Visiting El Salvador

• Introduction: Welcome to El Salvador! Land of Volcanoes, Surf, and Seriously Good Snacks
• Chapter 1: So, You're Going to El Salvador? Initial Prep and What Your Mom Will Worry About
• Chapter 2: Pupusas: A Love Story (How to Eat Them Without Looking Like a Tourist)
• Chapter 3: Hablas Español? Essential Phrases and Slang to Survive (and Impress)
• Chapter 4: Chicken Buses: More Than Just Transport, It's an Extreme Sport
• Chapter 5: Money, Money, Money: Dollars, Deals, and Dodging Tourist Prices
• Chapter 6: Safety Dance: Staying Secure Without Bubble Wrap
• Chapter 7: San Salvador Survival Guide: Navigating the Concrete Jungle (and its Cafés)
• Chapter 8: La Libertad Calling: Catching Waves and Coastal Vibes
• Chapter 9: Ruta de las Flores: Bloom Where You're Planted (Especially if There's Coffee)
• Chapter 10: Suchitoto Sweetness: Cobblestones, Culture, and Avoiding Potholes
• Chapter 11: Mayan Mania: Ancient Ruins Without the Ancient Crowds
• Chapter 12: Volcano Voyeurism: Peeking at Peaks (Safely, Please!)
• Chapter 13: Lake Coatepeque Cool-Down: Crater Views and Chilling Out
• Chapter 14: El Tunco Grooves: Beach Bums, Backpackers, and Bodacious Sunsets
• Chapter 15: Into the Green: National Parks, Nasty Bugs, and Nature Walks
• Chapter 16: Coffee Country Confidential: From Bean to Blissful Brew
• Chapter 17: Market Madness: Haggling, Handicrafts, and Hidden Treasures
• Chapter 18: Night Moves: Finding Fun After Dark (Beyond Dodging Mosquitoes)
• Chapter 19: Wi-Fi Wonders & Woes: Staying Connected in Central America
• Chapter 20: Gut Feelings: Keeping Healthy and Hydrated (The Pupusa Digest)
• Chapter 21: Pack Attack: What to Bring, What to Leave, What You'll Wish You Had
• Chapter 22: Getting Around: Taxis, Tuk-Tuks, and Trusting Your Driver (Sometimes)
• Chapter 23: Fiesta Fundamentals: Holidays, Holy Weeks, and Hangovers
• Chapter 24: Eco-Warrior Weekends: Turtles, Trees, and Trying Not to Trip
• Chapter 25: The Grand Adiós: Departure Tips and Planning Your Return (You Know You Want To)

So, you've picked up a guide to El Salvador. Excellent choice! Either you're an intrepid explorer seeking adventures slightly off the well-trodden Gringo Trail, you have an inexplicable craving for something called a pupusa, or perhaps you simply confused it with San Salvador, the capital of the Bahamas (spoiler alert: that's Nassau, and they have decidedly fewer volcanoes). Whatever your reason, ¡bienvenido! Welcome! You're considering a trip to a country that's small in size but absolutely bursting with character, warmth, and enough volcanic peaks to make a geologist giddy.

El Salvador often flies under the radar, overshadowed by its larger Central American neighbours. It's affectionately known as "Pulgarcito de América" – the "Tom Thumb of the Americas" – because, geographically speaking, it's the smallest nation on the continental mainland. Think Rhode Island, but with way better coffee and significantly more active volcanoes. It's also the most densely populated country in the region, meaning you're never too far from friendly faces, bustling towns, or someone selling something delicious by the side of the road.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room, or perhaps the jaguar in the jungle, though seeing one is highly unlikely unless you’re very lost or very lucky. El Salvador has had a… complicated past. For years, headlines weren't exactly singing its praises as a tourist hotspot. Mentioning a trip here might elicit raised eyebrows or concerned questions from your Great Aunt Mildred, who still thinks anything south of Texas involves bandits and possibly dinosaurs. But times have changed, dramatically. While we’ll tackle safety with pragmatic advice later (see Chapter 6: Safety Dance), the reality today is a country actively welcoming visitors, showcasing its incredible natural beauty and vibrant culture with newfound confidence and significantly improved security, especially in tourist areas. Tourism numbers are booming for a reason.

