1.) The Best of Tango and Buenos Aires

If you are travelling in Argentina, be sure to spend the vacation in Buenos Aires. You can get tours of the capital wherein you will get to see the famous Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada, Cabildo, and the City Hall. A visit to the Palermo is also a must-see as well as the Colon Theater, Buenos Aires’ famous opera house.

2.) Copacabana Days and Nights

This is another must-go-to place in Bolivia, South America. Experience what it feels like to be a local of this magical place as you wake up to its wonderful sunrise. Remember to visit the Sun Island also and drink from its Sacred Spring. It is said that this spring is a source of eternal life.

3.) Life and Carnival in Rio de Janeiro

Of course, if you are in Brazil, your top pick will always Rio de Janeiro, a romantic place featured in countless movies and novels. Enjoy its beaches and the wonderful warm sun. At night, you will also get to enjoy its nightlife amidst fun, wine, laughter, and dancing.

4.) Mysterious Easter Island (Chile)

Chile has the mysterious Easter Island to boast of. This is a place full of mysteries because of its huge stone-faced statues that seems to be guarding the island. Get to visit also Ahu Tongariki, the island’s biggest platform, to enjoy the view of the vast openness of the sea.

5.) Tranquility of Galapagos Island

You can explore Galapagos Island of Ecuador by going on a cruise. But, of course, once you arrived at the island, you should explore it first to experience firsthand its culture, people and food. On the cruise, you will be taken to the tiny islands where sea lions bask under the sun.

6.) Asuncion, Paraguay

This is the capital city of Paraguay and offers a lot to the tourists. They can visit the many plazas and parks the city has to offer, enjoying the influence of the Colonial Spanish era. In the city, you can also visit the Botanical Gardens and a small zoo where you can see a lot of its local floras and faunas.

7.) Cartagena’s Allure

Colombia’s Cartagena is one of the popular destination spots of the country and is fast becoming the most popular. What make it attractive to visitors are its majestic beaches like Boca Grande Beach and little islands like Rosario Islands. In this little island, one can go snorkeling and diving or just plain swimming and enjoying the sun.

8.) Lima, The City of the Kinds

True to its name, Lima does seem like the city of the kings with its wonderful Amazon Rain Forest sheltering its varied faunas and floras. Enjoy your walk in Cuzco’s streets and sample its native foods. It is also a wonderful idea to visit the historical and archeological sites like temples of its native inhabitants of long ago.

9.) Caracas of Venezuela

This is a historical Venezuelan city that anybody can be proud of visiting. In this wonderful place, get to visit the Pantheon, the place where Bolivar lies, and enjoy walking through its Spanish-influenced streets. The city also has a museum where you can get to know more about the history of the place, stores where you can buy your souvenirs and wonderful cafes where you can enjoy Venezuela’s cooking style and unique tastes.

10.) Heavenly Punta Del Este

Who is to say that Uruguay’s beaches cannot top that of Hawaii’s? Punta Del Este is one of the beaches that this country boasts of and is its resort city. Here, you can explore Punta Del Este and meet its local citizens and immerse yourself in their culture.

In this day and age it’s hard to find a good deal from a hotel. Traveling is supposed to be fun, relaxing and memory-making for you and your family.

Top 5 Luxury Hotels in South America

1- Fasano – Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Designed by the world renowned Philippe Starck and situated on Ipanema Beach, one of Rio and the world’s most desirable locations, this magnificent hotel is the place to be seen in. Everything about this residence from the magnificent Fasano Al-Mare restaurant to the rooms is stunning and Starck’s influence is clear with a blend of modern-retro, stone, wood and light throughout. There is also an amazing fitness centre, rooftop pool and an exclusive bar making this the place to be see in Rio.

2 – Llao Llao Hotel & Resort – Bariloche

The Llao Llao is one of the most respected hotels in Argentina, and is a traditional image of lodging in Bariloche, in the Lake District of Patagonia. Located in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, Llao Llao, Province of Río Negro, Patagonia, the hotel is overlooking the Moreno and Nahuel Huapi Lakes. Designed by famous architect Alejandro Bustillo in 1939, this hotel also has an 18-hole golf course.

As you would imagine, the service is top notch and sets a model to follow for other hotels in the area. The 159-room hotel has a range of activities available, though you might also want to just relax and enjoy the scenery or the comfortable accommodations. The Llao Llao is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, but maintains its traditional style and character.

