For a fusion of flavours, Latin America is the destination that dreams are made of! From capital cities bursting with gastronomic gems to world-renowned coffee plantations and vineyards, there is no end to the dazzling delights ready to tantalise your taste buds. From ceviche in Peru to steak in Argentina and salteñas in Bolivia, Latin America’s ancient traditions, indigenous communities and a vast array of homegrown ingredients have shaped the region into one of the most interesting destinations for food and wine lovers the world over. Here’s just a few of some of the tastiest foods to sample when visiting Latin America… Ceviche in Peru This delicious dish formed of fresh fish in lime juice with peppers is famous throughout Peru, with some of the best found in Lima, which is fast becoming a centre of gastronomy. In Peru, there is even a National Ceviche Day to celebrate this dish which is a huge part of the country’s heritage. Cazuela in Chile The Chilean equivalent to a hearty soup to…
It’s that time again! Who else is hungry? This week I will be teaching you about the good old South American empanada (and its closest relatives). The Lowdown In Argentina the empanada is a firm favourite for filling a rumbling belly, adults and kids alike. The typically savoury snack (if you need a visual, it resembles a small Cornish pasty) dates back centuries and was originally brought over from Galicia, Northwest Spain where it was invented as a portable lunch for workmen. I have to say that a visit to Argentina is not complete until you have tried a locally baked (or deep fried) empanada with any of the various fillings. The flavoursome pastries are most commonly stuffed with either ham and cheese, spinach and ricotta, minced beef or shredded chicken and accompanied by chopped onion and a mixture of spices. A plate of warm empanadas is ideal shared as…
Mendoza is renowned as one the most beautiful areas in Argentina – the stunning backdrop of the Andes frames the multitude of vineyards and bodegas that dot the countryside, ready for you to explore! This week we’ll be having a look at where the best places to stay are in this fantastic region. Cavas Wine Lodge Nestled in a 35-acre vineyard in the wine region of Mendoza,Cavas Wine Lodge is one of the more luxurious hotels available in Mendoza. Featuring just 14 rooms, this hotel is as exclusive as it is comfortable. With freestanding adobe-walled apartments set in and amongst the vineyards, each rooms is carefully constructed to suit your needs. Tastefully furnished with a luxurious finish, each cream-coloured bedroom offers a stone-finished bathroom. In addition to this, each room opens out onto its own patio with stunning views out over the Andes. A private plunge pools awaits you, perfect for…
One of the most attractive cities in Argentina, Mendoza is a haven for those looking to escape crowded city life. Tree-lined avenues, vineyards and stunning scenery are complimented by lively nightlife and top-quality restaurants. Mendoza has it all! The Area The city proper is rich in culture and history which is fascinating to learn about, but also to explore for yourself. Find a few hidden gems tucked away in the city centre, in and amongst some of the excellent bars and restaurants on offer. Since Mendoza is known for its wine production, most stemming from the vineyards located just outside the city, you can’t afford to miss some of the fantastic local wines on offer. The countryside is populated by countless vineyards and bodegas, spread amongst the small towns and villages that dot the area – each producing their own unique wines for your tasting pleasure. Relax and enjoy a glass or…
While we’ve had a look at a couple of excellent estancias, it is by no means the full range that Latin Routes have to offer you. Today we escape deep into the Argentinian countryside to discover the most peaceful and relaxing estancias that Argentina has to offer. Estancia Bordo De Las Lanzas, Salta This beautiful estancia is a real treat – stunning colonial architecture perfectly blended with a few modern touches to make your stay as comfortable as possible. With a rich and fascinating history, the building itself used to house General Martin Miguel de Guemes, a patriot of Salta and a well-known historical figure in the region. The hotel is still owned by his descendants even today! The hotel is well-equipped to fit your needs, featuring a lovely outdoor swimming pool, historic library and over 3000 acres of grounds for you to explore! In addition to this, you have the option to pursue activities…
