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Bolivia has so many superlatives to its name. It is the hemisphere’s highest nation with a geography that also makes it the most isolated and rugged country this side of world. Add in the well-known fact that the country has many of the world’s extremes of cold, hot and windy and you have a place where extreme adventure exists alongside a great culture, a friendly people and a unique heritage. Esramag

Bolivia is a must-see for its rainforests, lakes and other breathtaking natural wonders worth at least one visit in this lifetime. Just don’t expect ocean-side beaches as the country is a landlocked. Here are the top must-see superlatives in Bolivia that should be included in your itinerary for your first and subsequent visits.

Lake Titicaca

Arguably, Lake Titicaca is the most famous lake in all of South America and you will see why when you get here. The heartland of the continent is the stuff of legends, both ancient and modern, with the oldest on record being that Lake Titicaca gave birth to the sun and the Incas.

We are inclined to believe such a legend just by looking at the richness of the lake itself and the area surrounding it. The lake’s distinctive navy blue color is rich in flora and fauna while the green gemlike islands spread across it shine in the sun. The gentle shores host a gentle people practicing agriculture like their ancestors did centuries ago.

Lake Titicaca is also a sacred lake. As such, you will find numerous ancient monuments including waist-high burial towers, oversized stone penises and other sacred sites that speak of the Bolivians’ rich heritage.

Lest you think that the people living in Lake Titicaca have no sense of fun, think again. Conversational Hypnosis The riotous religious fiesta known as Candelaria is one of the greatest shows of them all even rivaling the Carnaval.

Salar de Uyuni

A vast, eerie and haunting sea of salt straight out from the biblical Sodom and Gomorrah scene – this is the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat at 12,000 square kilometers and located at a lofty 3,653 meters. To say that its beauty is awe-inspiring is an understatement; you must see it to believe it.

The Salar de Uyuni features islands of bright salt punctuated by colored mineral lakes in delicate colors. In the middle of this vast sea of salt lies the Inkahuasi Island, a rocky and hilly island with gigantic cacti that seem to rise out from nowhere.

La Paz

Let’s not forget La Paz, Bolivia’s administrative capital. (Sucre is the constitutional capital) It is dizzying in many aspects from its high altitude of 3,660 meters to its quirky beauty unlike any other in South America.

La Paz appears to be built into the natural landscape so much like the great ancient cities of Bolivia’s past. The buildings cling to the canyons’ sides and then appear to slide downwards into the urban center where people in business suits move just as easily as the colorfully-clad people. Look up and see the snowy and showy Mount Illimani on a clear day, which is almost always every day.

These are just a few of the superlative places in Bolivia. You must be in the country to plan your trip and see more its wonders.

 

Money Matters in Bolivia

Bolivia’s national currency is the boliviano (Bs). It comes in denominations of 200, 500, 50, 20 and 10 with coins in 5, 2, and 1. Tourists and expatriates with US dollars on them will have little problem in using the currency at hotels, restaurants and shops especially for large expenses. Ilomessina Exchange from an international currency to the boliviano is also possible in casa de cambio agencies usually at the prevailing market rate.

Lower Costs of Living

The enjoyment of Bolivia even on a shoestring budget is possible, thanks to the lower cost of living in the country in comparison with its neighboring countries. You will find that almost everything is affordable without too many compromises on good quality, if and when your money is in US dollars.

Just don’t expect your transportation costs to be on the low side, however, as this is the biggest expense in Bolivia. Argan Oil This can be attributed to the great distances between cities and towns as well as other places of interest.

When looking for the goods and services, always agree with the vendors about the prices before actually paying them. Hard bargaining is not a generally accepted practice among Bolivians with many actually considering it inconsiderate of tourists to begrudge a fellow his few extra boliviano.

As sad as it may seem, Bolivia may have one of the richest natural resources in Latin America but it is also one of the poorest. Fat Loss 4 Idiots If you can help out a Bolivian, then it will be a great memory in your travels in his country.

Bring Cash

There are cajero automaticos (ATMs) in large towns and cities with the most common banks providing for this service being the Banco de Santa Cruz, Banco Nacional de Bolivia and Banco Mercantil. It is best to bring along sufficient cash for your trip since the machines and the hours of operation are unreliable, to say the least. Credit cards can be used for advances in the banks. Bring your Visa, Plus and Cirrus cards since these are the most commonly accepted.