3- Hotel Paracas Libertador/Luxury Collection – Peru -
The Hotel Paracas is the most luxe of the resorts – with their own boats for trips to spot wildlife on the Islas Ballestas and a private jet to do flyovers of the Nazca Lines – and the most concerned with gastronomy. The hotel (& spa) has a Red Sea vibe with two story-whitewashed bungalows that blend into the desert landscape. While ocean is water is murky and the wind more suitable for kite and wind surfing, the pool scenes are more happening. Seafood and cocktails are free flowing – even poolside – and Rafael Piqueras, one of Lima’s top chefs, designed their restaurant menus. designed by Bernardo Fort-Brescia who designed the E-walk complex in Times Square and dozens of hotels all over the world.

4 -Posada de Mike Rapu - Easter Island, Chile

This Luxury Hotel is located on a hill in the Te Miro Oone area in the center of the island (27º09’ S and 109º 26’ W), and makes an excellent base for exploring this attractive and mysterious island which is home to a culture whose origins and evolution remain unexplained. Volcanic rock, native to the island and always used by the island’s inhabitants in construction, and wood from the mainland, are the principal materials that have been used to build the hotel. The hotel has 30 guestrooms, a pool, massage salon and open-air Jacuzzis.

The Mantra – Punta Del Este

Mediterranean Style Resort In La Barra Nestled On A Hilltop Amongst The Trees, With Views Over The Atlantic Ocean And The Holiday Town Of Punta Del Este. Amenities Include A World Class 2,500 Square meter Spa With The Best Treatments From Around The World To Ensure Personal Balance, Technologically Advanced Conference Center As Well As A Luxurious Casino. With Relaxed And Personal Service, the hotel is Ideal Year-round For Business Or Pleasure.

Here are 10 good reasons to make 2010 the year you travel South America:

1. It’s Still Affordable: It used to cost much more to fly to South America than to EEUU but not anymore. Airfares from many Australia cities are comparable, and after you arrive, you’ll find hotel and meal prices mostly lower. Favorable exchange rates make 2010 the perfect time to go.
2. Safety: The last decade has seen a rising popularity of travel within the Western Hemisphere. Travelers to South America get to visit exotic lands but stay closer to home. Some of the continent’s top sights require a guide, adding an extra measure of safety as well as eliminating some of the hassles of international travel.
3. No Crazy Time Change: Traveling north and south instead of east and west means you’ll spend less of the vacation adjusting to new time zones and more time feeling like yourself.
4. Shorter Flight Times: Travelers who think they’ll only visit South America once will be pleasantly surprised to learn how close some of the continent’s top sights are to one another. Because of short distances and flight times, you can combine Machu Picchu with the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands all in one vacation.
5. Cultural Immersion: Here visitors may travel back in time to observe indigenous populations practicing the same cultural traditions as centuries ago. Ancient ruins and the well-preserved architecture of colonial cities make South America a paradise for history buffs. For those who wish to experience the continent’s emblematic dance rhythms from Bahia to Buenos Aires, it’s a festival.
6. Culinary Travel: South American cuisine is all the rage. Foodies rave about Peru’s fusion style prepared by indigenous cooking methods, the European, African and Caribbean influences in Brazilian dishes, and the French and Italian slant to Argentine cooking, not to mention the world’s most perfectly grilled steak. Divine meals paired with some of the world’s top wines from Argentina and Chile make South America a unique gastronomic adventure.
7. Something for Everyone: So vast a continent offers destinations to suit almost every traveler. From tropical beaches and rainforests to glaciers and the magnificent Andes, you’ll find a bountiful array of ways to vacation in South America.
8. “Bucket List” Sights: South America is filled with bucket list opportunities—a journey down the Amazon, observing Galapagos wildlife at close range, traveling the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, walking among the penguins of Patagonia. South America offers many once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
9. Experiential Travel: The adventure travel options are plentiful. Ride the pampas like the gauchos, sea kayak with marine wildlife, hike scenic trails, drift-snorkel, whitewater raft and surf in warm waters. With seasons opposite those of North America, you can ski in July or sunbathe in December.
10. It’s Still Off The Beaten Path: Unlike the much-traveled destinations of Western Europe, most of South America remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, making it easy to go “off the beaten path.”

Travelers from Australia has increasingly become a significant source of income for many South American countries. Historical relics, architectural and natural wonders, a diverse range of foods and culture, vibrant and colorful cities, and stunning landscapes attract millions of tourists every year to South America. Some of the most visited places in the region are Machu Picchu, the Amazon Rainforest, Rio Carnivals , Salvador de Bahia, Isla Margarita, Natal, Buenos Aires, São Paulo, Angel Falls, Cuzco,  Patagonia, Cartagena and the Galápagos islands.

