julia.villasboa: Argentina, a dream country

Have you ever thought of travelling to Argentina? If you haven't, what follows will definitely persuade you to do so. Because of its geographical position, Argentina offers diverse landscapes, different attractions and a wide range of activities. Argentine culture is as varid as the country's geography. Make sure you have plenty of time to visit different areas so that you will get a more precise idea of what it is really like.

It may be a good idea - considering that planes from abroad all land in Buenos Aires - to start in this city, which is the capital of the country. The general landscapes and the entertainment the city offers are worth a visit. Make sure you don't miss a 'tango' show. Tango is a dance that originated in Buenos Aires in the late nineteenth century and has nowadays become very popular around the world. You can even take some classes to learn this legendary dance! Buenos Aires displays beautiful architectural styles mostly imposted from Europe, impressive old buildings, some of which are extremely well preserved and are national monuments, all strangely mingled with some modern, state of the art flats and offices.

After Buenos Aires, you may wish to visit the Iguazú Falls, which is undoubtedly one of the most imposing natural attractions in Argentina. The Falls are situatd in Iguazú National Park in the province of Misiones. In Guaraní language "Iguazú" means "great waters". Various tour companies in Argentina offer trips for you to enjoy this astonishing treasure of nature. Besides the majestic falls, the jungle offer a wide variety of native animals such as the "tapir" and some luxuriant vegetation.

If you love adventure, mountaineering, rafting, horse riding or just hiking by lakes or through forests, Mendoza and Córdoba will provide you with what you are looking for. You will also be able to experience the pleasure of eating the succulent, tender beef and other tasty treasts during the famous "asados" (barbecues) and you will be able to drink the best wines Argentina produces. You may also want to visit some of the 632 vineyards in Mendoza, especially one called Trapiche, which is the world's most renowed wine producer.

There is no way you can give Patagonia (in the south of Argentina) a miss. In the Lake Region you will be able to admire crystalline and transparent lakes sorrounded by impressive mountains: The Andes. You will be able to enjoy the marvellous experience of walking through the 'Arrayanes', a unique formation with tree specimens centuries old, the bark of which is cold and smooth to the touch and the colour of cinnamon. This fairy-tale wood inspired Walt Disney for his movies. If you decide to travel across Patagonia towards the Atlantic Coast you will be able to appreciate the beauty of two sea creatures: the Magellanic penguin and the Southern Right whale.

There is no denying that Argentina is a great country which offers tourists diversity, tradition, great scenery and fascinating fauna. Give Argentina a try! You will not regret it!