bolivia - monograms® vacation packages · uyuni salt flats just a short flight away from la paz...

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Copyright, All rights reserved. BOLIVIA Capital: La Paz Language: Spanish, Quechua, Aymara Population: 11.05 Million Time Zone: EST Currency: Boliviano (BOB) Electricity: 220V/50 HZ Fun Facts Approximately 78% of Bolivia’s population is Roman Catholic Almost half the population of Bolivia resides on Altiplano plateau, with an average altitude of 12,000 ft Bolivia contains 40% of all animal and plant life in the world Bolivia is one of the wettest countries in the world with annual rainfall over 26 feet Bolivia sits east of Peru with Lake Titicaca positioned between them. If you're planning a trip to visit the Mayan ruins of Peru and the mysterious Lake Titicaca, a skip over to Bolivia is well worth a few days’ visit. The Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca is arguably the most beautiful – with the Andes Mountains as your backdrop and on a clear day, you've never seen bluer blues. Bolivia offers modern cities, fascinating indigenous cultures, ancient architecture, great food, and a unique history in the heart of South America. Lake Titicaca Of course one of the main attractions in Bolivia is Lake Titicaca. These strange and ancient waters have been home to the native Urus Indians for thousands of years. It is unfathomable that the native tribes have been maintaining the Urus-Iruitos Islands here for centuries as they are composed solely of reeds that are constantly disintegrating into the lake; they perpetuate these volatile islands by adding new reeds to the surface. Staying overnight at Lake Titicaca in Bolivia gives you the rare opportunity to share in the culture of the people and absorb new perspective. Continuing on the path of visiting ancient Inca ruins, a trip out to the Sun and Moon Islands is a must. These islands were a crucial spot on pilgrimages through South America and they are thought to be some of the most sacred on the continent. There are over 180 ruins between the islands and it was once believed by the Incas that the sun and moon were raised from this very spot in the world. The beauty, history, and panoramic views from these islands cannot be captured – you simply have to witness it. Some other historical spots to see while visiting the lake are the Tiwanaku Ruins, the subterranean temple of Kontiki, and the strange Gate of the Sum – made from a single, massive piece of stone, it is estimated to weigh 10 tons and holds a deep value in the history of art and architecture in South America. Its engravings may be astronomical or astrological in nature and its current restored location may not be its original, but it holds a mercurial power that you can't help but feel. La Paz On to the impressive La Paz, Bolivia! La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, is a vibrant metropolis, busy and full of strange and wonderful things. Authentic food from street vendors, enchanting and bewitching markets, and historical buildings sit in pockets around the city while buses decorated in wildly colorful designs zip through catching your eye…and your camera if you're fast enough. Here you will also find the National Museum of Archaeology – a field in which Bolivia prides itself and its land. It contains ancient sculptures, pre-colonial artisan work, local Indian art, all infused with a European influence. Probably the most amusing and bizarre amusement in La Paz is the local Witches’ Market – where an open mind is a good thing to have. You'll find a mix of natural and herbal remedies, objects, and knickknacks promoting good health and happiness, mixed with macabre superstitions – likely to be the most memorable part of your trip to Bolivia.

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Page 1: BOLIVIA - Monograms® Vacation Packages · Uyuni Salt Flats Just a short flight away from La Paz lies the surreal and spectacular Uyuni Salt Flats, or Salar de Uyuni . Stretching

Copyright, All rights reserved.

BOLIVIACapital: La Paz Language: Spanish, Quechua, AymaraPopulation: 11.05 Million Time Zone: ESTCurrency: Boliviano (BOB) Electricity: 220V/50 HZ

Fun Facts● Approximately 78% of Bolivia’s population is Roman Catholic● Almost half the population of Bolivia resides on Altiplano plateau, with an average altitude of 12,000

ft● Bolivia contains 40% of all animal and plant life in the world● Bolivia is one of the wettest countries in the world with annual rainfall over 26 feet

Bolivia sits east of Peru with Lake Titicaca positioned between them. If you're planning a trip to visit the Mayanruins of Peru and the mysterious Lake Titicaca, a skip over to Bolivia is well worth a few days’ visit. TheBolivian side of Lake Titicaca is arguably the most beautiful – with the Andes Mountains as your backdrop andon a clear day, you've never seen bluer blues. Bolivia offers modern cities, fascinating indigenous cultures,ancient architecture, great food, and a unique history in the heart of South America.

