April 20th, 2012 
Tushar Mathur Burrowed in between Honduras and Guatemala is a country with a history as rich as any other in Central America. Settled in the early 1500’s by Spanish conquistadors, their influence still very evident today, El Salvador became a hub for the Spanish gold, coffee, and spice trade. There is no better example of their impact on the land than in the cuisine. An eclectic mix of traditional Spanish, South American, and native dishes make up the many flavors one is sure to experience when dining in this tiny nation.
The great author Francisco Gavidia wrote about his birthplace in only they way he could. In his writings he admits to being manipulated by the smells, sounds, and music of his motherland, a common reaction shared by most vacationers. It would be easy to find these same practices anywhere in Central America, but ask any of the locals in El Salvador, and they’ll let you know you came to the right place.
San Miguel is the fourth most populous city in El Salvador, but the center of agricultural and textile production. Many believe it to be the heart of the Salvadorian state. This thriving economy has achieved much in the last decade. A surge of investors and private organizations have flooded the area, creating jobs, tourist attractions, and consumer dwellings, yet still, San Miguel has it detractors.
A stigma has fallen upon this piece of ancient history. Unfortunately, travelers are finding in hard to brush aside the stories of gang violence and poverty that supposedly consume the land. Salvadorians do not agree with this impetuous portrayal of their citizens, and work very hard to display their humility. Tourists are welcomed with open arms and locals willingly provide an almost obligated sense of care and companionship. You can find so much beauty in the place; one really just has to look.
Students would find a wonderful alternative from the confines of their classrooms in the many archeological and geological sites. El Salvador houses 22 volcanoes, 8 of which are still active, and many structural remnants of the pre-Columbian era. It is also home to some of the world’s best beaches. The Azul Surf Club is a perfect example of the large surfing community that has immersed upon the coastlines. Watermen from all over agree that the beaches and San Miguel are some the most relaxing, as well as exciting in the world.
The nightlife in most areas can be compared to the dive bars we’ve all seen in clique American film portrayals of underprivileged Spanish countries, but the vibe is quite the opposite.
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