As with any travel to foreign countries, be careful with your wallet and its contents. Keep your valuables as close to your body as possible even going so far as to keep a secret stash somewhere in your clothes. Apartments Paris This way, any unforeseen events of a manmade nature can be coped with since cash is still on hand.

International Transfers

Now, if you run out of money and your credit card is maxed out while in Bolivia, you can always have your family or friends send money in. The most reliable ways are through Western Union and Money Gram for same day transfers although the fees can be hefty. Your other choice is through bank-to-bank transfers. But beware as the process can take 2 business days to complete.

Your stay in Bolivia should be a shoestring traveler’s dream. But this does not mean that the country is lacking in luxuries because you will find posh accommodations, gourmet food and drinks, and great shopping in big cities. Add the natural friendliness of its people despite the hardships of life and money should not be too much of an issue. Msd Chicago

 

Mind Your Manners in Bolivia

When in Bolivia, do as the Bolivians do. Or at least, be mindful of your manners, your behavior and your actions while in the country so as to show respect for its people’s culture, heritage and society. truth about abs review You will be able to make friends, do business and enjoy your stay here.

Speak the Language

The first sign of respect for Bolivians is to speak their language. Brush up on your Spanish since this is one of three languages in the country aside from the most widely spoken. Spanish is spoken by more than 60% the population while the other two official languages, namely, Quechua and Aymara are spoken by approximately 21% and 14% of the people.

Bring an English-Spanish phrasebook when your grasp of Bolivia’s main language is shaky. You will find that it will be a necessary accessory regardless where you may be in the country although a few touristy areas will have plenty of people who can understand English.

Meeting the People

Bolivians are known to be polite if formal people. This is evident in their way of meeting and greeting new people, be it fellow Bolivians or a foreigner come to visit their beautiful country. Keep the following good manners in mind:

• Shake hands when being introduced as this is a sign of friendliness. Be sure to wait for the woman to offer her hand in a handshake, however, as Bolivia is still one of the conservative countries in Latin America.
• Make direct eye contact. Your inability to meet the eyes of a new acquaintance may be seen as unfriendly.
• Informal relationships warrant a warm embrace or a pat on the shoulder for the men while the women will give each other a kiss on the check. (Not recommended for new acquaintances)
• Greet people according to the time of day. Learn the basic phrases of “Buenas dias”, “Buenas tardes” and “Buenas noches”.
• Always use an individual’s title in addressing him or her. If you take the pains to research or remember, you will be making a good impression. If the person has no title, be sure to address him or her with Señor or Señora followed with the surname.

Doing Business

Bolivians treat their business dealings in a formal and professional manner. Shake the hand of the other businessman when meeting and before leaving although women can choose not to shake hands.

Aside from the usual pleasantries, be sure to exchange business cards during the initial introductions. A Spanish-language business card with your academic credentials on it will be highly appreciated. This is also true for other business materials.

During the first few meetings, you are building trust and confidence with your potential business client, partner or buyer. Don’t rush the meeting, don’t start discussions about the business until the Bolivian says so, and don’t leave things hanging. Ensure that you also clearly agree on the terms of business but without seeming too pushy. This is the case whether you are discussing an advertising deal for chiropractic marketing or a nation-wide advertising campaign for the biggest fast food company in the US. Time is secondary to making a satisfactory end to the meeting so adjust your schedule accordingly.

Bolivia is a country where the people value their dignity. Be sure to respect such value and you will find that Bolivians are a happy, friendly and hospitable people.

 

Real Estate In Bolivia is Inexpensive and Becoming More Attractive To Foreign Investors

 

The good news about buying real estate in Bolivia is that land prices are inexpensive. Those interested in getting their hands on some incredibly attractive properties will be able to do so at a fraction of what similar properties would cost in neighboring South American countries.

Of course, there is a reason land is so cheap in Bolivia. For starters, Bolivia is largely a mountainous country with large tracts of land located in high, remote locations where there are few or no modern conveniences.

Also the country of Bolivia itself is less advantageously positioned in this part of the world than its South American neighbors – Brazil, Chili, Argentina, Peru and Paraguay – all of which have access to the sea, and thus fine beach and resort potential. Bolivia is land locked. Bolivia plays second-fiddle within the travel and tourist industry in general because of the greater attractions in the countries which surround it.

Another factor to consider when considering real estate speculation in Bolivia is an ongoing and aggressive government attempt at land reform. Some 90% of the land is owned by just 10% of the population. Bolivian President Evo Morales promised to institute a program that would break up this virtual monopoly on land ownership among primarily the wealthy – however, instituting land reform has proven slow and difficult.

