You may have already read the blog first few countries I plan to visit during my South America trip in 2016. I had to do some more research and have chosen the next three. After visiting Bolivia I will continue my trip on to Paraguay, Argentina and finally Brazil with the bonus of visiting Cuba (hopefully) on my way back if I have enough time left.
Paraguay
One of the main reasons I want to visit Paraguay is because I lived there for 3 years when I was a child and have always wanted to go back and see Asunción. Some of the sights and experiences I plan to have (other than the personal ones) are:
Asunción
- Government Palace: Also known, as Palacio de Lopez or “The Palace of the Lopez” is where the president works and the seat of the government. The palace can be found in the city center and its construction began in 1857 for which materials from all over the country were used.
- Casa de la Independencia: In English it can be referred to as “The house of independence” and is a museum where you can learn a bit more about Paraguay’s history. Where better to learn about a country than the house in which is it was declared independent?
- Museo de Bellas Artes: The National Museum of fine Arts exhibits all types of art (paintings, sculptures, etc) and displays both local and international artists! If you are an art lover it is a great way to see and appreciate local art.
- Plaza Uruguaya: I love books and this park located in the city has distinguishably designed book stores in the middle. It seems like a great place to walk by and relax, buy some books and take a break from sightseeing!
- Palacio Legislativo, Iglesia de la Santísima Trinidad, Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.
Ciudad del Este
- Saltos del Monday: There is a lot of nature to appreciate in Paraguay, at the Municipal Park Monday there are falls called Saltos del Monday that are more than 40 meters high and a location for sports.
- La Ciudad del Este: La ciudad del Este is the second largest city in the country and has casinos and shopping. I am interested in visiting it simply to get more insight into life at Paraguay.
Other points of interest may include: San Bernadino, Ayolas (For fishing), Piribebuy, Encarnacion, and Aregua.
Argentina
I also went to Argentina when I was younger but have no memories from it and would like to visit it again (although it would feel like the first time there). The following are some sights I plan on visiting other than having many Argentinian BBQ’s and enjoying their wonderful meat:
Buenos Aires
- Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: I love seeing different types of art and as this is one of the most renowned museums in the area I definitely plan on paying it a visit.
- La Boca: The images I have seen of La Boca makes it simply impossible not to go and visit! The colorful buildings are part of a neighborhood in Buenos Aires (South East of the city) that has high European influence (mainly from Italy). It seems like the perfect place to walk around and be inspired.
- Obelisco: This iconic sight of Buenos Aires is located in the Plaza de La Republica. It is a historical monument that was built to honor the fourth anniversary of the foundation of the city. It was designed by an Argenitinian Architect, built by Germans and inaugurated in 1936.
- Cathedral de la Plata: This cathedral is on the list of the highest catherdrals in the world (number 58). It is located in the city center and faces the city hall. It is Neogothic inspired by European cathedrals and built in the 1800s.
- Additional places to see: Cathedral of Cordoba, La Bombonera.
Las Cataratas de Iguazu: The Iguazu falls are waterfalls from the River Iguazu that flows between Argentina and Brazil. Although most of the river is located in Brazil, a major part of the falls are located in Brazil. The falls can therefore be visited both from Argentina and Brazil! I know that I have seen this falls when I lived in Paraguay but always hear that it is such a beautiful sight and want to visit it myself!
Perito Moreno Glacier: This glacier is located in the Glaciers National Park (South West Argentina) and in total there are 48 glaciers. The Perito Moreno glacier was named after an explorer who was in the region in the 19th century. The glacier is located in the Patagonia area and continues to grow above the Argentino Lake (it is 74 meters high on average and 5 km wide!)
Interesting fact: This is the third largest reserve of fresh water in the world.
Brazil
Lastly I plan to stay and enjoy an extended period of time in Brazil! It has been such a long time that I dream of going to Brazil (unfortunately I was not able to go during the world cup because I was pre occupied with my studied) and cannot wait to visit and experience life there. Every person I have met that has been to Brazil never wants to leave, that definitely sounds like a place for me! Some of the attractions I plan to visit are (but not the only ones):
Rio de Janeiro
- Christ the Redeemer: This statue is one of the first things I envision when I think about Brazil! It is a statue of Jesus Christ located on top of the Corcovado mountain and overlooks the city of Rio de Janeiro! It is even listed as one of the seven wonders of the world (the new 7 wonders), do you need any more reasons to go? It was constructed from 1922 to 1931 and restored in 1990. It is also an ideal place to get a beautiful view over Rio upon arriving!
- Sugarloaf Mountain: This mountain is 396 meters and is also located in Rio. I am scared of heights but want to take the famous cable way and enjoy the view over the city! For those who are adventurous it is also possible to do rock climbing.
- Ipanema: Ipanema is a neighborhoodlocated in the South of Rio. With its iconic beach, shops and café’s it is a great place to experience Rio! I of course also love the song “The girl from Ipanema”.
- Copacabana: Also located in the South of Rio (near Ipanema) is known for its 4km long white sand beach with historic forts on both sides! What more could I want when in Brazil?
- Leblon: This neighborhood is known for being the most prosperous and is found West of Ipanema. This area has a quieter beach and neighborhood for those looking for more exclusivity.
Sao Paulo
- Temple of Solomon: This is a replica of the temple of Solomon located in Jerusalem (another place I would love to visit). This temple was recently inaugurated (2014) and serves as a house of worship.
- Sao Paulo Cathedral: Is a Roman Catholic Church located in the city center. It is the 4th Largest neo-gothic cathedral in the world.
Remember: The Iguazu falls can also be visited from Brazil!
Finalizing my South America trip in Brazil would be amazing although there is one more country I would like to visit on my way back to Europe if I still have time after all my journeys… Cuba!
Cuba
It has always been a dream to go to Cuba and walk its stone streets, listen to music, and dance! Some of the sights I would like to see most include:
Havana
Old Havana: One of the 15 municipalities and the city center, and represents the original Havana. There are many historic buildings in the area including:
- Castillo de la Real Fuerza: The fortress of the royal army is located on Plaza de Las Armas (the main touristic square).
- Catedral de San Cristobal
- Malecon: A broad avenue (that is 8km long) along the coast.
- Morro Castle: Another Fortress, this time located at the entrance to Havana from the bay. It was built by the King of Spain who ordered it to be built upon a rock called “El Morro”.
- Gran Teatro: Famous for the National Ballet of Cuba and national opera performances.
Ideally I would like to visit many different city’s in Cuba and see more than Havana (although I am already excited about that). If you have any tips, they are welcome as I am still researching and keeping the option of going to Cuba open!
That would be the end of my South America trip- stay tuned because it will take place in 2016 (I will not specify when, it is a surprise!)
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