One visit to Rio de Janeiro and you know. The nickname A Cidade Maravilhosa is more than apropos.

10. Copacabana Beach

Geography, as much as culture, plays a vital role in the indelible allure of Rio de Janeiro. Whether on New Year’s Eve, when millions gather to celebrate and samba, or for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, Copacabana Beach proves that without a coastline, there is no Rio.

9. Rio de Janeiro Cathedral

The Catedral de Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro, or simply Rio de Janeiro Cathedral, is one of the most unusual religious landmarks in the world. Four massive rectilinear stained glass windows grace the cathedral walls, with room for up to 20,000 worshipers.

8. Museu Nacional de Belas Artes

Rio de Janeiro’s Museu Nacional de Belas Artes is a spectacular fine arts museum. One of the best in South America, let alone Brazil, the museum has been a prominent cultural institution since the early 19th century.

7. National Historical Museum of Brazil

Within a colonial fort that dates back to the late 16th century, the National Historical Museum of Brazil is as impressive on the outside as it is on the inside. The museum is a dream for numismatics, with scores of rare coins on display and more than 300,000 items in total.

6. Teatro Municipal

In a classic example of colonial architecture, the Teatro Municipal is a remarkable landmark in Rio de Janeiro. From a perch over Cinelandia Square, the 1,700-seat theater is quite majestic and features names of prominent Brazilian performers on the outside walls.

5. Candelária Church

Built over a period of more than a century, the Candelária Church is a major monument in Rio de Janeiro. With a legendary history, the church features Baroque, Neoclassical and Neo-Renaissance elements.

4. Estádio do Maracanã

Soccer and Brazil go hand in hand. Home to the best national team and some of the most legendary players the game has ever seen, it behooves any visitor to the country to experience futebol, Brazil-style. In Rio de Janeiro, that means a visit to Estádio Jornalista Mário Filho, more commonly known as Maracanã. A derby match between Flamengo and Fluminense is as indelible a Rio experience as Carnaval.

3. Ipanema

The most famous beach in the world may never be as perfect or idyllic in reality as in the famous song by Antonio Carlos Jobim. Still, as you lay on the sand, take in the exquisite view and hum “The Girl from Ipanema”, you know you can only be in one place. So grab a cachaça, play some footvolley and of course, enjoy the curvy attractions.

2. Jardim Botânico

The Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, or Jardim Botânico, is one of the most famous in the world. The garden dates back to 1808 and was originally not for the public but rather, for use by John VI of Portugal and the colonial rulers. Today, the park is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and contains well over 6,000 types of trees and plants and a wide variety of tropical birds.

1. Christ the Redeemer

One of the most prominent and iconic landmarks in the world, Christ the Redeemer towers over Rio de Janeiro. At over 130 feet tall, the soapstone and concrete monument is a marvel and sits at the peak of Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park.

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The fact of the matter is that Sao Paulo, Brazil’s premier and most important city, is quite manageable when you boil it down. Big? Yes. Millions of people? Sure. But the core of the city, the veritable heart of Sao Paulo, is a tidy collection of superb neighborhoods, landmarks and points of interest. And as always, here are the top ten must-see attractions.

Museum of Art

Paulista Avenue is one of the most vital streets in all of Brazil, let alone Sao Paulo. The vibrant urban artery is a good place to start in the city, namely with the excellent Museum of Art. The facility’s architecture is as much the attraction as the art inside. Modernist architect Lina Bo Bardi drew up the plans for what is now a paramount city landmark.

Sao Paulo Cathedral

A Neo-Gothic masterpiece built in 1967, after decades of work, Sao Paulo Cathedral is immense and spectacular. With capacity for 8,000 people, the interior features incredible marble work and design details.

Bom Retiro and Luz

A central historic district of Sao Paulo rife with notable architecture, Bom Retiro has a lot to offer pedestrians. Start with the terrific Estaçao da Luz and Museum of the Portuguese Language and make your way to Jardim da Luz. If you can score a ticket to see a concert at the Julio Prestes Cultural Center, even better.

Ibirapuera Park

In what could very well be one of the best urban parks in the world, let alone South America, Ibirapuera Park is the place to chill out and take a deep breath in Sao Paulo. The venerable city oasis offers a lot for visitors to see, from the Museum of Contemporary Art and Obelisk of Sao Paulo to Ibirapuera Auditorium, the brainchild of design wizard Oscar Niemeyer.

