Three South American destinations are becoming more popular among travelers.
Justin Laycob, the owner and founder of Southern Explorations, a company specializing in South American adventures, concedes, “It’s actually one of the safest places in the world to travel right now.”
Laycob says South America is also affordable, and his firm puts offers creative land tours from $250-$300 per day. Accommodations are included, but international airfare is not.
North Americans don’t get nearly as jet-lagged on a trip to South America, with just a three-hour difference.
That clockwork proximity “allows you to arrive and enjoy your vacation much quicker,” says Laycob. “There’s really no down time [due to] jet lag.”
What’s to enjoy way down south?
- Argentina: You’ll get the charm of Europe for the price of South America. There’s more to it than Tangoing in Buenos Aries. The epicenter of Argentine excitement is Patagonia. El Calafate is the entryway to southern Patagonia, and the jumping off place for trips out to Peritomoreno Glacier. “It’s an amazing place,” says Laycob, where glacier walks are the order of the day. At the end of that day, take time to thoroughly explore a bottle of Argentine wine.
- Galapagos Islands: Drink in the main islands that comprise this singular place in time and space. Stow the passive cruise ship approach and do a walkabout. Press on via sea kayak, snorkel, mountain bike or horseback. Get close to wildlife. “It’s been so long since they’ve been disturbed by humans that a lot of the birds and animal just aren’t afraid anymore,” says Laycob. “You can get very close and personal” – just don’t touch. “It’s a daily occurrence where sea lions come right up to snorkelers and play with them in the water.”
- Florianopolis: Dubbed the “New Rio,” this is “definitely one of the hot spots in Brazil right now,” says Laycob. The island of Florianopolis is in the southern part of the country. Laycob labels it “a very safe location, with beautiful beaches – great waves, and incredible night life.” The laid-back atmosphere is reminiscent of Hawaii.
Story by Jerry Chandler
