Government & Economy
The island has enjoyed a boom since 1983, largely as a result of the fall in the value of the bolívar and the consequent tendency of Venezuelans to spend their holidays at home. Margarita’s status as a duty-free zone also helps. Venezuelan shoppers go in droves for clothing, electronic goods and other consumer items. Gold and gems are good value, but many things are not.
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There has been extensive building in Porlamar, with new shopping areas and Miami-style hotels going up. A number of beaches are also being developed. All-inclusive resorts and timeshare are expanding on the NE corner of the island and there is a glut of hotel rooms and apartments. The island’s popularity means that various packages are on offer, sometimes at good value, especially off-season.
Local industries are fishing and fibre work, such as hammocks and straw hats. Weaving, pottery and sweets are being pushed as handicraft items for the tourists. An exhibition centre has been opened at El Cercado, near Santa Ana, on Calle Principal, near the church.
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Excursions - Isla de Margarita
The capital, La Asunción is a few kilometres inland from Porlamar. It has several colonial buildings, a cathedral, and the fort of Santa...
Introduction
Located on the north coast of South America, Venezuela is a land of fascinating contrasts. The country is approximately 950 miles wide and...The Venezuela Island
When the Spaniards landed in East Venezuela in 1498, in the course of Columbus’ third voyage, they found a poor country sparsely populated...