South America – Mark's Travel Journal

Laid-Back Vacations for Older Adults

Vacations should be the most relaxing time of the year when you can be worry-free. Older age should not stop you from planning a perfect vacation. Actually, it might be the ideal time for it. Choosing the right destination is of great importance for any vacation, especially when it comes to vacations for older adults, as you would want a place that is suitable for your needs. Some places cater more to younger generations, providing activities for those not afraid to spend a lot of energy on exciting experiences. However, in this article, we would like to present you with the best destinations for your relaxing, stress-free vacation that suits your older age.

Alaska is one of the best vacation spots for relaxation

You do not need a passport to reach a perfect destination; you can have an unforgettable vacation in the U.S. without a problem. The Last Frontier offers much to see, taste, and experience, even if you are not at your full physical strength. In fact, many activities will be ideal for older adults. For example, Alaskan cruises can offer a great way to explore the beautiful coastline of The Last Frontier. Plane and helicopter excursions are also a safe and relaxing way to marvel at Alaska’s wild nature without putting much effort into it. Big cities of Alaska like Joneau or Anchorage can offer you great museums and galleries, and guided tours typically start from these cities. Vacations for older adults could also benefit from touring the beautiful lakes Alaska offers. Finally, it would be best if you didn’t skip on many national parks over there, must-see ones being:

Denali National Park – ideal vacation spot for older adults with a fantastic landscape
Kanai Fjords National Park – accessible national park near anchorage
Kobuk Valley National Park – diverse nature in this national park is like no other

Polar lights above snow and forest. — Polar lights can also be seen when in Alaska’s north.

The Caribbean is the perfect destination for seniors

Although it may seem that the Caribbean is more of a younger-generation vacation destination, it is an excellent spot for older adults looking for a more relaxing experience. First of all, getting to the Caribbean is no challenge, with many cruises regularly sailing around many tropical islands of the region. Also, cruise companies have ensured that all their customers’ needs are met. And you can even call them ahead of time if you have any specific requirements. You should also know that prices can vary from place to place. While some islands are much more luxurious, there are more affordable options, like the Dominican Republic. Furthermore, the Caribbean countries have significantly developed tourism. They have a lot to offer in terms of culture, food, and drinks, making it a tropical vacation spot that older adults shouldn’t miss

Central Europe can offer an excellent vacation for older adults

Suppose tropical destinations are not your cup of tea, and you would like an atmosphere of a cozy historical town surrounded by greenery and rivers. In that case, Central Europe should be on your travel bucket list. Countries like Hungary, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria, can offer ideal vacations for older adults. Most of the beautiful cities of this region sit on flat plains, so walking around them and admiring the incredible architecture of cities like Vienna, Dresden, Prague, etc., is super easy. Public transport in these cities is also well-planned, and people are happy to give their seats to elders.

Once you get tired of the many museums, galleries, and theaters you can find in the cities of this region, you can start exploring the beautiful nature of Central Europe. Not only are there many national parks that are easily accessible, but rivers also provide unforgettable experiences for seniors. A river cruise through European waterways provides an excellent journey through the old continent. It gives a great view of nature, castles, villages, and cities and a relaxing experience on the dock. Finally, if you want to look outside its center, the rest of Europe has much to offer for elders, especially capital cities.

Town in Central Europe. — Central Europe is full of cozy towns.

National parks can be just what you need

We return to the U.S. to look for an ideal destination for your vacation needs. Older adults can make great use of the breathtaking nature that our country has to offer. Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is full of untouched nature and crystal-clear lakes. This national park is optimal for seniors. For a slight physical effort, you will be rewarded with the most amazing views our country has to offer. Yellowstone National Park spans over 2 million acres and is second to none regarding sightseeing, with geysers and hot springs being typical attractions. Older adults will enjoy their vacation here for its accessibility. You can drive around and explore all of Yellowstone’s major attractions.

If you want a more challenging experience, Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a fantastic experience. For older adults, there are helicopter rides and shuttle buses that can make this a perfect laid-back trip. And this is not all older adults can find in Arizona. In fact, Arizona as a state is also famous amongst movers for its comfortable prices and good living conditions. Experts from Royal Moving Company state that many older adults from California choose Arizona as their new home because it’s one of the best senior-friendly states.

Machu Picchu is a unique experience

If you are looking for a truly unforgettable experience, the ancient citadel in Peru, South America, might be fascinating. Not only is it located in the breathtaking mountains of the Andes with stunning nature, but its architecture is also something to behold. Now, this may not sound like an ideal vacation spot for older adults but worry not. There is a train from Cusco that will take you there directly; no need to hike through the mountains. Now, if you have already visited this quite popular destination, South America has a lot of other places you should see too.

Machu Picchu in sunny weather. — Machu Picchu often looks like a place from fairy tales.

