Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer, so it’s no wonder that a warm welcome is often extended with a cup of cafezhino. Served in tiny demitasse cups, it is not uncommon for a Brazilian to consume more than a dozen of these diminutive sips of java a day. So whether you are soaking in Ipanema to Copacabana in Rio De Janerio, or spending time in Sao Paolo, you are sure to smell the aroma of coffee just around the corner. Enjoy!
Posts Tagged ‘South America Tour’
Brazil is a Must for Coffee Aficionados
Saturday, December 19th, 2009Sizzling Sounds, Tantalizing Tastes and Colorful Sights
Monday, November 23rd, 2009
Salsa, bossa nova, tango, merengue, marimba…Central America & South America are a region of music, movements and laughter. High up in the Andes, the low tone of Peruvian pipes envelopes the magnificent Inca fortress of Machu Picchu. Down by the sea, the checky residents of Brazil’s Rio de Janiero samba late into the night. The tango is more the taste in sophisticated Argentina, even on the plains of the Pampa. In Chile, home to both beautiful lakes and Atacama, the oldest and driest dessert on earth, the locals dance a mean merengue. And in the strange and wonderful Galapagos Islands, living testament to the world of Charles Darwin, the lapping of the sea make music all of its own. Let us show you the fiesta that is Central and South America.
South America Engaging Wonders
Sunday, September 27th, 2009
Diverse and dazzling, South America has been inspiring explorers for centuries with her sun-kissed beaches, stunning glacier fjords, lush tropical rainforests and remote indigenous villages. Travel in the week of Magellan around Cape Horn and through the strait named in his honor, and encounter the breathtaking scenery of Antarctica. From the towering mountains of the Andes to the mighty Amazon River, discover a continent that takes your breathe way and leaves awe in its place.
Click for more on Escorted South America Tours and Cruises
Rio de Janerio & Corcovado Mountain
Monday, August 31st, 2009
Rio was, in its heyday, one of the most glamorous cities in the world. It’s still beautiful with Ipanema and Copacabana Beaches still shining and it will always have Corcovado Mountain, a rounded peak rising 2,300 ett from the bay below. Named one of the new 7 Wonders of the World, it is truly awesome. Located in the lush Tijuca Forest, you climb Corcovado Hill on an electrified train. It’s over 120 years old and slow but all the more exciting when you get to the top. Christ the Redeemer Statue, the symbol of Rio, is found by either climbing stairs, escalator or an elevator. The statue stands at 100 feet, arms outstretched, and one can see it from almost anywhere in the city. When looking down from Corcovado there are absolutely incredible views of Sugarloaf Mountain, the city itself, and the famous beaches. Due to their typical weather conditions, there is usually a cloud cover. This only adds to the mystique and beauty of Rio and makes for some great photos.
Places to Visit in Chile
Thursday, August 20th, 2009Chile is incredibly diverse…from the cool southern tip, to the dry northern regions, this country is stunning. From Colonial towns and lush thriving vineyards to the deep, formidable fjords. Chile is waiting to be discovered. Here are just a few of the areas you might visit while on a tour of Chile.
Santiago: Santiago de Chile is a modern, sophisticated city with impressive infrastructure, world-class dining and shopping within easy proximity to neighboring regions well known for wine and impressive scenery. Take the funicular to see the Statue of the Virgin atop Cerro San Cristobal. It is a great photo opportunity, as it provides a great view of the city. Other sights include the Museum of Natural History, Santa Lucia Hill and a cathedral which has a painting of the Last Supper.
Valparaiso: This is Chile’s oldest and largest port city. It offers both a rich cultural and architectural legacy, with an intricately woven tapestry of streets and alleyways. Valparaiso is one of Latin America’s most interesting urban areas. Visit Victoria Square, the Naval Maritime Museum and the Church of La Matriz. Ride on the cable cars, also known as ascensores.
Torres del Paine National Park: Found in remote Patagonia to the south, these soaring granite peaks are surrounded by glaciers, wilderness and lakes. You will see amazing scenery and lots of wildlife, including everything from pink flamingos, to herds of sheep and guanacos.
Easter Island: These mysterious and exotic Pacific islands are home to friendly indigenous Polynesians and the famous ancient stone faces. Some of the ancient sites you can see are Ahu Tahai, Orongo, Ahu Vaihu and Rano Kau.
Puerto Montt: The scenery in this area is amazing. You would not expect to see Alpine houses in Chile, but in fact this area was settled by Germany’s in the 1800’s, so you see the influence still today. Puerto Montt is excellent for trout fishing and skiing in the winter.
