Caracas Travel Forum

Hi: May have to be in Caracas for a year soon, there are such mixed reviews about the city, I have never been to Caracas before. I am wondering if someone can say what the current situation is, how safe is the city, in terms of crime, and is there unrest(demonstrations) currently. I am wondering how good will it be for a family with two teenage kids, (English speaking)I am also wondering what Universities are in the city for students of English Language and one for Latin American Studies and English,(the Arts). Would really like some information before I do my fact finding visit soon, thanks,and regards

Crime rate is high mostly in shantytowns and convoluted zones such as downtown. However, you can safely live there if you have an understanding of the dynamics of the city: it's not hell itself.

There have been recent demonstrations caused by political unrest; a well-known TV station was closed by the government; students went into the streets to demonstrate in favor of Free Speech and riots occurred. So, the situation is calmly tense.

Universidad Central de Venezuela and UPEL are major universities in the country and in Caracas, you could find a place for your teenagers there; although, I'd recommend them to take a Spanish course in advance. There is an institution in Merida which offers studies on those areas in English.