bolivia
how
To Get There
The international airport El Alto is located six miles from the center of La Paz. International visitors do not need visas for stays less than 90 days. A $25 international departure tax must be paid at the airport.
To Get Around
Most government offices and banks are located around El Prado, the city’s main thoroughfare.
where
To Stay
Radisson Plaza (Av. Arce 2177, Tel: 5912-244-1111, www.radisson.com), located in the heart of La Paz, is just minutes away from the financial district and tourist areas. It is the most business-oriented hotel in the city.
To Eat
We recommend Aransaya in the Radisson for its combination of international and local cuisine, and spectacular scenic views. Vienna (Federico Zuazo 1905, Tel: 244-1660) is a classy venue that serves traditional Central European cuisine. La Québécoise (20 de Octubre 2355, Tel: 361-782) is an intimate Canadian restaurant that offers a top-quality menu and atmosphere. Pronto Pettirosso (Pasaje Gustavo Medinacelli 2282, Tel: 324-853) serves fine Italian food.
To Drink
For cocktails, a popular spot is La Terrazza. El Bodegón de Cinti (Calle Murillo 1040) is another place to unwind.
To Unwind
Worth visiting are the Museo de Tiwanaku, the cradle of American culture from 500 BC to 1200), and the Museo de Etnografiá y Folklore, with ethnographic exhibitions and an interesting library. For an unusual stop, the Coca Museum (Linares 960, Tel: 791-758) explores the historical, traditional, cultural and physiological aspects of the coca plant and its uses by the native population. Touring the streets adjacent to the Church of San Francisco (Calle Jiménez and Calle Linares between Sagarnaga and Santa Cruz), for an offbeat experience, visit El Mercado de los Brujos or the Market of Witchcraft in a narrow cobblestone street where traditional medicine men or yatiris sell amulets for fortune and good health.
what
To Buy
Among all of Bolivia’s indigenous handmade crafts, alpaca and llama textiles stand out for their quality. Locally made rugs are also good items to take home and traditional woodwind instruments are crafted with a local flair. Artisan shops are located mostly along Calle Juan Granier.