Andes Mountains

Located in South America, the Andes Mountain stretches from the north to the south, going along the western coast some 4,500 miles, making this one of the longest and highest mountain ranges in the entire world. When visiting South America, this area is one that you certainly should see. Keep in mind that because some places in the Andes are closer to the equator than other places, the climate is not the same.

This particular mountain range is divided into three specific and natural regions. First, there is the south, second the central region, and third, the northern region. In the southern region, you will find that the temperatures are quite a bit colder due to the mountains being closer to the Antarctic. However, if you were to visit the northern region, you would notice temperatures being hot because the mountain range is closer to the equator.

Because of high humidity levels in the northern ranges, the Andes Mountains has beautiful rainforests. To keep everything so magnificent and green, this region also gets a lot of rain. Typically, when people visit the Andes Mountains, they will head to the northern region because it is far more beautiful, there is more to see, and the temperatures are more pleasant whereas in the southern region, you see few people.

Now, if you head to the central region of the Andes Mountains, the weather tends to be more on the mild side since it is a neutral location. This too is a beautiful part of the mountain range to visit. Interestingly, the Puya Raimondii, which is the largest herb on the planet, grows in the central region, surviving and flourishing at elevations of 13,000 feet above sea level. In fact, this particular herb has been growing in this are for the past century. With this, the leaves grow out from one stem, which means the moisture can run from the leaves to the plant's base so during drought, the plant easily survives.

You will find that a large number of the plants growing in the Andes stay small, which is their natural process for conserving needed energy. Therefore, you will often find plants that are stiff but strong so they can handle cold weather and frost. In addition to plants, the Andes Mountains are also home to many different species of birds. For example, you will find the Condor, Flamingo, Hillstar Hummingbird, and Andean Flicker. Then, there is magnificent wildlife such as the Red Perll, Llamas, the Mountain Lion, the Speckled Bear, Andean Iguana, and the Giant Toad.

Unfortunately, with too much logging, some areas of the Andes Mountains have experienced terrible destruction. With that, the animals have lost shelter and food. Then when you add in the fact that more and more people are now mining for gold, silver, and copper, the soil in some areas has become eroded, this time damaging plants. Even with these challenges, the Andes Mountains are spectacular.

Now, while many areas of the Andes Mountains are perfectly safe for traveling, some areas of South America are considered dangerous due to drug problems and guerilla activity. However, if you work with a reputable and skilled guide, and follow information provided by your travel agent, you will do find. Once there, you will be amazed at how beautiful this area of the world is, simply a slice of heaven waiting to be explored.

Carnaval

The carnival is a celebration that is seen throughout South America, with festivities somewhat unique from country to country. For four days, starting on a Saturday and ending on Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras), you will have the most amazing time imaginable. As an example, in Rio de Janeiro, the carnival occurs at the peak time during the summer months. Literally thousands of people come from around the globe to watch and participate in the festivities.

Although the origin of this carnival is unknown, most experts agree the event started as some type of pagan celebration somewhere in Greece or Rome. Carnival balls were introduced from Italy in the late 19th century although they were at their most popular from 1930 through the 1950s. In fact, two of the most famous of these balls include those held at the Municipal Theater and the Copacabana Palace.

In addition, during the 1930s the Samba Parade began where it eventually settled at the Sambodrome in the downtown area, in 1984. The Samba is of West African heritage that consists of rhythmic beating of the drums that get your feet moving and soon, dancing. All along the parade route will be Escola dancers displaying their talent to the beat of the Samba drums.

Although the Samba Parade is a major part of the carnival festivities, there are many other things going on. For instance, you can get involved with Banda de Ipanema, which was founded in 1964 and draws in more than 15,000 people. When celebrating the carnival in Brazil, the Portuguese tradition is called Entrudo, which involves throwing flower and mud at unsuspecting spectators. The streets are flooded with all types of colorful parades, some that compete against each other.

Remember, different countries and cities have their own unique style of the carnival. Take Salvador for example, there the music is provided by groups known as Trios Electricos. The sound and volume is so intense that it can almost be deafening. Then in Recife, the music style is called Frevo, and in Bahia, you hear music that sounds more like religious tunes called Afoxe.