This guide aims to be your trusty, slightly sarcastic companion on this journey. Forget dry recitations of historical dates or endlessly boring descriptions of churches (though we'll point you to the cool ones). We're here to give you the practical, the peculiar, and the downright essential information you need to navigate El Salvador like a seasoned pro, or at least someone who can order lunch without accidentally insulting the chef. We'll cover everything from mastering the art of eating pupusas (Chapter 2: it’s more complex than you think) to surviving the technicolor thrill ride that is a local "chicken bus" (Chapter 4: hold on tight). We want you to experience the real El Salvador – the stunning landscapes, the mouth-watering food, the infectious energy – and maybe share a laugh or two along the way.

Let's get you oriented. El Salvador is nestled in Central America, bordered by Guatemala to the northwest and Honduras to the northeast. Crucially, it only has a Pacific coastline. No Caribbean beaches here, folks. If you were dreaming of turquoise waters lapping gently on white sand while reggae music plays softly… well, you might need a different guidebook (and possibly a flight to Belize). What El Salvador does have is around 300 kilometers (about 190 miles) of dramatic Pacific coast, boasting dark volcanic sands, rugged cliffs, and some of the best surfing waves in the world – particularly renowned for its consistent right-hand point breaks.

Topographically, the country is largely mountainous, shaped by eons of volcanic activity – about 90% of the land is volcanic in origin, which accounts for its fertile soil, perfect for growing amazing coffee. Two main volcanic mountain ranges run roughly parallel to the coast, sandwiching a central plateau between them. This plateau, though only about a quarter of the total land area, is where most Salvadorans live and where the major cities, including the capital San Salvador, are located. The coastal plains are narrow, giving way quickly to the uplands.

Because volcanoes are kind of a big deal here (the country has over twenty, many potentially active, and more than 100 volcanic formations in total!), you'll find crater lakes like the stunning Lake Coatepeque and Lake Ilopango, formed within ancient volcanic calderas. The highest point is Cerro El Pital, soaring to 2,730 meters (8,957 feet) on the Honduran border. While summiting it offers incredible views, be prepared for cooler temperatures up there! El Salvador also boasts over 300 rivers, with the mighty Río Lempa being the most significant. It flows from Guatemala and Honduras across the country and is the only navigable river, eventually emptying into the Pacific.

Climate-wise, expect tropical conditions. It’s generally warm year-round, especially along the coast where daytime temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F). Things get a bit cooler in the highlands, particularly at night. Like much of Central America, El Salvador has distinct wet and dry seasons. The invierno (winter, or rainy season) typically runs from May to October, bringing afternoon showers and lush green landscapes. The verano (summer, or dry season) lasts from November to April, offering sunnier days, less humidity, and making it the peak tourist season. While hurricanes rarely hit El Salvador directly, storms in the Caribbean can sometimes bring heavy rain during the wet season.

Beyond the geography, what truly defines El Salvador is its people. You'll often hear about Salvadoran warmth and hospitality, and frankly, it's not just tourist brochure fluff. Despite historical hardships, including a lengthy civil war that ended in 1992 and devastating earthquakes, there's a remarkable resilience and friendliness that shines through. People generally work hard, value family connections deeply, and possess a strong sense of national pride. Don't be surprised if locals strike up a conversation, offer directions (even if they're not entirely sure where you're going), or invite you to share a meal.

The majority of the population (estimated around 6 million) is Mestizo, meaning a blend of European (mostly Spanish) and Indigenous ancestry. There are smaller populations identifying as White, Indigenous (descendants of groups like the Pipil, Lenca, and Maya), and Afro-descendant. While Spanish is the official language and universally spoken, some Indigenous languages like Nawat are still spoken by small communities, and you'll hear plenty of unique Salvadoran slang (which we affectionately call caliche – more on that in Chapter 3).

Culturally, El Salvador presents a fascinating mix of influences. Indigenous roots run deep, evident in some traditions, food, and place names. The Spanish colonial era left an indelible mark on the architecture, religion, and language. Catholicism remains influential, with beautiful churches dotting the landscape, but Protestant denominations have also grown significantly. You'll see this blend play out in colorful festivals and holidays throughout the year (Chapter 23 awaits!).

