La Paz, Bolivia

• La Paz sits at 3,640 meters above sea level. The altitude hits most people hard for the first few days - expect headaches, shortness of breath, and exhaustion until your body adjusts. The city spreads down from El Alto plateau into a valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
• Neighborhoods vary dramatically by altitude and wealth. Zona Sur areas like Calacoto and San Miguel are at lower elevations where it's warmer, with expensive restaurants and a suburban feel. Sopocachi has the cafe scene and nightlife. The historic center around Plaza San Francisco is worth visiting during the day but clears out by early evening - locals avoid it after dark.
• Cafes are set up for people working alone with laptops, especially in Sopocachi and San Miguel. English is rare outside upscale hotels and restaurants - you'll need basic Spanish for most interactions. The Tourist Police hotline (800-14-0081) has English speakers available 24/7.
• The Mi Teleférico cable car system is efficient and cheap at 3 bolivianos ($0.40) per ride. It cuts travel time significantly compared to buses and gives you views of the city sprawl. Use registered taxis or Uber at night. Pickpocketing is common on crowded public transport, so keep your phone completely hidden.

Spanish is the main language with Aymara spoken by many indigenous people. English is rare outside upscale hotels and restaurants. The Tourist Police English hotline (800-14-0081) runs 24/7. Bolivians speak Spanish more slowly and clearly than in many Latin American countries, which helps if you're learning. You'll need basic phrases like 'hola', 'gracias', 'por favor', and 'disculpe'.

• Always greet people with 'buenos dias', 'buenas tardes', or 'buenas noches' before starting a conversation. Skipping this greeting comes across as rude. Use 'señor' or 'señora' when addressing people, especially older locals.
• Bolivia is conservative. Revealing clothing will get stares and unwanted attention, especially outside wealthy neighborhoods. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches or markets. For evening dining, dress smartly - some places won't let you in if you're too casual.
• Altitude sickness hits about half of visitors. Take your first 2-3 days slowly, drink 4-6 liters of water daily, skip alcohol at first, and try coca tea. If symptoms get worse instead of better, you need to descend to lower altitude.
• Don't use 'Indios' to refer to indigenous people - it's offensive. Use 'Indigena' if needed, though it's better to use specific ethnic terms like Aymara or Quechua. Always ask before photographing people in traditional dress.
• Tipping isn't required but 10% is appreciated at restaurants for good service. At cafes, just round up. You're expected to bargain at markets like the Witches Market, but not in regular shops or restaurants.

• The Mi Teleférico cable car runs 6:30 AM-11:30 PM Monday-Saturday and 7 AM-9 PM Sunday. It costs 3 bolivianos ($0.40) per ride and turns a one-hour bus journey into a 10-minute ride. Multiple color-coded lines connect different parts of the city.
• Use Uber or have your hotel call a registered taxi company. Don't hail taxis on the street - express kidnappings where victims are taken to ATMs do happen with unlicensed drivers. Registered taxis cost 10-20 bolivianos ($1.50-$3).
• Local buses and minibuses get very crowded, especially during rush hour. Pickpocketing is common. If you take them, keep your phone and valuables completely hidden and hold bags in front of you. The cable car is safer.
• Sopocachi, San Miguel, and Calacoto are walkable during the day and early evening with decent street lighting. The altitude will tire you out faster than you expect, and the hills are steep. Take it slow and rest when you need to.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore La Paz with local guides and curated experiences.