If you plan to go watch the proceedings of the Carnival while in South America, we highly recommend that you dress in comfortable clothing and most importantly, blend in. Remember, if you look like a tourist, you will have flour and mud thrown on you. Therefore, the more casual you can dress the better. Additionally, because the crowds are so large, there are unfortunately some pickpockets so keep anything of value at home or at the hotel.

Colombia

Colombia is a magnificent place that offers rainforests, beaches, mountain ranges, beautiful cities, and warm, inviting people. Although there are many incredible places in the world, Colombia deserves to rank near or at the top. Unfortunately, ongoing cocaine cartels and guerilla war has put a damper on travel and even given Colombia the nickname "Locombia", which translates to "mad country."

Sadly, still today an average of 3,000 people are abducted, most being officials. However, this violence has even extended to innocent backpackers out for an adventure to discover the backcountry. Even so, by staying within the safe zones in the major cities and tourist areas, and avoiding the parts of Colombia known for danger, you can travel there to enjoy the country's beauty and rich culture. We recommend you pay attention to any travel news and/or alerts, and work with a reputable travel agent who will steer you in the right direction.

To ensure your safety, remember that travel to the urban areas by any means of transportation is considered highly dangerous. Additionally, when visiting Colombia, do not take or wear any expensive jewelry or clothing, leave high priced cameras, shoes, and purses at home, stay away from any type of public gatherings or crowds, and use the local police only if absolutely necessary in that many have reputations for being two-sided. Finally, regarding safety, if you were approached by a stranger offering to sell you a drink or cigarettes, never accept them as they could be laced with a soporific drug called Borrachero.

In the early years, you would see scattered pockets of various cultures to include the Muisca, Quimbaya, San Agustin, Sinu, Tayrona, and Tierradentro. Many of these tribes were highly skilled in making pottery and gold work. In fact, through years of excavations, some of these treasures have been uncovered in burial chambers, along with magnificent rock paintings, giving us a better glimpse of life in the early, pre-Colombia times.

In 1499, a companion of Christopher Columbus named Alonso de Ojeda came to the Guajira Peninsula, which was the beginning of some of the largest number of expeditions. When the Spaniards arrived, they were merely tolerated by the Indians but when slavery began and land was confiscated, the Indians rebelled. Interestingly, much of modern day Colombia was conquered by the Spanish and in 1544, Colombia was incorporated into Peru. However, in 1739, Colombia split from Peru, becoming a part of the New Granada.

The Spanish took more than land and the Indian's freedom, they also took over the commerce and taxes, which during the 18th century, led to a huge protest. During this time, autonomy occurred but not until 1819 was independence won. Even with this incredible victory, unrest continued over the years between the Liberals and Conservatives. Violence in Colombia had rose to an all-time high by 1990 due to the establishment of paramilitary death squads and the powerful drug cartels. However, the head of the Medellin cocaine cartel was captured in 1991 and a year later escaped but when found, he was assassinated.

One of the greatest challenges of Colombia today is the continuing unrest associated with drug trafficking. This internal conflict has placed this country among the 10 bloodiest places in the entire world. Keep in mind that while this country has struggled from the beginning, there are still wonderful people who want desperately to take back control. In fact, in an effort to help, the United States approved $1.3 billion in aid to support the government in winning the war against the drug cartels and guerrillas.

Again, if you stay within the safe zones, Colombia has much to offer, which includes a number of different ethnic groups that bring with them fabulous cultures, arts, and folklore. As the fourth largest country in all of South America yet the only one that has coastlines on both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, this is a remarkable country with extreme diversity. Colombia borders with Panama to the northwest, Brazil to the southeast, Venezuela to the east, Peru to the south, and then Ecuador to the southwest.

You will notice that the western regions of Colombia are mountainous, with the Cordillera de los Andes running the entire length of South America, some 5,000 miles. In addition to the beautiful mountains, there are two valleys called Valle del Magdalena and Valle del Cauca. Then when you reach the territory to the east of the Andes, you will find that more than 50% is lowland covered with dense rainforest where rivers meander through.

Another interesting fact about Colombia is that this country has the highest number of animals and plants per unit area of any other country on the planet. For example, you would commonly see deer, armadillo, peccaries, tapirs, and jaguars, although numerous species of monkeys and bears also live in this country. In addition, more than 1,550 species of birds live in Colombia that ranges from the small hummingbird to the massive Andean condor. Marine life is also incredible with more than 130,000 classified plants. With 33 national parks, you can imagine the beauty.

