The best souvenirs are
handmade goods, including ceramics (especially in Ilobasco), handpainted wood (in La Palma) and wicker furniture (in Nahuizalco). Various goods can be bought at the
Mercado Cuartel craft market in San Salvador. The city also has several modern
shopping centers including
Multiplaza,
Galerias,
Metrocentro,
Gran Vía,
Hiper Mall and
Cascadas.
Shopping hoursMon-Sat 0800-1200 and 1400-1800. Some shops, especially those selling food and drink, open
until late.
Currency Information:CurrencyUS Dollar (USD; symbol US$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of US$100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of US$1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.
Note: US Dollars were introduced as dual currency in 2001 and have now completely replaced the Colón.
Currency ExchangeVisitors are advised to change currency only at banks and official bureaux de change.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsAmerican Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, whilst Diners Club has more limited use. There are ATMs in the main cities as well as in shopping malls and service stations.
Traveller's ChequesThese may be cashed at any bank or hotel on production of a passport.
Banking HoursGenerally Mon-Fri 0900-1300 and 1345-1700; Sat 0900-1300 (limited service).
Note: Most banks are closed for balancing the books on 29-30 Jun and 30-31 Dec. These dates may vary for individual banks.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | US$1.45 |
| €1.00= | US$1.37 |
| |
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