Vila Olimpia

For nightlife fun in Sao Paulo, head to the Vila Olimpia ‘hood. This is where all the action is between sunset and sunrise. From dive bars and live music to ultra-swish dance clubs, Vila Olimpia has it all.

Edifício Itália

Mid-20th century design aesthetics may not be able to hold a candle to the modern skyscrapers of today but still, Sao Paulo’s Edifício Itália is tremendous. What makes the 46 story high-rise worthwhile is the rooftop observation deck, with superb views of the city.

Pátio do Colégio

A Jesuit church and school that dates back to the mid-16th century, the Pátio do Colégio is one of the most important heritage landmarks in Sao Paulo. The edifice contains a museum and colonial art exhibit.

Vila Madalena and Pinheiros

Famous for nightlife and a dynamic civic vibe, the Vila Madalena district and Pinheiros borough of Sao Paulo is a definite must-see. Some refer to Pinheiros as the new downtown of the city and with scores of luxury shops, beautiful homes, clubs, restaurants and museums, the wealthy area is a great place to hang out in the city.

Morumbi

Up to 15 km away from downtown Sao Paulo, the Morumbi district of the city is a study in contrasts. Though home to a favela shanty, the area is more famous for the vast amount of real estate wealth it contains. Two worthwhile attractions are the Palácio dos Bandeirantes and Morumbi cemetery, where many make a pilgrimage stop to the grave of former Formula One World Champion Ayrton Senna.

Festivals

Brazil is a country of festivals and in that same spirit, Sao Paulo draws millions every year to a variety of fabulous events. Some of the best include the Sao Paulo Art Biennial, Sao Paulo Gay Pride Parade, Sao Paulo Fashion Week, Sao Paulo International Film Festival and the cream of the crop, Carnival.

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The city is full of incredible statues, monuments, old buildings, and churches. Even the nightlife, complete with clubs, restaurants, bars, are incredibly safe and popular. Some of the country’s most famous comedy artists make their debuts in the clubs throughout Fortaleza. The city offers a myriad of opportunities to visitors willing to open their eyes and look around. Consider adding Fortaleza and the following attractions to your next Brazilian trip agenda.

About Fortaleza, Brazil

Not to be confused with the city of Fortaleza in Puerto Rico, the city of Fortaleza in Brazil serves as the capital of the State of Ceara. The city and its beaches are incredibly popular amongst not only Brazilians but amongst visitors from around the world as well.

The culture in Fortaleza is incredible, the beaches are warm and sunny, and the nightlife is not only enigmatic but is one of the safest you’ll ever experience. The people are friendly and the costs associated with living in (or visiting) Brazil are relatively low compared to most other areas in the world.

The Beaches at Fortaleza

Ceara is one of Brazil’s smallest states but it still has the longest coastline. In Fortaleza you’ll find a collection of urban beaches, each with its own distinct advantages.

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Iracema beach, for example, is a great place for those who identify with the bohemian lifestyle. Visitors to Iracema usually begin to flock towards the sand in the late afternoon or early evening and tend to hang out well into the early morning hours. The beach is lined with night clubs and restaurants, so there are plenty of options for those who need to get away from the sand for a while as well.

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At Mucuripe beach you’ll find a beautiful boardwalk from which you can observe local fisherman and their jangadas. Jangadas are small sail boats used by local fisherman who depend on them to earn their livings each day.

Visit early enough in the morning and you’ll be able to watch the fisherman launch their jangadas into the ocean – it’s a sight to behold.

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The beach at Praia do Futuro, of course, is the best for those looking for a relaxing place to bathe in the ocean or merely sunbathe on the sand. Surfers enjoy the waves on this beach as well and when you aren’t people watching or soaking in the rays you’ll want to check out some of the local barracas – small restaurants built right on the sand.

Local Attractions in Fortaleza

There are, of course, plenty of things to see and visit in Fortaleza aside from the beaches. The cathedrals, monuments, and attractions all speak reams about the history of this incredible city.

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Start your trip with a tour of Fortaleza Cathedral. The cathedral, which was built in 1939, is considered to be the third largest church in all of Brazil. Designed by a French architect by the name of George Mounier, the cathedral took more than 40 years to build and can hold crowds of up to 5,000 people. The cathedral is the property of the Catholic Church and, as such, receives no support or maintenance from the local government.

