Should we hide the fact that we're Norte Americanos?

Question

My wife and I are going to Ciudad Bolivar, Canaima and also taking a 5 day trip up the Rio Caura in October. I have been told that "Yanquis" are not particularly welcome in Venezuela. Is that true? And if so, should we do something rash like sew a Canadian flag on our backpacks?

Answer 1

haha! yeah sewing a canadian flag is pretty extreme, but it should work ;)

Answer 2

No,that's silly.I have been to Venezuela many times and never had a problem.The people of Venezuela are some of the warmest and most friendly people in Latin America.Stop listening to that kind of nonsense and try to meet as many Venezuelans as you can, I'm sure you'll both have a great time.It is an amazing and beautiful country.

Answer 3

Okay I have visited and lived in South America. (Colombia, Venezuela, and Trinidad)

Like every other country you will encounter good and bad people. People coming from rich nations such as Canada, USA, and Europe are usually a target because people think they have money.

Carrying any flag for protection is unnecessary.

To be safe in Venezuela or any South American country as a matter of fact is to:

1. Use the local currency

2. Don't flash the latest device in public (mobile phones, iPod, etc.)

3. Do not wonder around! Know where you are going, expecially at night.

4. Do not wear big jewlery or a lot.

5. Notice how locals act and dress, do not make yourself an attraction. (i.e. Don't dress like if you are in Hawaii -- Straw hats, flowery shirt, sock and sandals, etc..)

6. Try to speak English at a low tone, so the whole world would not know that you are foreign.

If you follow all these rules and just use common sense you will be safe.

Hope you have fun!!!

Answer 4

Venezuelans are very warm and welcoming people. As long as you are always aware of you're surroudings you should be fine.

Few tips:

don't use jewelry

always keep an eye on your things

be precautious with expensive things (video camara, camara, money etc)

wish you and your wife an excellent trip

Answer 5

Venezuelans aren't anti-American, not even our stupid president is. You'll be treated nice as long as you don't act like a pain the butt.

Answer 6

Just use your common sense and treat others like you would like to be treated... And no offense, but Americans tend to stick out like a sore thumb anyway so there's not really any use in trying to hide it ;-)...