SOUTH  AMERICA

South America seems to have historically been a "forgotten" continent.  Many American backpackers head to Europe...many European backpackers head to Asia.  It's "glamour" cities of Rio de Janiero and Beunos Aires, are both over ten hours away by flight from New York City and flights are typically much more expensive than their European counterparts.  It lacks a railroad infrastructure and short bus rides.  At first glance it may also seem to lack many sites with each country seeming to be associated with a single must see - Ecuador / The Galapagos; Peru / Machu Picchu; etc.  
However, once you commit to a South American vacation you begin to realize how much the continent has to offer.  Once you arrive you realize how well the continent blends old with new and provides an authentic, yet to be discovered vibe, at each location.  The continent feels more adventurous then both Europe and Asia but remains relatively easy to traverse even if bus rides may last over ten hours.

There are a lot of up and coming places - Colombia and Ecuador - and historical places - Uruguay - which fly well under the radar of the less intrepid traveler.  So many travel destinations are picked based upon prior marketing efforts, however, for someone willing to head out on their own South America does not disappoint.   ​

ARGENTINA

A beautiful gateway city, Buenos Aires, leads to a diverse country-side ranging from extremely rugged Patagonia to pampered wine tasting in Mendoza to the stunning lake district around Bariloche which offers something in between.  The only downside is the country's vastness making long bus rides or expensive flights a pre-requisite of your travel itinerary.

CHILE

The "B-Type" personality to Argentina's "A",  Chile has a similar laid back vibe to California, it's Pacific Coast counterpart - there is something about watching the sunset over the ocean every night (instead of watching it rise) that helps to develop a more casual attitude towards life.  Chile is equally diverse but lacks the marketing buzz of its louder neighbor to the East.

COLOMBIA

Yes, it's safe to visit...I think.  Colombia has undergone a recent renaissance and it's quickly become a "cool / next destination" place to visit.  On the surface there's a lot to see but there is even more waiting to be discovered...I think.

ECUADOR

A little tamer,  a little safer, and a little easier to explore than Colombia with the Galapagos Islands as a major draw.  Ecuador seems to be a country where you can be pretty adventurous without putting your life at too much risk.  The major question is whether you take the beach or mountain route between Quito and Guayaquil or make it a round trip loop.

PERU

I have not visited here myself.  I copied information from Pete to build out a page.  If you have any questions contact Pete (or me).

URUGUAY

When Argentinians and Brazilians want to escape to the beach where do the go?  Uruguay.  The beaches aren't only beautiful but also diverse - in a 100 mile stretch it can seem like you are in Southern California, North Carolina's Outer Banks, or Miami Beach...then there is Punta Del Diablo which has no comparison.  Uruguay's strong rule of law makes and decent roads this a good location to rent a car and explore on your own.