The Old Iracema Statue is a representation of a character in a novel written by Jose de Alencar. Iracema was the wife of Martim Soares Moreno, the first Portuguese visitor to explore Fortaleza. Iracema became so popular that a statue of her likeness was erected and became one of the most famous landmarks in the city. The artist, however, was a modernist so the thick legs and large breasts on an otherwise small frame are, unfortunately, inaccurate depictions of the woman so many loved. Today you can find both the original statue and a new statue – located about 4 kilometers (just over 2 miles) apart.

At the Fortaleza del Nossa Senhora de Assuncao you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the history of Fortaleza itself. The fortress, whose name translates to “Fort of Our Lady of the Rising,” was built in 1649 and has been refurbished several times throughout history. Here you’ll learn about the formation of the city itself but your access will be very limited. The fort is still actively used by the army.

There are, of course, dozens of restaurants, night clubs, and cultural attractions worth visiting in Fortaleza as well. These beaches and historic sites should get you started on your journey but keep your eyes peeled along the way for other favorites. You’ll be amazed at the treasures this incredible city has in store!

Well, sometimes it really is. Yes, metaphors can be quite apt from time to time. A recent trip to Cape Finisterre (which translates literally as “the end of the world”), in Galicia, Spain, highlighted this point with stunning clarity. Pure geographic fluke and happenstance, as always, proves to be a poweful tourist lure.

Though there’s always another landmass somewhere in the faraway distance, the ultimate or near-ultimate denouement of a particular continent is often cause for celebration, excitement, drama or at the very least, crazy photo ops. Bragging rights too, because after all, it takes a certain sense of adventure to decide on a whim that hey, the end of the world is the place to be. Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego certainly stirs up this kind of emotion.

The southernmost tip of South America is a curious landscape. Across from the perilous Strait of Magellan, Tierra del Fuego is that vast collection of islands where Argentina meets Chile, at the very bottom of the Americas. As such, the region lies within vast Patagonia, a land of mystique, awe and unparalelled natural wonders.

Ushuaia is the capital of Tierra del Fuego province and with a population of 65,000 people, is the southernmost city on the planet. The geographic claim is somewhat disputed by a town in Chile, though with a much more diminutive population that draws nowhere near the amount of visitor interest. So for the time being, Ushuaia is as south as a city gets on Earth.

That title alone would be insufficient to entice as many tourists as Ushuaia does on an annual basis were it not for the fact that the city and indeed, entire province of Tierra del Fuego, supports such brilliant scenery, topography, fauna and flora. Ushuaia is a prime target for ecotourists intent on experiencing the thrill of close contact with orcas, seals, penguins and a panoply of exotic, migratory birds.

For many, that means a stop in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Spanning more than 600 square kilometres, the park extends from the Beagle Channel, which slices through the Tierra del Fuego archipelago, to Argentina’s border with Chile. The park’s trekking opportunities are first-rate, with spectacular panoramas in store. From crystal-clear glacial lakes to snowy mountain peaks and of course, loads of cool mammals and birds, Tierra del Fuego National Park is a winner. Most people take the 5 km End of the World Train from Ushuaia to the park’s entrance.

Ushuaia itself however, is not without some notable attractions, in the form of landmarks like a former penal colony that shares a notorious, Alcatraz, Tasmania and Devil’s Island-like reputation. Built in the first half of the 20th century with the intent to build up a population in the extreme south of Argentina, the prison was a virtual fortress and near-impossible to break out of.

The former prison railway is now known in Ushuaia as the End of the World Train, though it ferries tourists today and not violent criminals. In fact, for tourist hordes who arrive en masse in the city’s port via cruise ships from Antarctica, the Falkland Islands or other destinations, the once-infamous railway is the first stop in Ushuaia.

Nature however, is why most come to Tierra del Fuego and ultimately Ushuaia. The region and indeed, city, delivers on a promise of absolutely breathtaking scenery and landscapes altogether unheard of anywhere else in South America and indeed, the world.

As a result, this penultimate point on the continental landmass will forever stir up untold curiosity, romance and seductive wanderlust.

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From the peak of volcanic El Misti mountain, Arequipa spans out like a venerable oasis. The cityscape is profuse with fine white rock architecture, from whence the nickname “La Ciudad Blanca” derives. The brilliant white landmarks that dot Arequipa beckon visitors to meander through the narrow streets and explore, explore, explore, preferably without a map.

