarita Island comes directly from the Venezuelan mainland and is not considered safe for tourists to drink. Bottled water is readily available at hotels and resorts, but is cheapest when purchased at the supermarket.
Step 5
Skip traveler's checks when traveling to Margarita Island, as they are not widely accepted and you will not get a good exchange rate. The best exchange rates can be obtained through U.S. dollars, either through an ATM or with your credit card. The Venezuelan currency, known as the bolivar, can be obtained in ATMs. Credit cards are accepted all over.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Charlotte, N.C., Virginia Franco has more than 15 years experience freelance writing. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the education magazine "My School Rocks" and Work.com. Franco has a master's degree in social work with an emphasis in health care from the University of Maryland and a journalism degree from the University of Richmond.
Photo Credits:
http://www.wayfaring.info/2009/05/28/margarita-island/