Vacations for older adults shouldn’t be complicated, and it isn’t. If you are ready to travel, age is not going to be a problem, and with the traveling destinations we recommend, you can start planning your dream holiday.

Stunning Locations in Argentina to Visit During Winter

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Argentina is one of South America’s most beautiful places you can visit. And it’s easy to see why: the country has a lot of stunning nature and warm weather year-round. The warmth also makes it one of the best locations to visit during winter, as the weather is pleasant regardless. In fact, most of the country experiences mild winters. This fact is what makes a lot of people believe that visiting Argentina in winter is perfect. However, the main question is still: where exactly should you go for the best experience in Argentina? We hope to help you answer this question with a list of stunning locations in Argentina to visit during winter.

Puerto Madryn

Have you ever wanted to see a whale in person? Well, starting the list of stunning locations in Argentina is Puerto Madryn, the perfect place to do just that. Puerto Madryn is a beautiful coastal town near Peninsula Valdes, famous for being one of the world’s largest whale breeding bays. And the whale’s mating period happens to be during winter. Of course, the town has much to offer visitors besides watching the whales. The beaches around Puerto Madryn are a unique experience as well. So, if you feel like whale-watching and enjoying the atmosphere of a beautiful coastal town, consider giving Puerto Madryn a visit. However, if you haven’t been traveling in a while, keep in mind that the pandemic has affected travel permanently. As such, prepare for your trip correctly and well ahead of time to be as safe as possible.

Whale breaching the water surface. — Seeing whales in Puerto Madryn is common during winter.

Iguazu Falls

Next up on the list of stunning locations in Argentina to visit during winter is a spot best to see during the cold season. That is because the area around the Iguazu Falls, one of Argentina’s most beautiful sights, tends to get extreme during other seasons. The humidity combined with Argentina’s usual warmth can suffocate, but the temperature here remains pleasant during winter.

As such, during winter, you can take your time and enjoy the beauty of the Iguazu Falls without any drawbacks. In reality, many tourists stay in Argentina after they experience the Falls for themselves. If you find yourself enamored by Argentina’s beauty, remember to plan your move thoroughly and rely on a helpful crew, especially if you’re moving here from the US. Remember, reliable movers, are essential for international moves.

Buenos Aires

We can’t list places to visit in Argentina without mentioning Buenos Aires. This massive city is full of history and beautiful, traditional architecture. Even outside of winter, visitors can find enough to do in the city to fill up a few trips with exciting experiences. During winter, however, the city offers special seasonal foods and drinks.

Additionally, like the Iguazu Falls, summer can get quite overbearing in Buenos Aires. As such, winter can make Buenos Aires a much more enjoyable experience for visitors who want to explore at their own pace. And if you’re going to experience Buenos Aires for yourself, home swaps have become increasingly popular. Although it’s still not very common, it offers a unique overall experience that will let you enjoy the city thoroughly if you can manage it.

People walking in a crowded street. — Buenos Aires is one of the stunning locations in Argentina to visit during winter.

Perito Moreno Glacier

If you want to experience the wonders of winter, you need to plan a trip to the Perito Moreno Glacier. This glacier is found within the Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia and is considered one of Argentina’s most beautiful winter sights. That can easily be seen in the fact that this spot is also one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country.

The snow-covered ice and the chilly winter air make for a delightful experience. And, to top it off, the entire glacier is highly picturesque, and finding a beautiful view to snap a photo of is extremely easy. However, preparing yourself properly before visiting a glacier would be best. Do some research beforehand, as the best travelers do, and ensure it’s something you enjoy. After all, visiting the glacier can be a trek.

Mendoza

If you’re a fan of touring wineries, then the quaint town of Mendoza is the perfect spot for you. The town of Mendoza, by itself, isn’t very big; but it has a lot of high-quality wineries you can visit.

Additionally, the chilly winter air makes for a gratifying experience when going on a wine-tasting tour. Mendoza is in the Cuyo region of Argentina, in the foothills of the Andes Mountain Range. As such, besides the wine-tasting tours, the city is known as a hotspot for skiing if you enjoy going on skiing trips. Of course, if you don’t want something so exciting, there are plenty of beautiful views of the mountains from Mendoza itself. And there are also hiking trails if you enjoy going on hiking trips. But, especially during winter, remember to carefully prepare for hiking trips into the Andes.

Vineyard at sunset — Tasting wines in Mendoza’s picturesque vineyards is a truly unique experience.

Stunning locations in Argentina to visit during winter – closing thoughts

Overall, Argentina is one of the world’s best places to visit during winter. Since the country is naturally warm, winter is the perfect time to visit since temperatures tend to be perfect for traveling. That, combined with Argentina’s natural beauty, makes a winter trip to the country a unique experience. Overall, if you are planning a trip this winter, you’re going to have a hard time finding a better country to visit. And, to make it even better, Argentina has plenty to offer for every type of traveler, as the tourist attractions in the country are very varied. We hope this list of stunning locations in Argentina to visit during winter helps you plan your trip, and we wish you a good day.