Of the many points of interest in and around the beautiful city, the Corridor of Santa Catalina Monastery stands apart. The massive cloistered convent complex dates back to the late 16th century and has only been open to the public for the last four decades. The monastery is still incredibly vivid and active, with about twenty nuns in residence today. With a history that is just as fascinating as the structure itself, Santa Catalina is absolutely must-see in Arequipa.

Colonial architecture is not only restricted to the historic UNESCO heart of the city. Day trips to the foothills of the Andes and parts abroad display a wide range of landmarks and monuments, in addition to tidy, traditional villages.

The heritage district of Arequipa is of course, the paramount highlight of the city. The Spanish colonial powers sent their best talents from Europe to design the carefully laid-out quarter. The sillar rock utilized to erect most of the structures was the result of expert native craftsmanship, with the fruits of their labor still in glimmering evidence today. A fusion of Baroque and indigenous styles, central Arequipa is a marvel to behold.

The Plaza de Armas at the heart of Arequipa is the most obvious springboard to venture throughout the rest of the city. The districts of primary interest for visitors from abroad are pedestrian-friendly and quite facile to navigate.

What strikes you rather sharply about Arequipa is the seamless blend of myriad design traditions in the cityscape. From dozens of ecclesiastical monuments to ancient homes now rebuilt as modern apartments, to restaurants and shops within current heritage landmarks, the Peruvian city is a wonderful discovery.

Arequipa offers some unique alternatives to traditional tourist souvenirs, not only within Peru but South America in general. The central market of San Camilo is close to Plaza de Armas and is a must-visit star attraction on any itinerary of the city. Full of colorful local handicrafts, flowers and textiles, the main draw in San Camilo is without a doubt, food. Plenty of it too, as the market stalls overflow with exotic fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, breads and a wide variety of local delicacies. Come hungry and with a sense of adventure. For a picnic lunch amid breathtaking Andes scenery, San Camilo is ground zero.

Other notable features of Arequipa include antiques and alpaca. Colonial artifact hunters flock to the city’s shops to scrounge for coveted finds. Less rabid aficionados however, will appreciate the opportunity to simply browse and window shop, not only for remnants of the colonial era but for brilliant local art as well. As for alpaca, Arequipa is the capital of the luxurious wool. Handmade alpaca garments from Arequipa are among the very best in the world and the city is the place to find the best bargains. While still not inexpensive by any stretch of the imagination, if you want to bring back authentic alpaca from Peru, purchase it in Arequipa and not Cusco or Lima.

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The elevation also explains why so many people suffer from oxygen deprivation sickness upon first visit. Many people who pass through Titicaca by way of tidy Puno, Peru, for example, experience the telltale symptoms of nausea quite rapidly and have to settle down before they explore the mystical lake.

And mystical Lake Titicaca is, by any measure. Fans of “The Motorcycle Diaries” and subsequent film of the same name will remember well not only the political diatribes of future revolutionary Ernesto “Che” Guevera but perhaps first and foremost, the love letter the book was to the sheer natural beauty of South America. Titicaca had a prominent role in that love letter and indeed, scores of visitors have been inspired by Che since the publication of his early diaries to experience the wonders of the awesome lake.

The lake offers many terrific points of interest, from coastal towns to tiny, sparsely inhabited islands that seem like virtual time warps. The island of Amantani is a perfect example, home to less than one-thousand native Quecha families, none of whose lungs seem to suffer the effects of high elevation and lack of abundant oxygen. The tiny island contains two mountain peaks and features neat, terraced rows of crops on the hillsides. Visitors who want a pure, authentic experience while on Lake Titicaca can opt to stay with a native family for a night or two.

Lake Titicaca is also notable for a group of artificial islands dubbed the Uros. Built entirely of grassy reeds, the Uros are rife with old, defensive structures made up of the same lakebed flora.

The islands, quite popular with tourists, are now populated by indigenous peoples who harvest on the Uros and live off the fruits of the lake.

The Titicaca island of Taquile is a short trip from Puno and was once a colonial prison as recently as the early 20th century. For close to four decades now, the native people of the island have had control of Taquile. A visit is more than worthwhile, if only to witness the spectacular pre-Inca ruins on the island.

Most people who visit Lake Titicaca make their way at some point to the gorgeous little town of Copacabana. The town is the main lakeside gateway in Bolivia to parts further down Lake Titicaca.

