San Salvador

[Mfins]

You are a very sharp traveler, you sound very educated and not completely comfortable in the blue collar world. That's what San Salvador is, a funky blue collar world. I guess you passed on Roberto as your driver or is he's the one who stood you up at the airport?

Roberto would have known all the obscure places you went to. He speaks perfect English and is cheap. He used to be the Novo Hotel driver but after many years they got tired of him and some other operation squeezed him out. Sounds like you did fine w / out him though but he speaks perfect english.

Hotel Novo is a 3 star hotel and I've never had a problem there.

1. I could give a shit if they had priests or nuns at the front desk, who cares? They sure don't. I've brought the sleaziest SGs in there many times, we just walk through w / zero awkwardness. I've never had an awkward moment in this hobby. I like what I do on the road, my rentals do too. AND there are no extra fees for bringing a temporary friend in. The owners are there during the day and speak english and are very accommodating.

2. I've never had bug problems there and I mentioned to you what rooms were best w / king beds by the pool. You ended up on a side of the hotel I've never stayed in. Maybe you should have called them, that's what I do.

3. The restaurant is nothing special but they can cook eggs and toast, some coffee and that's all I need to get going. The beer is cheap and very cold, plus the landscaping there is gorgeous as is the pool. Paradise for us blue collar guys.

4. The Wifi is like most other hotels, spotty but very usable for the average web surfer, so I guess if it's a working trip where you need reliable super fast Wifi the hotel failed you. I hope your next hotel in SS will be good for your "VPN to your corporate network abroad" action. My shower worked fine like most other 3 star hotels, plenty of hot water w / an occasional cold shock. Keeps you on your toes! I also don't need a safe in the room as I carry a pacsafe shoulder bag always in case no in-room safe.

5. No stores, no restaurants, no bars, no noise, and there is a mini mart 100 ft up the block. I love the dead end location. I get my supplies from the supermercado and throw them in the fridge. I generally have my own rental car. That's how I roll there. The place isn't for those who are accustom to 5 star hotels but it's perfect for appreciative blue collar / middle class Salvadoreans and me.

Sorry the hotel let you down. I recommend the place. It's an apartment w / living room, separate bedroom, bath and kitchen. Perfect for a couple of buddies to share. The grounds are old and beautiful and the hotel is centrally located. I've looked around at comparable hotels and Novo is the best in that 3+ star range by far.

I'm glad that didn't stop you from having a good time. As for the casa chicas timing is everything. I've had very fine women in some of them, la oficina, el sol etc. Your report was very good in this regard as you remembered many details I would have left out. So thank you for that. The casa w / the stage dancing sounds perfect for my taste. I would say 2 nights is not really enough to get the full SS treatment and to understand how the streets work. You were smart to stay off them at night. Kiss Fresh is (for me) the best gentlemen Club in the city, so you might want to return for that. Will you return? Thanks for the report.

I'll chime in. The hotel is decent as described above. The landscaping and little bar by the pool make the hotel. Other than that you are going to have your typical issues with any three star hotel. Lights not working, so-so wifi, Ac issues, on and off staff etc. But, its a good place.

Out of all my trips to El Sal I have only stayed there twice. Each time was because there was a convention in town most hotels were booked and / or the prices of other comparable hotels were very high. If you do some searching you can probably find a different hotel, more central to action, with better amenities and at a cheaper price. Just to name one, try Hotel and Casino Siesta. Ask for a room facing the pool. Chica Friendly great food, etc. I can see why someone going for the first time may find the Nova a little off the beaten path.

I'm not knocking the Nova but, for the money you may find better options.

[Socker]

Finally made it to El Salvador- thanks to all those who contributed reports to this forum and answered my questions which greatly helped me on this short but productive trip.

Logistics:

Arrived in SAL late afternoon, was first one in immigration line, paid $10 for visa and in five minutes was out the door. Much to my dismay, my pre arranged taxi driver was nowhere to be found holding my name card. I walked back and forth couple times eyeing the gathered crowd but didn't see my driver. Avoided the taxi touts and walked right where there are few parking spaces along the curb and gathered my thoughts. I thought about taking the bus route but decided against it as the time was running out and I didn't want to waste any remainder of daylight hours. Just as I was deciding my next move, an older guy walked past me that looked like a taxi driver. I said hola buenas tardes senor -negotiated $25 to centro. I was only one in big clean van with nice A/C. Turned out it was Acacya Taxi.

Hotel:

Booked Novo Apart for 3 nights but won't recommend it for several reasons.

1. The location is in a cul-de-sac alley and there is virtually nothing of utility around the hotel. No cafe, store, mini mart or restaurants. None.

2. Forget about getting any work done if that requires you to use VPN to your corporate network abroad. WiFi does not work depending on the location of your room. My room was two or three rooms down the so called gym facing the pool and restaurant area. Clearly there was perhaps just one access point and no repeaters or signal boosters. I asked the reception guy where the AP was so I can get close to it to get a stronger signal but he had no clue what I was asking for.

