Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires

Vibrant Rio lies cradled in the outstretched arms of the Christ the Redeemer Statue, which stands atop Corcovado Mountain. At the feet of this magnificent landmark lies one of the world’s most magnificent bays. Golden beaches with such alluring names as Copacabana and Ipanema stretch as far as the eye can see. There are close to two dozen such bays, which serve as a playground for some of the world’s most beautiful people. All along this waterfront, which swirls with mosaic art, are five-star hotels, elegant shops, popular restaurants and a lifestyle to match. Winding its way along this magnificent mile or so is a constant parade of handsome Cariocas, as the local people are known.

Attempts have been made to wrangle the wild islands of Ilhabela (Portuguese for “Beautiful Island”) into some semblance of domesticity by establishing coffee plantations, but the island has pushed back, insisting it be appreciated for its dense jungle, volcanic peaks, gorgeous beaches and nearly 400 waterfalls. Divers, hikers, and anyone with a yen for an off-the-beaten-path experience take ferry trips to the isle to visit remote beaches. 85% of the land is set aside as UNESCO-protected.

Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay, South America’s second-smallest country. Beyond urban limits, 90% of Uruguay’s land is devoted to sheep and cattle grazing, as Montevideo is this nation’s largest city. Legend tells us that its name originated from the words monte vide eu meaning “I see a mountain,” exclaimed by an eager lookout when Magellan’s fleet first arrived in 1520. Set in a picturesque location along the River Plate’s shores, Montevideo evokes all the flavor of Spain with the massive masonry, hidden patios and palm-shaded plazas that are so reminiscent of that country. Attractions abound. Stroll wide boulevards and leafy parks, view imposing statuary or experience the thrill of an estancia visit.

Montevideo is the capital of Uruguay, South America’s second-smallest country. Beyond urban limits, 90% of Uruguay’s land is devoted to sheep and cattle grazing, as Montevideo is this nation’s largest city. Legend tells us that its name originated from the words monte vide eu meaning “I see a mountain,” exclaimed by an eager lookout when Magellan’s fleet first arrived in 1520. Set in a picturesque location along the River Plate’s shores, Montevideo evokes all the flavor of Spain with the massive masonry, hidden patios and palm-shaded plazas that are so reminiscent of that country. Attractions abound. Stroll wide boulevards and leafy parks, view imposing statuary or experience the thrill of an estancia visit.

Cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, whose name means city of “favorable winds,” is the capital of Argentina. With broad, well planned avenues, charming sidewalk cafés, carefully tended parks, elaborate monuments, noble statues and splendid rococo buildings, it exudes an air of sophisticated elegance.

Until the 1880s, Buenos Aires was a mere village. However, it has now prospered into one of Latin America’s most sophisticated centers, with a population of over 11 million.

Buenos Aires has also frequently been dubbed the “Paris of the Southern Hemisphere,” due to its superb restaurants, art galleries, museums and European-influenced architecture

Cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, whose name means city of “favorable winds,” is the capital of Argentina. With broad, well planned avenues, charming sidewalk cafés, carefully tended parks, elaborate monuments, noble statues and splendid rococo buildings, it exudes an air of sophisticated elegance.

Until the 1880s, Buenos Aires was a mere village. However, it has now prospered into one of Latin America’s most sophisticated centers, with a population of over 11 million.

Buenos Aires has also frequently been dubbed the “Paris of the Southern Hemisphere,” due to its superb restaurants, art galleries, museums and European-influenced architecture