Copacabana could not be more tranquil and idyllic – and entirely different from the Barry Manilow song of the same name. Flush with tradition, the 6,000 or so inhabitants are hospitable and welcome earnest visitors with open arms and doors.

Those who set off to venture across Titicaca from Copacabana often end up first on the Isla del Sol. The venerable Inca island is a big part of the reason why the lake is so steeped in mysticism and ancient reverence. Amazingly, close to 200 ruins dot Isla del Sol and date back for the most part to the 15th century. There is evidence to suggest however, that the island was a settlement as far back as 3,000 BC.

Native people still inhabit the island and participate in subsistence agriculture and fishing, though tourism plays an increasingly vital role in the local economy. As the purported birthplace of the Inca sun god, Isla del Sol is just one of many excellent reasons to visit breathtaking Lake Titicaca.

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With such a rich, multi-ethnic heritage and gorgeous national parks, Brazil has a lot more to offer. The country has no less than sixteen UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with many more candidates under consideration in the near future. Perhaps the only asset the country lacks, aside from better security, is good public relations for these superb attractions. Here then, are ten of the most impressive World Heritage Sites in Brazil.

Brasilia

With over 2.5 million people, the capital of Brazil is a dynamic city with many notable attributes that rank it as a World Heritage destination. Brasilia was built less than a century ago to serve as the capital of the nation and as a result, was the result of a careful urban plan. The city’s subsequent layout was both innovative and progressive, a harmonious union that endures today.

Historic Centre of São Luís

A beautiful 17th century island city, São Luís is the capital of the state of Maranhão. The notable hub of capoeira has made considerable investments in the restoration of colonial era architecture before and since UNESCO inscription in 1997.

Historic Centre of Salvador de Bahia

Salvador de Bahia has 3 million people and a culture unlike any other in Brazil. A hotbed of music, dance, literature, art and cuisine, the city’s Carnaval ranks first not only in the country, but on the planet. Salvador’s historic centre contains several terrific landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Salvador and the Convent and Church of São Francisco.

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Historic Town of Ouro Preto

Oura Preto is one of Brazil’s many diminutive treasures, with a small population of 67,000 people and a heritage as a gold rush town. With a history that dates back to the late 17th century, the city has a gorgeous colonial era skyline.

Serra da Capivara National Park

Incredible prehistoric cave art draws scores of visitors to Serra da Capivara National Park every year. Home to many archaeological sites that seek to excavate prehistoric farms, the park in north east Brazil contains the beautiful Capivara mountain range.

Historic Town of Olinda

Another historic town of peerless splendor in Brazil, Olinda’s 16th century roots have inextricable links with the sugarcane industry. The town of 377,000 people has no less than twenty Baroque churches, with numerous chapels and gardens.

Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas

About a two hour drive south of Bela Horizonte, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas is a phenomenal cathedral built by Baroque 18th century master Antônio Francisco Lisboa, otherwise known in Brazil as Aleijadinho.

Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park

Within one of the most ancient tropical ecosystems in the world, Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park is on a plateau that dates back almost 2 billion years. Visitors come from near and far to gaze at awesome crystal rock formations, waterfalls and a wide variety of fauna that includes the giant armadillo, capybara, tapir and king vulture.

Historic Centre Diamantina

A small city of 45,000 people in the state of Minas Gerais, Diamantina’s historic centre is another pristine jewel of Brazilian Baroque architecture. Set within a rugged, rocky landscape, the former settlement of diamond and other prospectors of precious metals is a superb find for intrepid tourists.

Iguaçu National Park

Iguaçu National Park is a favorite destination for visitors to Brazil and draws more than fifteen percent of them every year on average. In addition to rare fauna like the giant anteater and five classifications of forests, the park’s waterfalls are among the most dramatic on the planet.

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The magnificent city is home to close to 3 million people and a cultural scene that is more rich and sumptuous than any in Brazil. Without a doubt, this “capital of happiness” and the first colonial capital of the country is the place to be for tourists in the know. Rio may have Ipanema and Copacabana beach and Sao Paulo is a massive metropolis but Salvador, as the epicenter of Afro-Brazilian culture, is singularly special. The city’s food, music and architecture cannot be beat.

With that in mind, here’s a rundown of some Salvador highlights.