Colombia is also very close to the equator, which means temperatures vary little. Now, as you climb high into the mountain regions, you will notice that for every 1,000 feet, the temperature will drop between five and seven degrees. Even so, this country offers no real universal seasonal pattern. While visiting Colombia, you can enjoy many things from festivals to sightseeing to dancing to eating incredible food. The fish is fantastic, as is the snorkeling and diving, all favorite pastimes of the locals. Again, just stay with educated guides or within the constraints of safe territory and you will have a magnificent time while in Colombia.

The Brazilian Carnival

The Brazilian Carnival is an annual celebration, celebrated forty days before Easter (marking the start of Lent), in Brazil. It has some differences from its counterparts in Europe, as well there being variations across the large Brazilian territory. The Brazilian Carnival is known in Brazil simply as "carnaval".

Despite the Catholic inspiration, Brazilian Carnival is celebrated more as a profane feast than a religious event. Its origins are European, by a kind of carnival called Introito (Latin for entrance). The entrudo, as it was known in Brazil, could have been characterized mainly as a joke: to throw water (and later, other things) in other people, to "purify the body". The entrudo was prohibited, without success, in middle of the 19th Century, as it was considered violent by the upper classes (it is told that many people died from infections and other diseases, since even rotten fruits were sometimes thrown).

In the late 19th Century, the cordões (literally "laces" in Portuguese) were introduced in Rio de Janeiro, which consisted of groups of people that would walk on the streets playing music and dancing. The cordões were ancestors of the modern samba's school.

The blocos (blocks), another name for the cordões, are some of the current representations of the popular Brazilian Carnival. They are formed by people who dress in costumes according to certain themes, or to celebrate the carnival in specific ways. The schools of samba are truly organizations that work all year in order to prepare themselves for the samba schools parade.

The most international known festivity in Brazilian Carnival takes place in Rio de Janeiro, with its samba schools, blocos and bandas that occupy entire neighborhoods. In some cities of the Northeastern Region, such as Salvador, there is another form of the Brazilian Carnival: the Trio Elétrico. A trio elétrico is an adapted truck, with giant speakers and a platform where musicians play songs of local genres such as Axé music and Maracatu.

During the Carnival, a fat man is elected to represent the role of Rei Momo, the "king" of Carnival, whose rule is one of fun instead of that of everyday authorities.

Brazil

For more than five centuries, Brazil has been a place of escape, a literal tropical paradise unlike any other place in South America. From the depths of the Amazon to the colorful celebrations, Brazil has and still is a land of mystery and intrigue. The Brazilian Indians were known for developing a very, centralized civilization. However, with the rough terrain of the jungle and the challenge of the humid and hot weather, very little was left behind for future generators to study. Even so, the few things that have been found include shell mounds, pottery, and even skeletons, each providing a small glimpse into the lives of these aboriginals.

Experts estimate that this first community within Brazil lived some six million years ago. Interestingly, today less than 100,000 people live in the jungle areas of Brazil, most deep into the interior where they are hard to reach and even harder to connect to. By 1500, a man by the name of Pedro Alvares Cabral sailed with 13 ships and 1,200 crewmembers from Lisbon to India. However, they accidentally arrived on the Brazilian coast close to today's Porto Seguro. The interesting thing is that some people believe this was their intended target all along but regardless, the discovery was reported back to the King Joao III of Portugal who in 1531 sent the first settlers to this new country.

By 1534, with worry that other European countries would come, the coast was divided into 15 hereditary captaincies, all given to friends of the Crown. Over time and through various attempts, it was discovered that the land of Brazil was perfect for growing sugar cane. To meet the high demands of labor, the Indian population was enslaved, although many resisted. Soon, one of the most lucrative trades for the Brazilians was the sale of salves. These poor Indians were hunted down like animals in the interior and by the mid-1600s, they had been pushed as far as the Peruvian Andes in an attempt to avoid being captured.

Unfortunately, with the control of slaves and the exploits of the Brazilians, a large part of the interior of South American had gone over to Portuguese Brazil. From that time until the 17th century, the Indian slaves were replaced with African slaves who also resisted. Finding they were not nearly as vulnerable to European diseases, they were a better choice but even so, they too lived short lives. Soon, a community of runaway slaves called Ouilombos was created, which usually consisted of small groups that would hide deep in the forest.

