Punta Arenas
In 1520, Magellan was wandering through South America when he discovered Punta Arenas, on the southernmost tip of Chile. This region became enormously popular because of its geographic location, and the fact that it is rich in natural resources. Entrepreneurs, theologians, explorers, and pirates all made numerous trips to Punta Arenas to try and uncover some of its secrets and riches. Charles Darwin and Sir Francis Drake were said to have come here as well, and this amazing new city became the main draw in South America. Between 1892 and 1920, the area really thrived, as steam navigation greatly increased the commercial importance of Punta Arenas. There was an abundance of precious metals in the region, which kept the Europeans flocking to share in the riches of this new land. Other settlers found their prosperity in the form of giant sheep ranches. Hundreds of Europeans began calling Punta Arenas their permanent home.
Unfortunately, with the opening of the Panama Canal, Punta Arenas lost a great deal of its attraction, and all the expansion stopped dead. But the city has stormed back, becoming the capital of the Magallenes region in Chile. It is hundreds of miles away from the other big Chilean cities, and nearly 2,000 miles away from Santiago, but this adds to the charm of this small, unique city. Sharing the territory with the locals is a marvelously interesting array of wildlife. The museums and sights in Punta Arenas are fabulous, and the services and dining facilities are top notch. It is a simple town with all the amenities of a fancy town, so you get the best of both worlds.
Ushuaia
Ushuaia is a glorious port city found at the southern-most end of Argentina. Right below the Straight of Magellan, Ushuaia is technically not on the Pacific side or the Atlantic side of the country. It stands at 55 degrees latitude south, making Ushuaia actually closer to the South Pole than to the north border of Argentina! Ushuaia is located on Tierra del Fuego, a small island just south of the Argentinean mainland. The island's aesthetic beauty is unparalleled, and demands a visit. Other than the gorgeous landscape, Ushuaia's incredible history cannot be ignored either.
For 6,000 years, Haush, Selknam, Alakaluf, and Yamana Indians inhabited the area in and around Ushuaia. In the 19th century, the Argentine Republic, led by Anglican missionaries, wished to expand their holdings and take over Ushuaia. This was in part because Chilean and European expansionary tactics had been growing rapidly, and Argentina was quite concerned with losing face as well as land rights to their rivals. So, in 1902, Argentina established a penal colony in Ushuaia, and settled all of the southern territories in that region. Political prisoners were the only ones sent to Ushuaia's penitentiary at first, but when the Argentinean government began to get nervous about invasions; they began to send all of the worst criminals possible there. It worked fabulously, and neither Europe nor Chile bothered Ushuaia again.
In 1947, the prison closed, and in 1978, Ushuaia was given a tremendous economic boost. The Industrial Incentives law enabled many home appliance and television manufacturing factories to be built in the area. Unfortunately, in the last few years, raging global competition has forced many of these factories to close down. Ushuaia has 45,000 inhabitants, all of whom are hoping that their picturesque city will soon become a haven for tourism and thus give a gigantic boom to their economy. There is a surprising amount of interesting and enjoyable activities in town, and the overwhelming scenery is always an activity in itself. The majestic Andean Cordillera mountains provide a spectacular backdrop to the sunken city, and to the south and west, the Andes fade out, overshadowed by the tumultuous sea.
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is 75 square miles of 19th-century homes, green parks, and small cafes. It is the cultural, economic, and political capital of the country, and because of its location and stature, it remains the gateway to all other parts of Argentina. The citizens do appreciate this fact, and are proud to be members of practically the largest and most influential city in all of South America. Interestingly enough, there are more psychoanalysts per capita in Buenos Aires than anywhere else in the world. Perhaps this extends from an identity crisis, as many of the ancestors of present-day Buenos Aires residents came over from Europe and settled in this beautiful port town. As a result, the locals, known as Portenos, are constantly struggling with their true culture and heritage.
The city as a whole is a must see. Buenos Aires is more than just fabulous architecture, great people and spectacular cuisine. It is dancing the tango in the middle of the night, strolling through a gorgeous park, sinking your teeth into a savory steak, or walking through the city and admiring the architecture and culture. Buenos Aires is simply dazzling.
Montevideo
Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay, which is one of the smallest yet most popular countries in all of South America. More tourists visit Uruguay every year than Brazil, Argentina, or Chile. The city is full of excitement and beauty. The territory is marvelously scenic, and many say it is the most picturesque area on the continent. The restaurants and shopping facilities are fantastic, and the locals are friendly and always eager to help. The amenities and accommodations are also top notch, and so it is no wonder that Uruguay is so popular among American and European tourists. Uruguay is located south of Brazil and bordered by Argentina to the west. Everywhere you travel within Montevideo and beyond, you will be treated to a wide array of extraordinary visual pleasures. Hilly green meadows laced with sparkling rivers and streams comprise a large portion of the landscape, and near the coast, the beaches are excellent. The conditions at a number of the beaches are near perfect, and the hot springs just outside Montevideo are enormously popular. Sports are adored in Uruguay, and there are opportunities everywhere to play your favorite game or sport.
In addition to being the capital, Montevideo is also the trading center and the main draw for visiting Uruguay. From December to April, Montevideo is the liveliest place around. But to really experience the best of Montevideo, go during Carnival. Carnival in Uruguay is probably the safest in all of South America, and the most fun as well. Montevideo really comes alive during March and April as preparations get underway for celebrating this enchanting weeklong event. As crazy as it gets, there are relatively few problems because everyone is in such good spirits.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is a magnificent city, made famous by its fantastic beaches and outrageous parties. The annual celebration of Carnaval is a raucous one, and if you are in Rio during March or April, you will see that it is everyone's focus. The citizens of the city are passionate and enthusiastic, and these characteristics are extremely contagious. You will find yourself motivated to either get out and party or else travel all around and see the sights.
On January 1, 1502, a group of Portuguese sailors landed in an area they named Rio de Janeiro. The ship's captain, Goncarlo Coelho, named this city as such because he thought he had anchored at the mouth of a river. He has been given credit for naming the city, even though the river's mouth is, in actuality, Guanabara Bay. During a festival in the year 1567, the city was given the official name Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro. Brazil became independent in 1889, and Rio was made the capital of the Republic. This was the case until 1960, when Brasilia became home to the federal government.
For all of the wild people and miles of beach paradise, Rio de Janeiro has many more wonderful features that are not beach-related. The architecture of Brazil is wonderful, and there are a number of fabulous museums to catch your attention. The dining facilities are excellent, and the nightlife extremely active. During the day there is so much to choose from, and the locals are friendly and quick to invite you to a party. The spirit here is one of enthusiasm and zest for the everlasting carnival.
All the best sights and activities in Rio de Janeiro are in close proximity, making this an extraordinary city for walking. The weather will most likely be downright gorgeous, so get outside and see the city! Rio will indulge you with great meals, constant invitations to drink, and opportunities to dance all night.
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