Galapagos Islands:

The Galapagos is a cluster of islands located to the west of Ecuador. These volcanic islands embraced the world’s most varied species of plants and animals. It has been affirmed as a World Heritage Site and it presents an astonishing marine journey. You can go underwater to find sea lions, morays, and more. As the Garden of Eden of evolution, the Galapagos Islands are glorious. The underwater volcanic configurations surface is a segregated heaven of flora and fauna. It is a one of the world’s most unique and captivating ecosystems island. Isolated from the mainland for centuries, the island is home to many exceptional species of plants and animals. Entry to the region is strongly controlled, but most visits combine a mixture of glide and walking around the islands. If you are captivated by animals, the Galapagos Islands are best to fulfill your dream.

Argentina:

Argentina is well known as the land of the immigrants. With its gorgeous landscapes, cosmopolitan cities and lively culture, Argentina is a traveler’s paradise. It stretches almost 3500 km from Bolivia to the tip of South America, covers a wide range of geography and climates, and is almost the size of India. Nature-lovers would like to climb on the Patagonia, South America’s highest peak, walk among thousands of penguins and admire the world’s most amazing waterfalls.

Its six major regions are as follows:

• Cuyo & the Andean Northwest
• Mesopotamia & the Northeast
• The Chaco
• The Pampas
• Patagonia and the Lake District
• Tierra del Fuego

Lake Titicaca:

Lake Titicaca is located on the border of Peru and Bolivia. It is 3,812 m (12,500 ft) above from sea level and volume of water making it one of the highest navigable lakes in the South America. Because of 3,200 square miles in size and up to 1,000 feet in depth, Titicaca is one of the largest, highest, and deepest lakes in the world. The lake turns on a kind of grey color in cloudy environment and when the sun sets its soft blue tone makes it truly beautiful surroundings. Lake Titicaca is well-known for its full of meaning blue beauty. Recently, a large temple was exposed inundated in the lake, adding to its secrecy and charm. The water in Lake Titicaca comes from a combination of rainfall and melts water. There are stone ruins more ancient than the stone land bridge leading out of Lake Titicaca. These shells are buried under six feet of residue on the slight foundation of Lake Titicaca. The residue contains pre-historic that is more ancient than 12, OOO B.C. sea shell vestiges. There was not sufficient loam on the peaks surrounding Lake Titicaca to have windswept down and sheltered these ancient ruins with six feet of residue.

Bolivia:

Everything in this country is the uppermost in the world. The Plurinational State of Bolivia is a landlocked country in central South America. It is bordered by Brazil to the north and east, Paraguay and Argentina to the south, and Chile and Peru to the west. Bolivia is one of the most stunning countries of South America. It will triumph over your soul and touch your heart. It’s such a travel gracious country. The thing you love will the breathtaking combination of customary and contemporary life. This gracious mountain leads from the Altiplano down to the Amazon Basin, exposing visitors to almost every kind of ecosystem, from high mountain fastnesses to deep jungle. Bolivia is the world’s highest capital, highest international airport, and highest lake, the incomparable Lake Titicaca. Whether you want to roam in the markets of La Paz, hike the ancient temples of the sacred city of Tiahuanaco, or participate in a tour to the underground lake, Bolivia travel will satisfy your nomadic recommends and place you under a perplexing spell, fascinating your mind’s eye. Bolivia will always welcome you with open arms.

Machu Picchu:

The strange Inca castle concealed deep in the green Urubamba Valley’s jungle, high on a mountain top is the most well conserved city of the great Inca Empire. A train, or the famous Inca Trail, takes you through twisting and stunning Andean scenery, following the river, and ultimately arrives at the quite contemporary town of Machu Picchu lying in a deep steep-sided valley. Buses take you up through until you reach that famous vision. You can feel the ambience marvel at the Sun Gate and awesome sight at the location and how it was built, and looks out for the legendary Condor after entering here. Most renowned architectural sites in the world, ‘The Lost City of the Incas’ has extensive been one of the foremost magnetisms for South America tramping holidays, and it definitely lives up to the excitement. Hanging on the top of an isolated mountainside, this outstandingly conserved set of ruins lay undiscovered until the beginning of the 20th century, and is perhaps the finest set of antique Inca site on the continent. When you are there, don’t forget to climb up the close proximity mountain of Huayna Picchu for some stunning views of the ruins from the top.

