Chile
Exploring Chile’s Wine Region in a Day Trip from Santiago
Chile is known internationally for the quality of its wine, and a visit to wine country is a great addition to a visit. There are extensive wine regions throughout the central part of the country. Many visitors have heard of the famed Colchagua Valley, but while Colchagua is an excellent place to spend a couple… Read Full Post
Esteros del Iberá, Argentina’s Wildlife Secret
Many travelers, when considering the best place to view wildlife in South America, immediately think of the Amazon. It is true that the Amazon basin is one of the most bio-diverse places on earth, with a high concentration of diverse species. However, one aspect of visiting the Amazon is that the animals are well camouflaged… Read Full Post
A Zodiac Ride into Torres del Paine National Park
On a recent visit to Torres del Paine National Park, I opted for an alternate entry into the park. In the past I had entered the park via the land route (a stunning drive from Puerto Natales into the park). On this subsequent visit, however, I decided to enter the park via the Rio Serrano… Read Full Post
Experience Buenos Aires Like a Porteño: 5 Tips for Enjoying the City
So that we can offer the best possible experience to our clients, the team here at Vaya spends large periods of time researching and exploring the destinations we put together. Buenos Aires is one of my favorite places in all of South America and the place I currently call home. Sure, the economy has more… Read Full Post
Ecuador is the New Name in Artisan Chocolate
When I think about really good chocolate (a not infrequent occurrence), my thoughts tend to drift toward Europe. Belgian chocolate, German chocolate, Italian chocolate: these are the gold standards of fine gourmet confectionery. These countries don’t actually produce the cocoa used in their products, however. Theobroma cacao, the cocoa tree, grows best in very particular… Read Full Post
Zen Birding in Santiago and Central Chile
Keeping a lookout for different bird species where you are traveling can be a good way to stay in the moment, remain conscious of your surroundings and notice nature’s subtle reminders that you are far from home. While Chile doesn’t have as many bird species as some other countries in South America, there are interesting… Read Full Post
Ski Day at Valle Nevado
Although the past few winters have been a bit shaky with low accumulations of snowfall in the mountains surrounding Santiago, Chile, the Andes Mountains generally boast some great ski seasons. This past winter I was able to head up to Valle Nevado Ski resort (less than an hour drive from Santiago) on two separate occasions…. Read Full Post
End of the Chilean Reciprocity Fee!
On February 28, 2014 the US Department of Homeland Security announced the signing of a bilateral agreement between Chile and the US Government. For those hoping to visit Chile, the agreement holds some very good news. Prior to this agreement, US citizens had to pay a $160 “reciprocity fee” upon entrance to Chile. This reciprocity… Read Full Post
Tierra Patagonia: A Premier Torres del Paine Lodge
On the Chilean side of Patagonia sits one of the most renowned (and arguably most beautiful) destinations in the entire region: Torres del Paine National Park. Torres del Paine is a fantastic destination and a must-see for almost any visit to Patagonia, and a stay at Tierra Patagonia Lodge is an excellent way to experience… Read Full Post
Costa Rica’s Untamed Osa Peninsula
Costa Rica has long been renowned for combining natural beauty with exciting activities, attracting visitors seeking pristine beaches, tropical rivers, volcanoes, and adventure. There is a well-established path that travelers often take through Costa Rica, and it’s one that exists for a reason – the Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Monteverde Cloud… Read Full Post