This post could also be called ‘the five must-see places in Latin America’ as they should be on every traveller’s wishlist not least because they offer up some of the most tremendous vistas in the region. Which of these stunning destinations will you be adding to your bucket list? The Atacama Desert – Chile The sheer size of the Atacama Desert, meteorologically the driest (hot) desert on earth, is astonishing. With miles and miles of salt flats extending in front of you, it’s not hard to believe that some areas of the Atacama have had no recorded instances of rainfall ever. If nothing else, this view will make you appreciate how vast the earth as a whole is – for some, it can be a life-changing experience. Christ the Redeemer – Brazil Arguably one of the most recognisable pieces of architecture in the world, the huge statue of Christ the…
Valparaiso is a beautiful, colourful city that will capture your heart. The best description for this bohemian port city came from the poet Pablo Neruda, who had a particularly beautiful view – “Valparaiso, how absurd you are… you haven’t combed your hair, you’ve never had time to get dressed, life has always surprised you.” There is indeed a certain chaotic beauty to Valparaiso, one that you will quickly discover on this journey through a few of the best things to see when in Valparaiso. La Sebastiana La Sebastiana was Pablo Neruda’s former residence and is now a house-museum that you can stop by when visiting Valparaiso. Getting there involves a lot of climbing but it is completely worth it, as you explore each floor of the house you’ll see why. – the most heart-stopping views of the harbour. Here you will also be able to see Neruda’s collection of ships…
In the Atacama Desert, it’s not hard to imagine that you’re on another planet. With the flat, crystal whiteness of the salt flats stretching into the distance, and bizarre, rocky outcrops towering overhead, this is Planet Earth like you’ve never seen it before. But what is there to do in this other-worldly landscape? Here are our top 5 activities in the Atacama Desert… Stargazing Few of us have seen a night sky untouched by light pollution, and yet in the Atacama Desert in Chile, it’s as simple as stepping outside and looking up. A deep, velvety blackness stretches and rolls around you, heavy on the horizon but lifting into miles of brilliant, bright shards. The stars here aren’t just dim lights, but stud out shapes and constellations for you to admire. We recommend taking a night-time walk when the moon is full, to enjoy ghostly views of the incredible landscape…
The isolated Rapa Nui – or Easter Island, as it is perhaps better known – is an island located deep in the South Pacific, and one that is simply teeming with outstanding nature, surprising secrets and a remarkable history that make it oh so worth a visit. Here are 5 interesting facts about this mystifying corner of the world. It was the first Pacific island to be registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.. The enormous stone statues that call Easter Island home remain – to this day – as one of the world’s greatest mysteries. Estimated to have been built somewhere between the 10th and 16th centuries, no-one knows exactly why, when or how these incredible statues were built, nor the details behind the mysterious rise and fall of a clearly advanced and prosperous civilization. The entire island was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995. It is home to…
Although we are unable to travel at the moment, you can still discover the joys of Latin America from the comfort of your home. Each week we’ll be posting inspiration from a different destination in Latin America, sharing movies, music, books and recipes to pique your interest, and, this weeks destination is the vast, varied and utterly stunning – Chile. Stretching almost half the length of South America, Chile is home to both the driest desert in the world and to endless, spectacular glacier fields. A land of diverse landscapes, its a country framed by the epic Andes mountain range and the dramatic Pacific coastline, and it has something to offer every taste and budget. Delve deeper into Chile’s wonders with our favourite inspiring read, film and recipe below. Watch:#IDreamOfChile video from Chile Tourist Board Now is a time to pause, but those landscapes you’ve been longing to visit will still be here, more beautiful than ever, waiting…
For a fusion of flavours, Latin America is the destination that dreams are made of! From capital cities bursting with gastronomic gems to world-renowned coffee plantations and vineyards, there is no end to the dazzling delights ready to tantalise your taste buds. From ceviche in Peru to steak in Argentina and salteñas in Bolivia, Latin America’s ancient traditions, indigenous communities and a vast array of homegrown ingredients have shaped the region into one of the most interesting destinations for food and wine lovers the world over. Here’s just a few of some of the tastiest foods to sample when visiting Latin America… Ceviche in Peru This delicious dish formed of fresh fish in lime juice with peppers is famous throughout Peru, with some of the best found in Lima, which is fast becoming a centre of gastronomy. In Peru, there is even a National Ceviche Day to celebrate this dish which is a huge part of the country’s heritage. Cazuela in Chile The Chilean equivalent to a hearty soup to…