Salvadorans are passionate about many things, but football (soccer) reigns supreme. Catching a local match or even just watching a game in a packed restaurant can be an electrifying cultural experience. The arts scene is also vibrant, particularly in colonial towns like Suchitoto, often dubbed the country's "Cultural Capital," known for its cobblestone streets, galleries, and festivals (we’ll wander there in Chapter 10). And did we mention the food? Prepare your taste buds. The national dish is the pupusa – a thick, stuffed corn or rice tortilla – and it’s a source of intense national pride and endless debate about the best fillings (covered lovingly in Chapter 2). Beyond pupusas, expect delicious tamales, hearty soups, fresh seafood on the coast, tropical fruits, and, of course, world-class coffee.

So, what kind of adventures await? This little country packs a surprising punch. Thrill-seekers can hike up volcanoes (safely, please! See Chapter 12), catch world-class waves along the Pacific coast (Chapter 8 and 14 dive into surf spots), or explore lush national parks filled with biodiversity (Chapter 15). History buffs can wander through charming colonial towns like Suchitoto (Chapter 10) or explore ancient Mayan archaeological sites like Joya de Cerén (often called the "Pompeii of the Americas") and Tazumal, offering glimpses into pre-Columbian life without the overwhelming crowds found elsewhere (Chapter 11).

For those seeking relaxation, there are beautiful lakes like Coatepeque (Chapter 13) perfect for chilling out, scenic drives like the Ruta de las Flores (Route of the Flowers) winding through coffee plantations and colorful villages (Chapter 9), and plenty of beaches for soaking up the sun (even if you don't surf!). Coffee lovers can trace the journey from bean to cup in the highlands (Chapter 16), and shoppers can hunt for unique handicrafts and bargains in bustling local markets (Chapter 17). Basically, whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a culture vulture, a beach bum, or just someone who really appreciates a good snack, El Salvador has something for you.

Now, a little reality check. While tourism is growing rapidly, El Salvador isn't always the most polished destination. Outside of major tourist hubs and nicer hotels or restaurants, English isn't widely spoken, so knowing a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way (Chapter 3 is your friend!). Infrastructure is improving, but don't expect multi-lane highways everywhere; sometimes, getting from A to B involves patience, a sense of humor, and possibly a brightly painted former US school bus (Chapter 4 and 22 have the lowdown). Wi-Fi can be spotty in more remote areas (Chapter 19 explores this digital frontier).

This isn't necessarily a bad thing! It means you're likely to have more authentic experiences, encounter fewer crowds at major sites compared to neighboring countries, and feel like you're genuinely exploring rather than just following a pre-packaged itinerary. It requires a little flexibility, an open mind, and maybe a willingness to embrace the occasional "controlled chaos" – like navigating a busy market or figuring out the bus schedule. Think of it as adventure with a lower case 'a'. It’s accessible, generally affordable (Chapter 5 talks money), and incredibly rewarding.

Think of this book as your map and compass, but also as that friend who tells you which street food stall is amazing and which one might lead to regret (Chapter 20 covers tummy troubles). We've structured it to cover the essentials before diving into specific regions and activities. We start with pre-trip planning and anxieties (Chapter 1), move through cultural must-knows like food and language (Chapters 2 & 3), tackle the practicalities of transport, money, and safety (Chapters 4-6), and then launch into exploring different parts of the country, from the capital (Chapter 7) to the coast (Chapters 8 & 14), the mountains (Chapter 9), colonial towns (Chapter 10), ancient history (Chapter 11), and natural wonders (Chapters 12, 13, 15, 16).

Later chapters cover everything from market haggling (Chapter 17) and nightlife (Chapter 18) to staying connected (Chapter 19), staying healthy (Chapter 20), packing smart (Chapter 21), getting around (Chapter 22), understanding local celebrations (Chapter 23), eco-tourism opportunities (Chapter 24), and finally, how to leave without crying too much (Chapter 25). Dip in and out as needed, or read it cover-to-cover if you're really keen (or just avoiding packing).

Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to travel confidently and inspire you to discover the magic of this often-underestimated gem. We'll point out the must-sees, but also nudge you towards experiences you might otherwise miss. We’ll try to make you chuckle while providing genuinely useful advice. We promise to be (mostly) honest, occasionally irreverent, and always enthusiastic about sharing the wonders of El Salvador.

So, buckle up (especially if you're getting on a chicken bus). Prepare to have your preconceptions challenged. Get ready to eat more pupusas than you thought humanly possible. Practice your Spanish pleasantries (a little effort goes a long way). Pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and maybe some decent walking shoes for those cobblestone streets. El Salvador is waiting to surprise you in the best possible way. Let's get started!

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. You’ve read the intro, you’re intrigued by the promise of volcanoes that don’t require selling a kidney to visit and snacks that might change your life (they will). The decision is simmering: you’re actually considering, or maybe even committed to, visiting El Salvador. High five! You’re officially cooler than anyone vacationing in Cancún for the fifth time. But before you leap heroically onto a plane fueled by anticipation and duty-free rum, there’s some groundwork to cover. This is the part where excitement meets spreadsheets, where wanderlust shakes hands with, well, actual planning.

First, let’s talk about the reactions you might get. Announce your upcoming trip to, say, Paris, and people nod approvingly, perhaps offering unsolicited advice about avoiding pickpockets near the Eiffel Tower. Announce a trip to El Salvador, and you might encounter a wider range of responses, from enthusiastic curiosity (“Wow, cool! Send pictures!”) to furrowed brows and a barrage of questions heavily influenced by news reports from a decade ago.

Leading the charge of the concerned will likely be your mother (or father, or overly cautious best friend, or that one coworker who worries about everything). Bless their hearts, their concerns usually come from a place of love and a diet of slightly outdated international news. They might envision you dodging banditos on dusty roads or navigating treacherous jungles armed only with a spork. They’ll probably mention “safety” about seventeen times in the first five minutes.

Here’s where you calmly deploy the facts, learned from the introduction and reinforced here. Yes, El Salvador faced significant challenges with crime, particularly gang-related violence, for many years. It’s not something to gloss over entirely. However, the security situation has undergone a major transformation in recent years. Government efforts, while sometimes controversial internationally due to measures like the ongoing "State of Exception," have led to a dramatic decrease in gang activity and homicide rates. Tourist areas, in particular, have seen significant improvements and are actively being promoted and protected. The U.S. Department of State, for instance, recently updated its travel advisory to "Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions," citing the drop in violent crime and noting that gang activity has decreased. This puts it on par safety-wise, in their assessment, with many well-trodden European destinations.

Does this mean you should wander down dark alleys flashing wads of cash at 3 AM? Absolutely not. Crime still exists (as it does everywhere), and common-sense precautions are essential. We'll delve into practical safety tips – the "Safety Dance" as we call it – in Chapter 6. But for now, you can reassure your mom (and yourself) that you're not heading into a lawless free-for-all. Millions of Salvadorans live their daily lives, go to work, raise families, and enjoy their beautiful country, and tourism is booming for good reason. You'll be taking sensible precautions, just like you would in any unfamiliar place. Maybe avoid telling her about the chicken buses just yet, though. Baby steps.

With the parental reassurance campaign underway, let's move to the less emotional but equally crucial stuff: paperwork. First up, your passport. This might seem obvious, but check the expiration date right now. Seriously, go dig it out. While El Salvador's official requirement for some nationalities, like U.S. citizens, is simply that the passport is valid at the time of entry, many airlines and general travel wisdom strongly recommend having at least six months of validity remaining beyond your intended departure date. Why risk a grumpy airline agent denying you boarding? Also, ensure you have at least one, preferably two, blank pages for entry stamps and the tourist card.

Now, about visas. The good news for many potential visitors is that El Salvador is quite welcoming. For tourist stays, citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most European Union countries generally do not need to apply for a formal visa in advance for short stays (typically up to 90 or sometimes 180 days). Hallelujah! One less bureaucratic hurdle.