Lake TiticacaOf course one of the main attractions in Bolivia is Lake Titicaca. These strange and ancient waters havebeen home to the native Urus Indians for thousands of years. It is unfathomable that the native tribes havebeen maintaining the Urus-Iruitos Islands here for centuries as they are composed solely of reeds that areconstantly disintegrating into the lake; they perpetuate these volatile islands by adding new reeds to thesurface. Staying overnight at Lake Titicaca in Bolivia gives you the rare opportunity to share in the culture ofthe people and absorb new perspective. Continuing on the path of visiting ancient Inca ruins, a trip out to theSun and Moon Islands is a must. These islands were a crucial spot on pilgrimages through South Americaand they are thought to be some of the most sacred on the continent. There are over 180 ruins betweenthe islands and it was once believed by the Incas that the sun and moon were raised from this very spotin the world. The beauty, history, and panoramic views from these islands cannot be captured – you simplyhave to witness it. Some other historical spots to see while visiting the lake are the Tiwanaku Ruins, thesubterranean temple of Kontiki, and the strange Gate of the Sum – made from a single, massive piece ofstone, it is estimated to weigh 10 tons and holds a deep value in the history of art and architecture in SouthAmerica. Its engravings may be astronomical or astrological in nature and its current restored location maynot be its original, but it holds a mercurial power that you can't help but feel.

La PazOn to the impressive La Paz, Bolivia! La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, is a vibrant metropolis, busy and full ofstrange and wonderful things. Authentic food from street vendors, enchanting and bewitching markets, andhistorical buildings sit in pockets around the city while buses decorated in wildly colorful designs zip throughcatching your eye…and your camera if you're fast enough. Here you will also find the National Museum ofArchaeology – a field in which Bolivia prides itself and its land. It contains ancient sculptures, pre-colonialartisan work, local Indian art, all infused with a European influence. Probably the most amusing and bizarreamusement in La Paz is the local Witches’ Market – where an open mind is a good thing to have. You'll find amix of natural and herbal remedies, objects, and knickknacks promoting good health and happiness, mixedwith macabre superstitions – likely to be the most memorable part of your trip to Bolivia.

Page 2: BOLIVIA - Monograms® Vacation Packages · Uyuni Salt Flats Just a short flight away from La Paz lies the surreal and spectacular Uyuni Salt Flats, or Salar de Uyuni . Stretching

Copyright, All rights reserved.

Uyuni Salt FlatsJust a short flight away from La Paz lies the surreal and spectacular Uyuni Salt Flats, or Salar de Uyuni.Stretching more than 4,050 square miles, the Uyuni Salt Flats is the largest salt flat on Earth. Formed by theremnants of several evaporated prehistoric lakes, the ground is made up of pentagons of smooth crystallinesalt that extend to the horizon. At certain times of year (the rainy season from December to April), nearbylakes overflow and cover the flats with a thin layer of water that creates a stunning reflective mirror. OnIsla Incawasi, experience formations of algae and fossils covered by thousands of cacti, surrounded by saltpans extending all directions. With its endless horizon and distinctive landscape, this area is a haven forphotographers, both amateurs and professionals alike.

History buffs, nature lovers, shoppers, and adventurers are lured into Bolivia through the puzzling powerof Lake Titicaca and once they cross over they discover an array of indigenous people and their cultures,incredible landscapes, mysterious ruins and spiritual artifacts. It is a country rich in tradition and welcomingof visitors looking for a bit of variety in their South American sojourns.