The Carnaval Circuit

When most of us think of Carnaval, our thoughts understandably stray toward Rio de Janeiro. But in all honesty, Salvador’s Carnaval celebrations are where the real action is. Not only is the city’s Carnaval number one in size in Brazil, it consistently breaks the world record for a street party every year, with more than 2 million people spread out over 25 km for one entire week. Incredible!

The colossal party kicks off the week before Mardi Gras as the Campo Grande neighbourhood fills up with grandstands that offer ideal views of the street revelry: traditional dancers, music and famous city performers on flat-bed trucks all parade past. Other major Carnaval “circuits” take place in the Salvador districts of Barra-Ondina and Pelourinho.

Historic Centre

One of Brazil’s most notable UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salvador’s Pelourinho neighbourhood is also the historic heart of the city. As such, it remains ground zero for tourist delight and represents a veritable link with what was one of the first settlements in the New World, now frozen in time. Early Portuguese colonial leaders made Pelourinho a virtual base camp for the country’s burgeoning interests in the African slave trade.

Ignominious beginnings to be sure, yet from the mid-16th century onward, the city increased in importance. Early colonial government landmarks like the Governor’s House to City Hall, in addition to cathedrals and other splendid houses of worship, merchant manors and palaces, all mark Salvador’s Historic Centre as exceptional.

Cuisine

Many international visitors come to Salvador and indeed, the province of Bahia, expressly to eat. A distinct and soulful cuisine, with heavy influences from West Africa as a result of the colonial slave trade, still permeates from kitchens throughout the city. Typical ingredients include palm oil, coconut, manioc flour, molasses and a treasure trove of seafood.

When in Salvador, definitely try to sample as many local dishes as possible. Caruru is a tasty condiment made with okra, shrimp and peanuts typically eaten with black-eyed peas, formed into a ball and deep-fried. Moqueca is a succulent spicy stew of seafood, often with coconut milk, that is endemic to the province of Bahia. Desserts feature coconuts, peanuts and cashews prominently.

Culture

From the martial art capoeira to the musical genre ax?, Salvador is the creative birthplace of many important movements. For a taste of the city’s cultural vitality, visit the Arte Sacra Museum, Museu de Arte da Bahia and Museu da Cidade. These landmark museums tell the story of Salvador and Bahia as a whole, through a variety of methods.

Another way to experience the culture of Salvador is to take in the city’s fabulous theatre scene. From pristine park amphitheatres to exquisite, historic venues festooned with remarkable design details, there’s always stellar performances in and around town. There’s simply no better way to witness the veritable potpourri of cultural tendrils that penetrate Salvador’s very soul.

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Any notable and worthwhile city that breaks from the pack in terms of tourist charm is first and foremost, all about people. And the people of Valpara?so, all 265,000 of them, are among the most cultured, erudite, fun and pleasant of any city denizens in South America. No wonder that the city is home to no less than nine university institutions and recently earned the designation “Cultural Capital of Chile”.

Valpara?so is one of those magical places. Here are 12 substantial reasons to visit.

10. Churches

It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that an old seaport Chilean town, first explored by the Spanish in 1536, has a number of resplendent places of worship for visitors to enjoy. From San Luis Gonzaga to the Cathedral Church of Valpara?so, the city’s churches are wonderful attractions.

9. Museums

Once the most important seaport in the Americas before the construction of the Panama Canal, Valpara?so now pays tribute to a commercial Golden Age past with the Naval and Maritime Museum. For a less industrial experience, the superb city Fine Arts Museum is a paramount showcase for Chilean artists, past and present.

8. History of “Firsts”

Valpara?so is one of a select few destinations in South America where you can smell history in the air and feel the weight of a turbulent and glorious past as you stroll down idyllic promenades. As the home of the first stock exchange, Spanish newspaper and public library in Latin America – which may come as a shock to many – the city has a rich heritage to be proud of.

7. Funicular Scenery

Built in 1870, the Valpara?so funicular takes visitors up the steep hillsides that make up the basic foundation of the city. Despite the obvious and inherent trepidations that come with the journey, the rewards at the top are substantial. Suffice to say, views like this are priceless.

6. Pablo Neruda

Chile’s foremost ambassador, the great, late poet Pablo Neruda, had a home for a time in Valpara?so. The Nobel laureate’s connections to the city are indelible and in physical evidence at La Sebastiana. Neruda’s former retreat is now a museum and excellent preservation ground for his legacy.