3. There were bed bugs in the room. Big red spots / bumps on my legs and arms weren't mosquito bites for sure.

4. Barely dribble of water out of shower and hot / cold lines apparently mixed up. Either cold or boiling hot.

5. Poor or no communication from the hotel management -pre arrival I had sent them email about requesting a higher floor, bigger one bed instead of two in the room and asked if there was a locker in the room. Never got a response back nor any requests were granted. Note that there was NO safety deposit box in the room (at least not in my room).

6. The restaurant on premise is over priced for El Salvador, half the items on drink menu were not available by glass and food quality was nothing to write home about. Breakfast was also subpar at best but free and staff was nice and very friendly. One waiter there in mornings speaks English.

7. One redeeming quality my room -AC worked like a charm. In fact had to turn it off in middle of night as it was freezing in the room.

8. I had two beds in the room and neither saw any action. At any given time, there was at least one grandma working the front desk including the one that had checked me in on arrival. At night there was a different grandma around the front desk along with a dude.

The moment I checked in, I knew it'd be difficult or in my case rather embarrassing to bring in a chica and deal with either one or worse with both grandmas at the front desk. Also their English was equally limited as much as my Spanish -even if I did manage to bring in a chica more than half younger than my age and was stopped at front desk, I didn't relish the prospects of any ensuing interrogation or awkwardness. In fact one chica was lined up to come to my hotel but her deal was that I must meet her in the lobby. Given that one grandma was at the front desk, I cancelled that meeting with a sweet looking 22 year old.

9. The taxi (private cars) at hotel are overpriced and I especially disliked the driver named Alfredo. His starting price was $7 to any place which after a day I knew was less than 1.5 Km away. For the next two days I walked out the hotel alley and hailed taxis on the street. Price was $3 to $5, compared to $7 or $8 quoted by cars parked in front of hotel.

Chicas / Casas:

I had done extensive pre trip research on internet ads and had list of places and girls I wanted to see.

Kimberly Spa:

Since the room service plan fell through due to grandma guarding the reception desk, after settling in and getting something to eat at hotel restaurant, headed to the first casa on my to-do list. In any other place or rather safer place, I'd have walked to this place as it was only 1. 5 Km away but it was just after sunset so opted for Alfredo's $7 car ride and arrived at Kimberly Spa. No problem finding the place on my google map as driver had no clue (surprising) about the casa. Paid $1 to security guard, no pat down and went in. I knew who I wanted to see and much to my delight Perla was in the line up of 6-7 chicas that introduced themselves. Some small talk with Perla in my poor Spanish on the couch while other nubile things were giggling away at Perla but most likely at my attempts of understanding or speaking Spanish. Headed to the room, no AC but a small fan. Perla was total sweetheart even before getting in the room. Tight body and tall in my opinion for a Salvadoran. I had a great time. I wish I had asked for her number but my to-do list was too long for any repeats.

Casa Roja:

Also mentioned on this forum by another member on his recent trip. This place was high on my list because of daily stream of whatsapp messages from them to me with pics of 10-15 chicas and I had my eyes set on couple of them.

This place is 2 minutes walk from Kimberly on the same street. And as the name implies, it is a red house, entrance and small parking in the back. Got the pat down and paid $4 (one drink included), guard rings the bell but wait! There is a 20 something hot chica sitting there breastfeeding her baby with nice boobs on display. Didn't know I'd see that in a conservative Catholic San Salvador. We exchanged holas and smile while I waited for someone to come out.

Lady takes me upstairs where the main seating area, bar, and small stage are located. Since I already knew who I wanted to see I wasted no time in asking the lady boss to get Nahomy if she is around and if not get then get Nicole. Damn, both were in the house! Talked to both one by one and got a good vibe from Nahomy. I liked this place as some girls were genuinely having a good time dancing on stage with some nasty moves, good eye candy all around including some gorditas. Even on slimmer girls I found baby fat to be a common factor -all those nasty fast food American establishments coupled by Pupusas definitely not conducive to maintaining a washboard mid-section with small natural boobs which is my Kryptonite.

Proceeded back downstairs where the rooms are located and a couch where some more chicas were hanging out and were all doable.

Had a great sensual time with Nahomy in the room, no rush or clock watching. The only issue at this and previous place was that rooms have those energy saving awful grocery store lights. Your choices are that awful light or total darkness so pick your poison.

At this point Alfredo was supposed to come pick me up but he wasn't there waiting for me and didn't answer his phone or messages. Strike 2. I saw couple of yellow cabs down the street with the drivers chatting on the street. Every driver I spoke to seems to know the hotel, so off we go for $4. At this point I was starving but besides fast food chains, didn't see anything on main drag to stop for dinner. Unfortunately had another mediocre and overpriced meal at the hotel.

First night in SAL in the books and I was still alive.

The next day I had private tour planned and knew well ahead that only chance to see chicas would be in evening. As most casas close around 7 PM, I was prepared for limited choices on return from the tour.

