THE BACKPACKING

Are you dreaming of a trip to South America? Argentina offers a diverse range of landscapes, from towering mountains to vast plains, making it a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Argentina has something to offer every traveler. Let’s explore 10 must-visit destinations that will leave you wanting more.

Argentina, a country nestled in the southern cone of South America, is a land of contrasts. From the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires to the pristine glaciers of Patagonia, Argentina offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, hiking through stunning national parks, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach, Argentina has it all.

10 Must-Visit Destinations in Argentina

1. Buenos Aires: As the capital city, Buenos Aires is a vibrant metropolis with a rich European heritage. Explore the colorful neighborhoods of La Boca and San Telmo, tango in the streets, and indulge in delicious Argentine steak.
2. Mendoza: Known for its world-class wineries, Mendoza is a paradise for wine lovers. Hike through the Andes Mountains, visit charming vineyards, and sample some of Argentina's finest Malbec.
3. Ushuaia: Situated at the southernmost tip of South America, Ushuaia is often called the "End of the World." Explore the Tierra del Fuego National Park, go whale watching, or take a cruise through the Beagle Channel.
4. El Calafate: Located in Patagonia, El Calafate is the gateway to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. Take a boat tour to see this incredible natural wonder and explore the Los Glaciares National Park.
5. Salta: Nestled in the northwestern region of Argentina, Salta is known for its colonial architecture, stunning landscapes, and colorful markets. Visit the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. Bariloche: Surrounded by the Andes Mountains and nestled on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake, Bariloche is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Go skiing, hiking, or kayaking in this beautiful region.
7. Iguazu Falls: Shared with Brazil, Iguazu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Take a boat tour underneath the falls or hike through the rainforest for breathtaking views.
8. Puerto Madryn: Located on the Atlantic coast, Puerto Madryn is a gateway to Peninsula Valdes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Go whale watching, penguin spotting, or sea lion watching.
9. Cafayate: Known for its vineyards and beautiful landscapes, Cafayate is a charming town in the Salta Province. Visit the Calchaquí Valleys and enjoy a wine tasting tour.
10. El Chaltén: This small town is a paradise for hikers and climbers. Explore the Los Glaciares National Park and hike to the base of Mount Fitz Roy.

Argentina is a country that has something to offer every traveler. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and friendly people, it's no wonder that Argentina is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled vacation or a relaxing getaway, Argentina is sure to exceed your expectations.

España, con su rica historia, vibrante cultura y paisajes impresionantes, ofrece una experiencia de viaje inolvidable. Desde las bulliciosas ciudades hasta la tranquila campiña, hay algo para todos los gustos. Ya seas un amante de la historia, un foodie o un aventurero, España tiene todo lo que buscas. En este artículo, exploraremos 10 actividades imprescindibles que harán de tu aventura española algo inolvidable.

10 Actividades Imprescindibles en España

1. Pasear por la Alhambra: Este palacio nazarí en Granada es Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO y uno de los monumentos más emblemáticos de España. Piérdete en su intrincada arquitectura y exuberantes jardines.
2. Admirar la Sagrada Familia: La obra maestra de Gaudí en Barcelona es una maravilla arquitectónica que continúa cautivando a los visitantes.
3. Disfrutar de la vida nocturna en Ibiza: Conocida como la isla de la fiesta en Europa, Ibiza ofrece una vida nocturna de primera categoría, hermosas playas y puestas de sol espectaculares.
4. Caminar por el Camino de Santiago: Embárcate en un viaje espiritual por la antigua ruta de peregrinación a Santiago de Compostela.
5. Degustar pintxos en San Sebastián: Deléitate con los pintxos, tapas vascas, en la encantadora ciudad de San Sebastián.
6. Visitar el Museo del Prado en Madrid: Descubre una vasta colección de arte español, incluyendo obras maestras de Velázquez, Goya y El Greco.
7. Explorar la antigua ciudad de Toledo: Esta ciudad Patrimonio de la Humanidad es un museo viviente, con una fascinante mezcla de historia cristiana, musulmana y judía.
8. Relajarse en las playas de la Costa del Sol: Disfruta del sol y las hermosas playas de la Costa del Sol.
9. Asistir a un espectáculo de flamenco: Sumérgete en la cultura española con una apasionada actuación de flamenco.
10. Hacer una cata de vinos en Rioja: Explora la famosa región vinícola de Rioja y saborea deliciosos vinos locales.