But the good news is that land reform efforts do not affect properties of 12,000 acres or smaller, so this is not an issue for more people looking for smaller properties. What about a 10-acre site that has a house on it? As a very general example, such a property could easily be found for $50,000 or less. Remember, prices vary widely. Bolivia is a big country.

Another challenge is financing. Much of the real estate business in Bolivia today is done on a cash-only basis. Financing instruments within Bolivia are difficult to arrange, though not impossible.

Many consider real estate in Santa Cruz an exciting opportunity. This old colonial city has a vibrant economy, and a young, growing population. Business is good. Demand for American and European goods is surging. Santa Cruz has become a favorite location for expatriates. The population is highly multicultural and ethnically diverse. The general feeling is that getting into real estate in Santa Cruz now means appreciating returns from those investments into the foreseeable future. This is true for both commercial and residential properties.

The climate in most non-mountainous regions of Bolivia is ideal, with winter temperatures averaging around 70 F and summers around 90 F. Because of this, and cheap real estate, Bolivia is becoming a more frequent choice for retirees from developed countries. Homes purchased by retirees and others have enjoyed appreciation rates of 10% to 30% per year, on average, since the early 1990s.

The vast majority of foreign investors in Bolivian real estate find their financing plans on the Internet – if they are not in a position to pay cash, that is. Do your homework well! Arranging real estate financing via Internet based lenders is not an activity for the uninformed. Take your time to learn well everything you need to know, or rely on an experienced, trusted financial advisor who specializes in South American real estate work.

Bolivia is a country full of a culture so rich and colorful it would not be a surprise if the locals are also as diverse as their country.  Because this country is located in South America, you would expect the people in Bolivia to be as tan as other Spanish people.  They do have a beautiful tan that is distinct to people in this part of the world but they have several characteristics that are distinctly Bolivian.  Getting to know the people in this exotic country surely makes their country even more interesting than it already is.

Ethnic Origins and Language

More than half of the population of Bolivia consists of indigenous Native Americans which come from the ethnic groups of Quechua (30%) and Aymara (25%).  The rest are mestizos and some have a mix of European and African descent.  Because this country is located in South America, it is expected that Spanish is their main language.  There are, however, native dialects still being spoken here by about 70 percent of its current population.

Religious Affiliations

About 95 percent of Bolivians are affiliated with Roman Catholicism.  Most of the public holidays being celebrated in this country are Catholic-related feasts and commemorations.  Although Bolivians attend church and follow the Catholic doctrines, they are still greatly influenced by native beliefs and rituals.  The other 5 percent have converted into Evangelical Methodist religious groups as they became available to them.

Family Orientation

Just like other less fortunate countries, Bolivian families are very tightly knit.  It is a common sight to see extended families still living together.  They are also very traditional with regards to male and female roles in the society.  Men are still regarded as the more dominant gender being the breadwinner and women are tied to domestic tasks like taking care of the children and doing household chores.

Bolivian Etiquette

There are a lot of customs and etiquette practiced in Bolivia that may be different but rather interesting to most visitors.  Here are some of them:

- The most common greeting in Bolivia is the handshake.  For people who are more acquainted, an embrace or a pat on the back will most likely be seen.  Women, on the other hand, kiss each other’s cheek.

- When a woman in Bolivia gets married, they start to use their husband’s surname with “de” added before it.  For example, after Maria Cruz marries Juan Lopez, she becomes Maria de Lopez.

- Bolivians would accept any gift except yellow and purple flowers and knives or scissors.  The colors yellow and purple quite have a negative meaning for them and sharp objects means severing a relationship.

Food and Drinks

Bolivians are very fond of eating.  This is apparent as you see the numerous street food stands found in most commercial areas.  Their cuisine consists mostly of pork, potatoes, and corn.  Even their drinks, such as the Chicha and Tojori, are made of corn.  Unlike Mexican food, Bolivians are not very fond of hot and spicy food.  You may find a little spice here and there but expect your meal to be a little bland.

One of the most powerful soccer teams in South American history was the Bolivian national team of 1993 and 1994. They were the last team to make it to the world FIFA competition, which was held in Los Angeles in 1994. The 1994 squad was one of only three Bolivian teams to ever reach this greatest height of the soccer universe. What’s considered probably just as amazing is that the Bolivian team gained its FIFA birth by defeating mighty Brazil, the first time Brazil has been ousted from FIFA since 1963. It was considered a stunning achievement.