Looking for a quiet, peaceful place to escape the whirlwind of the city? You can’t go far wrong with an Argentinian estancia. We’ve taken the liberty of rounding up some of the best estancias in this beautiful country. Don’t forget to Contact a Latin Routes Travel Specialist for more information about any of our hotels, or just to find out a bit more about Argentina itself! Estancia Dos Lunas, Cordoba Estancia Dos Lunas is a fantastic, historical building set amongst 2300 hectares of beautiful countryside outside Cordoba itself. With vast open green spaces for you to explore (either on foot or on horseback), this hotel really utilises its rural location for your benefit. The hosts are famously welcoming, always available when you need them and generally making sure your holiday to Argentina is unforgettable! The estancia itself is over 100 years old, preserved in the original ‘English’ style, meaning it has a grand…
Last week we had a look at some of the wonders of Peninsula Valdes in Argentina. A wildlife hotspot featuring whales, seals and penguins, this destination is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. However, knowing the right place to stay is also extremely important, so here are some of the best hotels on the island. Don’t forget to Contact A Latin Routes Travel Specialist for more information about your holiday to Argentina! Estancia Rincon Chico This beautiful luxury hotel is located right in the heart of thePeninsula Valdes National Park, giving you access to an astonishing 10km stretch of coastline owned by the hotel itself. This coastline is home to elephant seals and sea lions, which use the beach to breed each year – hundreds of them dotting the beach is certainly an amazing sight. The hotel itself is colonial in style with lots of wood and oak giving you an all-encompassing sense of opulence and luxury. With…
The perfect destination for wildlife fanatics, amateur photographers and people who just love the great outdoors – Peninsula Valdes has some of the best wildlife-spotting opportunities in South America! The Area Home to a unique ecosystem that provides a habitat for some of the world’s rarest and most beautiful creatures,Peninsula Valdes is a place like no other. With rocky cliffs, beaches and 400km of stunning coastline to explore, you’ll never be short of something to do or see in this amazing area. Nearby, shallow lagoons, coastal sand dunes and even small islands await your exploration. The nearest town is Puerto Madryn, a 1.5 hour drive from Trelew airport. Due to Peninsula Valdes’ coastal location, driving is often the best way to reach the town. Puerto Madryn itself is a cosy town will a range of shops and restaurants, providing an excellent base from which to explore the area. If you’re keen to get as close…
Having established the area as one of the most beautiful in Brazil, this week we’ll be looking at some specific beaches and some of the hotels you might be interested in staying at! Malhada Beach, Jericoacoara Described as one of the most secluded and peaceful beaches in Brazil, Malhada Beach is a stunning highlight if you’re visiting the area. Golden sand, azure skies and a warm, inviting sea are all part of the package when visiting this remote area. Voted one of the 10 best beaches on Earth by the Washington Post, this is an ideal location for yourholiday to Brazil. What’s more, we’ve got the perfect hotel for you to stay in.The Chili Beach Hotel is a small luxury hotel located right on the Malhada Beach. Comprised of just 7 rooms, this hotel follows a tropical beach design with luxurious furnishings and contemporary touches to make your stay that little bit more comfortable….
Spending the day investigating the outstanding beauty of the Iguazu Falls is certainly a fantastic experience, but its location in the heart of the Iguazu National Park means that finding a place to stay should be tricky, right? Think again! Here are some of the hotel highlights of the area. Das Cataratas This is surely one of the most show-stopping and luxurious hotels in all of South America. Das Cataratas is a beautiful Portuguese Colonial residence located incredibly close to the Iguazu Falls themselves, on the Brazilian side of the border. With 193 beautiful, well-equipped rooms, fantastic facilities and a stunning outdoor pool, this hotel is designed to afford you the ultimate relaxation experience. Featuring a state-of-the-art Spa with a wide range of treatments, a plethora of exciting outdoor experiences and some incredible wildlife inhabiting the surrounding jungle, your holiday to Brazil will surely be an unforgettable one. The hotel’s unique location is a standout feature – guests staying at Das…
