🇸🇻 El Salvador Travel Summary: 13 Key Takeaways

Just spent a week here—sharing real insights for future travelers! 💰 Money & Payments 1️⃣ Currency: USD (cash) + Bitcoin (yes, really—but barely used). $20 bills are accepted (despite rumors), but avoid using them for small purchases. 2️⃣ Cards: Visa/Mastercard work in 90% of places (even Amex!). But Apple Pay? Rarely understood—expect to insert your card. 😅 3️⃣ ATMs: Flat $4.50 fee at Banco Davivienda (Wealthsimple card = no extra charges). 🗣️ Language & Culture 4️⃣ Spanish is essential—English is not widely spoken. 5️⃣ Tipping: 10% often auto-added at nicer restaurants. Service is solid, but no dedicated waiters—just wave for help. 🛂 Entry & Transport 6️⃣ Visa: Canadian PRs can get visa-on-arrival (Mexicana Airlines, no issues). 7️⃣ Border quirks: Credit cards technically work for entry fees—but cash is smoother. Non-citizens: Expect slower processing + return-ticket checks. 8️⃣ Airport to city: Bus = $0.60 (vs. $30 Uber). Find it at Microbuses Aeropuerto (safe, but no luggage space). 🚰 Health & Logistics 9️⃣ Water: Never drink tap water—even restaurants serve bottled only. 🔟 Rainbow Church hack: Main door’s always locked—use the right-side alley entrance ($2, empty near closing). 👀 Local Vibes 1️⃣1️⃣ Staring is normal (even at men)—it’s curiosity, not danger. 1️⃣2️⃣ Night owls: National Palace ($5, open late, English-speaking staff). China-built library (24/7, free luggage storage + filtered water). 📌 Final Tips 1️⃣3️⃣ Pack light, learn basic Spanish, and embrace the chaos! #ElSalvador #BudgetTravel #CentralAmerica #TravelHacks