Archive for the ‘South America’ Category

In the culture of the Carnival in Brazil, samba-schools play a vital role, having established themselves as the center institution. In Rio de Janeiro, there are probably more than 100 samba-schools of different sizes. We will shortly describe the emergence of “Unidos da Tijuca Samba-School”, the third oldest samba-school in Brazil. The description of Unidos da Tijuca helps the understanding of the process of conception of a typical samba-school in Brazil, since other schools went through very similar historic paths. Like most samba-school founders, Unidos da Tijuca “fathers” aimed to defend the roots of traditional Brazilian folklore as well as to fight for popular causes. Fights that were always present on their ancestors’ blood and soul, suffered and purged from the cultural expression that the loved and grew: the samba. Let´s see how the story of this samba-school helps in the understanding of the samba and Carnaval culture in Brazil. Read the rest of this entry »

Arriving in Argentina you will be met in arrivals in Corrientes by your pilot who will bring you by light aircraft across the stunning landscape of Esteros del Iberá, landing on a grass runway next to the Estancia. Read the rest of this entry »

Legendary and mythical “Baianas” are one of the most known characters of the Brazilian Carnaval and surely represent the utmost samba tradition and authenticity (aside with the Flag-Bearers and Samba-hosts). Foreigners and Brazilians simply fall under a spell when they ‘float’ through the Sambadrome´s runaway. Some of the “Baianas”, having more than 90 years old, still show plenty of vigor and charisma, as they are reverenced by public and samba-school members themselves. They are respected not only by their age and costume distinctness, but principally because of the ritualistic folklore they symbolize. In this article, we will describe the unmistakable element of the ‘Baianas’ at the Brazilian Carnival culture. Read the rest of this entry »

South America is one of the most fascinating continents in the world. Geographically diverse, culturally rich and historically intriguing, this continent is a great destination for travelling, with South America adventure holidays being popular. Here are some of the best places to visit on South America holidays. You can choose one or combine several for extended South America tours. Read the rest of this entry »

Brazil is the largest country from South America, bordering each country of the continents except for Ecuador and Chile. It is a country of contrast, of great beaches, the fantastic Amazon forest, great soccer players and of course Carnival time. Brazil has a lot to offer: an extraordinary mixture of races and cultures, a wide range of weather patterns, great cities with a mix of high technology and slums. Read the rest of this entry »

The central appeal of Galapagos Islands holidays is the wonderful variety of wildlife to be found there. Because the creatures on the islands have evolved with relatively little interference from man, they do not fear humans. This means that on your Galapagos tour, you can get up close to the following creatures for an unforgettable experience, and some good photos. Read the rest of this entry »

Mythic Machu Picchu continues to enthrall and fascinate people from all over the world, but despite numerous studies knowledge of this incredible site and its ancient resident remains sketchy. We don’t know for sure the exact reason that the citadel was built and occupied, but a mystery that remains even more enigmatic is why Machu Picchu was abandoned, and how it then remained hidden from the world for so many years. Read the rest of this entry »

If you are still looking for the perfect holiday destination that guarantees fun and excitement then consider a trip to Argentina and embrace the culture of Buenos Aires – the “Paris of the South”. Read the rest of this entry »

What are the Top ten reasons that you can think of to visit Brazil? Brazil is a country full of immense natural beauty. Exotic beaches and lush rain forests are a few of the wonderful attractions that await visitors and expats alike. Brazil is home to a wide variety of ethnic and biological diversity, Whose heritage is expressed within vibrantly colored art and huge celebrations. Historical cities of pre-Columbian through the Spanish landings await those who love to follow history. Here is a top ten list that includes some of these locations and sites that await you. Read the rest of this entry »

Aruba, a paradise in the Caribbean

Location and size: Aruba is located in the heart of the southern Caribbean, about 20 kilometers from the coast of Venezuela. The island is 30 kilometers long and at the widest point 9 kilometers wide. The total area is approximately 180 square kilometers. Read the rest of this entry »

The Caribbean has become a popular destination among those seeking to spend an extraordinary tropical holiday. It is an ideal destination complete with stunning white sandy beaches, warm climate, a wide choice of hotel resorts, enthralling activities and numerous small and exciting islands. Read the rest of this entry »

For those visiting Bolivia it is a must to visit Lake Titicaca which lies 94 miles northwest of La Paz. This vast lake is the birthplace of one of the greatest empires in history as it was here the Children of the Sun stepped forth from the sacred rock and the Incas began. Read the rest of this entry »

As well as the great barrier reefs that Belize is famous for, its history as a country is well documented. Read the rest of this entry »

In the heart of Santiago, the capital of Chile, is the Plaza de Armas. The square is the historical centre of the city and surrounded by Spanish colonial buildings, including the 18th Century Cathedral and the elaborate main post office which was once the Spanish governor’s residence. The square is the hub of life in the city, always a busy place with local artists in the day and evening activities to be found too. Read the rest of this entry »

Ecuador has many places for visitors to explore and learn from of the culture in this country. In the heart of the historic quarter of Quito is the Plaza de la Independencia. It was one of the first settlements founded in South America by Spanish conquistadors, the city planned in 1535. Read the rest of this entry »

If you are planning to have your vacation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil but you are not so keen on wasting time on the beach or in clubs all night you have a valuable alternative – July Bonfire Festivals. Through the entire city of Rio de Janeiro, in streets, clubs, squares, churches, schools there will be mini country villages set up with stalls of seasonal delicacies and games, all of them decorated with small-sized flags, lanterns and banners. Read the rest of this entry »

It is a peaceful village that was formerly a Jesuit “Reduction” (Mission for the Indigenous). The department it’s situated is called Misiones. The Missions for the Guarani spanned just over 150 years, from 1609, when the neighbouring Reduction of San Ignacio was set up, to 1768, when the Jesuits were expelled. Read the rest of this entry »

The name “Argentina” comes from the latin “argentum” which means silver. The origin of the name goes back to the voyages made by the first Spanish conquistadors (conquerors) to the Rio de la Plata (Silver River). Read the rest of this entry »

The Republic of Chile is located in southern America, being one of the most interesting tourist destinations on the Globe. The interest visitors have in Chile starts with the fact that the country offers access both to the Chilean Andes and the Pacific Ocean. In reality, there are numerous tourist hot spots in Chile and we are going to explore the main attractions. Read the rest of this entry »

Argentina food is very original to this region of South America. It has many different sent, flavors, and ways to satisfy your soul. To fin original recipes for authentic Argentina food is to find food that has a long sought history in this region of South America. The food was originally invented by the original in habitants of the country and through the years many people there today still prepare it they way there ancestors did thousands of years ago. Read the rest of this entry »