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Bolivia is finally embracing the Bitcoin revolution by lifting its ban on cryptocurrency, a game-changing move for financial freedom! Thanks to Bitcoin Research, grassroots adoption is surging.
Bolivia stood out in Latin America for its restrictive stance on bitcoin, preventing its citizens from engaging with the cryptocurrency since 2014. In a global landscape where bitcoin adoption is on the rise and inflation is escalating, this approach seems increasingly negative, especially considering the limited financial infrastructure available in many Latin American nations. However, Bolivia has recently made a pivotal move by lifting its ban on bitcoin and cryptocurrency payments, enabling financial institutions and individuals to engage in transactions involving digital assets and modernizing its payment systems.
With this newfound openness towards bitcoin, Bolivians are now embracing grassroots adoption, led by Bitcoin Research, an initiative dedicated to promoting bitcoin education and adoption. Despite the previous ban, Bitcoin Research has been active for some time, even organizing underground meetups to empower Bolivians with financial freedom. Now, with the ban lifted, they are fully committed to bitcoin education, hosting workshops, meetups, and even teaching in schools, while also encouraging various sectors to get involved and introducing merchants to the benefits of bitcoin. An important part of this movement is the Bolivian Bitcoiners community on Telegram, @Btcxbolivia, where many Bolivians can learn about Bitcoin for free. This helps to support educational efforts and create a welcoming space for newcomers.
Now, here is where Bolivia, in the hands of Bitcoin Research, is making history. Bitcoin adoption is a gradual process, often requiring educational efforts to succeed. Bitcoin Research has been explaining to merchants why Bitcoin is a superior asset and an easy payment method through the Lightning Network, utilizing wallets like Blink that offer specific tools such as the Blink POS and Blink Paycode. These efforts are now bearing fruit, as Bitcoin Research has successfully onboarded the first merchant to accept Bitcoin through the Lightning Network in Bolivia—a significant step in a country that recently had a ban on Bitcoin.
The business at the forefront of this change is El Pulpo, a well-known cevichería located on Av. Garcia Lanza between Calle 20 and 21 in Achumani, La Paz, Bolivia. Founded by Teresa Fernández, who moved from Lima, Peru, to La Paz in 1991, El Pulpo has been a popular spot for authentic Peruvian ceviche for nearly thirty years. It began as a small kiosk on Avenida Montenegro in the San Miguel neighborhood and quickly became a favorite among locals.
Over the years, Teresa has invested her heart and soul into this venture, building lasting relationships with her customers, many of whom have been visiting since childhood and now return with their own families. Known for her unwavering dedication, Teresa operates El Pulpo 365 days a year, except in exceptional circumstances, such as the recent pandemic.
At El Pulpo, Teresa has expertly tailored her ceviche to suit the local palate, offering a menu that features a variety of ceviches made from fish and seafood, her signature "Leche de Tigre Power" served with shrimp, and traditional Peruvian dishes like sudado.
Recently, a customer wearing a "BITCOIN RESEARCH" shirt visited El Pulpo, sparking a conversation about the innovative Blink wallet, which is well-suited for the business. This reflects the vibrant community atmosphere at El Pulpo, where culinary delights and engaging conversations come together. After this conversation El Pulpo made the decision to start accepting bitcoin, this marks a significant milestone not only for the restaurant but also for the broader movement towards bitcoin adoption in Bolivia.
Visit El Pulpo, where every dish is a celebration of flavor, culture, and community, now powered with Bitcoin