5. Academia

University towns, especially in Latin America and parts of Europe, make for phenomenal tourism destinations. Valpara?so has four major universities and as a result, thousands of students and people associated with academia. The outcome for visitors is a worldly, intellectual populace, which makes contact with locals ever the more memorable.

4. Nightlife

Valpara?so’s nightlife has a reputation in Chile. A good reputation. Again, university life plays a major role in the hip, bohemian and arty bar scene, which features local dives, tango bars, hipster clubs and places that welcome everybody. Best of all, closing times are often just a suggestion.

3. Architecture

The fact that Valpara?so’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site should tell you something about the city’s architecture, which, according to the international body, is a priceless time capsule of 19th-century urban development in Latin America.

2. The Pacific Ocean

As a seaport town, Valpara?so has a wonderul vantage point, overlooking the Pacific Ocean as it does from hillside confines. The city’s amphitheater-like layout makes the ocean backdrop even more dramatic. For prime beach action, the nearby resort town of Vi?a del Mar is the place to be.

1. Food

Any city that places a premium on nightlife and intellectual activity can usually be relied upon to proffer some quality eats. In Valpara?so, that manifestation comes in the form of a movement to buttress local purveyors, who supply city restaurants with fine produce, olive oil, wine and seafood. The delicious results land on your plate in deceptively simple creations that harken back to the roots of Latin American cuisine, with innovative twists by some of the best young culinary talents in Chile.

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Santiago, home to over 6.4 million people, is technically, a conurbation in Chile. What that denotes is the fact that the metropolitan area is at present, a vast collection of suburbs and towns that surround one big urban heart. The manifestation of unprecedented economic growth and development in the wake of Augusto Pinochet’s military junta’s demise, Santiago is now one of the most vibrant national capitals in the world, let alone South America. A number of important achievements in the spheres of architecture, city planning, rapid mass transit and infrastructure have reached their zenith in the past twenty years in tandem with the blossoming of a wonderful arts and culture scene.

The exuberance and hopeful optimism of Santiago’s young people has had an infectious effect not only on tourism but also on the mindset of the country and indeed, Latin America as a whole. The election of moderate Socialist Ver?nica Michelle Bachelet Jeria as President of Chile in 2006 played an enormous role in this turnaround. A former victim of Pinochet’s oppressive tyranny, the surgeon and military strategist has initiated a wave of reforms to reduce the substantial gap between rich and poor in Chile and bolster the country’s free market policies. Without delving deeper into a political treatise, suffice to say that the first female leader in Chile’s history is not only the result of a quasi-Renaissance in the nation but now a major contributor to it as President. All of this goodwill, joviality and pride is evident in Santiago. It’s just one great reason to visit the city and revel in a genuine spirit of hospitality and openness.

Other more tangible attractions include the Palacio de La Moneda. As the home of the national government since 1784, the formal and dramatic neo-classical structure is the seat of the President, Cabinet and the Republic of Chile.

Just across from La Moneda is a relatively new addition to the Santiago skyline. The Centro Cultural Palacio is a grand facility whose express purpose is to showcase the eclectic heritage of Chile, in myriad exhibition halls.

Santiago’s Fine Arts Museum is one of the best in South America. Known as the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, the oldest museum dedicated to fine art on the continent has a consistent record of delivering world class exhibits to the people of the capital.

Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda’s house, affectionately called La Chascona or “the uncombed” is a popular tourist draw with fans of the famous Chilean poet. Now a museum, the house contains many artifacts and documents from the matchless 20th century scribe’s life and career.

The Barrio Bellavista, where Neruda’s house can be found, is one of the best places to experience authentic Santiago life and get an accurate pulse on the citizenry. Somewhat bohemian, hipsterish and arty, the barrio has a lot of terrific spots to chill out with a light meal, glass of wine or cup of good, strong coffee. The nightlife ain’t half bad either.

With Santiago in the middle of the biggest fertile valley in Chile, the mountain scenery that surrounds the urban center is pretty impressive. Of course, if you want to experience the peaks and not just gape at them, a number of world class ski resorts are a short drive away. The best of the lot are Valle Nevado, Portillo and La Parva.

Forestal Park, on the lush shores of the beautiful Mapocho River, Santa Luc?a Hill and San Crist?bal Hill, are perhaps the best recreation and leisure spots in Santiago. When you want a break from pounding the pavement, as fantastic as the city is, these are the places to escape to, particularly with some local snacks and a good bottle of native Chilean wine.

Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6