Venezuela is located on the northern coast of South America. It is bordered by Colombia, Brazil, Guyana, the Dutch Caribbean ABC islands and the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. Because of this, its cooking has been influenced by different cultures. Hence, food varies based on the region where you're at. 

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Although Venezuelan cuisine shares similar traits to the Colombian and Cuban cuisine (and it will because most of the food of the Americas has been influenced by the Spaniards); Venezuelans are very proud of their food and the different textures that their products have. 

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Venezuelan dishes, like most of the Hispanic region, rely heavily on carbohydrates and protein. And, similar to countries like Colombia, Cuba and Ecuador; Venezuelans often use rice and beans as sides. 

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But it is the Arepa the dish that is most popular in Venezuela. And, it is not like the one done by the Colombians. In fact, both countries fight over who invented the Arepa (which was explained to our guides by Colombians and Venezuelans). Apparently, and according to an article done by the BBC, the main difference between Colombian and Venezuelan arepas is the fact that the latter one has filling in it. 

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Nevertheless, the Colombian arepa can also have filling, which in Colombia is called "Arepa con todo" (arepa with everything). 

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As you can see, it's complicated. 

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Still, here are the dishes you must try from Venezuela!

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To Eat and Drink

• Arepas (of course)

• Pabellon

• Quesillo

• Tequenos

• Cachapa

• Mondongo

• Quesillo