In July 1994, currency restrictions were imposed. Foreign exchange transactions must take place through commercial banks and exchange houses at the official rate. Credit cards are accepted at most upscale tourist establishments. Outside the major cities, a good supply of Venezuelan currency is necessary. Penalties for possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs in Venezuela are strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Prison conditions are extremely harsh.
These tend to focus primarily on or near university campuses or secondary schools, and sometimes turn violent. Most tourist destinations, however, remain unaffected. The number and intensity of demonstrations have fluctuated widely. Merida, a major tourist destination in the Andes, is the scene of frequent student demonstrations. U.S. citizens visiting certain areas along the border with Colombia may be subject to search and seizure.