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where in south america to travel?

i want to go on a trip to south america but i am not sure what destination would suit me. i like a nice hotel/Spa atmosphere and I like to shop, go to museums, see art and culture. i like nature and would love to see something cool but I am not into hiking (or in shape for it) or anything really physically strenuous. I was thinking Chile because I could see some wineries but does anyone have any other ideas?
Um, yeah Colombia is about to go to war with Venezuala. I think I’ll pass.

Hi and congratulations on wanting to go to Latin America. I would have to recommend either Chile or Argentina as have lived in both.

I would have to say if it is your FIRST time going, why not go to Buenos Aires, coined “the Paris of South America” for a few reasons. Consisting of incredible food, beautiful architecture, and wonderful exchange rates, certain things in the city of “Good Air” (literal translation of Buenos Aires) never ceased to amaze me: pizza that actually tasted like pizza; bodies of water that didn`t smell like sewage; charming couples holding hands in public instead of feverishly sucking on each others faces, and people speaking a form of Spanish that I could actually understand! You will be able to visit (and cross the world’s widest road on Avenida 9 de Julio. Careful though, driving in BA is crazy – they have their own system and rules including driving on the lines instead of in between them. Don’t worry, their taxis, or ‘remises’ are very safe and friendly and can take you everywhere. As you have probably heard, they are known for their beef and wine but you might have to get used to their late hours. Restaurant are full around 11pm-12am here compared to the US typical hours of 6-8pm. (some OPEN at 11pm) Nightlife is amazing boasting some of Latin America’s top discos and bars. The city has incredible museums and streets like Recoletta that mimic those of Paris with sidewalk cafes and preserved historic buildings throughout the city. You will catch a glimpse of one or two dog walkers with 15 dogs in tow, which is common. The Palermo Park is gorgeous and mimic’s New York’s Central Park. Tango shows are also a common sight on Recoletta and San Telmo streets. On the down side, crime is higher in BA than in Santiago but crime is prevalent in most large cities.

For comparison purposes, a little background is necessary. First, Chile is one of the most expensive countries in Latin
America; the American dollar won’t take you very far here. It is also a very isolated: the Pacific Ocean lies to the west, Antarctica to the south, the Andes mountain chain to the east, and one of the driest deserts in the world, the Atacama, to the north. Consequently, Chilean culture has developed largely on its own. Emblematic of this uniqueness is the rapid-fire, slang-heavy Spanish of Chile. It is often difficult for natives of other Spanish-speaking countries to understand a Chilean. As many people will agree, the food lacks a certain something in Chile. For example, ordering a pizza will get you little
more than tomato paste on a glorified piece of bread. Your choice of cheeses at the supermarket is frequently between one in red packaging and another in blue packaging. Water does not figure prominently into the urban landscape of Santiago.

In Santiago, there are noticeable differences. The smog and miles upon miles of continuous arid sprawl are difficult not to notice, but one has to remember that even the least attractive cities have good qualities. For example, Santiago has great empanadas! And to my disappointment, I never once saw a street vendor selling sopapillas in Buenos Aires. In many ways, Buenos Aires will always surpass Santiago. Antiquated European architecture will always be lacking in Santiago.

Those who live in BA or “Portenos” are known to be a bit arrogant compared to residents of Santiago. Both are very unique and are definitely worth a visit. One can only gauge a place by their own opinion, however.

Have a great time whatever you decide!

Chiva-Som International Health Resorts, Destination Spa Hua Hin Thailand