Among the brightest stars of the 1994 FIFA team was midfielder Romiro “Chocolatin” Casillo, who is considered to be one of the greatest Bolivian footballers stars ever to take the field. Although Casillo was not a frequent scorer, he made an amazing number of assists. His career began in 1985 and he played for a long time in Argentina for a variety of teams, but came back to Boliva in 1993. After leading his team past Brazil to gain the World Cup competition in 1994, Casillo also turned in spectacular performances in the 1997 Copa America.

Another great of the 1994 FIFA team was Marco Antonio Etcheverry. Like his teammate Casillo, Etcheverry is considered to be among the greatest of the greats in Bolivian soccer history. He scored a key goal to beat Brazil in the qualifying round that launched Bolivia into the World Cup competition. He led his team to three MLS Cups. He was named the MVP of MLS in 1998.

Erwin Sánchez was another bright star for at the 1994 FIFA. In fact, he was the only Bolivian to score during the tournament, when the team lost to Spain 3-1. He was also the first Bolivian player to play professionally in Europe. Although he spent most of his career in Portugal, Sánchez gained wide admiration for his play as a midfielder to propel his native land onto the world stage of MLS soccer.

The once all-time leading scorer in all  of Major League Soccer history was Jamie Moreno, who held that distinction until he retired in 2010. Moreno, who played forward, was the first player to achieve 100 goals and 100 assists during a single career. He was a regular for the Bolivian national team through most of the 1990s.

One of the older players to play for the Bolivian 1994 FIFA team was Álvaro Peña. He was a striker, and played in more than 40 games for the Bolivian national team, scoring 4 goals. When he played for the San Jose club team, he was top scorer in 1992.

To this day, the Bolivian 1994 FIFA team is a source of national pride for the country, despite placing 21st in the tournament, and scoring just one goal. The only other years the Bolivian footballers gained a prescence in the World Cup competition was in 1930 and 1950. Simply getting to this event is an enormous accomplishment, and the footballers of the 1994 team who made it happen will never be forgotten among the Bolivian faithful.

With a population of less than 9 million people and accommodating inhabitants, living and retiring in Bolivia is definitely a great choice anyone can have. With various things to consider when going to Bolivia, this small yet beautiful South American country can offer the peaceful living and happy retirement everybody wishes to have. With a scenic environment and affordable living, Bolivia is the place to be. Living and retiring in Bolivia is surely a great idea. Travelers and immigrants who wish to stay in the country for good have to make certain adjustments specifically when it comes to important matters such as having a job, speaking the language, and having an investment.

Working in Bolivia

Due to its diverse geography, there are a lot of farmers and miners in the country. There are various business establishments, though. On the other hand, there are teaching opportunities for those workers who are reliable to teach the English language. Teaching English opens wonderful opportunities for overseas workers who wish to land a job in Bolivia. Putting up a business also entails great profit and success. Just make sure you are going the right way with everything you do in terms of your career or business in Bolivia. Proper knowledge and determination are necessary. Bolivia also offers nursing, management, and hotel jobs to all its residents and immigrants.

Learning Spanish in Bolivia

Having multiple ethnicity and various indigenous languages, Bolivia’s official language is Spanish. For immigrants who find it difficult to speak the language, there are various Spanish Language Schools in Bolivia to choose from. Of course, living and retiring in Bolivia requires ample knowledge and skills to be able to speak and write the common language being used by the locals in order to be more efficient in an everyday routine.

Affordable Cost of Living with Low Cost Real Estate

Bolivia is a wonderful place which offers an inexpensive cost of living. It is one of the least developing countries in South America, which is why the cost of living in the country is pretty low. But cheap doesn’t mean it’s not quality living. It only means people in Bolivia are able to survive because prices of goods and services can be purchased at low rates. The products and services are cheaper compared to other countries in South America. Also, real estate and homes come in affordable rates in Bolivia. In fact, you can buy properties or houses which are half the price of the ones in the United States or in Europe.

Wonderful Retirement with Cheap Medical Care

Bolivia offers wonderful retirement to its people with very affordable general medical care and surgeries. Compared to the total cost of a dental or medical service in the US or in European countries, one can find very affordable yet reliable services in Bolivia.

