There's no reason to fear San Salvador. You shouldn't be scared off by the city's nickname, which means Land of Volcanoes. You also shouldn't be scared off by the city's reputation for being violent and homophobic. Instead, you should focus on the fact that a volcano hasn't erupted here since 1917 and that queer communities are still alive and well all over the country. Sure, El Salvador is one of the most anti-LGBTQ countries in Latin America, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy it. Just, lik...
There's no reason to fear San Salvador. You shouldn't be scared off by the city's nickname, which means Land of Volcanoes. You also shouldn't be scared off by the city's reputation for being violent and homophobic. Instead, you should focus on the fact that a volcano hasn't erupted here since 1917 and that queer communities are still alive and well all over the country. Sure, El Salvador is one of the most anti-LGBTQ countries in Latin America, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy it. Just, like, be smart.
Whether you come in December when the rains disappear, or June when the Pride parade revs up, you'll love El Salvador's capital. It's chaotic, messy, beautiful, intoxicating, diverse, invigorating, and splendorous. The city, over which the dormant Boqueron volcano looms, is newly lovely after a modern-day facelift. The verdant suburbs are delightful to explore and the many museums are enriching for all visitors. The queer clubs are few and far between -- there's essentially just one -- but the Zona Rosa remains an energizing place to go out for the night. Plus, during the day, there's plenty to keep you occupied.
The shopping and café scenes in Colonia Escalón are unparalleled in the region, whereas the Iglesia El Rosario and Museo de Arte are unforgettable. The former's nuclear bunker-like exterior hides a rainbow-tinged spectacle within its folds, whereas the latter strikes awe and respect in its visitors with its famous Monument to the Revolution. However, the city's #1 asset may be its proximity to the country's natural and manmade wonders. Visitors can easily use San Salvador as a base while they check out the country's beaches, mountains, rainforests, and Mayan ruins. Speaking of Mayan ruins, Joya de Cerén is not to be missed. Considered Latin America's answer to Pompeii, the site boasts an entire ancient farming community that was preserved in volcanic ash. That said, Tazumal and San Andres are two other good spots for Mayan maniacs to visit.
The food in El Salvador comprises a wide range of international cuisines and influences, but you won't want to miss one of the city's pupusas. These hearty stuffed tortillas are nearly mythical in their cultural significance and will leave you satisfied. Follow one with a morro horchata, which is not like *other* horchatas since it's made with local coconut-like fruit. Still, if you want to dine at some of the city's finest restaurants, then consider staying in Colonia Escalón. You'll find plenty of great hotels there.
As we mentioned before, it's important to think about safety in San Salvador. While the local queers may be friendly, the local straights are sometimes less so. It might not be a good idea to hold hands in public here, for example. There's also gang violence on the far outskirts of the city. Ultimately, that's why it's imperative to book the right hotels, eat at the right places, and take the right tours. And that, dear reader, is where we come in. There may be two El Salvadors -- one beautiful and friendly, the other stained by Catholic guilt and imperialism -- but with common sense, you'll always find the right one.