Puerto Caldera
Costa Rica has been deemed the "Switzerland of Central
America," and Puerto Caldera is one of the reasons. Peaks rise to 13,000
feet above sea level, and the white-sand beaches stretch for miles along the
coast of the Pacific. A series of forested slopes, large mountains, green
pastures, and bountiful vegetation cover the land. Puerto Caldera is a fabulous
gateway from Costa Rica's glorious coast to the riches of this quaint Central
American republic. The village of Sarchi is an incredible experience, as is a
trip to the capital of Costa Rica, San Jose. San Jose has acres of gorgeous
sugarcane and coffee plantations, and the surrounding rainforests are
magnificent. Docking in Puerto Caldera, entertaining musicians and dancers greet
you with their exquisite showmanship. Touring the wildlife preserves is a great
way to spend an entire day, as the wide array of animal life in Puerto Caldera
is both extremely diverse and fascinating.
Lima
Lima is an extraordinary city nestled on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. It's an old city with an esteemed history. Ranging from fast paced activities to relaxing sightseeing, Lima has it all. In 1535, Francisco Pizarro founded Lima, and in its early days the city surrounded the Rimac River. For the next three hundred years the city was the capital of the entire Spanish South American Empire. Over the years, the city has mushroomed, and now Lima is home to around seven million people.
The hustle and bustle of Lima is found in the downtown sector. The area surrounding the Plaza Mayor is the most popular and busy region. This is where you will encounter the most aesthetically pleasing architecture, artwork, and museums. Other portions of the city are more entertaining and exciting, but this is the district that houses the educational and historical sights of Lima. They exist elsewhere within the city, but not in nearly as much of a concentrated fashion as they do here by the Plaza Mayor. Miraflores and San Isidro are the two nicest neighborhoods in Lima, as they are located by the sea and quite affluent. The restaurants and shopping in these areas are probably the best in Lima. The nicest parks are definitely close to the ocean, and a few in particular are absolutely gorgeous. In between the beautiful towns by the sea are small working-class areas of Lima such as Rimac, Brena, and La Victoria. Lima is a city best enjoyed by walking, and during the day it is safe to travel anywhere within the city. Peruvians love the outdoors, and on weekends you will see what seems like the whole country gathered in the Plaza to enjoy the warmth.
Arica
The beautiful city of Arica is as lovely as it is diverse. You can lie on the beach sipping an exotic drink, and hike the trails of the glorious Lauca National Park in the same day. The park's mountains reach heights of 14,000 feet, and offer hiking enthusiasts some of the most exhilarating trails that the world has to offer. The Cathedral of San Marcos is a fantastic man-made achievement, and the Salar de Surire National Monument is spectacular. Arica is found in the northernmost sector of Chile, over 1,000 miles north of Santiago. Only a few miles from the Peruvian border, Arica features a warm climate and a unique landscape that is sure to please every kind of tourist. 170,000 people inhabit the city, and Arica is one of the most affordable tourist destinations in South America. In addition, the city and its surrounding area are virtually rain free, experiencing the least precipitation of anywhere on earth. It also has an incredibly low crime rate, and is a wonderful blend of modern tourist attractions and ancient culture.
Santiago
Santiago is a city bursting with life and passion. There is a tremendous amount to see and do in Santiago, so no stay is too long. It is the capital of Chile, and every capital should represent its country as accurately as Santiago. An incredible mix of fun and interesting culture, Santiago is the largest and most active city in the country. The combination of European and Spanish influences complements each other wonderfully in this city that features mountain ranges on both sides. The Andes Mountains are found to the east, and the coastal mountains are to the west of this gorgeous valley known as Santiago. Nestled between these two ranges, the six million inhabitants of Santiago thrive in their little valley. The Mapocho River slices through the city, virtually cutting it into two equal portions. The river splits the city into a north region and a south region, neither of which is characterized by any particular differences from the other. However, there is typically a distinct difference between east and west Santiaguinos, if only an economic difference.
The Plaza Italia is found in the center of the city, and this is the landmark that splits the city into east and west Santiago. Those who reside in the east are often known as cuicos, and they are mostly well to do. They enjoy a rich South American lifestyle full of fine food and great parties. To the west, the much poorer rotos reside, although they, too, do their best to have a good time despite their financial hardships. There are a number of fabulous plazas, beautiful buildings, and glorious sights in Santiago. The Huerfanos and Ahumada malls are great for shopping, and be sure to bring your appetite, because the restaurants are spectacular in this area. If you start at the Plaza Italia, you can walk all over the city, seeing virtually everything. Walking in Santiago is the best way to explore, especially when you take breaks to enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the beautiful parks.
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