Then in the late 17th century, another discovery was made in Brazil - gold. Once word leaked out, people came from all around, flooding the Brazilians and Portuguese. To help work the mines for gold, many African slaves were forced to dig, often dying in the mines through such long hours and harsh labor. Marching into Lisbon in 1807 was Napoleon Bonaparte and just two days after invading, Prince Regent, the Portuguese prince who one-day would become Dom Joao IV, left for Brazil. Arriving in Rio de Janeiro, the country of Brazil soon became the only New World colony serving as a European monarch seat.

The prince's son, Pedro, was left behind but when his father returned in 1822, the son drew his sword, and cried out, "independence or death". Prince Regent was a tired man and too weary to fight with his son, Brazil became an independent empire with no man ever losing his life. By the 19th century, a new crop was discovered, coffee, which soon replaced sugar cane as the primary export. Before long, coffee plantations were everywhere, again with slaves used for doing the hard labor. However, in 1888 when slavery was abolished, the work was taken over by European immigrants eager to work the estates.

Unfortunately, Brazil's economy had weakened by 1929. With the government getting their hands into the plantations, opposition arose. However, trying to win the Liberal Election in 1930, they lost at which time the military took power, creating a new leader in Getulio Vargas. Although he remained in office for 24 years, he was forced out of office in 1954. From that time forward, changes were made and the economy began to rebuild. New leadership was appointed, land reform was established, education improved, and other changes were made but even so, many of the Brazilians today remain exceedingly poor.

When visiting Brazil, you will notice the vast diversity, one of the many things that make this such as fascinating country. One of the aspects of this country that pulls the diversity together is the love of music. For example, you will hear the Samba. Although it was at its greatest in the 1930s, the Samba is again a popular genre. A newer form of music hailing from the Caribbean is the Lambada, a beautiful, sensual rhythm that has become internationally popular. Literature is also an important part of the Brazilian culture, with many famous writers having written journals and books about the life of slavery.

However, when in Brazil, the greatest treat is the food. The people here live on Arroz, which is white rice, Feilao, black beans, Farinha, manioc flour, coupled with fish, chicken, or beef, usually a thick, juicy steak. Other dishes to try include Moqueca, a mouth-watering seafood stew that has been specially flavored with coconut milk and dende oil. Then there is okra and a variety of other vegetables mixed with onions, peppers, and shrimp, truly a magnificent dish. Other favorites include Feioada, bean, and meat stew, and Acaraje, which are beans that have been mashed with salt and onions, fried in the dende oil, and finally filed with manioc paste, dried shrimp, seafood, tomato sauce, and pepper - truly delicious.

As the largest country in the world, Brazil takes up about 50% of South America. This country borders Ecuador and Chile, and is a densely populated country. What you find there is four distinct regions that include the Atlantic seaboard, or the coastal ranges, the highland known as Planalto Brasileiro, the great depressions to the south with beautiful forest areas, scrubland, and low woods, and then finally, the massive Amazon Basin to the north, comprised of dense forest. Because of its diversity, you will enjoy the richness of the culture, which is seen in the architecture, the food, the dress, the festivals, and the people.

Bolivia

Bolivia is often referred to as the Tibet of the Americas, being the most isolated and highest of all Latin American republics. In addition, Bolivia is the most indigenous country on the continent, with more than 50% of the current population holding on dearly to their traditional culture. Sadly, Bolivia is also among the poorest of all South American countries but even so, there is richness in the history and culture. Best of all, this country boasts some of the most breathtaking Andean landscapes imaginable.

All of this coupled with the remnants of ancient civilizations, you would have to agree when you visit that this destination is actually a rich country, full of pride, adventure, and incredible things to do and see. Historians believe that civilization of this country dates back some 21,000 years. Of all eras, probably the Pre-Columbian were the most influential. For example, the Tiahuanaco people who lived on and around Lake Titicaca ruled from 600 to 1200 AD. Then, the Incas came, setting up a vast empire that consisted of Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, and the northern part of Chile.

By 1531, the Spanish conquest was going strong, under the leadership of a man called Francisco Pizarro. Very quickly, the conquistadors had used the trust of the Indians, securing territory that would become known as Alto Peru. By 1544, a new discovery was made in silver. This helped boost the Spanish economy for more than 200 years but with the mining conditions being extremely hard, the majority of the enslaved Indian and African slaves died. Although Bolivia had been trying to gain independence for many years, it would not come until 1824 when Lieutenant Antonio Jose de Sucre fought in the Battle of Ayacucho. Just one year later, the country was formally declared its own republic.