España es un país que tiene algo para ofrecer a todos. Ya sea que busques una experiencia cultural, unas vacaciones relajantes en la playa o una aventura, España lo tiene todo. Con su rica historia, paisajes diversos y cálida hospitalidad, España seguramente dejará una impresión duradera. ¡Haz las maletas y prepárate para explorar este increíble país!

Imagine yourself strolling along a sun-kissed beach, the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, and the warm Mediterranean breeze caressing your skin. Welcome to the French Riviera, a coastal paradise that has captivated travelers for centuries. From the glamorous city of Nice to the picturesque villages of the Côte d'Azur, this region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious living.

Body:

• Nice: The Heart of the Riviera
  • A vibrant city with a beautiful Promenade des Anglais, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Explore the colorful Cours Saleya market, a feast for the senses with fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies.
  • Visit the Chagall Museum and admire the works of this renowned artist.
• Cannes: The Glamourous Film Festival Destination
  • Home to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, this city is a hub for celebrities and movie enthusiasts.
  • Stroll along the famous La Croisette boulevard and enjoy the luxurious atmosphere.
  • Discover the charming old town, Le Suquet, with its narrow streets and traditional Provençal houses.
• Antibes: A Picturesque Coastal Town
  • Explore the ancient ramparts of the Old Town and admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Visit the Picasso Museum, housed in a 17th-century castle.
  • Take a boat trip to the Île de Sainte-Marguerite, a beautiful island with a rich history.
• Saint-Tropez: The Jet Set Paradise
  • Experience the glamorous lifestyle of the rich and famous in this iconic resort town.
  • Relax on the famous Pampelonne Beach, surrounded by luxurious yachts and beach clubs.
  • Explore the charming village center with its designer boutiques and trendy restaurants.

Conclusion:

The French Riviera offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a blend of sun, sea, and culture. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, indulging in fine dining, or simply relaxing on the beach, this region has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey to the French Riviera - a destination that will leave you enchanted.

 PLACES YOU MUST VISIT IN INDIA

India is a country that does not leave indifferent and that can hardly be described in words. Not even in pictures. It is necessary to travel through it, live it and feel it in the first person to get an idea. It is a country that changes people. It is not a cliché, it is true. I think it affects travelers because of the poverty they can see in it, the dignified and positive way in which the Indians face it and the religiosity present in every second that is spent there.

If INDIA is in your destination, I recommend you visit the following places, they will leave you impressed with their beauty.

1.Kerala

The southern state of Kerala is one of the most famous in India. It is on the west coast and, in addition to miles and miles of tropical beaches, it is full of forests and animals. Culturally it is also very interesting since here you will find Hindu temples, churches, mosques and even synagogues in a state that is considered communist (it is full of communist flags everywhere).

With permission from Ayurvedic medicine treatments and massages and Khatakali dances, Kerala's most famous experience is the canoe ride through the Backwaters of Alappuzha or Kottayam. The Backwaters are rivers, lakes and canals surrounded by vegetation and in which many people live.

2. Hampi

The small town of Hampi is the most popular destination in the State of Karnataka. The town was once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. Today many of its ruins are still preserved, which are World Heritage Sites by Unesco. The landscape around Hampi is brutal and the best way to get to know it is by renting a motorcycle and going up some of the mountains.

3. Goa

Goa is probably the most touristic and smallest state in the country. It is the ideal place if you are looking for beaches and parties. In addition to its beaches, Goa is famous for its hippie markets and trance parties. The normal thing in Goa is to sleep in a cabin on top of a palm tree in front of the beach, and to rent a motorcycle to tour the state.

4.Varansi (or Benares)

One of the oldest cities in the world, continuously inhabited for more than 3000 years. It is one of the obligatory places if you want to know the authentic India. Varansi is a sacred city for Hinduism since the Ganges River passes through it, that makes religion permeate everything. An estimated 60,000 people bathe every day in the highly polluted and sacred waters of the river. So a walk through the Ghats (the stairs that go down to the river) is essential to get to know the city.