All day did the touristy things that exceeded my expectations. Specially the climb to Santa Ana volcano, the view of crater was absolutely stunning and perhaps once in a lifetime kind of experience. Note that it was by no means an easy climb. I run 10 Ks and half marathons and still found the final ascent to be physically demanding or maybe the exertion was the altitude related. I think the volcano is about 8000 feet high. The descent is by no means easy either due to steep angles, slipping on rocks etc. Be careful if you decide to climb.

Had late lunch at lake Coatepeque and headed back to SAL. Had no downtime as it was already past 6 PM. I showered and changed, skipped meal and headed out to sample some more of what SAL had to offer. For this evening I had two places on to do list.

I headed to Francheska spa to meet Diamond or Estefania. Again the cab driver off of the street had no clue and google maps saved the day. Ruby (offers Greek but gordita) opened the door. I asked for Diamond but she wasn't there but Estefania walked in room with a big smile. There was no time wasting in getting to the room. She has beautiful features, nice lips, great set of tetas but again baby fat and not as affectionate as my experiences the other day. No DFK but DATY on the menu with CBJ / CFS. Got the job done but left something to be desired. Oh well, can't complain as it was I think $30 for half hour including a drink. Ruby was pleasant talking to and recommended I should come back and see Diamond next time. I wish but I had other places to be!

At this point I was starving but had no time to waste eating food as other things worthy of eating were beckoning! Hailed another clueless cabbie headed to a no name place for which I had an address and a landmark. It was a big house in a residential area, no guard or any signage. Confirmed on whatsapp that I was indeed at the right house. Rang the door bell and some dude opened the door and said 'servicio?' I nodded Si and he let me in. I was here to see Yari but the girl who greeted me had me change my mind in real time and Yari wasn't there anyways. Total sweetheart and body to my liking, slim with small tits. We headed to the room, total GFE from beginning to end and very affectionate, nothing business like, shy at first but loosened up as time went by. I really wished I could have her meet me at the hotel that night but given the long day I had and two encounters on empty stomach, I decided against it. Left happy as she even had the guy who had opened the door get me a taxi. Bonus points for that.

Restaurants:

In my broken Spanish asked the 20 something driver for a restaurant recommendation -he started out with Pizza Hut, Burger King and I started laughing. Finally he got the message and we ended up at a restaurant that far exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend it. Great good, prices lower than expected, good selection of wine. It is called Clavo & Canela. There are couple of these in SAL, one my taxi driver took me to was on Calle LOS Sisimiles. Driver told me to not walk back to hotel and waited for me while I had dinner. I offered him to join me but he politely declined.

After dinner, while driving back to the hotel, negotiated with the driver if he can take me to Suchitoto the next morning for few hours and drive me back. He was happy to get more business, asked for $60, settled for $45 + lunch. Not bad I suppose.

Slept like a baby after a day of volcano climb, two chicas and a nice meal with drink to cap off the night.

Night 2 in the books and lived to tell the tale.

The next day 8 AM sharp after another ho hum breakfast, hopped in taxi and off to Suchitoto with the driver from last night who was on time waiting for me in lobby. Excellent. On way to Suchitoto he pointed out the bad neighborhoods where gangs are prevalent. If not mistaken, we drove through one or two of such places. I saw streets with gates and barbed wires. Reminded me of dangerous neighborhoods I saw during my travels to Bombay and Manila.

Since this is not a Lonely Planet forum, let me just say that Suchitoto trip was excellent, so was the lunch at the lake. That's where the driver wanted to eat so I said ok what the hell let's go. I definitely recommend a day trip to this area.

Offered the driver to take me to airport next morning for $25 and before that take me two casas on my to do list on my last night in SAL..

You are a very sharp traveler, you sound very educated and not completely comfortable in the blue collar world. That's what San Salvador is, a funky blue collar world. I guess you passed on Roberto as your driver or is he's the one who stood you up at the airport?

Roberto would have known all the obscure places you went to. He speaks perfect English and is cheap. He used to be the Novo Hotel driver but after many years they got tired of him and some other operation squeezed him out. Sounds like you did fine w / out him though but he speaks perfect english.

Hotel Novo is a 3 star hotel and I've never had a problem there.

1. I could give a shit if they had priests or nuns at the front desk, who cares? They sure don't. I've brought the sleaziest SGs in there many times, we just walk through w / zero awkwardness. I've never had an awkward moment in this hobby. I like what I do on the road, my rentals do too. AND there are no extra fees for bringing a temporary friend in. The owners are there during the day and speak english and are very accommodating.

2. I've never had bug problems there and I mentioned to you what rooms were best w / king beds by the pool. You ended up on a side of the hotel I've never stayed in. Maybe you should have called them, that's what I do.

3. The restaurant is nothing special but they can cook eggs and toast, some coffee and that's all I need to get going. The beer is cheap and very cold, plus the landscaping there is gorgeous as is the pool. Paradise for us blue collar guys.

4. The Wifi is like most other hotels, spotty but very usable for the average web surfer, so I guess if it's a working trip where you need reliable super fast Wifi the hotel failed you. I hope your next hotel in SS will be good for your "VPN to your corporate network abroad" action. My shower worked fine like most other 3 star hotels, plenty of hot water w / an occasional cold shock. Keeps you on your toes! I also don't need a safe in the room as I carry a pacsafe shoulder bag always in case no in-room safe.

