Many travelers to Venezuela are drawn to the country by its beaches. Margarita and Puerto La Cruz are among the best beaches in the world. The climate is warm, the sun bright and the water blue. These are certainly worth a visit but if you want to really get a sense of Venezuela travel inland.
The country has one of the greatest bio diversities in the world. More than 40% of its territory is protected. There are 39 national parks, 17 national monuments and 9 wildlife refuges and reserves. On this land you will find just about any kind of environment. From beaches to dense Amazonian jungle to sand dunes to mountains to permanent glaciers, Venezuela has just about anything and everything.
Spurred on by oil revenues and political changes, Venezuela is also a country that is undergoing a vast transformation. There are apartment buildings in Caracas that are as expensive as anywhere in the world. There are fine dining establishments, excellent shopping and cultural events that are spectacular. There is also poverty and sadness. The contrast is very real.
Flying to Venezuela is not a cheap proposition but Lufthansa will get you there and back if you are able to afford it. It is a country that will leave you longing to see more.