After that, the territory of Bolivia quickly expanded. However, Chile wanted more land than it was given, leading to the War of the Pacific that lasted from 1879 to 1884. Chile came out the winner, claiming 527 miles of coastline, along with the Port of Antofagasta. Unfortunately, other countries to include Brazil, Peru, and Argentina followed suite, started chipping away at Bolivia's land and by 1943, a huge border dispute erupted with Paraguay over oil deposits. That led to the Chaco War from 1932 to 1935, which created a tremendous amount of unrest and the change of reform-minded military leaders.

However, probably the most impacting development for Bolivia came in the form of the populist Movimiento Nacionalista Revolucionarario, known more often as MNR. Under the leadership of Victor Paz Estenssoro in 1951, the MNR provoked an armed revolt that we know as the April Revolution of 1952. Although Bolivia's military was defeated, in 1964, the MNR had been overthrown and in 1985, Estenssoro was defeated. Today, the country is beginning to strengthen although unemployment remains extremely low. The only serious challenge currently being faced is that Bolivia has a bad reputation for growing cocaine, which has hurt ties with the United States.

However, most areas of Bolivia are safe, as long as you stay within the right zones and pay attention to your guide's advice. When visiting this beautiful country, you will enjoy wonderful music, which is at the heart of the Bolivian people. Interestingly, the sounds you hear are regional so when in the Andes, you would hear an almost haunting type of music, specifically in the Altiplano area whereas other areas such as Tarija have a lighter sound. To go along with the music are incredible dances. The Cueca, Tinku, and Auqui-auqui are all popular culture forms of dance that have changed very little over the past 3,000 years.

Of the people living in Bolivia, most speak Spanish although other languages include Aymara, which is the Altiplano language, or Quechua, the Incan language. The food in Bolivia is simply delicious. Most dishes come with meat, shredded lettuce, rice, and potatoes. However, to spice up any dish, a favorite type of hot sauce made from pepper pods and tomatoes is wonderful, called Llajhua. To wash down the food, most people drink wine, Bolivian beer, or a serious type of maize liquor!

Nestled between several countries to include Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, and Paraguay, Bolivia is still the fifth largest country in all of South America. The regions are divided in fifths. First, you have the Altiplano, a densely populated area that features an 11,460-foot plateau stretching from the border of Peru north of Lake Titicaca and south to the border of Argentina, and the highlands, where you will enjoy the best climate. Then, you have the Yungas, which is actually a transition zone laying between the cold peaks of the Andes and the hot and humid Amazon rainforest. Next is Chaco, which is an uninhabited plain with hot, humid temperatures running along the Argentina and Paraguay borders. Finally, there are the underdeveloped savannas, scrubland, swampland, and rainforest of the Amazon Basin.

As a whole, the country of Bolivia is sparsely populated. Because of this, it is also one of the best places in all of South America for wildlife. For instance, it is common to see llama, jaguar, vicuna, anteater, tapir, alpaca, bear, turtle, alligator, capybara, condor, and rhea. You will also find a wide range of climates because of the diversity of the land. Typically, Bolivia stays more on the cool side with periods of rain usually from November to March. The colder cities include Potosi and La Paz while the region of Altiplano gets the most rain.

The people of Bolivia are very religions, often celebrating an Indian or Christian god, saint, or important political event. With this, you will find the country celebrating with a number of festivals such as the Fiesta de la Vifgen de Candelaria, which is a festival in honor of the virgin. Lasting a full week, you will enjoy food, drink, dancing, music, and many uninhibited people. Another exciting festival is the Festividad de Nuestro Senor Jesus del Gran Poder, which is held in May and June to honor Jesus Christ.

The country of Bolivia has much to offer visitors. You can enjoy some of the more popular areas such as La Paz, Lake Titicaca, definitely something to see, Sorata, and Cochabamba, or if you prefer, head to some of the more challenging areas to include Salar De Uyini, Laguna Colorada, and San Vicente, the place where the famous Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid lost their final battle. The scenery is magnificent and the people inviting.