Every country has its own advantages and disadvantages, but living and retiring in Bolivia is definitely an option where the advantages or benefits outweigh the possible disadvantages. With friendly people, diverse geography, wonderful nature, a low cost of living, and nice tourist spots to go to, Bolivia is a haven for peaceful living and happy retirement.

There are countless ways to enjoy Bolivia. Being home to less than 9 million people, Bolivia is considered one of the countries in South America that offers various tourist destinations to all its visitors. With its many wonders, you will surely fall in love with Bolivia. The great thing is, there are affordable ways to enjoy Bolivia. Whether you are searching for a great city tour or mountain adventures, Bolivia is the place to be.

When visiting Bolivia, you should not miss these places:

La Paz

Dubbed as “the city that touches the sky,” you can explore the country’s capital city with amazement. With high elevation that ranges from 9,840 to 13,450 feet, you can explore the city’s nightlife with magnificent lights illuminating the city. There are copious bars and clubs in the city, as well as folk music and dancing shows. You may also be interested to dine at Peña Restaurant Huari and Peña Restaurant Marka Tambo. These restaurants offer traditional arrays of food along with the performance of local musicians. During the day, explore the city by visiting and shopping at local markets. International travelers can purchase traditional goods such as wonderfully made hats and scarves from alpaca and llama wool, rugs, textiles, and jewelries. You can go shopping and visit the museums, as well.

Lake Titicaca

Don’t forget to visit the world’s highest navigable lake. With majestic scenery, you can enjoy island hopping with your friends or loved ones on Lake Titicaca. This famous lake is known to be sacred with its mythological history.

Madidi National Park

Enjoy nature with the most bio-diverse national park in the world. You can see various arrays of flora and fauna within the park. Thousands of species of plants, birds, and reptiles are inhabiting this wonderful tourist spot.

Potosi

Visiting Potosi is also considered a highlight among the various ways to enjoy Bolivia. It is a home to wonderful museums, grand churches, colonial buildings and other types of architecture, and hardworking miners.

Tiwanaku

Explore Bolivia’s cultural and archeological site with the mysterious ruins of the ancient Tiwanaku agrarian civilization. Situated near Lake Titicaca, be amazed with the site’s wonders during a day tour. You will be able to see amazing monumental architecture and carved stone tenon-heads which are embedded in the wall of the temple.

The Churches of Sucre

Being the constitutional capital of Bolivia, Sucre houses wonderful and historical churches as well as religious buildings. These churches were built during the colonial times, and most of them have preserved their genuine structural features. Daily mass is held everyday in most of these churches. One of the most famous is the Iglesia de San Lazaro, being one of the oldest churches in Sucre. Others are the Jesuit temple of San Miguel, Iglesia de San Sebastian, The convent of San Agustín, Santa Bárbara chapel, and La Rotonda chapel.

 

Indeed, there is a long list of great ways to enjoy Bolivia. As more travelers and visitors discover its wonders, Bolivia is truly a beautiful country with diverse geography, interesting history, and colorful ethnicity.

One of the very best ways to learn a foreign language, gain experience of another culture, and the get the feeling that you are doing something  good for others, is to sign on as a volunteer to the destination of your choice. Boliva is a popular destination for volunteering because the need is great, but also because the volunteer can live and work in an exotic location while gaining marvelous life experiences.

Before we discuss volunteering in Boliva in more depth, let’s first make clear what the concept of working as a volunteer is all about.

Most people have heard of the Peace Corps, which is a U.S. Government program that sends volunteers to various points around the globe. Peace Corps workers are paid a small “subsistence stipend” for their services. But the volunteer programs we are talking about involve the volunteer paying his or her own way, and also their own expenses while on site in their country of choice. The host is usually a private, non-profit aid organization.

The first question many people ask is: “Why should I not only volunteer my work and talents for free – but also pay a fee besides?”

Well, first of all, the fees are not high; usually just a few hundred dollars per month. In exchange you get a place to stay, a place to work, you become part of an organized effort and you gain work experience – not to mention the incredible experience of being immersed in a different language and culture. It’s a tremendous journey of personal development. Second, you are providing aid and assistance to make the lives of other people better – you are doing something wonderfully selfless and good for the world.

Many people choose Boliva for a volunteer mission because the need is great in some areas, and the Bolivian culture is one of the richest, and most vibrant in the world. Bolivia is a Spanish-speaking country, and even those who speak no Spanish can return fluent in this language once the volunteer service is completed.

