Job Discussion Forums

Rhino · Posted: Fri Sep 24, 2004 12:38 pm Post subject: maybe Venezuela

My wife and I are thinking about going to Venezuela to teach for a few months this winter. The pay is not great but our food and accomidations are covered. The city is Valencia and my concern is for my safety. I'm I overly paranoid? I've heard all the 'every city in the world has crime' speaches, but does any one have any experiences on how foreigners are being treated there these days? All opinions and experiences welcome!

Taurus · Joined: 22 May 2004 Posts: 54 Location: Canada

I lived in Valencia for a year and I totally loved it. The city is hot and surrounded by mountains and in a great location. It is not dangerous like Caracas. You have to be cautious in all of Venezuela ( ie dont leave your bag siting in the open, watch your wallet, dont walk around late at night ) but I never felt in any major danger. Where will you be teaching and what area of the city is the school located?

moonraven · Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Posts: 3094

Venezuela is a fabulous country. So is its president.

You won't make any money, but the experience will be worth it. Try to give yourself time to travel, as the country is extreme in its variety.

If you want more info, PM me.

Woo_Woo_Williamson · Joined: 29 Sep 2004 Posts: 12

Valencia! The best of luck to you.

As for the crime, the fact is, in Venezuela, most people are just trying to make a living. They don't want to be robbed, either, so they follow certain guidelines in their everyday lives. I learned a lot by following their advice and even imitating their habits.

You'll notice that at sundown in Venezuela, everybody packs up and goes home. That's because at night, if you get around, it's going to be by car.

You will be amazed at how most people around you will go out of their way to help keep you safe. You'll really be amazed.

Alitas · Joined: 19 May 2003 Posts: 187 Location: Maine

I have also lived in Valencia. I felt safe and easily made my way around the city. Watch how the locals do it. Do you know what neighborhood you'll be living in?

http://www.qtpd.com/caribe/ I just found this blog and it has some great observations about Venezuelan culture.

Definitely explore the country.

Amazona · Joined: 10 Oct 2004 Posts: 2

Hello. I have searched through the forums for info on the visa situation but have not found anything specific for Venezuela. I am interested to hear from some of you who have taught in Venezuela if you worked on a tourist visa and if you had any problems. Is it possible for your school to organise the working visa when you are there? Thanks in advance.

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moonraven · Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Posts: 3094

Work visas are not as easy to get in Venezuela as they are in some other countries in Latin America.

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

moonraven, which countries are easy to get a work visa for in Latin America?

moonraven · Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Posts: 3094

Mexico, in particular, is very easy. Central American countries are easier than South American. It seems that the level of bureaucracy increases as you wend your way southward.

Amazona · Joined: 10 Oct 2004 Posts: 2

So visas are hard to get in Venezuela; What are the options then?
Thanks in advance.

moonraven · Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Posts: 3094

A lot of folks don't bother to get work papers, since the government automatically gives 6 month tourist visas.

Woo_Woo_Williamson · Joined: 29 Sep 2004 Posts: 12

moonraven · Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Posts: 3094

In Valencia you will get to see the last gap of oligarchical politics, estilo venezolano: the governor of the state of Carabobo was voted out of office last Sunday, but is refusing to step down. Looks as if Ch�vez will have to use the Army to bring him into compliance with the law.

Woo_Woo_Williamson · Joined: 29 Sep 2004 Posts: 12

moonraven · Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Posts: 3094

Most of the chavistas won, Bernal included.