Argentina

The word, "Argentina" conjures up all kinds of thoughts, mostly of colorful costumes, sexy tango, Evita, gauchos, and romance. Although these are all attributes of a beautiful country, Argentina is also a country with a declining economy and unstable government. Even so, the mystic and romance of this country remains while boasting numerous cultural attractions and natural wonders. To the north, you will find vast deserts, the Iguazu Falls, which are truly magnificent, and an incredible and varied geography. For example, while in Argentina, you could travel to the capital city of Buenos Aires, a sophisticated area that is actually quite westernized or venture deep into tropical rainforests.

This country tucked into the shadows of the Andes Mountains is considered a safe destination for tourist travelers and an affordable place to visit. During the pre-Colombian days, Argentina was a farming community where sedentary Indians lived and hunted. Although the Spanish tried to invade the country, the Indians held strong to their resistance. Today, Buenos Aires is a bustling, successful city but it was not established until 1580. Even then, it remained a quiet place for about 200 years.

Then, with the Indian populations spread out and not enough work, huge cattle ranches were created, which are called Haciendas. With this, the legendary Gaucho (Argentina cowboy) would be formed. By 1776, Buenos Aires became Rio de la Plata's capital, which showed that the domination of Spain was getting old and bothersome. Still unhappy with the interference seen by Spain, the revolution of 1810 began, which would eventually lead to Argentina's independence in 1816.

As the 20th century rolled around, things continued to change, moving to new leadership. However, from 1976 to 1983, Argentina underwent what is known as the "Dirty War". With this death squads operated, which resulted in 10,000 to 30,000 people disappearing. The best-known victims, called Madres de la Plaza de Maya, tried to keep public vigils for those whose mysteriously disappeared. With continuing internal conflict, the battle for the Malvinas and Falklands erupted. The result was hysteria in both countries, causing a British flotilla to sail around the world to save remaining areas of the map, although small.

While the British were able to stake claim on some of the land, the true ownership of the Malvinas is still today disputed. Interestingly, the Argentine foreign minister offered to buy the islands in 1995, offering each of the 2,000 islanders $800,000 in United States money but with the British believing that oilfields were located just offshore, more fighting is likely. Since that time, Argentina has undergone many leadership changes, economic struggles, and a prolonged recession.

However, when you visit Argentina today, in spite of the ongoing struggles of these people, you cannot help but feel overwhelmed by the beauty seen all around. For example, the country is permeated with magnificent art and architecture, and the lifestyle is festive and inviting. However, literature is strong in Argentina with many famous writers being born from this country. With such an interest in cultural trends, you will find wonderful art galleries and museums dotting the country, along with a lively theater district.

Even with such a stronghold of the arts, dance is what most people think of when they travel to Argentina, specifically the tango. This particular dance captures the minds and imagination of lovers from around the world. Sensual, the tango is regarded as one of the best dances in the world. However, you will also find folk music on the rise. In addition to music and dance, soccer is also a favorite pastime of Argentina, with the country taking the coveted World Cup in 1976 and again in 1986.

Most of the locals speak Spanish although the immigrants will also speak their native tongue. In addition, Italian, although not widely spoken, is understood. In all, 17 languages are used by the people of Argentina, some that include Guarani, Matacos, Quechua, and Tobas. Now, if you want to enjoy a steak, no place on the planet will you taste beef anything like that in Argentina. Favorite dishes include Parrillada, which are mixed grills but keep in mind that many times, every part of the animal will be used to include the udders, intestines, and so on. For dessert, the Helado, which is ice cream, is incredible.

Most people are surprised by the vastness of Argentina but considering that it is the eighth largest country in the world and the second largest in South America, it should come as no surprise. To the west of Argentina, you will find Chile, which is separated by the Andean Cordilleras range. Then to the north are Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The openness and mass land is so amazing and so diverse.

The way you look at this country is in four distinct provinces. These include the Andes to the west, the fertile lowland to the north, central Pampas, and then Patagonia. The interesting thing is that each of these regions is different. For instance, the Andes are comprised of grape-filled foothills and glacial mountains, the lowland is subtropical rainforest, the Pampas is both dry and humid land, and Patagonia offers glacial regions along with pastoral steppes.

If you enjoy the outdoor activities, then you will love the 20 national parks where protected wildlife live. Some of the animals in these areas include the Caiman, Puma, Rhea, Andean Condor, Flamingo, Penguins, and more. Of course, the rainforests features colorful birds, monkeys, and other fascinating animals. While this country is colorful and full of life, Argentina offers very few festivals. Regardless, to experience South America and all its beauty, Argentina is an ideal place to start.

