Later this year, I'll be on my own in Caracas for five nights. Is it safe? If not, can you name a reputable travel company to arrange accommodation and escort with? I have travelled alone many places in South America, but I am worried by reports of abductions. Jean Yarrow, London

Sunday Times travel expert, Richard Green, responds: As with many of South America's big cities, there are parts of Caracas that as a visitor, you should certainly avoid, but then there are large areas in which are entirely safe, so long as you exercise the streetwise caution you've picked up from your previous trips. So don't wear expensive-looking jewellery or carry large amount of cash, and keep to well-lit paths.

There has been the odd kidnapping of late, though not aimed at tourists. To get off on the right foot and keep you safe from the moment you arrive, it's best to book a transfer with an experienced tour operator. A list of these can be found at the website of LATA (Latin America Travel Association).

A good rule while in the city is not to go with anyone who approaches you claiming to be a taxi driver or moneychanger. You can change money at the airport when you land at the official Italcambio office there. If you do make your own transfer, use one of the black Ford Explorer airport taxis that wait immediately outside the terminal.

At last the main road from the airport to the city has been repaired, so the journey should be a smooth one and take under an hour. A tour operator can choose a suitable hotel in the Chacao district, which is full of restaurants, and safe day and night. But do steer clear of the area around Plaza Venezuela, the historic centre, and the Bellas Artes museum district, which aren't safe after dark.

The metro is cheap, clean, and safe and perfectly fine during the day. If you feel nervous at night time, it is better to organise a taxi through your hotel's front desk, rather than hailing one on the street. Hotels only deal with reputable companies and drivers, who are often known to them. Or book a guide through a tour operator.

A resident Brit in Caracas, Peter Gebler, well aware of the bad reputation of his adopted city, is launching a venture called Carefree Caracas to assist visiting tourists. He plans to publish a colour-coded map with No-Go areas clearly marked and offer experienced guides for daytime sightseeing, as well as acompanying tourists on night time visits to venues such as the El Maní Salsa club or the Juan Sebastian Jazz Bar. In the meantime, email him at info@carefreecaracas.com and he can reply with a fact sheet on the city.

Times recommends

• The three best routes to the Med
• How to cash in on your holiday money
• 10 tips for the perfectly packed suitcase