5. Haridwar and Rishikesh

Haridwar is in the north of the country, in the state of Uttarakhand. Haridwar means the gate to God and the Ganges River also passes through it. Although here it is clean. This town is famous for the Kumbh Mela festival. A festival that is held every 12 years and in 2003 brought together 70 million people. So it is the biggest festival in the world and probably in the history of mankind.

6.Manali

Manali is a town in northern India at more than 2000 meters above sea level. This town is famous among travelers for being the place where those who want to smoke xaras (Indian hashish) go. And it is true that there are many people who go there (especially Israelis), but Manali is also a good place to go for excursions. The forests around the town are beautiful and are made up of giant trees with huge waterfalls.

7. Srinagar

Srinagar is the capital of the famous Cashmir. A land that has been facing India and Pakistan for decades. Srinagar is a city with a huge lake in the middle, full of houseboats that you can stay in. A highly recommended experience is to spend a day in a boat strolling around the lake observing life in it.

Peru is a country in South America that encompasses a section of the Amazon forest and Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca city high in the Andes. The region around Machu Picchu, including the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and the colonial city of Cuzco, is rich in archaeological sites. On the arid Pacific coast of Peru is Lima, the capital, with a preserved colonial center and important collections of pre-Columbian art.

There are many essential places to see in Peru, beyond the wonderful Machu Picchu, although we cannot deny that this, by itself, already justifies a trip to one of our favorite countries. Peru is one of the most popular trips in South America, in which we will find Inca ruins, historical cities, the wild nature of the Amazon, incredible landscapes of valleys, deserts and beaches, along with one of the best gastronomies in the world, with ceviche as star dish, which will make this trip exceed all your expectations.

Here are the places you should visit if your destination is Peru

1. Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas and one of the seven wonders of the world, is the most essential place to visit in Peru. This ancient Inca citadel remained for centuries hidden among the mountains and thick vegetation, until it was discovered by the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.

Machu Picchu is located about 130 kilometers from Cusco, above 2,500 meters of altitude between the peaks Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu, two magnificent viewpoints of the ruins, to which you can climb, taking out the corresponding entrance next to the ruins.

The most mystical and spectacular way to get there is by doing the Inca trail, traveling the more than 40 kilometers that in 4 days, through incredible paths and steps of ancient stones, lush forests, valleys and mountains wrapped in dense fog, will take us even the dream of many travelers.

 2. Cuzco

Cuzco, declared a World Heritage Site, is one of the most beautiful cities in America and our favorite in Peru. This ancient capital of the Inca Empire preserves very few buildings from this time, although in some of the colonial buildings you can see Inca remains on its walls, such as the twelve-angle stone.

The Plaza de Armas is the epicenter of the city, in which its cathedral stands out, a place chosen by many inhabitants to spend a few hours in the afternoon, enjoying the life of Cuzco.

Other of the great attractions of the city are strolling through the beautiful artisan neighborhood of San Blas, getting lost in the San Pedro market, seeing the Inca remains of the Temple of the Moon or entering the Santo Domingo Convent, built on the Temple of the sun.

3. Iquitos

One of the most important decisions, depending on the days available, is to include or not the Peruvian Amazon in the trip and enter the jungle from Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado.

After the experience, we have no doubts, we recommend reserving between 3 and 5 days to visit the Amazon, one of the most essential places to visit in Peru and whenever possible, both for days and for budget, to do it in the area from Iquitos.

Puerto Maldonado is more accessible and cheaper than Iquitos, although over time it has become a tourist attraction that can distort the true image of the immense and wild Amazon.

Iquitos can only be reached by boat or by plane from Lima, so being more isolated will allow you to experience the most authentic Amazon, although as we mentioned before, the price is more expensive.

4. Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is located very close to the city of Puno at 3,800 meters of altitude. This immense lake, in which its calm blue waters blend into the sky, is one of the most essential places to see in Peru.

To tour the lake and visit the islands of Uros and Taquile from Puno you can take a boat in the port, from where just over 5 kilometers from the pier you will find the Island of Iros, built with totora, a typical aquatic plant of the area.

The houses and most of the items are made of this plant, and you can even sail on a reed boat and although we generally found it a very touristy visit, we believe that it is worth knowing its history and if you have time, it is a visit that must be made in this area of ​​the country.

 5. Paracas National Reserve and the Ballestas Islands

Just under 4 hours by bus from Lima is the Paracas National Reserve, located next to the Peruvian coast and another of the best places to see in Peru. This national reserve forms a unique ecosystem in the world, which combines a desert area with a great marine diversity due to the great abundance of food in the form of plankton.