5. No stores, no restaurants, no bars, no noise, and there is a mini mart 100 ft up the block. I love the dead end location. I get my supplies from the supermercado and throw them in the fridge. I generally have my own rental car. That's how I roll there. The place isn't for those who are accustom to 5 star hotels but it's perfect for appreciative blue collar / middle class Salvadoreans and me.

Sorry the hotel let you down. I recommend the place. It's an apartment w / living room, separate bedroom, bath and kitchen. Perfect for a couple of buddies to share. The grounds are old and beautiful and the hotel is centrally located. I've looked around at comparable hotels and Novo is the best in that 3+ star range by far.

I'm glad that didn't stop you from having a good time. As for the casa chicas timing is everything. I've had very fine women in some of them, la oficina, el sol etc. Your report was very good in this regard as you remembered many details I would have left out. So thank you for that. The casa w / the stage dancing sounds perfect for my taste. I would say 2 nights is not really enough to get the full SS treatment and to understand how the streets work. You were smart to stay off them at night. Kiss Fresh is (for me) the best gentlemen Club in the city, so you might want to return for that. Will you return? Thanks for the report.

[Quagmire1974]

Finally made it to El Salvador- thanks to all those who contributed reports to this forum and answered my questions which greatly helped me on this short but productive trip.

No, thank you for that awesome report!

One piece of advice I will give you and everyone else reading your report is to download the TripAdvisor app to your smartphone. I use TripAdvisor a lot to cross-check hotels and restaurants during my trips. Your comments about Novo Apart made me chuckle but I'm sure it wasn't funny as you were dealing with bed bugs and Granny from The Beverly Hillbillies.

[Frankfurt]

Finally made it to El Salvador- thanks to all those who contributed reports to this forum and answered my questions which greatly helped me on this short but productive trip.

Logistics:

Arrived in SAL late afternoon, was first one in immigration line, paid $10 for visa and in five minutes was out the door. Much to my dismay, my pre arranged taxi driver was nowhere to be found holding my name card. I walked back and forth couple times eyeing the gathered crowd but didn't see my driver. Avoided the taxi touts and walked right where there are few parking spaces along the curb and gathered my thoughts. I thought about taking the bus route but decided against it as the time was running out and I didn't want to waste any remainder of daylight hours. Just as I was deciding my next move, an older guy walked past me that looked like a taxi driver. I said hola buenas tardes senor -negotiated $25 to centro. I was only one in big clean van with nice A/C. Turned out it was Acacya Taxi.

Hotel:

Booked Novo Apart for 3 nights but won't recommend it for several reasons.

1. The location is in a cul-de-sac alley and there is virtually nothing of utility around the hotel. No cafe, store, mini mart or restaurants. None.

2. Forget about getting any work done if that requires you to use VPN to your corporate network abroad. WiFi does not work depending on the location of your room. My room was two or three rooms down the so called gym facing the pool and restaurant area. Clearly there was perhaps just one access point and no repeaters or signal boosters. I asked the reception guy where the AP was so I can get close to it to get a stronger signal but he had no clue what I was asking for.

3. There were bed bugs in the room. Big red spots / bumps on my legs and arms weren't mosquito bites for sure.

4. Barely dribble of water out of shower and hot / cold lines apparently mixed up. Either cold or boiling hot.

5. Poor or no communication from the hotel management -pre arrival I had sent them email about requesting a higher floor, bigger one bed instead of two in the room and asked if there was a locker in the room. Never got a response back nor any requests were granted. Note that there was NO safety deposit box in the room (at least not in my room).

6. The restaurant on premise is over priced for El Salvador, half the items on drink menu were not available by glass and food quality was nothing to write home about. Breakfast was also subpar at best but free and staff was nice and very friendly. One waiter there in mornings speaks English.

7. One redeeming quality my room -AC worked like a charm. In fact had to turn it off in middle of night as it was freezing in the room.

8. I had two beds in the room and neither saw any action. At any given time, there was at least one grandma working the front desk including the one that had checked me in on arrival. At night there was a different grandma around the front desk along with a dude.

The moment I checked in, I knew it'd be difficult or in my case rather embarrassing to bring in a chica and deal with either one or worse with both grandmas at the front desk. Also their English was equally limited as much as my Spanish -even if I did manage to bring in a chica more than half younger than my age and was stopped at front desk, I didn't relish the prospects of any ensuing interrogation or awkwardness. In fact one chica was lined up to come to my hotel but her deal was that I must meet her in the lobby. Given that one grandma was at the front desk, I cancelled that meeting with a sweet looking 22 year old.

9. The taxi (private cars) at hotel are overpriced and I especially disliked the driver named Alfredo. His starting price was $7 to any place which after a day I knew was less than 1.5 Km away. For the next two days I walked out the hotel alley and hailed taxis on the street. Price was $3 to $5, compared to $7 or $8 quoted by cars parked in front of hotel.