Punta Arenas: This is know as the gateway to Antarctica, and is the southernmost city in the world. It is a small area that can be toured in about an hour. See the monument to Hernando de Magallanes in the main square, the bell tower and cathedral.
October through March are the best months for travel to Chile. Like in many European cities, dinner is normally eaten after 8 p.m. so make sure you eat a late lunch or have a snack. If you are interested in shopping, the most popular items are blankets, wool rugs, pottery, Easter Island statues, hand made jewelry and local wines.
Airfare Deals to South America
Sunday, March 8th, 2009
LAN Airlines provides nonstop and connecting flights to Chile, Peru, Argentina, Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay, Dominican Republic and Bolivia.
LAN’s colorful and spacious main cabin is exceeding expectations and offers passengers a sense of class and hospitality with amenities most airlines reserve for their premium class passengers and features. LAN is currently retrofitting its entire fleet of Boeing 767s with a new economy class that features new seating and expanded entertainment options, including:
- Individual video monitors in each seatback featuring a larger size of 8.9 inches and optimal resolution with touch-screen programming providing an easy and comfortable way to select options, offering audio and video on demand.
- Updated entertainment content, including a selection of 32 movies -8 blockbusters and 24 favorite feature films-, 55 shorts programs, 450 music CDs and 14 video games .
Increased recline and cushion that slides forward one inch for greater comfort. - Increased space for carry-on items, as well as cup holders.
- Adjustable headrests offering greater comfort.
- New fabrics, carpeting and redesigned pillows and blankets.
- Oversized overhead compartments.
- Award-winning menus inspired by the tastes and flavors of Latin America, as well as complimentary wines and alcoholic beverages.
The enhanced Premium Business Class offers 180-degree reclining, full flat seats, state of the art entertainment system, as well as top-notch cuisine and wine selections.
Coach fares from New York to Buenos Aires are available from $562 pp round trip; New York to Santiago from $689 pp round trip. Also available are special rates from Miami to Punta Cana starting at $214 pp round trip, Miami to Buenos Aires from $562pp round trip and Miami to Lima, Peru from $277 pp round trip.
Click here for a great selection of South America vacations.
General Tours in Asia & South America
Wednesday, November 19th, 2008General Tours’ small group escorted tour to exotic Southeast Asia is a rich & leisurely way to explore this distant land. Its unique inclusions are visiting Singapore with a private guide, a deluxe overnight cruise on Ha Long bay, two full days of expertly guided sightseeing at Angkor Wat, and a night on the Mekong Delta.
Visions of Vietnam & Angkor Wat with Singapore is a 17 day package starting from $5,999 pp land only. Price includes luxury hotel accommodations, overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay, most meals, all sightseeing & on-tour transportation including flights within Vietnam & Cambodia.
Exclusive offer: Book by December 31st, & receive a complimentary lunch at The Line, a restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore. A 14 day itinerary is available without Singapore from $3,599 pp
In South America, discover the rich cultural legacy & sophisticated charms of two of the continent’s great capitals. Explore Mendoza, Argentina’s best wine region, and staisfy your lust for magnificent scenery with a spectacular overland journey across the mighty peaks of the Andes. Excursions include wine tastings, a tango lesson, and a cooking class will provide an insider’s point of view.
Traditions & Flavors of South America is an 8 day package from $2,379 pp Rates include deluxe hotel accommodations, many meals, sightseeing at 2 estate wineries in Mendoza & all on-tour transportation & internal flights.
Exclusive offer: Booking by December 31st and receive complimentary private airport transfers on land-only bookings.
AARP Members receive up to $200 off per couple.
South America Travel Visa
Thursday, October 30th, 2008
A valid passport is required for all international travelers. Please check your passport’s expiration date well in advance of your travel plans as many foreign governments require that your passport be valid for six (6) months after the completion of your travel.
Many tourist visas and/or entry fees for U.S. citizens are valid for MORE than just one trip. For example, if you obtained a tourist visa for a prior trip to Brazil, and you go to Brazil again within 5 years your original visa is still good – you don’t have to buy another for $130. Another example: The $130 tourist entry fee to Chile is good for the life of your passport. So – be sure to check this out with your Atlas Travel specialist before applying (and paying for) new visas. Rules change frequently, so be sure to check when you are planning your trip.
Conributed By Lois Graf – Traveled to Brazil & Chile Sept 25th-Oct 3rd