However, there's often a small catch, usually in the form of a Tourist Card or entry fee. U.S. citizens, for example, typically need to purchase a Tourist Card upon arrival at the airport or seaport for a fee of $12 USD (cash is usually best for this). This card grants entry, usually for 90 days, though sometimes up to 180 days depending on the immigration officer and potentially your stated purpose or passport validity. Keep this card with your passport; you might need it when exiting. Canadian citizens also typically purchase an entry immigration card on arrival, which can be valid for up to 180 days. UK and Australian citizens, along with many EU nationals, are often exempt from this specific tourist card fee but should always double-check the latest requirements before travel, as rules can change.

It's worth noting that El Salvador is part of the Central America-4 (CA-4) Border Control Agreement, along with Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. This means that if you enter any of these four countries legally (as a tourist), you can generally travel freely between the other three within a total period of 90 days from your initial entry into the CA-4 zone. So, if you were planning a multi-country jaunt, this simplifies things considerably on the ground, though you'll still need to go through border formalities. The 90-day clock starts ticking the moment you enter the first CA-4 country. Extensions beyond 90 days within the region might be possible but require dealing with local immigration authorities.

Regardless of your nationality, always, always verify the current entry requirements specific to your passport well before your trip. The best sources are the official website of El Salvador's immigration authority (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería) or the Embassy or Consulate of El Salvador in your home country. Don't rely solely on a slightly sarcastic guidebook, even this excellent one.

Okay, passport sorted, visa situation clarified (or lack thereof celebrated). Next up: getting there. Unless you're undertaking an epic cross-continental road trip (in which case, respect!), you'll likely be flying. The main international gateway is El Salvador International Airport Saint Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez, located near the coast, about 31 miles (50 km) south of the capital, San Salvador. Its airport code, which you'll need for booking flights, is SAL. Don't confuse it with Ilopango International Airport (ILS), which is closer to San Salvador but primarily handles domestic, military, and charter flights. SAL is where your international flight will almost certainly land.

When should you book that flight to SAL? Ah, the eternal question. There's no magic formula, but general wisdom applies. Booking ridiculously far in advance (like, a year) rarely gets you the best deal. Conversely, waiting until the last minute is a gamble that usually results in paying premium prices. A sweet spot often lies somewhere between 1 to 3 months before your travel date for international flights, maybe 6-8 weeks out according to some analyses.

Use flight comparison websites and apps like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, Hopper, or Momondo to track prices and set alerts. Being flexible with your travel dates, even by a day or two, can sometimes yield significant savings. Flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) is often cheaper than flying on weekends. Consider flights with layovers, as direct flights might be pricier, though weigh the savings against the hassle. Booking on a Sunday is sometimes suggested as potentially cheaper than booking on a Friday, according to some airline data analyses.

Think about when you want to travel. As mentioned in the Introduction, El Salvador has two main seasons: the dry season (verano) from roughly November to April, and the rainy season (invierno) from May to October. The dry season boasts sunny skies and less humidity, making it the peak tourist season, which often translates to higher flight and accommodation prices. The rainy season sees lush green landscapes and afternoon showers (usually not all-day downpours, especially at the start and end of the season). Fewer tourists often mean lower prices, so if you don't mind dodging the occasional puddle, it can be a great time for budget-conscious travelers. Shoulder seasons (around May or November) can sometimes offer a good balance of decent weather and moderate prices.

Next on the pre-trip checklist: your health. Nobody wants their tropical adventure derailed by an unfortunate bout of… well, let's just call it "gastric distress" (we'll tackle tummy troubles more directly in Chapter 20). It's highly recommended to visit your doctor or a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before your departure. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history, itinerary, and planned activities.

Bring your vaccination record. Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. These include things like Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap), Polio, and maybe your annual flu shot. For El Salvador specifically, the CDC and WHO commonly recommend vaccinations against Hepatitis A and Typhoid, both of which can be transmitted through contaminated food or water. Getting these is a pretty standard precaution for travel in many parts of the world, including Central America.

Depending on your plans (e.g., long-term stay, extensive rural travel, working with animals), your doctor might also discuss vaccines for Hepatitis B (spread via blood/bodily fluids), Rabies (important if you anticipate contact with animals, especially dogs), or possibly Chikungunya (a mosquito-borne illness present in the region, though vaccine recommendations may vary). Malaria is considered a low risk in most parts of El Salvador commonly visited by tourists, but preventative measures against mosquito bites (repellent, appropriate clothing) are always a good idea, as mosquitoes can also transmit Dengue and Zika. Discuss malaria prevention options with your doctor if you plan extensive travel in remote rural areas.

