A guide to San Salvador

San Salvador is mainly a vehicle city. The quickest and safest way to get around is either renting a car or using private taxi services. Uber and similar apps also operate in the country. In case you need to use public transportation, research the bus routes beforehand, always carry small change, avoid wearing jewelry, keep your cellphone/laptop/tablet in your bag, and be aware that personal space is smaller in buses, specially at peak traffic hours.

Salvadoran people are friendly and helpful. Don't be afraid of asking questions, directions or advice as most will understand you're not from around town and look out for you. As in most countries, there are places we advice tourists against going. Whenever you are thinking of going to a place, neighborhood or spot you are not familiar with, ask a local if it's safe. They know better and care for your safety.

In El Salvador, not all establishments require you to leave a tip. The ones that do usually charge a fixed 10% tip/hospitality fee already included in your bill. However, you're free to tip your waiter, hairstylist, delivery guy or any other person to express appreciation for their help: they will thank you and probably hook you up with advice and stellar service next time you're around!

El Salvador observes two seasons: Dry season (Verano) from November to April and Rainy season (Invierno) from May to October. Depending on the dates you're planning to travel, keep this in mind and consider that our tropical climate tends to be humid and warm. Most salvadorans get by in a T-Shirt and jeans, adding a jacket or coat whenever it rains. If you come from a colder climate, mayhaps bring some fresh and summery clothes while you get used to the temperatures.

Here are some tips so you can save money while you explore El Salvador: - Wednesday is the best day to go to the movies, as most cinemas offer considerable discounts on tickets. - El Salvador Art Museum admittance is free on Sundays. - Haggling is somewhat common in municipal markets and artisan fairs, but not aggressively practiced: any vendor worth their salt would rather lose a sale than make a bad deal. Be mindful and fair when requesting lower prices and remember that most vendors and artisans make already low profit margins on their products.

In case you don't get to explore any tourist spots but wish to buy traditional souvenirs for your family and friends back home, head to the National Artisanal Market in San Salvador: you'll have plenty of options to choose from the best artisans, artists and crafters in the country.

The official language of El Salvador is Spanish. Some people may speak or at least understand English to a degree, mainly in the capital or in tourist hotspots. Here are some useful phrases in case you need help from someone who doesn't: - "No hablo español, ¿podría ayudarme?" ("I don't speak Spanish, would you help me?") - "¿Cómo puedo llegar a (lugar)?" ("How do I get to (place)?)" - "¿Dónde está el hospital más cercano?" ("Where is the nearest hospital?") - "¿Qué ruta de bus me lleva a (lugar)?" ("Which bus route goes to (place)?") - "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" ("How much is this?")