VISAS, PASSPORTS, AND OTHER ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

A visa for your visit to Bolivia is not necessary for US citizens. If you hold a passport from another country,check with your local consulate about requirements for travel to Bolivia.

All passengers traveling internationally are required to have a passport. Most countries require that thepassport be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the conclusion of your trip, so please check the expirationdate carefully. It is also recommended you have a minimum of three blank pages in your passport whentraveling, as many countries require blank pages. Please carry proper identification (your passport) on youand do not leave it in your suitcase or hotel room. Most countries have laws that require you to carry yourpassport with you at all times.

Departure taxCanadians must pay an airport departure tax of US$25 when leaving Bolivia.

COUNTRY CODES

The country code for Bolivia is 591. When calling to Bolivia from overseas, dial your international accesscode (011 from the US/Canada), followed by the country code, area code, and phone number. Phonenumbers in Bolivia are 7 digits in length. Dialing from the US/Canada: 011 591 # ### ####.

CURRENCY

The official currency of Bolivia is the Boliviano.

1 Boliviano (Bs) = 100 centavos (cvs).

● Banknote denominations: 10Bs, 20Bs, 50Bs, 100Bs, 200Bs.● Coin denominations: 10cvs, 20cvs, 50cvs, 1Bs, 2Bs, 5Bs

For the most current exchange rates, please go to our website at globusfamily.com/currency.

Credit cards are accepted in Bolivia, and you should have no problems using them in larger shops andrestaurants. Visa and MasterCard are most accepted. Smaller shops may ask you to pay in cash or havea minimum amount required to use a credit card.

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Bank Hours:● Mon. - Fri.: 9 am - 4 pm● Sat. - Sun.: Closed

BUDGETING AND SHOPPING

The following budget guidelines are just approximate values or starting values for meals and are per person.Actual prices will vary widely by restaurant and city within a country but below are some averages asprovided by our experienced personnel.

● The approximate cost of a soft drink/mineral water/coffee is $0.50.● An average lunch consisting of a salad or sandwich and a soda or water starts at approximately $4

per person.● Dinner at a mid-range restaurant with dessert and a non-alcoholic beverage starts at

approximately $8 per person.

TIPPING

Restaurants include a service charge on the bill as tip. However it is customary to add additional tip on topof this. 5% is usually acceptable. Tips should be left in cash and not added to the credit card payment.

For a taxi, round up the fare to the nearest whole dollar.

Tipping hotel staff for room or bar service is not customary.

ELECTRICITY AND ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

OutletsVoltage for outlets is 220V. North American voltage is generally 110V. Therefore, you will need a converterfor your travels. Adapters will be necessary to adapt your plug into the outlet, but these may not convertthe voltage, so both devices are necessary.

TEMPERATURES

Bolivia’s climate changes with altitude and from one city to another. In most parts of the country, wintersare dry and summers are mild and wet. The capital city of La Paz is generally cool year round so warmclothing is recommended.

To help you plan, below are average low and high temperatures for Bolivia.

Month Uyuni La Paz

January 50/64°F 39/55°F

February 48/62°F 39/56°F

March 49/63°F 38/56°F

Page 4: BOLIVIA - Monograms® Vacation Packages · Uyuni Salt Flats Just a short flight away from La Paz lies the surreal and spectacular Uyuni Salt Flats, or Salar de Uyuni . Stretching

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Month Uyuni La Paz

April 45/63°F 36/57°F

May 35/55°F 32/57°F

June 32/51°F 28/55°F

July 33/53°F 27/55°F

August 31/53°F 29/56°F

September 35/59°F 32/57°F

October 50/65°F 36/58°F

November 52/67°F 36/58°F

December 52/66°F 38/59°F

To convert to Celsius, subtract 30, then divide by 2. While not exact, this simple formula will give a closeestimation.

