In terms of landmass, Argentina dominates the southern half of South America. Being of such a vast size, it accommodates a spectrum of climates, from balmy tropics to frozen tundra. This is a land of towering mountains, immense deserts, canyons, glaciers, and waterfalls. Argentina offers a lot of bang for the buck. Its recent economic difficulties make the exchange rates particularly favorable to travelers. Thankfully, Argentina’s financial downturn couldn’t douse its fiery spirit. After all, this is the birthplace of the tango, and the location of the “Land of Fire” (Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago shared with Chile).
The regal elegance of Buenos Aires serves a sampling of European architecture seasoned with a generous dose of South American spirit. In the Parque Nacional Iguazú, the Iguazú Falls cascade down a trajectory 70 meters high, framed by a lush backdrop of rainforest. Hikers flock to the small village of El Chaltén, a river valley town which serves as the launch point for a trek up the nearby mountains of the Fitz Roy range. One can sip a path through the Mendoza Wine region, or go penguin watching in Patagonia. Nature’s wild beauty and humanity’s cultural sophistication, both thrive here in Argentina.
