I'm planning to backpack south America for about 3 weeks. Been doing a lot of research but I like to hear people's own stories.

Ups?
Downs?

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peace since then, so safety is much better now than before.

And not to say I'm worried, but they still require the most carefulness. Don't plan on being out at night very much, so I'm not too worried about Medellin and Bogota, but any advice is appreciated.

Argentina, for those wondering, has a bad counterfeit money problem.

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Solo traveling is always more risky but I never felt unsafe. Counterfeit bills in Argentina shouldn't be a problem btw because you can either exchange cash at a legitimate "casa de cambio" or just take money out of an ATM.

Lots to see in South America and people in general are friendly and curious about foreigners. Practice your Spanish as it helps a whole lot and depending on the area, English levels can be minimal. If you've got street smarts you'll be alright.

question, what was your experience as far as getting a visa in bolivia? it looks like they want pictures, and a bunch of stuff to get one, and i don't feel like doing all that, but maybe i'm tripping.


i will be bringing some cash, but were you able to use your debit/credit card at most places you went?

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I remember I had to pay $150 or $200 for the reciprocity fee to enter, and my bills were fine but they said they weren't in perfect condition just to fuck with me and made me go find new bills. Whatever they ask you for there are places near the border that can help you print documents, take out money, take pictures, etc. It's up to you to decide if you think it's worth it. Salar de Uyuni was amazing and La Paz is a cool city. I don't regret the hassle at the border.

All the ATMs work fine with foreign credit cards and you can take out money no problem. You can also use your credit card at most restaurants, hotels, etc. Just make sure you tell your bank you're traveling so they don't turn off your card.

Lemme know if you have any more questions

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...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

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