We just returned from an eight day trip to El Salvador. There was so much to see and do in this Central American country which we’ve never visited before, but are already making plans to return. This post will concentrate on our time in San Salvador, the capital, where the majority of the country’s population resides. A future post will delve into our time at beach resorts 2 hours away, which was full of outdoor activities and nightlife.

San Salvador, like most of El Salvador, is mountainous, lush and green. The month of January is in their summer and called the dry season. It’s a photographer’s paradise.

We enjoyed our meals in the country. The national dish, the pupusa, is a stuffed thick griddle corn cake filled with cheese, peppers and endless other options. Being that I love cornbread and corn-related foods, I enjoyed pupusas wherever it was offered.

Other delectable dishes that graced our table were all types of ceviche, tostadas, nachos, burritos, delicious fruits and loads of desserts.

In taking a private tour of the central area of San Salvador, we were given a history of the country. It was once a colony of Spain in the 1500’s and gained its independence in the early 1800’s. The people of El Salvador and the surrounding countries are of Mayan descent. Because of the slave trade, there is an African connection with some of its inhabitants.

In walking through the parks, squares, business and entertainment areas where people and families seemed to gather endlessly, there was an air of relaxation and joy. Small musical bands played in the parks accompanied by young or older dancers. Music flowed throughout. I’m reminded of how New Orleans is called the Big Easy. Things seemed rather easy in San Salvador. It seemed almost like a holiday with the beautiful weather playing its part.

The National Palace of El Salvador

The National Library, a 55 million dollar structure funded by the Government of China.

While in San Salvador, we stayed at the Sheraton Presidente San Salvador Hotel, a place steeped in history. The accommodations were great, the meals lovely, and amenities were excellent. What stood out for me was the wall of photos of Heads of States who had stayed at the hotel. My favorite president of all time, President Barack Obama, was pictured several times. Presidents Clinton and Bush were also framed on the wall. Every time I passed the photographs, I smiled.

El Salvador, I’m planning a return!