Argentina (South America)

Argentina is a country of vast proportions and variety. It stretches over 3,000 miles (5,000km) from Antarctica, through the wild glacier-filled mountains of Patagonia and the massive open plains of La Pampas to the deserts and tropical jungles in the north. The country is worth visiting for its natural wonders alone, but for the more cosmopolitan types there is the elegant splendour of Buenos Aires to explore. The capital, home to 40 percent of the population, is a buzzing metropolis where you can get to understand the vibrant and volatile character of the people. Described by some as a slightly run-down version of Paris, Buenos Aires is a wonderful city for absorbing the atmosphere on foot or over a cup of coffee or glass of cerveza in one of its many cafés.

Argentina has a more European feel than most South American countries and travellers will have less of a culture shock arriving here than in neighbouring destinations. But many clichés are true and there is no hiding the Latin influence. The Argentineans are a very glamorous people with definite passions, which include football, politics and fast living.

There is a great divide between the rich and poor, with much of the population living in near slum conditions in the outskirts on Buenos Aires. Since 1992 the economy has teetered near collapse due to corruption and government mismanagement, prompting regular and sometimes violent demonstrations. However it is business-as-usual as far as tourism is concerned; in fact, the resultant devaluation of the peso has made the country much more affordable for travellers.

With so much to see and experience in this vast land, most visitors find they need to return for a 'second look' at this Latin American wonderland.

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