South America Vacation Ideas

From gazing out into the Grand Canyon, or underwater at the Great Barrier Reef, visiting the natural wonders of the world is an experience almost anyone in your family can appreciate. With so many natural wonders around the world, you almost never have to venture far to get a glimpse of one of nature’s beauties. What is needed to truly appreciate these amazing sites? A good camera, comfortable shoes and the right attire to fit the weather will make your trip a treat. Many natural wonders h...

Foodies rejoice! There are plenty of Food & Wine Vacations around the world to satisfy you taste buds and palate! Travel to a big city with a wide variety of cuisines to get a quick sampling of what the world has to offer food lovers. Or travel to a destination known for it's unique flavors and spices. Find out where the locals go to venture off the beaten path and to get more of an authentic experience. Looking for a sip or two of wine? Go on a wine tasting tour in a region known for just th...

Majestic ruins, modern skyscrapers and unique structures - this is just a sampling of what you will find on an Architecture Vacation. If historic sites are what you are seeking, pick a destination whose distant past can still be found in the landscape. Take a tour, or bring along a guide book to make the most of your journey. Find out when is the right time of day to go to avoid crowds or when the lighting is at its peak. For more modern buildings, head to a big city that's known for it's sky...

Plan a wildlife viewing vacation for an experience you'll never forget. Cities can provide a quick glimpse of your favorite critters, while safaris, wildlife parks, or a trip to a rainforest will give you the adventure of a lifetime. Most areas with large populations of animals provide touring services and accommodations so that even if you’re not an animal expert, a guide will help you follow the path of the herd and understand the animals in their environment better.

From small day hikes, to overnight backpacking adventures, heading into the great outdoors to go hiking is one of the best ways to explore nature. Small day hikes can provide great scenery with little effort, while longer trails reward you with spectacular views, less people, and unique wildlife sightings. This relatively cheap (and sometimes free) activity is a great way to slow down and experience a destination, especially in the middle of a packed vacation schedule. Hiking with kids? Start...

Planning the ultimate adventure vacation or hope to add a little excitement to a beach or otherwise relaxing trip? You are sure to find options in any climate or location. Hiking, climbing, skiing, and mountain biking are great ways to add a thrill depending on the time of year when visiting the mountains. Visit a river for the ultimate rafting or river kayaking adventure. Take a scuba diving course or bring your snorkeling gear to the sea for an underwater landscape filled withlife. Looking...

During any vacation, day trip or weekend getaway, add a trip to a nature, history, science or art museum for an experience like none other. Always inspiring, museums offer insight into different cultures, points of view, and periods of history. Often free for children, or adults on certain days, museums provide a quick escape on cold, rainy or hot days. Check with the museum for prices and discounts - they may even provide you with the times of days to visit in order to avoid the crowd.

Looking for the nightlife, the sparkling lights, the tall buildings and hustle and bustle that can only be found in a big city? Plan a big city vacation that is sure to provide plenty of entertainment for you, your family or friends. From checking out the new hotspot, to a local's favorite, you'll find plenty of things to do and places to sample the cuisine and culture. Finding accommodations to fit your budget and style is not a problem, however in peak travel times, is usually good to book...

The beach offers a variety of activities to be enjoyed under the sun. This natural delight can provide you with a picturesque, relaxing setting to unwind, or a great access point to your favorite water sports. You can discover unique and colorful creatures while snorkeling in the sea, or get sporty and go surf the waves. Being a beach bum is always perfectly acceptable too - bring a book and find a relatively quiet beach for some much needed rest. Bringing the kids along? Most popular beaches...

An Islands vacation offers the unique experience of being entirely surrounded by water on your own oasis of tropical trees and landscapes, restaurants, spas and resorts. There are well-populated areas with many services as well as more secluded islands filled with adventure and spiritual solitude. Water activities are bountiful, island walks and adventures are always available, and beautiful scenery and skies surround you. Island hop by taking a cruise or a ferry and get a new experience each...

After a day of seeing the sights, take a short rest and get ready for a night on the town! Experience the culture in literally a different light, by joining the locals and other travelers at a dance club, musical show, pub or at a late night cafe.You'll be energized by the city lights and excitement that happens as the day quickly fades to night. For a more relaxed nightlife experience, go out for a later dinner at a romantic restaurant, or head to a movie with the kids to make the most out...

Grab your hiking shoes and head to the park! Park Vacations are the best way to experience nature, whether you are choosing to make a day or a week out of this inspiring experience. Kids will love to find little creatures and rocks as you hike along. To get a more relaxing experience, take a picnic lunch and a blanket and spend the day soaking in the sun. For a park experience like no other, head to a famous national park that is known for its unique geological features and be sure to bring a...

Love shopping enough to make a vacation out of it? A Shopping vacation or day trip may be just what you are looking for. Many destinations are known for their markets, wares, shopping outlets or street vendors where you are sure to find bargains and unique products. Jewelery, ceramics, wood carvings and tapestries can be found at many markets and street vendors around the world, showcasing the culture of the destination. For clothes and shoes, head to a destination that is known for affordabl...

To add a little excitement and cultural experience to your next vacation, find a festival, parade or celebration that is happening somewhere around the world! Usually you need to plan a bit in advance, as hotels quickly fill up for certain events, but you will find it well worth your time. Big celebrations like Mardi Gras and Cinco de Mayo will almost overwhelm you, while smaller parades and events will give you a taste of the culture of smaller towns and cities.

Sail away on a trip like no other - join your skipper on a sailing vacation. Go on a three hour tour, or a weeklong adventure. If you are already trained in sailing, make sure you know the conditions of the destination before heading out, or for newcomers, take a lesson or head out on a sailing cruise - some companies even allow you to sleep on deck beneath the stars.