Destinations

From guest bloggers: Nannette and Susie Casto Clients

An International Women’s Forum Conference enticed us to South America in May 2008. The conference was in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and post conference tours, arranged by Casto Travel/Rascals in Paradise, took us to Iguazu Falls, Santiago and the Atacama Desert. We found you can still get a very good value for the U.S. dollar in South America.

Buenos Aires offers the experience of a sophisticated European city, with a vibrant South American spin. Starting with the exceptional Alvear Palace Hotel, located in the heart of Recoleta and designated an historical landmark, this hotel has the architectural style and décor of a real palace. On day one, we took a city tour, which we recommend because it gives a valuable overview of Buenos Aires. The city’s architecture was a constant surprise with styles from colonial-era to art deco, and La Boca thrilled us with brightly colorful buildings and sultry tango dancers. We learned to tango, or at least tried to tango, at The National Tango Academy, followed by a lively performance at Café Tortoni, the city’s oldest café. Thereafter, shopping was a favorite activity as fashion abounds, from leather goods on Florida Street to edgy designs found in Palermo Viejo, Buenos Aires’ hippest neighborhood. Of course, be prepared to eat Argentine beef, and plenty of it, while sipping your glass of Malbec wine at the many vibrant restaurants. One afternoon we admired contemporary Latin American art at the Malba, and marveled at the nearby Metallic Flower shaped like a tulip which opens and closes based on daylight. On Thursday, we witnessed the peaceful vigil of Las Madres de Plaza de Mayo which was very powerful and touching. We could go on, and on, but there are some of the snapshots.

Iguazu Falls are magnificent, and a “must see” in our book. These world-famous waterfalls are surrounded by sub-tropical rainforest and are nothing short of spectacular. We toured both the Brazil (you need a Visa) and Argentina falls and viewed them from walkways perilously close to the rim of the falls. Don’t pass up the opportunity to take a riverboat ride into the falls, and we strongly recommend purchasing a water resistant poncho. We screamed and laughed like kids. What fun! Our hotel stay was at the Sheraton in Argentina, with views of the falls from our room. Next time we’ll look into staying at the Orient Express lodge on the Brazilian side; it seemed a lot more exclusive. We stayed two nights, but would have welcomed staying another day or two to hike the national park trails and bird watch. (Continued next week..)

I specialize in modern, unusual, and traditional travels which have currently become the most popular kind of travel for celebrities. It has become popular because hotels are now more than a place to sleep, they are part of the experience. Europe is now a common vacation spot so for those who are looking for something different South America, Africa, and Asia are the new hot spots. And contrary to what you may think about these countries vacations to these exotic areas can be very luxurious.

For vacations South America I suggest Argentina and Chile. Argentina is where the Iguazu Waterfall is found, it is one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the world. This is a great location for those looking for outdoor adventure for one can walk right through the falling water, or take a boat to the mouth of the fall, or explore the National Park that surrounds it. In Chile one can explore any and all kinds of natural landscapes. One of the most stunning views of Chile is from the The Explora Hotel in Patagonia, Chile. This is a remarkable hotel tucked away in a biosphere reserve containing waterfalls, glaciers, forests, and granite pillars all more than 2,000 meters above the Patagonian steppes. Both of these locations will leave you in awe at the natural beauty this world has to offer.

Cambodia and Vietnam are some of the up and coming vacation spots in Asia. The hotels are very chic and modern with the highest quality service. In Cambodia the The FCC Angkor is found in the heart of Siem Reap and overlooks the Siem Reap River. The hotel is also only minutes away from the striking and remarkable Angkor Wat temples. In Vietnam the Six Senses Resort, located on the Ninh Van Bay overlooking the China Sea, is a prefect hideaway when you’re looking to get away from it all. With white sand beaches in front of you and mountains surrounding you, the stress of life will just melt away.

Africa now has some of the top hotels in the world. The Royal Malewane, is for those looking for a place to escape, located deep in the South African bush one is surround by wild splendor. This kind of experience is for the more adventurous traveler who wants to experience Africa in its natural state. In Botswana the Sanctuary Lodges and Camps are a great way to experience Africa. Sanctuary has four locations in Botswana all luxury, all set in the heart of Botswana’s wilderness. If your looking for where luxury meets adventure Africa is just the place.

From guest blogger Jeanne Parrent, Founder of Boom Voyage.

Chase the winter blahs with a visit to Buenos Aires. Posh hotels, wonderful restaurants, the tango, and it’s one place in the world where your dollar can still go farther. Buenos Aires is home to almost half of Argentina’s people. Visitors often describe the city as reminiscent of Paris with its European-style squares, broad streets and lively cafes. There are excellent shopping and great museums by day, and a very active night scene including the city’s famed tango clubs, where you can watch or dance as you fancy.

Of course, one of the best things to do in Buenos Aries is eat. The city is known for its vibrant restaurant scene with more than 3,500 eateries. World-famous Argentine beef is showcased in parrilladas (open fire cooking) and asadors (steak houses). Along with standard steaks are organ meats and sausages, all set off by the traditional chimichurri sauces. Try Cabana Las Lilas for a wonderful and upscale dining experience, but come hungry! While eating here is not cheap, Argentine wines offer excellent value for the price. When you’ve had enough beef, the city also offers lots of ethnic dining options.

This city almost does not sleep. Dining is late by US standards, and dancing and fun go on in the city’s bars and tango clubs until dawn. An excellent and historic tango show is offered at Esquina Carlos Gardel, named for the popularizer of the national dance. Find your own favorite spot to tango among the many clubs in Palermo Viejo.

Where to stay? There are lots of upscale choices, but the undoubted grande dame of the city is the Alvear Palace Hotel, which has reigned undisputed since the 1930s. She has kept up with the times, though, opening a new 8,000 square foot spa last June. There are also excellent Park Hyatt and Four Seasons properties here.

If you want to take in more than just the city of Buenos Aires, consider a visit to one of the many estanchias (guest ranches) within a few hours of the city for a taste of true gaucho life. If you are a nature lover, the Tigre Delta offers islands, beautiful scenery, bird watching, and trails. Finally, take a ferry ride to Uruguay and the city of Colonia (a day trip) or only three hours travel time, but a world away in relaxation, add a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Carmelo in Uruguay. Here you enjoy unmatched privacy, romantic ambience, and a host of activities including spa, golf, horseback riding and pools while you unwind after your urban adventure in Buenos Aires.