Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Throughout the Carnaval season, the streets fill with dancing, original
chapaco
music and colorfully costumed
country folk who turn up in town for the event. There's a Grand Ball in the main plaza after the celebration and
the entire town comes out for the dancing and performances by folk groups, bands and orchestras. Beware: water
balloons figure prominently in the festivities.
On the Sunday after Carnaval, the neighborhood near the cemetery enacts a 'funeral' in which the devil is
burned and buried in preparation for Lent. Paid mourners (actors pretending to mourn the death of the devil) lend
the ritual a morose air - although we suspect they're actually lamenting that they must now remain vice free for
the 40 days until Easter.
Sleeping
Budget accommodation is found mainly north of Bolívar, though most places in this price
tier do not have heating and you may need it in winter. The cheapest rooms have shared
bathroom; higher rates get you a private bathroom and cable TV. Midrange and upmarket
options are south of Bolívar. Bus services arriving from Villamontes get into town during
the early hours of the morning, so many hotels offer half rates if you book in advance.
Resort Hotel Los Parrales $$$
(
664-8444;
www.losparraleshotel.com
;
Urbanización Carmén de Aranjuez; s/d
B$800/975;
) In a relaxed setting 3.5km from the center, Tarija's only five-star
option offers you a complimentary cocktail when you arrive and has a spa, a giant Jacuzzi
and a lovely open-air dining area overlooking the countryside. The rooms are colonial-
style luxury, with very comfy beds. Significant discounts (up to 45%) are available for
stays of more than one night during the low season.
LUXURY HOTEL
Hostal del Sol $$
(
666-5259;
www.hoteldelsol.com.bo
;
Sucre N-782; s/d B$250/350;
) Among the
nicest in town, Hostal del Sol has coffee-colored walls, flat-screen TVs, marble floors and
a bright, modern design. Friendly service, good breakfasts and free internet make this a
great place to stay.
HOTEL
Victoria Plaza Hotel $$$
HOTEL
