Spanish is the official language although many locals speak English.
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The official currency is the bolivar, which breaks down into 100 centimes. It's easiest to exchange foreign cash and traveller’s cheques that are in US dollars. Exchange bureaux are easy to find in most tourist destinations and large cities. Some banks and major hotels will swap US dollars for bolivars. If possible, exchange your money before travelling. ATMs can be found in most cities but can be unreliable. Major credit cards are usually accepted in bigger cities, but beware of credit-card fraud, which is a major problem throughout Venezuela.
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The international country code is 58. To call another country from Venezuela, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code - 0044 for the UK, for example. Tourist resorts and Caracas usually have Internet cafes.
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Restaurants usually tack on a 10 per cent service charge to bills. It’s customary to tip taxi drivers 10 per cent and give baggage handlers small change.
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There is a threat from terrorism. In addition, the FCO warns against all travel to within 80 km of the Colombian border in the states of Zulia, Tachire and Apure. Petty crime is also a threat and visitors should remain vigilant in public places and keep valuables out of sight.
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If you’re planning on visiting Venezuela’s rural areas, it’s a good idea to get vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis A. The jungle areas have a particularly high risk of malaria. Protect yourself against the mosquitoes that carry malaria or dengue fever. Check with your doctor at least three weeks before departing for Venezuela. Drink bottled water. Private hospitals outside Caracas, as well as public hospitals throughout the country, have limited supplies and can be very expensive. Make sure you've got a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
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The electrical current in Venezuela is 110 volts, 60Hz (two-pinned, American-style plugs).
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