Travel Guides: All Countries, Central America.
 |  | Fact File : Central America |
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| | | Central America | | Did you know?
The Mayan temple sites at Tikal in Guatemala featured in the 1977 Star Wars film as the base for rebel troops.
Language
Generally Spanish plus some Indian languages. Belize is officially English speaking but Spanish is spoken in the north.
Visas
None required.
Getting there
Most flights to Central American capital cities are via the US, usually Miami. Some flights also go from London via Madrid.
Flying time from London
Eight to 10 hours to the US then onward flights averaging two to three hours. Some flights will require an overnight stay in the US, others a short stopover.
Getting around
Flying between countries or within countries is fastest and there are plenty of local airlines. If you're not limited time-wise, local buses are cheap, frequent but often crowded, though it all adds to the atmosphere. You can hire a car but be aware that road quality varies and in the rainy season some may be washed out. Avoid driving at night. The Pan American Highway runs for 318 miles from Mexico, through Guatemala to El Salvador. Buses also link most countries, but border crossings can mean long delays.
Currency
Belize, the Belizean dollar; Costa Rica, the colon; Guatemala, the quetzal (Q); Nicaragua, the cordoba; El Salvador, the US dollar; Panama, the US dollar (known as Balboa); Honduras, the Lempira. US dollars are the best currency to bring into most countries and are especially useful if you're travelling between several countries.
Costs
Costs will vary. For example living costs in Honduras are low (budget travellers can get by on as little as £15 a day for accommodation and meals) but expect to pay more in countries where tourism is more developed such as Costa Rica. Most of the cost will be on your journey, especially as flights will usually be via the US.
Weather
In this tropical zone, temperatures are warm year-round, though it can be cool at night, even in the dry season and temperatures are generally cooler in mountainous regions. Rainy season is May to October — rain tends to be heavier on the Pacific Coast and it can get hot (up to 100F) and steamy in the lowlands. The rain doesn't last all day but tends to come in short, sharp bursts. On the Caribbean coast, rain can fall at any time and is less predictable than on the Pacific side, though generally lighter.
Time difference
Five to six hours behind GMT.
International dialling code from the UK
El Salvador 00 503, Panama 00 507, Belize 00 501, Guatemala 00 502, Nicaragua 00 505, Costa Rica 00 506, Honduras 00 504.
Voltage
El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica 110v, Belize and Guatemala 115v to 125v, Panama 120v, Honduras 110v and 220v. Plugs tend to be the American two flat pin variety.
Opening hours
Vary but average 8am to noon and 2pm to 6pm with a two-hour siesta, especially in smaller towns. Some shops stay open till 7pm. Banks keep shorter hours, typically 9am to 3pm. Government offices usually close at 4pm.
Health — Before you go
Malaria is present in several countries. Check with your GP for the appropriate anti-malarial medicine as this can vary from region to region. Recommended jabs include polio, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Take out adequate travel insurance to cover all medical expenses.
Health —When you are there
Protect yourself from insect bites with insect repellent and by covering arms and legs. Car accidents are common — walk and drive defensively. Wash your hands frequently and peel fruit before eating. The old rule of "cook it, peel it or forget it" is a good one. Avoid tap water and drink the bottled variety or boil water if you are trekking.
Warnings
In some countries (eg El Salvador and Nicaragua) it's impossible to exchange sterling. Take US dollar travellers' cheques and cash. Most visits to the region are trouble free but each country has its own hazards, ranging from crime to earthquakes. For current travel advice, see the Foreign Office website at http://www.fco.gov.uk
Emergency
Guatemala Tourism Police 110; Costa Rica 911 for general emergencies, 117 for Police and 118 for fire; Belize City 911; Panama Police 104, fire 103; Honduras Police 119, fire 198; Nicaragua Police 118, fire 265 0162; El Salvador 123/121 (all services).
Customs
Though you may want to get your camera out every time you see someone in traditional Mayan or Indian dress, it's best to ask before you snap away.
Pets
Central America is not covered by the Pet Travel Scheme so leave your cats and dogs at home.
Tipping
Average 10% if service is not included. For taxis, add 5-10%.
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| | Available rental properties in Central America |
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| |  | | Casa Warilla
2 Bedroom home in Quepos. Walking distance to buses, restaurants, the town center, and the waterfront.
|  | | Casa Verdugo
Two Bedroom, Two Bathroom Villa in Puerto Quepos, Costa Rica. Sleeps 6, village and sunset views, close to buses, restaurants, and the waterfront.
|  | | Casa Bumerango, Quepos
Three Bedroom, One Bath home in Quepos, Costa Rica, walking distance to town, restaurants, tours and the waterfront.
|  | | villa visconti
600 m2 villa with pool next to 18 hole golf course, close to airport san jose but no noise
|  | | La Ventana del Mar
Villa Style property in a private gated community with golf course, communal pools, reataurants, fishing and a magnificent white sany beach.
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Holiday Rentals in Central America |
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