South America
"The Land of Ecological Diversity and Ethnic Multiplicity"
South America Tourism
South America consists of Argentina, Aruba, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Caribbean Netherlands, Colombia, Curacao, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, French Guinea, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela. There are a million reasons to visit South America. It has a very unique cuisine, a rich history, beautiful people, breathtaking landcapes, adventurous treks, exotic wildlife, and most importantly warm - hearted people.
Top Places In South America
Top Countries In South America
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Holidify's Opinion
What's Great?
Natural beauty. Unique cuisines. Exotic wildlife.
What's Not So Great?
Pickpockets. Sanitation.
For Whom?
Nature lovers. Adventure seekers. History enthusiasts.
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Details of South America
About places in South America
Every country in South America can give you many reasons to visit. Take a trip to Brazil if you want to drink a heavenly cup of coffee. This country is also the owner of the world's largest beach along with 20 UNESCO world heritage sites. Enjoy the beaches and mountains at one of the most ethnically diversed countries: Venezuela. Argentina is famous for its wine, wilderness and grilled meat. Peru is home to the ancient city of Machu Picchu which is the most visited tourist attraction in South America. Sheer beauty lies in the coral reefs of Columbia. It is also famous for its arts , national parks, and cathedrals. There are many places to visit in Chile including the atacama desert, the world's largest swimming pool, and the adventurous mountain slopes where people can ski. It is also an ideal place for star gazing, white water rafting, and surfing. In order to have a relaxing vacation in perfect weather, visit Ecuador. It has a vibrant nightlife and a unique cuisine. Those who like to travel rugged can visit the Cotopaxi volcano. Immerse yourself in the country's history or its fine wine as Bolivia will not leave you disappointed. It has some beautiful landcapes and some of the most pumping festivals.
Stay Option in South America
South America offers plenty of places to stay ranging from five stars offering luxury accommodation that can be found in the larger cities to budget hotels that provide basic facilities. If you're looking for a cheaper option there are many hostels in this region. Another low cost option would be staying with a family. There are many camp sites where you can stay if you're in a camping area.
Food in South America
South America has a very unique cuisine which has been influenced by European, African, and Asian cuisines. Some of the common ingredients of South American dishes include corn, lima beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes, chilly peppers, avocados, queso fresco, yuca, and quinoa. Some of the meats of this region include guinea pig and alpaca. Although one would also find chicken, fish, and beef. Corn beer and Pisco sour are some of the popular drinks consumed in South America.
Culture, Religion & Language of South America
South American culture is a combination of its own native culture with influences from the European, African, and North American culture. Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion. Although, in some countries you will also find Protestants with a Hindu and Muslim minority. The two major languages of South America are Portugese and Spanish. English is spoken in certain locations to accomodate the needs of the tourists. However, majority of the general public doesn't speak English so it is best to learn a few basic phrases.
Tips for visiting South America
Do some research on the country you're travelling to and stay away from dangerous areas at night. Be cautious of the food and beverages you consume. Make copies of your travel documents. Learn some basic phrases.
Shopping in South America
Some of the common things tourists purchase include local handicrafts, cotton, wood, leather goods, woollen blankets, travel bags, hand embroidered clothes, panama hats, weavings, balsa wood models, straw hats, clay goblets, baskets, jewelry, bows and arrows, and hammocks.
Festivals in South America
The event that every South American waits for is the Rio Carnival. With over 200 Samba schools competing, this festival of music, dance, costumes, and food brings out the jovial and vivacious side of Brazil. If you're in Peru, you'll definately want to stop by the Inca's festival. It is a multi-day festival in the honor of the deity Inca, containing dancing, animal sacrifices and oppulent processions and elaborate meals. Some cultures in South America have the custom of keeping keepsakes of their dead ones such as their skulls. On some special occassions, these keepsakes are decorated and brought out. Processions are made to the cemetry where flowers, food and other offerings are made to the dead. In Bolivia, people dig out the skulls of their ancestors and decorate them. It is a rather sacred and event which would appeal to the more gothic loving tourists. Those who love dancing shouldn't miss the tango dance festival held in Buenos Aries, where dancers from across the continent gather to perform.
Hygiene in South America
Before you travel, make sure to be up-to-date on routine vaccines including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. Besides that, get vaccinated for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid and Rabies.Diseases like Typhoid and Diarrhoea are an occurence, so make good food and beverage choices. Make sure to only drink bottled water.
Customs of South America
Make sure to pay attention to your fashion choices while you're in South America. It is best to have a formal and upscale apparel. Put some effort into grooming while going out. It is customary to be 15 - 30 minutes late on social gatherings. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. 5% - 10% tip is appropriate for restaurants. You should leave a small tip for your tour guide and the hotel staff as well.