Traveling to South America? Here's 5 Things You Must Know

(Photo : Reuters)

Life, customs, conditions, and everything that you should know before traveling in South America.

South America is one of the best places to visit in the entire world for 2020. The continent has become one of the most traveled places in the past decades because of its attractions like the Machu Pichu in Peru, Amazonia in Ecuador, Angel Falls in Venezuela, Torres del Paine in Chile, and many more.

It is not surprising that travelers from around the world are flocking toward South America to experience the beautiful scenery of the continent. However, if you plan to take a vacation to the continent there are a few things that you should know first. Here is a short list of their ways of life, customs, current conditions, and more. 

Here are five things that you should know about South America according to the travel site, LAIDBACKTRIP:

1. English is not widely spoken on the continent

The first thing you have to know is how to speak basic Spanish. English is not widely spoken in South America, and that means that you may have a hard time communicating with a hotel receptionist, buying a bus ticket, or even just buying a bottle of water if you don't know some basic Spanish words. So remember before you travel to South America to learn the basics of their language. 

2. Use sunscreen all the time

South America is located near the equator. This means that you will be spending most of your time in places where the heat of the sun is so strong. It is recommended that travelers must have sunscreen all the time to protect their skin. Aside from sunscreen, it is also recommended that travelers must use a sun hat, lip balm with sunscreen, and sunglasses. 

3. Weather changes 

Weather changes a lot from country to country in South America. If you plan to travel on the continent, you have to make sure of the present weather condition of the place via a weather app or any other trusted news source. It is important to check the weather conditions as you might be shivering one day in one place then sweating a lot once you travel to another place. The temperature in South America is not only dependent on the season, but also the altitude.

4. Pack a bit of everything

Since the weather in South America is unpredictable, you have to pack a bit of everything. However, there is no need for you to overpack but just expect that your backpack will not be superlight most especially if you opt to travel in the continent for a long period. The best way to prepare your things is to choose functional clothes that you can easily combine.

5. Respectfully ask for bargains

It is possible in South America to ask for bargains. However, when you do this, be sure it is in a very respectful manner. The first thing that you have to do in doing this is to ask for the price, and if it seems too expensive for you, then that's when you will try to bargain. However, it's polite as well as thoughtful to consider the current situation of the vendor. While it's true that asking for a bargain is beneficial on your end, doing this could be hindering the family of the vendors.