Most Underrated Destinations in South America

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South America has some of the most beautiful places on Earth. It is no surprise that it attracts so many tourists worldwide every year. It consists of only twelve countries, but each of them is equally charming and interesting in its own way. Some tourist locations on this continent are very well known, such as the Inca citadel Machu Picchu in Peru, the statue of Christ “Christ the Redeemer” in Brazil, Iguazu waterfalls in Argentina, and so much more. But besides all these famous places, there are so much less familiar destinations that are as gorgeous but not talked about enough. We are here to show you the most underrated destinations in South America that you should check out if you love traveling.

Los Roques Archipelago

Los Roques Archipelago is one of South America’s more expensive and lavish destinations. It is perfect for various activities. If you are looking for sandy beaches, crystal clear water with lots of coral riffs for diving and snorkeling, then this is a place to go. This place is truly Heaven on Earth; It is located in the Caribbean Sea, not far away from the coast of Venezuela, and it has around 350 islands and numerous animal and plant species, some of them which are endangered. The main occupations for visitors are, of course, swimming and exploring marine life. Some people are fond of fishing, which is very rewarding here since there are at least 270 species of fish. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are options as well.

There are only two ways to travel here. By plane, which is the way most people do it, or by boat. We should warn you that hotel accommodation is costly here, but don’t worry. You could also camp here, which can be a fun experience, and it will ultimately cost cheaper. You just need to pack everything you may need and enjoy!

Paraguay and Asuncion

Paraguay is a relatively small country located in the central part of the continent. However, it is a fantastic option to check out some unique destinations in South America. Not to mention that this country could be a good choice if you ever try to move internationally. We know that moving to another continent can be very stressful and filled with anxiety, but try to keep a positive mindset. There is no need to worry if you have made the right choice since Paraguay is well known for its safety and mild and pleasant climate. Have that in mind if you ever plan to move there.

As for its capital, Asuncion, located on the banks of the Paraguay River, is filled with exciting content. Here are some examples. The seat of the government of Paraguay, “Palacio de Lopez” is a beautiful construction that is even more extravagant at night when all the lights come on. And if you are an art lover, Asuncion’s Art Museums are must-visit places. There are various: Museo del Barro, Museo de Bellas Artes, Museo de Arte Sacro, Fundacion Texo, etc. And if you love animals and nature, we suggest visiting the Botanical Garden and Zoo of Asuncion or the delightful Crystal Fall, located in the jungle area.

City of Valparaíso

The colorful city of Valparaíso is a must-see if you are visiting Chile. It is located about 80 miles northwest of the much more known country capital Santiago. It is the country’s cultural center, famous for its street art, brightly colored houses, and seaside views resembling some European cities. In 2003 the town was placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Poet Pablo Neruda, one of its most famous inhabitants, often described it as beautiful chaos, partly because of its specific geography. Between a mountain range and the ocean, the city is a maze of steep inclines, narrow streets, and staircases, making some cities landmarks reachable only by foot or funicular. So be prepared for a lot of walking that will finally pay off because this is one of those places where, if you like photography, you will not put your camera down for a second.

Trujillo, Peru

Peru has rich pre-hispanic culture, wild nature, and world-famous gastronomy. That is why it is one of the favorite destinations in South America for tourists. But there is much more than Machu Picchu and Cuzco. Although it gets only ten percent of overall international tourist visits in Peru, the city of Trujillo is an excellent example of an unjustly underrated destination in South America. At least for those interested in pre-Columbian culture and heritage and not fond of high altitudes and problems it brings. Near the city lies Chan Chan, the largest mud city in the ancient world and the capital of Chimu culture. The site is a world heritage site. Some 2.5 miles south of Trujillo is another important archeological site, Las Huacas del Sol y de la Luna, which is very interesting to visit. Huanchaco spa is another place you should not miss.

Black monkey walking on rocks. — Amazon forests are full of wildlife.

Iquitos, Peru

Another location in Peru that deserves your attention is Iquitos. It is the capital of the Mayan province. People also know it as the capital of the Peruvian Amazon. Iquitos is the largest city in the world that isn’t connected to any other by road. The only way to access it is either by boat or plane. And that is part of its charm. Lush nature and the multitude of animals that live in a nearby jungle draw in the tourists that visit Iquitos. Choose one of the boat tours that can take you to one of the protected natural areas in the Amazon. Visit the local community of indigenous people or take a night-time hike in the jungle. These will be fun adventures that you’ll remember fondly. Be sure to try local or international dishes in the Iron house constructed by Gustav Eiffel.

Final Words

There is a reason why popular places are popular, but it doesn’t mean that those less known are not beautiful. If you love traveling, we urge you to consider visiting these underrated destinations in South America. See some other cultures, try new food, and enjoy your visit to the fullest!