Bolivia also offers stunning landscapes – magnificent mountainous regions and rain forests – and when you are not working in your volunteer program, there is ample opportunity to explore both the isolated rural areas, and the large cities.

Bolivia volunteers make new friends and connections – including both personal and professional connections – that often last for the rest of their lives. Volunteers who return from Bolivia come back enriched with a superior level of professional development and connections that make them highly valuable to employers, or with the advanced skills they need to become successful self-employed entrepreneurs.

The key to finding a volunteer mission is to do a lot of research and planning. Search out an organization that works in Bolivia, and which offers a deal and situation which fits your budget and skill set. Whatever your profession — from carpenter to teacher, to nurse or plumber, to English instructor or expert gardener – you will be able to find a volunteer host organization that will get you busy doing good work in Bolivia.

Remember, the choices are many, and it is only wise to investigate carefully. It’s possible that some volunteer hosts are not as scrupulous as others. As in any situation, where there is money to be made, there are people who will seek to take advantage. Check references, or better yet, talk to someone who has personally worked as a Bolivia volunteer with a specific organization. There are many high-quality, well-administered programs that host volunteers and put them to work on above board use in areas where help is sorely needed, and some of the organizations in Bolivia are the best in the world.

Home to various indigenous languages, Spanish is the official language of Bolivia. Beyond its multiple ethnicity, Spanish is primarily spoken in most cities and regions. If you wish to travel or live in La Paz or in any other parts of the country, you may be interested in learning Spanish in Bolivia. In any kind of activity, communication is very crucial. With this, it is very important to know how to converse with the people you come across with, that is why learning Spanish in Bolivia is also a part of visiting or living in Bolivia. Here are proven ways to learn the language the easier and faster way.

Bolivia Spanish Language Schools

There are various Spanish language schools in Bolivia. These schools offer courses which make learning Spanish easier, depending on the categories of learners. Since learners could be categorized as beginners, intermediate learners, and advanced students; the type of Spanish lessons that are given are modified according to the said categories. You can search online for the list of the best Spanish schools in Bolivia.

Cultural Immersion

There are already proven evidences of a cultural immersion technique. Cultural immersion is an effective way of learning a country’s culture by living in the country of destination. Since culture is highly equated with language, learning Bolivia’s culture also means learning its language. You can do a series of activities during the immersion.

1. Converse with the Locals

A daily conversation with the local people in Bolivia can help you a lot. One word a day can really make a difference. By just learning one or two words and phrases everyday, it will help you widen your vocabulary. You can go to local restaurants and patiently converse with the people there and jot down notes of new words you have learned through out the whole conversation.

2. Watch TV shows or read the newspaper

Listening to a foreign language everyday helps a lot in learning it faster. You can watch TV shows in Spanish and if ever you come across words you are not well-acquainted with, write them down and look for the meaning of them in a dictionary or ask a friend in Bolivia about the words.

3. Make use of self-study books and Spanish-English dictionaries

You can attain a more solid foundation of the Spanish language by reading books about how to speak Spanish. In addition, you may also bring a pocket-size Spanish-English dictionary wherever you may go. Once you come across a new word, you may seek the help of a dictionary.

Learn Spanish in Bolivia Online

With the advent of high technology, learning Spanish in Bolivia is possible online. The great thing is, you can learn the language from the comforts of your home. You can search online for possible choices of reliable online classes for Spanish at reasonable rates.

 

Whether you come for a great vacation or an opportunity to work, learning Spanish in Bolivia is open for everyone. You can choose the particular way of learning the language you are comfortable with.