San Jose Costa Rica

San José

San José is the capital and largest city of the nation of Costa Rica. It is also the capital of San José Province.

San José is located in the center of the country. It is on a mountain plateau at an elevation of about 4,000 feet above sea level. In 1997 the city had an estimated population of 329,154 people: the latter half of the 20th century was a period of rapid growth for the city, considering that in 1950 its population was a mere 86,900.

History

San José was a small village of little significance until 1824. In that year, Costa Rica's first elected head of state, liberal Juan Mora Fernández, decided to move the government of Costa Rica from the Old Spanish colonial capital of Cartago and make a fresh start with a new city. This was a time of much optimism in the newly independent nation of Central America, of which Costa Rica was at that time a state (see: History of Central America). The new capital of San José grew rapidly. Because of its late 18th century origin, San José has little of the Spanish colonial architecture common in most other Latin American capitals.

The University of Costa Rica was established here in 1843. San José also serves as the headquarters of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. Since then, it has grown rapidly and extended in the Central Valley. Along with Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago and other cities, the population reached 1.57 million in 2004, number 76 in the list of largest cities in the Americas. The cities of Heredia, Alajuela and San José are very close to each other. The Juan Santamaría International Airport and the Palacio de los Deportes are located in the metropolitan area, GAM San José.

Important places in the city include the Banco Central de Costa Rica, La Sabana Metropolitan Park, Avenida Central (which is one of the major commercial areas in the city). The Central Park and la Plaza de la Cultura are visited by thousands of workers and tourists every day. The Melico Salazar Theater (National Theatre) and the Cathedral are landmarks in the central area. In the south, the Clínica Bíblica (a private hospital) and the Pacific Train Station are important buildings.

Attractions

In San Jose there are many museums and attractions offering a different alternative to explore the city. One of these is the gold museum offering a rare look at the different gold artifacts of ancient Latin American civilizations. A second interesting attraction for the less adventurous is the Lancaster Botanical Gardens just outside of San Jose. A third famous Costa Rican location is the Hotel and Casino del Ray, which is a famous hotel in the heart of San Jose with the famous Blue Marlin Bar inside.

San Salvador

San Salvador is the capital of El Salvador.

The origins of the city can be traced to before the Spanish Conquest. It is near the present location of San Salvador that the Pipil tribes, descendants of the Aztecs in Mexico, established their capital, Cuzcatlán. Not very much is known about this city, since its inhabitants abandoned it in an effort to avoid Spanish rule.

Although the city was founded in the 16th century, it was rebuilt and changed location twice afterwards. Originally founded in what is now the colonial town of Suchitoto, north of the present-day city, it was moved to the Valle de Las Hamacas (literally Valley of the Hammocks due to the intense seismic activity that characterizes it), which boasted more space and more fertile land, thanks to the pristine Acelhuate River (sadly, it is now extremely polluted). As the population of the country remained relatively small up until the early 20th century, the city grew slowly. It became somewhat of a tourist attraction during the early 20th century as it was considered a beautiful city: with a population of approximately 30,000 it was small, spacious, and clean.

Today, San Salvador is a modern city. The city proper has a population of about half a million, and covers an area of approximately 75 square kilometers. The explosive growth during and after the war created a metropolitan area (the AMSS, Area Metropolitana de San Salvador) that is administered as a whole. The AMSS covers an area of approximately 610 square kilometers and has a population of about 2.1 million.

The Pan-American Highway runs through the city, connecting it with other urban areas in Central America and the United States. San Salvador is also the overall transportation and economic hub of the nation, since it is home to one third of the population and one half of the country's wealth.

The city's modern downtown area has many high-rise buildings, but very few of the historic landmarks remain, due to the earthquakes that have hit the city since its founding in 1525 by Spanish Conquistador Pedro de Alvarado. Today, the city produces beer, tobacco products, textiles, and soaps.

San Salvador is a large city whose population is starkly divided between the wealthy and impoverished. The wealthier neighborhoods of Escalón, Ciudad Merliot and San Benito boast luxury shops (some of the largest malls in Central America, including the largest shopping mall in Central America, Metrocentro), five-star hotels, tree lined avenues and beautiful, well-guarded mansions. However, most of the other neighborhoods in Apopa and Soyapango, among others, are hot, dusty and overcrowded, and are plagued by skyrocketing crime rates.

