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Guide
Porlamar, Venezuela π»πͺ
#1829
,
Nomad Score:
46%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Porlamar is the largest city on Margarita Island and is known for its beautiful beaches and lively tourism atmosphere. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 200,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average download speeds are around 25 Mbps; availability varies. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 8 VES. Transactions can often be conducted in USD due to inflation. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Movistar and Digitel are the main mobile providers; prepaid plans available. |
π³ Banking for Expats | US dollars are widely accepted; local banks may have limited services for expats. |
π Accommodation | Available on platforms like Airbnb and local listings; prices range from $15 to $50 per night. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Limited; cash transactions are preferred and often necessary. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local vacation rentals are common; average cost is about $30 a night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options and guesthouses can be found, starting around $10 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Playa El Agua is popular for beach access and tourist amenities. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Centro de Porlamar is ideal for its amenities and proximity to coworkers. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | CafΓ© Naranja offers a quiet workspace and decent Wi-Fi. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© malΓ© offers good coffee and a relaxed atmosphere suitable for remote work. |
πΌ Networking Events | Local expat meetups occur occasionally in cafes and bars. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Follow 'Expat Life in Margarita' on Facebook for updates on gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber and local taxi services are available; prices are typically higher for ride apps. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Scooter rentals available at local shops; starting at $10 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Playa El Agua, renowned for its beauty and amenities, is easily accessible. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Conviasa offers regional flights between Margarita and mainland Venezuela. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Venezolana de AviaciΓ³n has international flights to a limited number of destinations. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | The main road connects Porlamar to major locations on Margarita Island. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Public transport primarily consists of buses and informal taxis. |
π Public Transport Passes | No formal public transport passes; buses operate on a pay-per-ride basis. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Local buses and colectivos are available for travel between towns on the island. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital Luis Ortega, offering basic health services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Margarita Yoga offers classes focusing on relaxation and fitness. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Sportcity Gym provides fitness equipment and classes; monthly membership around $20. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats offer wash and fold service, prices around $5 per load. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | PedidosYa is a prominent food delivery service in the area. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | PabellΓ³n Criollo, a traditional Venezuelan dish, is a must-try. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Some restaurants in Porlamar offer vegetarian dishes, but options are limited. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Boulangerie offers delicious pastries and cakes. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets in Porlamar provide fresh produce and artisan goods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Not widely available; local shopping is more common. |
π Grocery Delivery | Some local stores offer delivery services, but options are limited. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The nightlife district is concentrated in Playa El Agua with many bars and clubs. |
π» Local Brewery | Margarita craft brewery offers local beers. |
π· Wine Bars | Wine and dine at local restaurants that import international wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Vendors at local markets serve traditional Venezuelan street food. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Many cafes and restaurants serve Italian, French, and local variations. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Basilica de Nuestra SeΓ±ora del Valle is a beautiful landmark. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Museo del Mar offers insights into local aquatic life and history. |
π° Historical Sites | Coche Island's remains of colonial structures attract visitors. |
π Religious Sites | Iglesia de San JosΓ© is a popular historic church. |
π Annual Events | Carnival celebrations bring lively festivities each February. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Porlamarβs promenade is filled with local artisans and cultural displays. |
π Theater Venues | The Teatro de la Cultura hosts various performances and events. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Plaza Borracho is a vibrant market area with local crafts and food. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music is common at local bars, playing Venezuelan folk and salsa. |
π¨ Street Art | Various murals can be found across the city depicting local culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes offering Venezuelan cuisine are available at local community centers. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Local artists exhibit their work in small galleries throughout the city. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Several colonial-style buildings are scattered across Porlamar, showcasing its history. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The merging of indigenous and Spanish cultures is reflected in local festivals and cuisine. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Parque El Agua is a popular water park and nature spot nearby. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Cayo de Agua is a protected area known for its biodiversity. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Coastal paths along Playa El Agua offer scenic views. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Mirador La Guardia offers beautiful views of the coastline. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Various spots in Parque Nacional Mochima are popular for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain beaches allow bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Services like DHL operate in the area for parcel shipment. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local electronic stores offer basic repair for smartphones and laptops. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Some local parks have ping pong tables available for public use. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools offer Spanish classes for expats and travelers. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Public libraries offer reading areas, but resources are limited. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Local centers organize community events and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Local cafes sometimes have gaming setups for casual gamers. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are several casinos in Porlamar, popular among tourists. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $900 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $36,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,100 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $66,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $850 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $51,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $80,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $750 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $60,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 34% on profits. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% on distributed profits. |
π¦ Tax System | Progressive tax system with rates up to 34%. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 34%. |
π§Ύ VAT | 16%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Venezuela has CFC rules for local and foreign taxes. |
π Property Tax | A minimal property tax is based on property values. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Approx. 2% on property purchases. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Limited tax obligations if income is sourced from outside Venezuela. |