The country which we now know as Bolivia was first inhabited more than 2000 years ago by an indigenous group called the Aymara.  An agricultural village by the name of Tiwanaka, which dates from 1500BC and was  situated at the southern end of Lake Titicaca, became its capital and continued to flourish, incorporating cultures and architecture from other Andean areas in both Peru and Chile. At the height of its powers, it is believed that more than 25,000 people lived in the area but recent satellite imaging of fossilized, irregularly elevated  and flooded fields, that were used for planting(suka kollus)  now suggest that the population could have been somewhere  between 285,000 and 1.5 million.  The city’s disappearance about 1200AD is believed to have been caused by drought.
From the mid 15th century, for approximately one hundred years, Quechua Incas ruled the area, until the arrival of the Spanish (the Conquistadores) in 1524/5. At this time the region became known as “Upper Peru” and was governed by the Viceroy of Lima. In 1544 an Indian, Diego Huallpa, discovered silver at Cero Rico and Potosi, which was soon to become the largest city in the Western hemisphere,  and  was founded as a mining town. The native population was used as a labour force by the Spaniards and the silver was shipped to Spain, where it became an important source of revenue for the Spanish Empire.
The Spanish stranglehold on the area was weakened not only by the Napoleonic wars in Europe but by a succession of revolts and rebellions that took place locally.  Sixteen years of struggle ensued before the republic of Bolivia, named in honour of the Venezuelan Simon Bolivar, was established on 6 August 1825.
Independence did not however bring stability and over the next hundred years a series of wars with its neighbouring countries saw Bolivia lose great tracts of its country. In the 1830’s Bolivia joined forces with Peru and defeated invasions by both Chile and her ally Argentina.  Then during the War of the Pacific (1879-83) again against Chile, Bolivia lost its rich saltpetre fields and access to the sea. In 1903, after confrontation with Brazil it was forced to hand over the rubber rich area of Acre to Brazil. Finally, Bolivia lost a large portion of its Gran Chaco region in a dispute with Paraguay between 1932 and 1935.
Gold mining had replaced the silver mining and then tin replaced the gold, but the standards of living for the native people, who formed the majority of Bolivia’s population, remained deplorable, with bad conditions in the mines, feudal type rule of agricultural land, and no access to education or political representation. Finally in 1952 the Revolutionary Nationalist Movement led a successful uprising in 1952 and the new President, Victor Paz Estenssoro introduced sweeping reforms, including nationalisation of the tin mines, rural education and universal suffrage.
There have since then, been many coups and counter-coups but since  the 2005  election of President Evo Morales, who prior to his official inauguration in La Paz, was also inaugurated by an Ayamara ritual in the archaeological ruins of Tiwanaka,  there has been a return to stability and economic prosperity. He remains in power.

One of the places that you must experience is Bolivia. It is a country that is filled with great people and great sites. Let us look at some of the must see places to visit in Bolivia.
The first must see place is called Salar de Uyuni Salt Lake and Fields. This is a lake that is located in the south of Bolivia and is without doubt one of the most popular tourist destinations. This lake is actually a residue of what was a prehistoric lake. It is so huge that it is even visible from space. It is truly one of the largest salt flats that can be found in the universe. The best time to view it is between November and March as this is summer time and the mile salts are not covered with water. If you visit any other time, you may be cold but still; you are your own boss, right? A unique thing about this area is that the hotels are created with salt and the most famous one is Palacio de Sal.
Another site that will take you aback is the Amazon Jungle. You have probably heard of this in all those documentaries that you have watched. This is the home to very many unique species. Due to this, you should always ensure that you are travelling with a group while trekking this beautiful rainforest. The Amazon is a habitat to the anacondas you have seen in movies. This is a site that you should experience before the director yells “CUT!”
The other place to visit is the Aymaran Villages which are located on the shore of Lake Titicaca. This is the lake that is used by some Bolivians to get from place to place. The Aymaran villages contain Bolivians that are completely cultural. These people will ensure that you feel the true Bolivian culture from the way they dress, what they eat, the artifacts they have, and even how they express themselves. In essence it is where the local tribes thrive. Still on the shores of Lake Titicaca, is a town called Copacabana where you can buy souvenirs. You can take a piece of Bolivia back home with you.
A place that should not go without mentioning is Sorata. This is quite popular for hikers as it has a nice terrain for such activities as hiking. This is not to mean that if you are not a hiker you cannot experience this place. Yearly, on September 14th, Sorata has a festival that usually displays the local heritage and culture and therefore if you are just a tourist, you will be very entertained.
Truly Bolivia is a place that should be visited. It is a place that will offer you experiences you never thought possible. Bolivia is a true adventure.

Nestled in the midst of the icebound peaks, rain forests, savannas, and deserts, Bolivia exudes an amazingly rich culture that resounds all throughout the world.  The variety and diversity that you would surely experience in this country is more than enough reason to keep coming back.  When traveling to Latin America, a guide to Bolivia is extremely important to make the most out of such an intoxicating experience that you will not find anywhere else.

Strange and Interesting Bolivian Weather

When they say it is summer in Bolivia, it is important to be guided accordingly before packing your sunglasses and floral mini-dresses with you, lest you want to get soaked in the rain.  Summer, or verano, in Bolivia is all about rainfall.  This season falls on November through March.  Their summer season is pronounced by a lot of rain making traveling on roads very difficult.  Because Bolivia is one of the least developed countries in this part of South America, expect a lot of mud during this rainy season.  Aside from the mud and floods that happens almost everywhere, the heat and humidity of the air is at its worst.  However, this is the perfect time to see the mountains covered in lush greenery and exotic flowers.

