Top5 Amazing Facts About Venezuela That Will Shock You

In thie article we will discover amazing facts about Venezuela. Venezuela presents an unusual reality where cash is weighed for purchases and plastic surgery is common. Certain gestures can be risky, and children may have multiple father figures. Forgetting a passport can lead to trouble with authorities, and a drink ban exists during elections. So let’s begin.

5) Dressing

One of the amazing facts about Venezuela is that in Venezuela, dressing too casually is seen as disrespectful. Your appearance reflects how you view yourself and others. Showing up in wrinkled clothes, tank tops, flip-flops, or without makeup can lead others to view you as impolite or uneducated. Men often wear pressed shirts and polished shoes, while women typically dress neatly, even for everyday errands.

A 2022 survey indicated that 87% of Venezuelans feel offended if someone appears sloppy at community events, particularly if they are foreigners. Visitors should dress neatly in polo shirts or button-downs, slacks, and closed-toe shoes during the day, while women can wear dresses or jeans with nice tops. Avoid casual clothing like shorts or flip-flops unless at the beach.

4) Cosmetic Surgery

One of the amazing facts about Venezuela is that in Venezuela, cosmetic surgery is seen as almost mandatory for women due to strict beauty standards. The country has a strong culture of beauty, having produced many Miss Universe and Miss World winners. This has led to a booming beauty industry, with many training centers teaching girls how to prepare for surgery and meet these standards, which include features like large breasts and tiny waists.

Around 300,000 cosmetic surgeries are performed annually, and costs can be as high as $5,000, equivalent to a year’s salary for many workers. Families, even those with limited means, often go into debt to afford surgeries for their daughters to improve their prospects. Additionally, some parents administer hormones to young girls to enhance their height, a practice criticized by health organizations. Despite health risks, the trend continues unabated.

3) Bribery

One of the amazing facts about Venezuela is that in Venezuela, bribery is a common and necessary practice for navigating daily life. It has become an unspoken rule for survival amid widespread bureaucracy, lack of transparency, and ongoing crises. Bribery is often required to access services in traffic police, hospitals, schools, and notary offices.

A 2023 survey revealed that nearly 57% of respondents had to pay unofficial fees for public services, even when not legally required. Terms like “collaboration” and “algo cafe” are often used to hint at bribes. For instance, one might need to offer cash to traffic police to avoid long delays, and quick medical attention often requires slipping money into files at hospitals. Parents also give gifts to teachers to ensure their children receive attention in school.

2) Social Media

One of the amazing facts about Venezuela is that in Venezuela, TikTok has been fined $10 million and faces heavy restrictions due to the government’s accusation of not preventing dangerous challenges from spreading. During major protests, notably after the 2024 elections, Twitter, now called X, was completely blocked. Other platforms like Google services, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp often experience disruptions, especially during sensitive political periods, impacting over 80% of the population that relies on social media for news.

This limited access makes many feel silenced. Many Venezuelans have turned to VPNs to bypass these restrictions, with usage increasing by nearly 170% in 2023. The government’s control over social media has created an environment where sharing and believing in internet freedom is discouraged. Could you live in a society without TikTok and with constant social media control? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

1) Public Displays Of Affection (PDA)

One of the amazing facts about Venezuela is that in Venezuela, public displays of affection (PDA) like holding hands and kissing are common and celebrated. Couples can be seen showing affection in parks, on buses, or in stores, reflecting confidence and pride in their relationships. Venezuelans believe that PDA helps build trust, with 78% supporting it and only 8% finding it inappropriate.

Even in conservative areas, PDA is accepted, as long as it’s not overly provocative. An American blogger noted that refusing to hold hands upset his Venezuelan girlfriend because it signifies a serious relationship. For those who are shy or reserved, embracing this cultural norm may be a challenge, but it is important for fitting in.