In the capital city of San Salvador you can find lots of Activities & Interests. The Metropolitan Cathedral can be distinguished from many parts of the city by its large, tall dome. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Plaza Barrios which is the largest plaza in the capital. The Teatro Nacional is in back of the cathedral. It was built in a rather opulent style in 1917. The Palacio Nacional which is where the government convened before the earthquake of 1986. For shopping the best places to buy local goods are the Mercado Central which is not as good as the Mercado Ex-Cuartel which has a pleasant blend of handicrafts including leather, ceramics and pottery. Best to bargain here. Away from the city center is the Plaza de las Americas which houses the statue "El Salvador del Mundo" which depicts Jesus standing on top of the world. If you continue away from the city you will encounter the Mercado Nacional de Artesinas which has more and higher quality goods than at the Mercado Ex-Cuartel but, in general things cost a little more. Still venturing away from the city center you encounter the ritzy Boulevard del Hipodromo which is lined with manicured lawn and glitzy buildings. In this area you will find the Jardin Botanico La Laguna which was created out of a swamp which sits at the bottom of a volcanic crater. If you would like a good view of the city and the surrounding areas, travel to the south of the city to the Teleferico de San Jacinto where there is a ten minute ride which takes you to the top of the hill. The view is well worth the trip. The surrounding lakes, volcanoes and countryside are absolutely astoundingly beautiful.

Costa del Sol - The clean, white strip of beach is now a haven for tourists and has a number of very nice hotels. Nearby is the is Estero de Jaltepeque which has mangroves with lots of birds including kingfishers and herons and a fair amount of sandpipers.

Lago de Coatepeque - This sparkling blue, crater lake is situated on the eastern slope of the Santa Ana Volcano. At the weekend the area is teeming with visitors from the capital trying to get away to a very pleasant area. During the week the setting is very peaceful and quiet.

Lago de Ilopango - About 1800 years ago a volcano exploded about 10 miles east of what is now San Salvador and formed a crater which is now El Salvador's largest lake. A small eruption about a century ago formed the little islands in the middle of the lake now called the Burnt Hills.

Panchimalco - This pre-Columbian town was founded by Toltec immigrants. The church in the center is Baroque in style and was constructed between 1543 and 1730 and contains very interesting woodworks inside.

San Miguel - The city is the country's third largest and is a center for commerce in the eastern area of the nation. The city dates back to 1530 and still retains some of the original Spanish influence in its architecture. The few lovely parks and a small cathedral from the 18th century. The main feature of town is what lies just outside of town. Still active, the San Miguel Volcano hovers over the town with the certain promise of eruption. It has exploded in almost every decade of this century!

Santa Ana - The second largest city of the country is a bit wealthier and perhaps a bit more friendly since life is not as rushed. Coffee plantations surround the city which contributes to the economic strength. The Teatro de Santa Ana is a pretty building which is not far from the large Cathedral which is neo-gothic in style and has ornate moldings covering the entire facade of the church.

The Ruins of Tazumal - The name of "Tazumal" when translated from the Mayan language means - " The pyramid where victims are burned." This gives the imagination something to work with in envisioning what went on here. The first settlement in the area was probably in 5000 BC. Rigorous digging has unearthed evidence that a brisk trade existed with peoples as far away as Mexico and Panama.

Capital: San Salvador

Population: 5,900,000

Area: 14, 718 square miles

Language: Spanish

Time: - 1 hours from New York

Electricity: 110 and 220 volts (take an adapter)

Geography: El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America and is about the six of the US state of Massachusetts. To the west is Guatemala, the east and north is Honduras and the Pacific is to the south. It is the only country in Central America without a Caribbean coast. The countryside has a number of dormant volcanoes which adds to the uniqueness landscape.

San Salvador - (SAL) - Bus and Taxis are available. Taxis are recommeneded but be sure of the fare before engaging the service.

Tipping: In most cases a service charge is included in the bill. Best to check if it is.

Shopping: Shops are open from 8am to 6pm weekdays and until noon on Saturdays. The country isn't into much of arts and crafts. However, you will find excellent pottery and ceramics.

Food and Drink: Lunch is the largest meal of the day and menus are quite good. The popular dishes include the expected rice and beans but chicken and turkey is very popular. A much asked for drink is called " Agua de Jamaica" which is a lot on the sweet fruit side with a taste of tea. Beer is also very popular with Pilsner being the favorite

Social: The people are very friendly. Even the children are approachable and are quick with a smile. The locals are eager to help with directions and advice. Best to be sure, however, that everything has been understood. The pace of the country is slow but you will be rewarded for patience.

Business: English is fairly well understood by businessmen here, but its is best to check ahead of any meeting about just what conditions are. It is always best to speak in Spanish if possible. Business suits are expected if you are a professional meeting other professionals. First names are not used until after several meetings.

Banking: Banks are open Weekdays 9 am to 4 pm

Currency: The Colon

Money Exchange: Best to exchange at banks. Travelers checks are more difficult to exchange and when done there is an extra service fee.

Credit cards: Visa and Master Card are accepted in many stores but not all. Be prepared to use cash.

Climate

The highlands have a moderate climate with temperatures ranging from 78 to 85F during the day and 61 to 68F at night. Along the coastal areas is about 10 to 15 degrees warmer and much more humid. The rainy season is from May to October and the dry season from November to April.