A quick note on Yellow Fever: El Salvador itself is not a yellow fever zone. However, if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic (many countries in South America and Africa), you will likely be required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter El Salvador. Check the list of designated countries if this applies to your itinerary.

Beyond shots, your doctor can advise on managing traveler's diarrhea (having some over-the-counter remedies on hand is wise) and other health considerations. Remember to pack any prescription medications you need, along with copies of your prescriptions and ideally a letter from your doctor explaining their necessity, especially for controlled substances. Keep medications in their original packaging in your carry-on luggage.

Now, let's talk insurance. Specifically, travel insurance. Get it. Seriously. This isn't the place to cut corners. Your regular health insurance plan back home may offer little to no coverage overseas, and U.S. Medicare/Medicaid definitely do not apply abroad. While healthcare is available in El Salvador, particularly in private clinics in San Salvador, quality can vary significantly outside the capital, and treatment, especially in private facilities, can be expensive. Many hospitals require payment upfront, often in cash, even if you have insurance.

A good travel insurance policy should cover medical emergencies, including evacuation if necessary (which can be incredibly expensive), as well as trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and theft. Read the policy details carefully to understand what's covered and what the limits are. Hopefully, you'll never need it, but if you do, you'll be profoundly grateful you have it. Think of it as a necessary investment in peace of mind, allowing you to focus on important things, like finding the perfect wave or deciding between queso and chicharrón pupusas.

While we're touching on money matters (Chapter 5 has the full scoop), it's worth doing some preliminary budgeting. El Salvador uses the US dollar as its official currency, which simplifies things greatly for American visitors (and means no frantic currency exchange calculations). It's generally considered one of the more affordable countries in Central America, especially compared to neighbours like Costa Rica or Belize. You can eat well, get around, and find decent accommodation without breaking the bank. However, costs can vary – tourist hotspots like El Tunco will naturally be pricier than sleepy villages inland. Start thinking about your travel style (backpacker basic? mid-range comfort? luxury seeker?) to get a rough idea of daily expenses.

Another valuable pre-trip investment? Learning a few basic Spanish phrases. While you might find some English spoken in tourist-heavy areas and upscale hotels, don't count on it everywhere. Making even a small effort with Spanish – simple greetings (Hola, Buenos días), pleasantries (Por favor, Gracias), asking basic questions (¿Cuánto cuesta? - How much is it?, ¿Dónde está el baño? - Where is the bathroom?) – will be immensely appreciated by locals and will make your interactions smoother and more rewarding. It shows respect and opens doors (sometimes literally, if you're trying to find the bathroom). We'll arm you with more linguistic ammo in Chapter 3, but starting now with apps like Duolingo or Babbel is a great idea.

Finally, let's manage those expectations, just a smidge. As mentioned in the intro, El Salvador is incredible, but it's still a developing country. Things might not always run with Swiss-watch precision. Buses might be late (or terrifyingly punctual, depending on your perspective). Wi-Fi can be patchy in remote areas (Chapter 19 prepares you for this). Roads away from the main highways might be… adventurous. Power outages can happen. Don't expect everything to look like a perfectly curated Instagram feed (though plenty of it is stunningly photogenic).

Embrace the slight chaos. See it as part of the adventure. Pack your patience alongside your sunscreen. Be flexible. If Plan A goes awry, laugh it off and move to Plan B (or C, or just grab a pupusa and regroup). This slight lack of polish is often what makes the experience feel more authentic and memorable. You're not on a sterile, pre-packaged tour; you're exploring.

So, deep breaths. You’ve navigated the initial worries, started the paperwork tango, booked (or are browsing) flights, thought about jabs, and promised your mom you'll call. You're well on your way. The hardest part – deciding to go – is over. Now the fun really begins. Next up, we tackle perhaps the single most important aspect of Salvadoran culture, the cornerstone of the national diet, the subject of fierce regional debate: the pupusa. Prepare your appetite.