Chicas / Casas:

I had done extensive pre trip research on internet ads and had list of places and girls I wanted to see.

Kimberly Spa:

Since the room service plan fell through due to grandma guarding the reception desk, after settling in and getting something to eat at hotel restaurant, headed to the first casa on my to-do list. In any other place or rather safer place, I'd have walked to this place as it was only 1. 5 Km away but it was just after sunset so opted for Alfredo's $7 car ride and arrived at Kimberly Spa. No problem finding the place on my google map as driver had no clue (surprising) about the casa. Paid $1 to security guard, no pat down and went in. I knew who I wanted to see and much to my delight Perla was in the line up of 6-7 chicas that introduced themselves. Some small talk with Perla in my poor Spanish on the couch while other nubile things were giggling away at Perla but most likely at my attempts of understanding or speaking Spanish. Headed to the room, no AC but a small fan. Perla was total sweetheart even before getting in the room. Tight body and tall in my opinion for a Salvadoran. I had a great time. I wish I had asked for her number but my to-do list was too long for any repeats.

Casa Roja:

Also mentioned on this forum by another member on his recent trip. This place was high on my list because of daily stream of whatsapp messages from them to me with pics of 10-15 chicas and I had my eyes set on couple of them.

This place is 2 minutes walk from Kimberly on the same street. And as the name implies, it is a red house, entrance and small parking in the back. Got the pat down and paid $4 (one drink included), guard rings the bell but wait! There is a 20 something hot chica sitting there breastfeeding her baby with nice boobs on display. Didn't know I'd see that in a conservative Catholic San Salvador. We exchanged holas and smile while I waited for someone to come out.

Lady takes me upstairs where the main seating area, bar, and small stage are located. Since I already knew who I wanted to see I wasted no time in asking the lady boss to get Nahomy if she is around and if not get then get Nicole. Damn, both were in the house! Talked to both one by one and got a good vibe from Nahomy. I liked this place as some girls were genuinely having a good time dancing on stage with some nasty moves, good eye candy all around including some gorditas. Even on slimmer girls I found baby fat to be a common factor -all those nasty fast food American establishments coupled by Pupusas definitely not conducive to maintaining a washboard mid-section with small natural boobs which is my Kryptonite.

Proceeded back downstairs where the rooms are located and a couch where some more chicas were hanging out and were all doable.

Had a great sensual time with Nahomy in the room, no rush or clock watching. The only issue at this and previous place was that rooms have those energy saving awful grocery store lights. Your choices are that awful light or total darkness so pick your poison.

At this point Alfredo was supposed to come pick me up but he wasn't there waiting for me and didn't answer his phone or messages. Strike 2. I saw couple of yellow cabs down the street with the drivers chatting on the street. Every driver I spoke to seems to know the hotel, so off we go for $4. At this point I was starving but besides fast food chains, didn't see anything on main drag to stop for dinner. Unfortunately had another mediocre and overpriced meal at the hotel.

First night in SAL in the books and I was still alive.

The next day I had private tour planned and knew well ahead that only chance to see chicas would be in evening. As most casas close around 7 PM, I was prepared for limited choices on return from the tour.

All day did the touristy things that exceeded my expectations. Specially the climb to Santa Ana volcano, the view of crater was absolutely stunning and perhaps once in a lifetime kind of experience. Note that it was by no means an easy climb. I run 10 Ks and half marathons and still found the final ascent to be physically demanding or maybe the exertion was the altitude related. I think the volcano is about 8000 feet high. The descent is by no means easy either due to steep angles, slipping on rocks etc. Be careful if you decide to climb.

Had late lunch at lake Coatepeque and headed back to SAL. Had no downtime as it was already past 6 PM. I showered and changed, skipped meal and headed out to sample some more of what SAL had to offer. For this evening I had two places on to do list.

I headed to Francheska spa to meet Diamond or Estefania. Again the cab driver off of the street had no clue and google maps saved the day. Ruby (offers Greek but gordita) opened the door. I asked for Diamond but she wasn't there but Estefania walked in room with a big smile. There was no time wasting in getting to the room. She has beautiful features, nice lips, great set of tetas but again baby fat and not as affectionate as my experiences the other day. No DFK but DATY on the menu with CBJ / CFS. Got the job done but left something to be desired. Oh well, can't complain as it was I think $30 for half hour including a drink. Ruby was pleasant talking to and recommended I should come back and see Diamond next time. I wish but I had other places to be!

At this point I was starving but had no time to waste eating food as other things worthy of eating were beckoning! Hailed another clueless cabbie headed to a no name place for which I had an address and a landmark. It was a big house in a residential area, no guard or any signage. Confirmed on whatsapp that I was indeed at the right house. Rang the door bell and some dude opened the door and said 'servicio?' I nodded Si and he let me in. I was here to see Yari but the girl who greeted me had me change my mind in real time and Yari wasn't there anyways. Total sweetheart and body to my liking, slim with small tits. We headed to the room, total GFE from beginning to end and very affectionate, nothing business like, shy at first but loosened up as time went by. I really wished I could have her meet me at the hotel that night but given the long day I had and two encounters on empty stomach, I decided against it. Left happy as she even had the guy who had opened the door get me a taxi. Bonus points for that.

