Top5 Amazing Facts About El Salvador That Will Shock You

In this article we will discover amazing facts about El Salvador, a unique country in Central America. Its capital’s map was secretly changed for fun. Women on Myera Island must sneak to give birth, while men spray cologne to buy eggs. Bitcoin is legal, but people still use dollars. So let’s know.

5) Coffee Bath

One of the amazing facts about El Salvador is that in El Salvador, coffee is not just a drink; people also bathe in it. In mountain towns like Conpsion de Taco or Hua, local spas offer hot coffee baths in wooden tubs. Salvadorans believe that the acids in coffee can improve skin, firm muscles, and uplift spirits. Applying coffee grounds as a skincare ritual is common among locals, rooted in tradition rather than tourism. For visitors, it’s recommended to experience a mountain spa, enjoying the natural sounds and soaking in coffee baths to connect with the local culture.

4) Human Safety

One of the amazing facts about El Salvador is that El Salvador has a history of being seen as one of the most dangerous countries in the world, mainly due to gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18. Violent incidents were common, with about 15 happening daily. However, in the last two to three years, the situation has changed significantly under President Naib Bukele.

A strong government crackdown led to over 85,000 arrests and the construction of a mega prison. This effort reduced the homicide rate to less than two per 100,000 people, making it safer than many US states. While many feel safer, there is a fear of questioning the government. Despite this, people are friendly and welcoming, making visits enjoyable.

3) Cologne

One of the amazing facts about El Salvador is that in El Salvador, men use cologne as a daily necessity, not just for special occasions. Even when running simple errands, Salvadoran men often apply cologne multiple times. Many keep a small bottle handy, and cologne is widely popular across the country.

A 2022 report shows El Salvador ranks among the top three Latin American countries in men’s cologne use, following Brazil and Colombia. Locals favor strong, affordable scents over luxury brands, choosing fragrances like Aqua Sport and Fresh Masculine. Some barber shops even provide a complimentary cologne spray after haircuts to boost customers’ confidence.

2) Railway System

One of the amazing facts about El Salvador is that El Salvador is the only country in Central America without an active railway system. It stopped using its railways in 2002 and has no plans to rebuild them. Instead, people travel using brightly painted buses known as chicken buses or cameonas.

These buses, converted from old American school buses, are decorated in vibrant colors and feature unique artwork. Inside, they play salsa music and have personal touches like rosaries and fans. The fare is low and has remained mostly unchanged for years, making these buses essential for the working class. However, they can be noisy and require quick boarding.

1) Bitcoin

One of the amazing facts about El Salvador is that in 2021, El Salvador became the first country to recognize Bitcoin as legal currency, paralleled with the US dollar. This shift aimed to attract crypto investors and tourists. President Na Boule introduced a national e-wallet called Chivo, offering $30 in BTC to registered citizens, and installed many Bitcoin ATMs across the country.

However, by late 2022, only 14% of businesses accepted Bitcoin, and many people, especially in rural areas, quickly exchanged their BTC for dollars due to its complexity and instability. Consequently, the US dollar remains the preferred currency for everyday transactions.