While the city is relatively wealthy compared to the rest of the country (per capita GDP is approximately USD $6000, compared to a national average of approximately $2300), poverty is one of its major problems. Pollution is also a major problem, with San Salvador considered the most polluted city in Central America (although far from the extremes of Mexico City).

The city has suffered from severe earthquakes over the years, the most disastrous of which occurred in 1854. Also worthy of mentioning is the 1917 eruption of the San Salvador volcano, which resulted in three major earthquakes and damaged the city so extensively that the government was forced to move the capital to the present-day city of Santa Tecla, then named Nueva San Salvador. The most recent Earthquake, in 2001, resulted in considerable damage, especially in Las Colinas suburb where a landslide destroyed most of Las Colinas. During the 1980s, conflicts in El Salvador erupted into a civil war, and many people fled to the city since most of the fighting occurred outside of it (San Salvador itself was not directly affected by the war until the final offensive of 1989).

Costa Rican Coffee

The cultivation of coffee is a leading industry in Costa Rica, and has long been a source of prosperity. It was begun a hundred years ago; a few plants having been brought from New Granada, and the first trial being successful, it has rapidly extended. All the coffee is grown in the plain of San Jose, where the three principal towns are situated—about two-thirds being produced in the environs of the capital, a fourth in those of Hindia, and the remainder at Alhajuela, and its vicinity. The land which has been found by experience to be best suited to coffee is a black loam, and the next best, a dark-red earth--soils of a brown and dull yellow color being quite unsuitable. The plain of San Jose is mostly of the first class, being, like all the soils of Central America, formed with a large admixture of volcanic materials. Contrary to the experience of Java and Arabia, coffee is here found to thrive much better, and produce a more healthy and equal berry on plain land, than upon hills, or undulating slopes, which doubtless arises from the former retaining its moisture better, and generally containing a larger deposit of loam. Click here to read more.

The jaguar

The jaguar, or as he is sometimes called, the American tiger, is the largest and most ferocious of the cat family found on this continent. Some jaguars have been seen equal in size to the Asiatic tiger; but in most cases the American, animal is smaller. He is strong enough, however, to drag a horse or an ox to his den—sometimes to a long distance; and this feat has been frequently observed.

The jaguar is found in all the tropical parts of North and South America. While he bears a considerable likeness to the tiger, both in shape and habits, the markings of his skin are quite different. Instead of being striped like the tiger, the skin of the jaguar is beautifully spotted. Each spot resembles a rosette, and consists of a black ring with a single dark-colored spot in the middle. Click here to read more.

Guatemala

Guatemala has a long history of being a thriving fishing and farming community that can be dated back to 2000 BC, even before the Maya civilization dominated Central America. During the Early Classic period around AD 250, many magnificent temple cities were constructed in the Guatemalan highlands. However, by the Late Classic period, from AD 600 to 900, the primary power had moved to the lowlands of El Peten. However, after the mysterious demise of the Mayans, the Itzaes settled in El Peten.

Interestingly, many of the Mayan ruins were discovered when Pedro de Alvarado came to this country for the King of Spain in 1523. However, the kingdoms remaining in the highlands were crushed by Alvarado’s armies, lands turned into large estates, and the people exploited by the new property owners. Then friars of Dominican, Augustinian, and Franciscan arrived but they were unable to stop the exploitation. Sadly, the religious imperialism they brought with them was the cause of many valuable traces of the Mayan culture to be demolished. Click here to read more.

Volcanoes of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a place with pristine beaches, blue water, warm, sunny days, abundant fish life, and welcoming people. Interestingly, many people are not aware that Costa Rica is also home to 200 plus volcanic formations, dating back 65 million years! Of these, seven are active, which is related to the fertile soil.

Over the years, eruptions from these seven volcanoes have left massive destruction. Irazu is the highest volcano in Costa Rica while Poas is the second widest, which measures almost one mile in diameter, and Arenal is the most active. In 1963, Irazu erupted, spewing ash over San Jose and other areas for two years. The amount of ash that fell was so significant rooftops were covered with five inches while people had to walk around with a cloth to their face in order to breathe. Click here to read more.