Border searches are very thorough and there are many military checkpoints in military areas, at which all transport is stopped. Do not lose the carbon copy of your visa as this has to be surrendered when leaving the country. Cameras and other valuables should not be exposed prominently. Hotel thefts are becoming more frequent. Water in all main towns is heavily chlorinated, so safe to drink, although most people drink bottled water.
Medical attention is good.
On the coast from Cuman east precautions against vampire bat bite are warranted since they can be rabies-carriers. Lights over hatches and windows are used by local fishermen to deter bats from entering boats and shore cabins. If bitten seek medical advice. Protection against mosquito bites is advised as dengue fever has been present since 1995. The brown Bs 100 note is sometimes referred to as a marr n, or a papel, the Bs 500 note as an orqu dea, because of its picture.