Restaurants:

In my broken Spanish asked the 20 something driver for a restaurant recommendation -he started out with Pizza Hut, Burger King and I started laughing. Finally he got the message and we ended up at a restaurant that far exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend it. Great good, prices lower than expected, good selection of wine. It is called Clavo & Canela. There are couple of these in SAL, one my taxi driver took me to was on Calle LOS Sisimiles. Driver told me to not walk back to hotel and waited for me while I had dinner. I offered him to join me but he politely declined.

After dinner, while driving back to the hotel, negotiated with the driver if he can take me to Suchitoto the next morning for few hours and drive me back. He was happy to get more business, asked for $60, settled for $45 + lunch. Not bad I suppose.

Slept like a baby after a day of volcano climb, two chicas and a nice meal with drink to cap off the night.

Night 2 in the books and lived to tell the tale.

The next day 8 AM sharp after another ho hum breakfast, hopped in taxi and off to Suchitoto with the driver from last night who was on time waiting for me in lobby. Excellent. On way to Suchitoto he pointed out the bad neighborhoods where gangs are prevalent. If not mistaken, we drove through one or two of such places. I saw streets with gates and barbed wires. Reminded me of dangerous neighborhoods I saw during my travels to Bombay and Manila.

Since this is not a Lonely Planet forum, let me just say that Suchitoto trip was excellent, so was the lunch at the lake. That's where the driver wanted to eat so I said ok what the hell let's go. I definitely recommend a day trip to this area.

Offered the driver to take me to airport next morning for $25 and before that take me two casas on my to do list on my last night in SAL.

Xtasis:

I showered and changed and off we went to Xtasis. For days I had my eyes on curly haired little petite Estefania and Diana. Again, google map to the rescue. Apparently even the taxi drivers only knew of few big name places such as KF, Kairos etc but not about these places I visited. Anyhow, my lucky day as Estefania giggling open the door, gives me a hug. I don't see Diana there but another girl walks in the room with bleached blonde hair and bit of a booty I wouldn't have minded tapping if Estefania wasn't there. Oh well, off we go the small room with a small fan, S shaped whatever they call it sex chair and a small bed. Before we could even undress, she has her tongue deep in my mouth and hand reaching down my pants. Fuck what a lucky guy I am. Estefania wants me to suck her pussy and pinch her nipples -no problem there. Despite the fan on it was hot and sweaty affair. From the S chair, moved to bed and finished K9. Wow, what a great time. Estefania wanted to meet after she finishes work and forces her whatsapp number on me. Thanks! But I had no time for any repeats as another casa was on my list.

Made it out of there for waiting taxi dude with big grin on my face. I tell him with google translate that he should be paying me for showing him the casas he had no clue about! We had a good laugh and we headed to one place he did know, El Sol A. K. a Casa del Sol.

Casa del Sol:

I saved this casa for my last adventure in SAL as I was eager to see Maria or Paola. I thought the night would end on even higher note but unfortunately my last experience in SAL was the lowest ranking one for several reasons. First, just because instead of having a security guard in a uniform they had a guy in cheap black suit outside, doesn't justify a $10 cover. Ok whatever, went in the house and there were four bored looking chicas in the room. No smile, nothing welcoming, no naked bodies, no music, no vibe. Nothing! I wish I had bailed out but it was late and this was 'it' in terms of casa hopping. I asked if Maria was there but got a silent no shaking heads response. There walked in Valerie, obviously the most senior in the group but greeted me with a smile and took me upstairs and got me a drink, turned on A/C and TV. She calls for the same boring looking girls to come up and introduce themselves. At this point I knew that Valerie would be the best choice given the quality and attitude of other girls.

Little small talk with Valerie and she hands me the casa 'menu' -prices double than what I have been paying in last 48 hours, $45 for half hour so we proceed to the room which is right where we were sitting upstairs. Valerie has some poundage on her but has a nice face and was open to kissing and seems more relaxed once we got going. There was a clean shower / bathroom in the room. She tried to up-sell sin condom oral for $20 and I declined as I had barely enough for my last session and two more taxi rides. Overall so so session, got the job done but I had higher expectations for El Sol.

Next morning 8 AM sharp checked out and went to airport with my taxi driver from previous day.

Other observations;

1. I found El Salvador to be a beautiful and very green country. Despite the pollution and car smog in the city, anywhere you look up you will see trees, mountains, and volcanoes. On parts of roads, trees from opposite side of roads make an oning which makes for a lovely drive.

2. I didn't see drivers beeping at each other -could be as my driver told me that beeping could start a fight ending up in shooting! Road rage max?

3. Found taxi drivers generally obeying traffic lights even at night.

4. SAL boasts at least two high quality museums including Dr. Guzman National museum.

5. Over and over I heard the two dreaded words that became part of my limited Spanish vocabulary -Pandillas & Peligroso.

6. Wish had more time to see the site of massacre at El Mozote where nearly 1000 civilians were killed in 1981 by US trained military.

