Ep 175 w/ Leah Arao - Discussing Our Travel Experiences in El Salvador, Why You Must Visit!

What happens when you book a last-minute trip, hop on local chicken buses, and wing your way through El Salvador? In this episode, I’m joined by traveler and content creator Leah Arao from Ticket 2 Anywhere Podcast and LA in Flight to talk about our experiences exploring one of Central America’s most underrated destinations. From wandering the colorful streets of Suchitoto to hiking volcanoes, sipping on world-class coffee, and navigating San Salvador’s vibrant city life, we break down the highs and lows of traveling through this fascinating country. We also discuss safety, budget tips, and why El Salvador should be on every backpacker’s radar in 2025. If you're curious about what it's really like to travel here, this episode is packed with firsthand stories, unexpected surprises, and plenty of travel inspiration!We break down everything you need to know before traveling to El Salvador, including:✅ The best places to visit, from vibrant San Salvador to the colonial charm of Suchitoto✅ How to travel on a budget, including $1 bus rides and cheap-but-amazing eats✅ Is El Salvador safe? Our honest take on safety, crime, and the country’s transformation✅ The Santa Ana Volcano hike, why James couldn’t do it, and Leah’s perfect weather win✅ The beach towns of El Tunco & El Zonte, surf vibes, expensive beers, and hidden caves✅ Why you should ditch the Uber and take a chicken bus for the full local experience🌍 El Salvador is changing fast, and now is the time to go! Whether you're a budget traveler, an adventure seeker, or just curious about this rising travel hotspot, this episode has all the insights you need.🎧 Listen now on [Spotify/Apple Podcasts/YouTube] and don’t forget to subscribe for more off-the-beaten-path travel stories!📲 Follow us:👉 Leah Arao (@Ticket2AnywherePodcast) – Instagram | YouTube | TikTok👉 James (@WingingItTravelPodcast) – Instagram | YouTube | TikTokGot questions about traveling in El Salvador? Drop them in the comments or DM us on social!#ElSalvadorTravel #BackpackingCentralAmerica #TravelPodcast #WingingItTravel #TicketToAnywhere--------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps00:00 Exploring El Salvador: An Introduction03:13 Travel Experiences in San Salvador06:01 Suchitoto: A Hidden Gem11:58 Accommodation Insights and Budget Tips15:00 Cultural Experiences and City Vibes17:57 Nightlife and Festivities in San Salvador21:33 Exploring San Salvador's Landmarks24:03 Walking Tours and Local Perspectives26:05 Safety and Security in El Salvador30:22 Nightlife and Cultural Shifts32:26 Beach Towns: El Tunco and El Zonte40:10 Travel Tips and Transportation47:26 Future Developments in El Salvador49:04 Adventures in Santa Ana54:55 Exploring the Old Art School01:01:45 Climbing the Santa Ana Volcano01:05:47 Culinary Delights in El Salvador01:14:30 Coffee Culture and Local Cuisine01:15:07 Exploring Ataco: A Culinary Adventure01:27:07 Journey to Juayua: Markets and Local Delights01:33:40 Camping at Espíritu de la Montaña: A Unique Experience01:39:14 Reflections on El Salvador: Safety and Authenticity--------------------------------------------------------------Voyascape: Travel Podcast Network - https://voyascape.com/Winging It Travel Podcast - WebsitePlease leave a review and rating wherever you get your podcasts!--------------------------------------------------------------Winging It Travel Podcast CreditsHost/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James HammondContact me - [email protected] Social Media - follow me on:InstagramTikTok Facebook --------------------------------------------------------------Support My Podcast - MembershipsPatreon - HereBuy Me A Coffee - HereAffiliate Links If you click one of the below to book something, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast.Book Flights with Skyscanner - Here Use Revolut Travel Card - HereBook Your E-Sim With GigSky - Here Book Hostels With Hostelworld - HereBooking.com - HereBook Experiences With Viator - HereDiscovery Car Hire - HereBook Buses With Busbud - HereBook Trains With Trainline - HereTravel Insurance with SafetyWing - HereBook Flights With Expedia Canada - HereBuy my Digital Travel Planner - Here--------------------------------------------------------------Thanks for supporting me and the podcast!Cheers, James.