It is advisable to visit this protected natural area with a guide, especially so as not to miss places such as the red beach, fossil deposits, the fauna and the archaeological remains of the ancient Paracas Culture, explained by an expert, which will bring you much closer to the history of this area of ​​the country.

Very close to Paracas there is another of the places to visit in Peru, the Ballestas Islands, small rocky islands that on excursions are surrounded by small boats that leave from the Paracas pier to see its large number of birds, the colony of Humboldt penguins and sea lions.

6. Arequipa

Arequipa, known as the white city and built above 2,000 meters of altitude, in the desert mountains of the Andes, is together with Cuzco, one of the most beautiful cities in Peru, dominated by volcanic stone houses blanca, which together with the historic center were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

7. Oasis of Huacachina

Located about 5 kilometers from the city of Ica, is the photogenic Oasis of Huacachina, another of the places that enter all routes through the country and that is on the list of the essentials to visit in Peru.

This oasis located in the middle of the coastal desert, with emerald green waters and surrounded by palm trees, is one of the few natural oases left in all of America.

The oasis has a hotel infrastructure to spend the night and many leisure activities such as a buggy ride through the desert, practicing sandboarding from its high dunes or simply walking to the top of a dune to contemplate the beautiful sunset over the oasis.

The Huacachina Oasis is located about 80 kilometers from Paracas and you can get from Lima by bus from the Cruz del Sur station to Ica and there take a taxi to the oasis.

8. Nazca

One of the great archaeological mysteries of history is found in the arid Nazca desert. Between the years 700 a.C. and 200 AD the Nazca culture developed in this area, in which its inhabitants created the Nazca Lines, removing the red stones and leaving the white sandstone underneath, thus forming huge geoglyphs with human, animal or geometric figures, only visible from the air.

Many theories, from a huge calendar to religious ceremonies or the visitation of extraterrestrials, have been written about the reasons why these huge figures were created, without reaching any definitive conclusion or provable theory today.

The only way to see the figures is to fly over the Nazca lines by plane from its small airport located next door. The flight because of the wind and the pilot's maneuvers, is used to being moved, so it is advisable not to have breakfast before, have something for dizziness and go prepared with the bag that they will give you when you climb.

Other visits that are very worthwhile in Nazca, is the Chauchilla Cemetery, a necropolis from pre-Inca times, which is a perfect complement to the overflight of the Nazca Lines.

9. Sacred Valley

Between Písac and Ollantaytambo, on the banks of the Urubamba River, is the famous Sacred Valley of the Incas. Due to its climate and geography, this fertile valley was one of the main sources of food supply of the Inca empire where the archaeological ruins of several Inca settlements remain and where you can also visit several traditional towns from the colonial era.

Pisac with its artisan market and the Inca archaeological remains located on a mountain is one of the most famous places in the sacred valley and that we advise you, you cannot miss in Peru.

Other essentials are the fortress of Ollantaytambo, the town of Chinchero, the salt mines of Maras and Moray, one of the agricultural research centers of the Inca empire.

The best way to visit the Sacred Valley is from Cuzco by taxi or by booking a tour with a guide in Spanish so you don't miss any detail of one of the most incredible areas of the country.

EGYPT

Egypt (officially the Arab Republic of Egypt), the cradle of our civilization, is a country of contrasts and controversies in all its areas. From their religion, through politics and even through the tourism sector itself.

Destination sought and dreamed of by anyone who has an interest in architectural, anthropological or spiritual issues, but very difficult for independent travelers and, above all, female travelers.

If your destination is Egypt I will provide you with a small list of places you must visit

Clothing

• If you are a girl or a boy traveling with your partner (as was my case), you have to be aware that you are going to an Arab country where many men have never seen a woman's ankle or shoulder in their life.

Therefore, clothing is a fundamental point to avoid problems or, what is the same, go unnoticed. I know this may not be to your liking or understanding, but remember that the goal is to avoid uncomfortable situations.

• Long sleeves and long pants or skirt (and do not mark the curves): I know from experience that it is very hot. We were in the middle of August, but you will appreciate not being in constant pressure with lewd looks. Light linen garments are the best to combat high temperatures. It is essential not to show shoulders or knees.