Winter, on the other hand, is considered as the best time to visit and explore Bolivia.  This is the time when the sun is up and the skies are clear.  This falls on May through October.  The days are warm but the nights are colder than usual.  Visitors would find this extreme weather interestingly strange but they would surely enjoy climbing the high peaks and trekking in the highlands during this time of the year.

Public Transportation in Bolivia

Due to the lack of infrastructure in this country, getting around can be quite a challenge.  There are, however, many modes of public transportation that tourists would surely find comfortable and enjoyable:

- Flotas or buses
- Airplanes
- Taxis, moto-taxis (motorcycle cabs), and micros (mini-vans)
- Camiones or Lorries
- Trains
- Car rentals
- Bicycles

Entering Bolivia

Usually, a visa is not required to be able to enter this country; however, changes may be applied so it is highly recommended to inquire at your local embassy before traveling to Bolivia.  A tarjeta de turismo, or a tourist card, is issued to every tourist.  There are tourist cards valid for up to 30 days and there are those that are valid for 90 days, depending on the eligibility of the visitor.

The Boliviano

Monetary currency in Bolivia is the peso boliviano, most often referred to as the boliviano.  Although most hotels and commercial businesses prefer US dollars, there are still other services that will only accept boliviano.  Their paper bills come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 denominations while coins come in 1 and 2 boliviano, and 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents.  The boliviano is written as “B/”.  It is highly recommended to at least have both boliviano and US dollars to avoid any hassles and delays when availing certain services.

Bolivia is well-known in South America for its rich natural resources. Consequently, the country is also famous for the wide variety of its cuisines that use Bolivian native ingredients with influences mainly from Spanish cuisine. Immigrants have also put their own spins on the local cuisine such that restaurants and eateries offer German, Italian, Basque, and Polish fare.

Dining Etiquette

When in Bolivia, there is a certain dining etiquette to remember. You will be able to enjoy your food and drinks more when you show respect for the people’s custom at the dining table. The most important of the dining etiquette includes:

• Although punctuality is not expected, arrive on time just to show respect for your host. Or to be a Bolivian for a day, arrive 20 minutes late.
• You are, however, expected to stay for at least 30 minutes after the meal is finished as a sign of courtesy for the host and his guests.
• Guests are served first. Wait for the host to say “Buen provecho” as your cue for an invitation to eat at his table.
• Refuse the food when it is first offered because this is a custom in the country. Wait for the host to insist, which you should then accept or risk insulting your host.
• Always use utensils even on fruits.
• Wait for the host to make a toast before you make one of your own.

The main rule when being merry by eating and drinking in Bolivia is to treat the dining experience as a social event. Business matters should not be discussed, ever.

Eat and be Merry

Look beyond Bolivia’s reputation as having the original meat-and-potatoes cuisine. You will find that its people love good food just as much as the next gourmand albeit using local ingredients.

Vegetarians may have difficulty finding good food here, however, as Bolivians love meat and plenty of it, too. The most commonly used meat in dishes is beef followed by pork, chicken and llama with the most favorite way of preparing these meats being deep frying. Yes, Bolivian cuisine is not exactly heart-friendly but it is definitely tongue-friendly so much so that the risk may well be worth it.

Street food is a cheap but filling option in Bolivia. Go for the anticucho (beef hearts grilled and then served with potatoes drizzled with a spicy corn sauce) and salchipapa (sausage fried with potatoes). Breakfast is a happy affair with salteña, tucumana and empanada while the health-conscious can start the day with ensalada de frutas (fruit salad).

Drink and Be Merry

What is food without drinks? In Bolivia, almost every market has stalls offering juice bars, shakes and Vitaminico (whole egg with its shell, beer and sugar mixed with coca leaves). Mocochinchi is also a popular drink, which is made by brewing spices, peaches and water. The api is made from corn and it is so good that you will want to drink it every day.

Alcoholic drinks in Bolivia are also common. Try the chichi, which is made from fermented resulting to a whitish, sour and alcoholic brew. Be sure to spill a little on the soil as an offering to the Incan earth goddess.

So, prepare your palate for the delights of Bolivia!