Off the Beaten Path in Venezuela

Some parts of South America such as the Caribbeansuch as Picasso and Miro and a plethora of
and Mexico to name a few, have seen their share ofremarkable works from Venezuelan masters as well.
thousands upon thousands of tourists visiting on almostAfter your short stay at Caracas, it's off to Isla
a daily basis. However, Venezuela, although nowMargarita. It is a world away from the frenzied
emerging towards the limelight of international tourism,atmosphere of Caracas. Having fun in the area is no
is yet to see half the number of travelers that visit itseffort at all. Whether you want night-long excitement
neighboring countries. If you like to travel to gorgeousat the casinos and bars, or an idyllic day at the beach,
locales but do not want to deal with the hordes ofor an interesting visit at the island?s fishing villages, you
tourists that usually go with them, then Venezuela iswill find something exciting to do in the area. The
just perfect for you.island?s cheery diversity makes it a favorite for
More likely than not, you will be flying straight to thetourists with varied interests.
country's capital Caracas. Don?t be hasty with yourPlease make sure to visit the world famous Angel
judgment of the city. Although it is a tad disappointingFalls at Parque Nacional Canaima. The national park is
at first look with its uninspiring concrete buildings andso huge it is almost equal to the land area of Belgium in
cramped spaces, there are some gems tucked in itssize. Even more impressive is the stunning and
corners that are certainly worth discovering.imposing Angel Falls, considered to be the tallest falls in
A day or two in the area should be worth your time.the world. Angel Falls stands 2,647 feet. If you can't
Interesting destinations to visit in Caracas include thepicture it -  just imagine twice the height of the Empire
16th century church of Iglesia de San Francisco. It is notState Building!
only a striking piece of architecture but it is also notedThis spectacular attraction is no easy feat to visit
for its historical significance. To complete your colonialwhich makes catching a sight of it even more
experience of the capital, check out the quaint andsatisfying. If you have the cash to spare, you can
charming Parque Los Caobos and its gorgeousarrange a helicopter ride to the area. But if you are the
fountain.adventurous type, an even more exciting alternative is
The park features large trees that are more than justavailable - a half week trip onboard a 4x4. Do not get
ornamentation and are in fact a commemoration and adiscouraged by the number of days it'll take you to
symbol of Venezuela's independence.  Finally, there istravel, there are plenty of stops along the way that will
the modern art museum of Museo de Artetake you to other interesting destinations you don't
Contemporaneo de Caracas where you will find anwant to miss.
impressive collection of the world's renowned masters