7. Didn't have time to check out famous Kiss Fresh or Kairos but no regrets. I saw every girl on my list except for Maria at El Sol.

So that's it gentlemen.

[Frankfurt]

Gentlemen,

Thanks for the feedback on my question, KF sounds promising to hang out at for few hours and eat / drink while recovering between sessions.

Kiss Fresh has two menus. The first one is in a plastic table topper. It has a few appetizers. However, if you ask the waiter for the full menu, they pull out a full restaurant menu. The food is very slow to come out, whether it is a full meal or appetizers.

[Mexidan]

Guy,s

Given the quantity of available girls at some of the SAL casas, why not use them as FKKs if they could only provide food along with drinks for the time in between sessions? Instead of marching casa to casa in heat and somewhat questionable safety of the city, it makes sense for some of these places to start serving food. Are there any that do? I'd rather camp out at same casa for 3-4 hours as I generally do in my local FKKs and sample the talent in safety and comfort of one place. Do places like KF etc work out as such?

Kiss Fresh has two menus. The first one is in a plastic table topper. It has a few appetizers. However, if you ask the waiter for the full menu, they pull out a full restaurant menu. The food is very slow to come out, whether it is a full meal or appetizers.

[Quagmire1974]

Guys,

Given the quantity of available girls at some of the SAL casas, why not use them as FKKs if they could only provide food along with drinks for the time in between sessions? Instead of marching casa to casa in heat and somewhat questionable safety of the city, it makes sense for some of these places to start serving food. Are there any that do? I'd rather camp out at same casa for 3-4 hours as I generally do in my local FKKs and sample the talent in safety and comfort of one place. Do places like KF etc work out as such?

Apparently, Kiss Fresh does indeed have a "Menu de Comida." Here's the link from their website:

https://www.kissfreshsv.com/menucomida/index.html

I don't see any mention of food on La Mansion 316's site.

[Frankfurt]

Guy,s

Given the quantity of available girls at some of the SAL casas, why not use them as FKKs if they could only provide food along with drinks for the time in between sessions? Instead of marching casa to casa in heat and somewhat questionable safety of the city, it makes sense for some of these places to start serving food. Are there any that do? I'd rather camp out at same casa for 3-4 hours as I generally do in my local FKKs and sample the talent in safety and comfort of one place. Do places like KF etc work out as such?

[Mexidan]

Yes I am a gringo and I very rarely see another white person. In fact after going there for 20 years now I can count probably less than 10 American and European tourists I have met.

There are some at the beaches who come to surf however I do not go there.

The thing I love most about El Salvador is that it is not corrupted by tourists and tourist prices. The people are very friendly and welcoming because they are not jaded.

If your response were a post on Facebook, I'd click Love! You nailed it!

[Mfins]

In San Salvador, I haven't seen even one. It doesn't mean that there aren't any. I even ask the locals where the gringos hang out at. I would t mind meeting some as I'm traveling alone. The response that I get from locals is that you will see them either down by the beaches (which are beautiful) or that they taxi everywhere (which in all honesty, with having a local SIM card, I foresee gringos transitioning from Taxis to Uber. Prices really are about half of local taxi rates.

I'm saying that I haven't seen any in the tourist spots, monger bars and spas, etc. I rarely taxi everywhere, like you said about yourself, I also feel very comfortable here. I walk by myself everywhere I go. I definitely see myself coming back here again.

Yes I am a gringo and I very rarely see another white person. In fact after going there for 20 years now I can count probably less than 10 American and European tourists I have met.

There are some at the beaches who come to surf however I do not go there.

The thing I love most about El Salvador is that it is not corrupted by tourists and tourist prices. The people are very friendly and welcoming because they are not jaded.

[Socker]

In San Salvador, I haven't seen even one. It doesn't mean that there aren't any. I even ask the locals where the gringos hang out at. I would t mind meeting some as I'm traveling alone. The response that I get from locals is that you will see them either down by the beaches (which are beautiful) or that they taxi everywhere (which in all honesty, with having a local SIM card, I foresee gringos transitioning from Taxis to Uber. Prices really are about half of local taxi rates.

I'm saying that I haven't seen any in the tourist spots, monger bars and spas, etc. I rarely taxi everywhere, like you said about yourself, I also feel very comfortable here. I walk by myself everywhere I go. I definitely see myself coming back here again.

I'm bored in SP so will chime in w / my experiences. I'm actually starting to miss ES but keeping busy in Colombia, the PI and Thailand etc. Maybe return to ES nearly next year.

As Mexican was told by the locals there are plenty of gringo tourists at the beach especially el tunco, not so much La Liberdad and nearby. On my last trip I walked in the Escalon barrio and it was friendly and interesting. I actually learned a lot from a few Fresh Kiss chicas whom I set up day trips to the beach and they poured their hearts out w / the difficult lives they lead.