FOOD SPECIALTIES

The cuisine of Bolivia is mostly “meat and potatoes.” Some notable dishes include: pique a lo macho (grilledchunks of meat in a slightly spicy sauce with tomatoes and onion) served on potatoes and; silpancho (beefpounded to a thin, plate-sized patty), served on a bed of rice and potatoes, with a fried egg on top (similarto wiener schnitzel).

A FEW WORDS OF THE LOCAL LANGUAGE

Spanish:CONVERSATION¡Hola! Hi!, ¡Buenos Dias! Good morning!, ¡Buenas Noches! Good evening!, Me llamo _______. My nameis _______., ¿Cómo se llama usted? What is your name?, Mucho gusto. Pleased to meet you., ¿Cómoestá usted? How are you?, Bien, gracias. ¿Y usted? Fine, thanks. And you?, Mas o menos So-so, ¡Hastaluego! See you later!, Adiós. Good-bye., Por favor. Please., Vivo en ________I live in _____________,(Muchas) gracias. (Muy amable.) (Many) thanks. (Very kind.), De nada. You're welcome., Lo siento.I'm sorry., ¿Me permite? May I?, Disculpe. Excuse me. (To get someone's attention.), Con permiso.Excuse me. (For leaving or passing through.), Perdón. Excuse me. (For sneezing, arriving late, etc.),¡Salud! Gesundheit! (When someone sneezes.) Cheers! (For toasting with drinks.), ¿Me pasa _______ porfavor? Could you please pass me _______?, Sí. Yes., No. No., Gracias Thank you, No entiendoI don’tunderstand, No hablo español I don’t speak Spanish,¿Habla inglés? Do you speak English?, ¿Dóndeestá el baño? Where is the bathroom?, Está cerca? Is it near?, Está lejos? Is it far?, Siga recto. Gostraight ahead., Gire a la derecha. Turn right., Gire a la izquierda. Turn left., Nescito esto. I would likethis., Una mesa para dos, por favor. A table for two, please., La carta, por favor. The menu, please.,La lista de vinos, por favor. The wine list, please., primer plato appetizers, plato principal main course,postre dessert, Quisiera algo para beber. I would like something to drink., Un vaso de agua, por favor.A glass of water, please., Una Cerveza. Beer, Una Copa de vino tinto/blanco Glass of red/white wine,La cuenta, por favor. The check, please., Incluye la propina? Is the tip included?, Desayuno Breakfast.,Comida lunch, Cena dinner, ¡Buen provecho! Enjoy the meal!, ¡Salud! To your health!, Está riquísima!It's delicious!, Plato. plate, Tenedor. fork, Cuchillo. knife, Cuchara. spoon, Servilleta. napkin, Hielo. ice,Sal. salt, Pimiento. pepper, Azúcar. sugar, Sopa. soup, Ensalada. salad, Pan. bread, Mantequilla. butter,Pollo. Chicken, Carne. Beef, Cerdo. Pork, Quisiera la carne poco cocida. I like my steak rare., Quisierala carne a medio cocer. I like my steak medium., Quisiera la carne bien cocida. I like my steak well done.

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Last Updated 12/12/19

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NUMBERSCero. Zero, Uno. 1, Dos. 2, Tres. 3, Cuatro. 4, Cinco. 5, Seis. 6, Siete. 7, Ocho. 8, Nueve. 9, Diez.10, Once. 11, Doce. 12, Trece 13, Catorce 14, Quince 15, Dieciseis 16, Diecisiete. 17, Dieciocho. 18,Diecinueve. 19, Veinte. 20, Cien. 100, Mil. 1000.

US DEPARTMENT OF STATE COUNTRY INFORMATION

Additional country-specific information for US citizens can be found on the US Government’s websitewww.travel.state.gov. Here, you can find the most up-to-date information about destination descriptions,passports/visas, safety and security, transportation, travel local laws, alerts/warnings, vaccinations, andmore. For citizens of other nations, we recommend you consult your local consulate for travel information,regulations, and requirements.