Distrito Federal Travel Forum

Hello,

I'll be visiting Venezuela next month for a couple of weeks and plan to spend some time in Caracas. This will be my first trip to this country. My questions are:

1. I would like to get a DVD that showcases a popular Venezuelan singer or group. Unfortunatly I don't know anything about Venezuelan music, so I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for what DVDs I should look for? Where's the best place in Caracas to shop for DVDs/music (pirated or not)?

2. I've heard that there's now an alternate road to the airport. About how long does it take to get from the Int'l Airport to the Altimira area now?

3. While in Caracas I plan to go to a good local gym. Anybody know where the Valle Arriba Athletic Center is located (area or address)? Any other suggestions?

4. I keep hearing about a nightlife venue called Arepas. Exactly what is and arepas and where's the best part of town to visit one? I plan to stay in the Altimira or Las Mercedes area, so hopefully that's a good location for nightlife.

Thanks for any info -Skull'

Hello!

Let me help you out with the things I know :

1. The Venezuelan Group I like the most is "Los Amigos Invisibles", they were nominated for a grammy once ;) . You can get the DVD's all over Caracas (No kidding, they even sell them on the highway wherever you go ) Where you can find the most variety is in Universidad Central de Venezuela, at the Engineering Walkway (Pasillo de Ingeniería). Original DVD's you can get at any store all over the city also.

Some other Venezuelan groups:
Caramelos de Cianuro (Rock)
Calle Ciega (Latin Music)
Oscar D' Leon (Salsa)


2. The ride from the airport to Altamira is about 1 hr - hour and a half. Depending on the traffic. Good luck with that also!

3. That's as far as I know the best Gym in Caracas The address is :

Avenida Principal de Colinas de Valle Arriba - Segundo Retorno

It is kind of close from the US Embassy. But if you're not going to have a car on the city, I would suggest you to go to Centro Seguros La Paz Gym. It is cheaper, very good gym, and closer from any main road. The address is:

Avenida Francisco de Miranda, Centro seguros la Paz, Entre Los cortijos y La California.

4. Arepas is kind of a corn bread, but they grill it. It is round and you stuff it with whatever you want. The Arepas I love the best are in "Caracas de Antier" Which is in Avenida Principal de las Mercedes. I recommend you the "Telita Especial" which has Telita Cheese (Special Venezuelan Cheese) and special pork meat.

Anything else you need don't hesitate to ask, We're here to help you out!

Cristina González

Muchas gracias por su ayuda!

Your information was very helpful. I'll be sure to check out the CD/DVDs you mentioned and perhaps visit the Centro Seguros La Paz (since I don't plan to use a POV while staying in the city).

I have about three more weeks before I land in Maiquetía Internacional and I can't wait.

- Skull

Not a problem! It's good to help people hehe
If you need to know anything else feel free to contact me by msn messenger or email at mcgonzalezp@cantv.net (same address for both).