I also talked to expat Latinos at La Alameda Hotel in the steam room. This is where I got the low down on how people feel about living there, excluding the expats everyone wants out. The expats I talked to only go out during the day. I never saw other gringos, maybe one Asian and one gringo during my week long stay at FK. But there are zero gringos in Medellin's el centro too. That isn't an issue in my book. The people are nice and welcoming and busy w / staying afloat in their native lands.

At Lips strip club I saw one gringo briefly but really it was just me and the local horn dogs for the most part and the strippers liked the only gringo (me) just fine. I felt at home after a few minutes of being there solo. That was a fun night w / some nice talent dancing to full nudity. Bring some dollars for a feel and a smile.

[Mexidan]

I am a gringo and feel very safe and welcome everywhere in El Salvador. In your first sentence you said " haven't seen a gringo looking patron yet" but, then your last sentence you say " Gringos don't walk the streets and take cabs everywhere" So I'm not sure which is correct. Did you not see Gringos or you saw them but, they only take cabs?

Funny, my friend is Mexican and lives in Juarez. When we are in El Salvador he feels a lot more unwelcome than I do. I seem to be welcome with open arms as a gringo but, I think there is sort of a rivalry between Mexico and the rest of Central America. He always tells me how uncomfortable he feels.

Anyway thanks for the report and hope you enjoyed your time!

In San Salvador, I haven't seen even one. It doesn't mean that there aren't any. I even ask the locals where the gringos hang out at. I would t mind meeting some as I'm traveling alone. The response that I get from locals is that you will see them either down by the beaches (which are beautiful) or that they taxi everywhere (which in all honesty, with having a local SIM card, I foresee gringos transitioning from Taxis to Uber. Prices really are about half of local taxi rates.

I'm saying that I haven't seen any in the tourist spots, monger bars and spas, etc. I rarely taxi everywhere, like you said about yourself, I also feel very comfortable here. I walk by myself everywhere I go. I definitely see myself coming back here again.

[Mfins]

Some quick notes, as I have great doubts about posting my usual type of trip report.

1. Haven't seen a Gringo looking patron yet. 100% Spanish speaking Latinos. No English throughout country.

2. No shorts wearing, even in 90 degree weather. All long pants.

3. Bus 128,40 cents from airport to micro centro. After airport exit, walk thru parking lot and thru pavilion. Ask for bus to metro centro. From there, $5 to my Air BNB APT.

4. My Apt in Res San Luis, $17/ nt.

5. Walking distance to Kiss Fresh. If CC use, close acct after each transaction. Can get $100 USD voucher. Must spend all on one visit. Everything can be deducted from voucher.

6. USD currency is the local currency.

7. $1 coin is not USD. All else is.

8. Pupusas 50 cents.

9. Erotic San Salvador wanuncios is great internet asset.

10. I'm glad I'm large sized, Mexican, Spanish fluent customer. Gringos no where near as welcome. Gringos don't walk streets. Take cabs everywhere. I walk and take local buses everywhere, happily.

I am a gringo and feel very safe and welcome everywhere in El Salvador. In your first sentence you said " haven't seen a gringo looking patron yet" but, then your last sentence you say " Gringos don't walk the streets and take cabs everywhere" So I'm not sure which is correct. Did you not see Gringos or you saw them but, they only take cabs?

Funny, my friend is Mexican and lives in Juarez. When we are in El Salvador he feels a lot more unwelcome than I do. I seem to be welcome with open arms as a gringo but, I think there is sort of a rivalry between Mexico and the rest of Central America. He always tells me how uncomfortable he feels.

Anyway thanks for the report and hope you enjoyed your time!

[Mfins]

Hey guys,

From what I understand, Uber works well down in El Salvador and it is very reasonable. It is much better than taking a taxi, which don't normally run the meter and charge you exorbitant fees.

Happy hunting!

I disagree completely. I have not tried uber in El Salvador but, taxi rates are very very cheap. Basically $3-$8 anywhere in the city. Yes there are some Taxistas who will try to charge a gringo tax but, El Salvador not being a tourist country has very little of that.

[Mexidan]

Some quick notes, as I have great doubts about posting my usual type of trip report.

1. Haven't seen a Gringo looking patron yet. 100% Spanish speaking Latinos. No English throughout country.

2. No shorts wearing, even in 90 degree weather. All long pants.

3. Bus 128,40 cents from airport to micro centro. After airport exit, walk thru parking lot and thru pavilion. Ask for bus to metro centro. From there, $5 to my Air BNB APT.

4. My Apt in Res San Luis, $17/ nt.

5. Walking distance to Kiss Fresh. If CC use, close acct after each transaction. Can get $100 USD voucher. Must spend all on one visit. Everything can be deducted from voucher.

6. USD currency is the local currency.

7. $1 coin is not USD. All else is.

8. Pupusas 50 cents.

9. Erotic San Salvador wanuncios is great internet asset.

10. I'm glad I'm large sized, Mexican, Spanish fluent customer. Gringos no where near as welcome. Gringos don't walk streets. Take cabs everywhere. I walk and take local buses everywhere, happily.