Caracas Travel Guide

Henrique Capriles Again Chávez's Major Competitor

Speculation in Caracas abounds as President Hugo Chávez completes his first week after returning to Venezuela. An extended period of illness left the government in a precarious state, and expectations for a new election will see Chávez pitted against a coalition leader, Henrique Capriles. Political forecasts favor the incumbent, however, despite Capriles' support of more than 30 opposition parties.

Caracas Introduces Unique Meditative Laughter

Yoga and laughter have well discussed impacts on personal health, but a rather curious blend of 'laughter yoga' has swept across the Venezuelan capital of Caracas in a trend that has brought bright smiles and stress relief in a surprisingly effective and completely cost free manner. The movement brings Caracas into the fold of over 6,000 worldwide laughter clubs.

Japanese Culture to Visit Venezuela

February 22nd marks the beginning of a unique experience for residents and visitors of Caracas and the arrival of an entire week of Japanese culture. Complete with a Japanese Film Festival and various artistic exhibitions in both the Museum of Fine Arts Foundation and the Center for Latin American Studies.

Caracas Weighs in As Most Expensive in Americas

Though still a place to visit, an extended stay in the Venezuelan capital might go on the pricey side as Caracas has recently been named most expensive city in the Americas. Arguably a result of government price controls, Caracas has jumped 25 places on the list in just one year and this has put a strain on electoral politics – a strain not helped by President Hugo Chávez's prolonged period of illness.

Chavez Garners Religious Support from the Masses

Whether or not someone agrees with Chavez or his style of government, one can't help but admit he has a way of drawing public support for his continued ailment in Caracas and around the country. A religious outcry, complete with priests, drummers, and chanters is only one of many religious ceremonies – from many, often wildly different religions – that are either a grassroots support movement for their president, or perhaps a more nefarious way of captivating the vote.

Food Shortage Speculation Countered By Inspection

Speculation in and around Caracas have led to the widespread perception of a serious food shortage in Venezuela, however the government has moved to combat this perception and the resultant shocks to the economy by launching a wave of inspections to prevent artificial spikes in the prices of what are deemed essential foods. This action has already uncovered many thousands of tons of hoarded goods.

Cuban National Hero Honored in Venezuela

Despite being known as a Cuban icon, Jose Marti was remembered for his visit to Caracas and honored in the capital city of Venezuela. Remembered as a heroic independence and freedom fighter, the ceremony was part of a widespread celebration and collection of activities within Venezuela.

Venezuela President Unlikely to Make Inauguration

A “severe respiratory infection” has caused significant concern in Venezuela and made President Hugo Chavez's appearance at his own inauguration an unlikely event. Currently in a Cuban hospital recovering from infection, little to nothing is known about his status or the nature of the infection. The illness foreshadows a time of political turmoil as both sides of the spectrum accuse the other of exploiting the situation. Further aggravating the situation is that Chavez didn't even go to a hospital in Caracas.

Caracas Hosts Latin American Jewish Congress

In an effort to combat growing anti-Jewish sentiment, a position much aided by Israel's recent controversial actions in Gaza, and simultaneously reach out to a community in need, Latin American Jewish Congress President Jack Terpins spoke out in Caracas, declaring his intention to strengthen inter-religious dialog throughout the middle east and Latin America.

Venezuela's Military a Major Player in Present Politics

With President Hugo Chavez unable to serve as Caracas' linchpin of stability as he once was, concerns have been directed towards the military of Venezuela and their stance in the growing political turmoil. A show of support for the Vice President and National Assembly President has done much to assuage fears of a possible coup but speculation and discomfort remain prominent within the country.

List of the Best Hotels in Caracas by Star Rating

The vibrant Venezuelan city of Caracas has much to do and see for a first-time or returning visitor. However, a poorly chosen hotel can leave a sour taste in a vacationer's mouth no matter how great the city itself is. Check out what the best hotels in Caracas are, according to whichhotel4me.com, sorted by the hotels' star ratings, and make sure your travels are enjoyed thoroughly.

Venezuelan Hero Controversially Reburied in Caracas