• Head covered: you can use a veil or a simple scarf to cover yourself. The Egyptians will show more respect with this simple detail. In addition, you will protect yourself from the righteous sun.

Where to sleep in Egypt?

If you go with a trip organized by an agency, you may not need it.

But we, who did half organized and half our own, use Airbnb as it is starting to be a platform that gives us a lot of confidence and security when it comes to booking accommodation.

It also gives you coupons every time you invite a friend and you can even stay for free!

What to see in Egypt?

Romantic cruise on the Nile

Many tourists go to Egypt just to cross the Nile by cruise ship, at all stops the guide and the driver were waiting for us to tell us all the details of the history around the different cities and museums that we visit.

Temple in Edfu.

These temples of ancient Egypt, without a guide, are half enjoyed since most of them have architectural and pictorial similarities. When you have seen 3 or 4 you will believe that they are all, more or less, the same.

But not so much less. The most interesting thing about the temples are the hieroglyphic reliefs that are hidden in their walls.

Dahab

An oasis of peace. Traveling to Egypt and not stepping on Dahab is like eating a salad without tomato (what's up, I really like tomato!). Come on, you're going to go without knowing one of the most different places in the country.

The vast majority of tourists go to visit the beaches and / or to snorkel and dive, stopping in cities such as Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh.

What else can I do in Dahab?

To be under the sea is to discover a new world and it is incredible.

Although this was for me the best of Dahab and what I have burned for life, you can do a lot more things.

I recommend that you go to see the sunset at the beach known as Eel Garden. The further north the better. From here you can see the mountains of Saudi Arabia right on the opposite coast of the Red Sea where you are.

If you're not going to dive, at least go snorkeling at the Blue Hole. It is quite crowded but it is well worth it. To avoid crowds, go at sunrise or sunset.

You can also visit the medina or do some of the excursions through the desert and the mountains. You will see them on all the posters of tourist companies as soon as you take a walk along the promenade right next to the sea.

Cairo and the pyramids of Giza

Mandatory stop if you travel to Egypt by air. And probably your first destination.

It is a huge city that most people travel with more pain than glory. Most likely, they will visit the pyramids of Giza directly… and pass the rest by the dirt, noise and tremendous chaos that surrounds it.

What to do in cairo?

• The pyramids of Giza and the sphinx (same enclosure).

• Islamic Cairo (Islamic Cairo).

•Egyptian Museum.

• Coptic Cairo.

• Cairo Tower.

• Essences shop in Giza "El Sheikh". The owner in question is called Ganal and mixes spirituality with aromas by synchronizing the chakras through different essences. Quite a discovery. It is quite difficult to find it without a guide, but more or less, the store is here. Ganal's son speaks Spanish and will be able to answer all your questions.

The pyramids of Saqqara, Dahshur and their paintings

You should start the visit by the pyramids of Saqqara and Dahshur instead of those of Giza, since these were built before and you can redo the history in your head much better.

In this area, located some 30 km from Cairo, the necropolis of the ancient city of Memphis was established.

Here you will find must-see monuments such as the Step Pyramid (considered the 1st pyramid in the world), the Red Pyramid and several tombs with paintings over 10,000 years old with the colors practically intact. Very shocking.

Luxor

City built on ancient Thebes, capital of the Egyptian empire. It was one of the most important places in the region as it was the capital of the New Kingdom and ancient Egypt.

If you are looking for the tranquility and peace that Cairo lacks, this is a perfect place to take a longer break during your trip.

What to see and do in Luxor?

•King's Valley.

• Temple of Luxor.

• Karnak Temple.

• Dendera Temple.

• Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut.

• Faluca ride: Luxor is divided by the Nile, the east bank is where the city itself is located, the west bank is where the towns and crops are. In this river you will find dozens of sailing boats (small sailboat type) called "filuca" by the Egyptians and that for a few LE will take you down the river.

PLACES TO KNOW IN MEXICO 💗

If you are thinking of traveling to Mexico, let me tell you that I would not have made a better decision than that… since you will be able to find the most emblematic places to visit, without leaving aside its gastronomy and traditions

When you arrive in Mexico, you will be able to discover many wonderful scenarios full of great ancestral mysteries that are still latent in every corner of the country. If you want to be surprised by them, we invite you to pack your bags and meet them.