Visiting South America is an exciting prospect with it’s vibrant, unique culture, the music, dancing and great beaches. The continent has some of the worlds most exciting cities, rainforests, jungles and mountains.

Rio de Janeiro

Every day feels like a carnival in Rio de Janeiro, you are never far from the pulse of the samba. Situated between glorious beaches and lush mountains it’s a perfect place for a lively holiday.

Weather

The weather never gets cold in Rio, the rainy season is from October to January and temperatures can drop to 23C. The humid climate reaches 28C in the summer.

Transport: how to get there and around

The airport in Rio serves flights from all of Latin America, Brazil, and beyond. Long distance buses depart from Novo Rio Rodoviaria.

Getting around the city can be a little uncomfortable on the often crowded buses. For a cooler option try the air-conditioned subway which covers part of the city.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays

The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Rio de Janeiro.

Attractions & Events

*Unforgettable Costumes, dancing and body painting are paraded through the streets for the famous 5 day Carnaval. This event starts on the Friday before Ash Wednesday.

* Throughout June is the Fiestas Junina, which takes place in public squares in the city.

*Festa de NS da Gloria do Outeiro is celebrated with street parades and stalls on 15 August.

*Each Sunday in October the religious festival Festa da Penha takes place.

São Paulo

São Paulo is Brazils largest and most cosmopolitan city. There are many attractions for the visitor to enjoy including the art and culture, fine restaurants and pulsating nightlife.

Transport: how to get there and around

There are three airports in São Paulo. Congonhas for domestic and Sao Paulo/ Guarulhos both for domestic and international flights.

To avoid the congested streets the subway is a great option. There is a bus service but this can be crowded and uncomfortable.

Weather

The city receives most rain during the summer months, although generally the weather is sunny and warm all year.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays

The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Sao Paulo.

ttractions & Events

*In June the hot fashions are on show during São Paulo’s Fashion Week, the same month brings the huge gay celebration Gay Pride.

*In October sports fan can enjoy the Brazilian F1 Grand Prix

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires has an old style European feel with its boulevards, café’s and architecture. But you’ll quickly find it also has a trendy chic side and a population that makes flair into an art form. And as home of the tango, the city has an irresistible allure.

Transport: how to get there and around

The city’s two airports known as Ezeiza & Aeroparque serve as an important hub for the southern region of South America. There is a bus service which connects the city with both airports.

The efficient underground called Subte makes traveling around the city easy. You can also use the bus service 24 hours a day. Most of the tourist attractions are situated close to one another so walking is also an option.

Weather

The best time to visit is during Spring and Autumn as the summer can be scorching up to 40C and the winters are cold. You will see some rain although its not generally heavy.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays

The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Buenos Aires.

Attractions & Events

*Dancing is a popular celebration, the Buenos Aires Tango festival is held during February and March.

* To celebrate Latin American literature the book fair The Feria del Libro takes place every April.

*

Nature, history, culture, colour, gastronomia, adventure and passion – Real South America launched its new brochure,which showcases the very best of South America, at the Hilton in Sydney on Tuesday night.

Real South America, Australian Sales Director Bilynda Pinkerton says the brochure has been designed to act as a “personal concierge in Latin America”.

She said Real South America’s specialization is in tailor made activities and the new brochure reflects that.

The new brochure features 14 destinations including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Mexico, Cuba, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama and Uruguay.

Real South America is an Australian Argentinian owned business, which understands the Australian market, the Australian way of thinking and the South American way of thinking.

Source: http://www.etravelblackboard.com/showarticle.asp?id=97434

Real South America offers a variety of South America travel destinations, including travel around Santiago, Peru, Rio de Janeiro, Amazonas, Iguazú Falls and Buenos Aires, Patagonia.

