I didn’t quite know what to expect out in the barrios of Caracas, but I knew I wanted to visit them. I did know that the crime statistics in Venezuela are astronomical, and especially so out in the barrios. And I knew that most of the supporters of Chavez come from these neighborhoods. But, that’s about all I knew and that isn’t much. So, that was enough to convince me that the barrios merited an investigative visit. And what nobler cause can there be than dispelling one’s own ignorance?
Robert Young Pelton is currently soliciting input on places to visit for DPTV (Dangerous Places TV) and, upon our return, I noticed that the barrios of Caracas had been suggested. Shortly after, I read elsewhere that the Caracas barrios are considered one of the most dangerous places on the planet.
Hmmmm, I just took my wife there… I didn’t know it was that bad.
They are certainly interesting neighborhoods. And, yeah, I did feel the “I need to get the fuck out of here” vibe a couple of times – particularly after snapping a picture of some local drug dealers that really didn’t appreciate having their portrait taken.
By the way, if you have any suggestions for Mr. Pelton, he is still actively soliciting ideas…
Inside the Caracas barrios:
But, as with everywhere else I have visited that has a bad reputation, you’ll find that most people are friendly…
…and that it is mostly business as usual.
“Intense” business as usual, I would say…
The barrios, to be honest, were my favourite part of Caracas. At least, the most interesting.
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I’m very intrigued as to what you were expecting when you went to one of the ‘most dangerous places on earth” as you described Venezuelan barrios in your post.
I’m from Valencia, one of the big cities in Venezuela, and have been to Caracas barrios several times as I had a girlfriend who lived in oone of them and most of my family is from Caracas. Fortunately, she was in it because the barrio simply grew bigger and bigger and eventually they were surrounded by it; and even though we weren’t in the middle of it, I could feel the atmosphere. You definitely were in areas where you shouldn’t be on your own.
Eleonora, I am very surprised with your response! I have to say, Venezuela is a beautiful country, especially the coast where sandy crystal water beaches and keys surround us, the Amazons host millions of species, and the Andes stand tall and cold; hearing that barrios were your favourite part of Caracas is -forgive my perception, very out of this world. I am glad you had a positive impression by them and none of you were ever in danger.
As a Venezuelan is sad for me to say, but this could definitely be a good topic for Robert’s TV show. If it is ever or was already featured, I would be interested in looking at it.
May I recommend a couple of movies: “Secuestro Express” and “Hermano” which are situated in Venezuela. Hope you like them!
Glad I’ve finally found smoiethng I agree with!
I am from there and I was 11 and fighting with a gun ! It was certainly bad! But the people are the best in the world