Over 4,000 Chinese visited the country in 2017. El Salvador hopes to double that this year.

Melendez says locals are hospitable and curious about other countries.

The 21,000-square-kilometer country is wedged against Guatemala and Honduras.

"Our country is small, and you have more time to experience local sceneries and customs, rather than be on the road," Melendez says.

"From the capital, San Salvador, you can go to other scenic areas by car in no more than 45 minutes. There are various travel experiences to choose from."

El Salvador is a mix of pre-Columbian and Spanish cultures.

Spain conquered the region in the 16th century and ruled for three centuries.

Spanish is the official language. But many indigenous people speak their native tongues.

The tropical climate's dry season lasts from November until April. The rainy season is between May and October.

La Libertad municipality is popular among beachgoers, especially surfers and divers. Scuba enthusiasts can do deep-water dives in the Pacific and also explore the country's seemingly mystical crater lakes.