ESCORTED TOUR

3^rd – 4^th November: Santiago

Flight Sydney to Santiago

Meet & Greet by your Real South America Guide

Private Airport Transfers

Welcome Dinner (D)

Hotel Atton El Bosque (B)

4^th – 5^th November: Lima

Santiago City Tour

Flight Santiago to Lima

Private Airport Transfers

Hotel Sonesta El Olivar (B)

5^th – 6^th November: Lima

Colonial & Modern Lima City Tour

Hotel Sonesta El Olivar (B)

6^th – 7^th November: Cusco

Private Airport Transfers

Flight Lima to Cusco

Cusco City & Ruins Tour

Hotel Terra Andina (B)

7^th – 8^th November: Cusco

Sacred Valley Tour (L)

Hotel Terra Andina (B)

8^th – 9^th November: Machu Picchu

Vistadome Train Cusco to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

Dinner & Show at Cava San Rafael (D)

Hotel Hatuchay Tower (B)

9^th – 10^th November: Cusco

Vistadome Train Machu Picchu to Cusco

Hotel Terra Andina (B)

10^th – 11^th November: Lake Titicaca

Tourist Bus Cusco to Puno (L)

Casa Andina Private Collection Puno (B)

11^th – 12^th November: Lake Titcaca

Lake Titicaca Tour (L)

Casa Andina Private Collection Puno (B)

12^th – 13^th November: Cusco

Bus Puno to Cusco

Hotel Terra Andina (B)

13^th – 14^th November: Flying

Private Airport Transfers

Flight Cuzco to Lima

Flight Lima to Sao Paolo

14^th – 15^th November: Rio de Janeiro

Flight Sao Paolo to Rio de Janeiro

Private Airport Transfers

Hotel Windsor Miramar (B)

15^th – 16^th November: Rio de Janeiro

Free Day

Hotel Windsor Miramar (B)

16^th – 17^th November: Rio de Janeiro

Rio City Tour (L)

Hotel Windsor Miramar (B)

17^th – 18^th November: Manaus

Flight Rio to Manaus

Private Airport Transfers

Comfort Inn Hotel Manaus (B)

18^th – 20^th November: Amazon

3 Day/2 Night Amazon Eco Park Program (B,L,D)

20^th – 21^st November: Manaus

Manaus City Tour including Amazon Theatre

Comfort Inn Hotel Manaus (B)

21^st – 22^nd November: Iguassu Falls

Flight Manaus to Sao Paolo

Flight Sao Paolo to Iguassu

Private Airport Transfers

La Aldea Lodge (B)

22^nd – 23^rd November: Iguassu Falls

Iguassu Falls Tour (Brasil) (PM)

La Aldea Lodge (B)

23^rd – 24^th November: Iguassu Falls

Iguassu Falls Tour (Argentina)

La Aldea Lodge (B)

24^th – 25^th November: Buenos Aires

Private Airport Transfers

Flight Iguassu to Buenos Aires

Private Airport Transfers

Dazzler Suites Arroyo (B)

25^th – 26^th November: Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires City Tour

Tango Show & Dinner at La Ventana (D)

Dazzler Suites Arroyo (B)

26^th – 27^th November: Buenos Aires

Free Day

Dazzler Suites Arroyo (B)

27^th – 28^th November: Uruguay/Buenos Aires

Colonia City Visit (L)

Dazzler Suites Arroyo (B)

28^th – 29^th November: El Calafate

Private Airport Transfers

Flight Buenos Aires to El Calafate

Private Airport Transfers

Hotel Imago

29^th – 30^th November: El Calafate

Perito Moreno Glacier Tour

Hotel Imago

30^th November – 1^st December: El Calafate

Upsala Glacier & Onelli Tour

Hotel Imago

1^st – 4^th December: Torres del Paine

4 Day/3 Night Hosteria Las Torres Program (B,L,D)

4^th – 5^th December: Santiago

Private Airport Transfers

Flight Punta Arenas to Santiago

Private Airport Transfers

Hotel Atton El Bosque (B)

5^th December: Home

Private Airport Transfers

Flight Santiago to Sydney

$16,200USDpp (based on twin share)

Price Includes:

Return International Airfares

Internal South America flights

31 Nights accommodation in Superior Class Hotels

Meals as stated on itinerary

Tours as stated on itinerary

Transport as stated on itinerary

Machu Picchu National Park Entrance Fees

Transport as stated on itinerary

Real South America Guide and/or Local English speaking guides

24hr contact with Real South America offices in Sydney and Buenos Aires

Key: B = Breakfast                          L = Lunch                            D = Dinner

In case of any special enquiry, don’t hesitate to contact us:

Australia:

Level 17, BNP Paribas Centre. 60 Castlereagh Street. Sydney-Australia T: 61 (2) 9220 3582 / Fax: 61 (2) 9220 3535 / C: 0458 064 605

Argentina:

Delgado 1569 1 “11″. Buenos Aires-Argentina T: 4553.6821

Brazil:

Rua Pedro Longo (Pituba) # 245. Itacaré, Bahia- Brasil T: 55-73- 3251 3001

info@realsouthamerica.com.au