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As the capital city of Venezuela, it is to be expected that it is an active and very populous city. What most visitors find surprising, however, is the lush and green scenery on many of the larger avenues and the tremendously happy and friendly local residents. Despite the overwhelming poverty in which many people live, there still exists a sense of happiness and warm hospitality that will surprise you. The people of Caracas are all about enjoying a beach lifestyle, experiencing parties and the night life whenever possible, and appreciating the stunning beauty of nearby Mount Avila.
There are several interesting tourist destinations in Caracas that are well worth spending a few days in the city. Perhaps the most popular and well known of these is Mount Avila, a majestic mountain located just north of Caracas. It is high enough to offer pleasantly fresh air as well as terrific views of the city as well as the Caribbean Sea. You can hike on the many trails leading up to and around the summit, or instead choose to ascend using the Teleferico cable car.
Once you're at the top of Mount Avila there are several attractions, such as a small ice skating rink and small amusement rides, and several fairly good restaurants and kiosks serving a wide variety of foods both local and Western in style. The cable car is the most popular way to access Mount Avila so if you choose to go, we recommend going early in the day. This will help you avoid the larger afternoon crowds and also have the chance of more spectacular views not disrupted by afternoon pollution and haze in the city.
Getting around in Caracas is easier than you might think, as long as you stick to the safest modes of transportation such as the metro system and the subway system. Taxis are also available, but while most of them are relatively safe to use there are some that can be quite dangerous for foreigners. Regardless of how you plan to get around the city, be sure you stay in the best travelled areas rather than exploring less travelled streets and neighbourhoods where crime is much more common.
One thing for certain about Caracas is the wonderfully comfortable and temperate climate there. It is not too hot, not too cold, and while there is a fair amount of rain it will generally storm for a period of time and then clear up beautifully.
Simon Bolivar International Airport is large and quite busy, with several large international carriers offering a variety of flight choices. There are many choices for getting from the airport into the city, such as buses, licensed taxis, and the like. Check with your hotel before arriving in Caracas because many of them offer some sort of shuttle service (either complimentary or for a small fee) to and from the airport.
All things considered, Caracas is a wonderful travel destination if you are well informed and understand what to expect while you are there. The people are warm and friendly, and the scenery is more picturesque than you would normally expect in a very large and crowded city. Take your swimsuit, take your camera, and enjoy your time in Caracas, Venezuela!
Wiki:- Caracas
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