September 2012

Peru is considered one of the most- biodiverse countries in the world with some unbeatable records such as number one in diversity of butterflies and number two on birds species. If you are a nature lover, Peru offers not only lively culture but unique experiences in diverse ecosytems.

Top nature destinations:

1. Macaws at the Tambopata National Reserve
It might be because I used to work as a guide here or because I love forests but I am in love with these trees, river and birds. READ MORE

It all started more than 33 years ago when Quito was the first city to be named a world heritage site by UNESCO, the United Nations cultural branch. Quito’s architecture, history, and overall cultural legacy meant that it was a city which should never be forgotten.

And in the ensuing three decades Quito’s value as a cultural site has grown beyond the vision of most, precisely because it has not been discarded. READ MORE

When visiting Chile in the winter, why not plan on taking a relaxing bath in one of the many hot springs (termas) around the country?

There are different types of hot springs, such as a natural hot springs, mud baths, swimming pools, and therapeutic massage, among others.

Hot springs are known to have a therapeutic effect on the nervous system, skin illnesses, stress, rheumatism, lumbago and other types of back pain. READ MORE

Aromas y Sabores  – GUAYAQUIL

September 20-22, 2012

Crystal Palace, Malecon 2000, Guayaquil, Ecuador

Exhibiting the best in coffee and chocolate products in Ecuador, this fair aims to promote and position the country as the top exporter of high quality coffee and chocolate.

Vanguard Gastronomy of Latitude Cero – QUITO

October 2-4, 2012

Teleferico

Sponsored by Espai-Epicur, this first every academic congress is designed to introduces the latest culinary trends by the best chefs, alongside national and international specialists in gastronomy.

It is the latest effort by Ecuador to bring attention to the importance of internationalizing Ecuadorian cuisine.  Specially invited guests include recognized Spanish chefs.

Ecuadorian Coffee – Photo courtesy Velez Coffee

Taza Dorada 2012 – GUAYAQUIL

October 16-19, 2012

Catholic University, Guayaquil

The best coffee in Ecuador?  Find it here.  Three days of conferences, workshops, and the national conventions of coffee producers will be capped by the awarding of the country’s best lot of coffee.

Ecuador Gourmet – QUITO

November 29, 30, and December 1

Itchimbia Cultural Center, Quito

This second edition of Quito’s premier gourmet products fair, sponsored by Multienlace, is designed to incentivize the private sector in the diffusion of Ecuadorian gastronomy by exhibiting the principal gourmet, gastronomic and culinary products of Ecuador.  The event will have food tastings, book launches, presentations, and more than four dozen of the country’s top products on display.

If Argentina is associated with any one beverage, it’s usually wine, not beer. But many families in Argentina trace their roots back to Germany, and nowhere is that heritage more evident than in the massive Oktoberfest celebration each spring in Villa General Belgrano, a picturesque town in the province of Córdoba. READ MORE

Carved by the rivers and estuaries, which find their outlet to the sea in this warm and humid expanse of urbanity, Guayaquil, Ecuador’s largest city, offers visitors a blend of nature, history, and tradition. Here are eight great places to check out as you stroll around the city: READ MORE

Chile celebrates its independence from Spain in September and the entire month is recognized as the “Month of the Nation.” The weather has begun to change, spring has almost arrived and the sun sets the mood for a celebration.

Fiestas Patrias, or more commonly, Dieciocho, are the names given to the holiday celebrations that take place on September 18 and 19. This year festivities will also take place on Monday the 17th. But don’t be surprised if you discover that the celebrations already got started. Because Chileans are patriotic and like to always have fun, the Fiestas Patrias provide a great excuse for a party. READ MORE

Polo has long been the favored pastime of Argentina’s elite, and for years, there were few opportunities for visitors to experience the sport themselves. In Argentina, polo is usually played mainly at exclusive members’ only clubs, and the few tournaments each year can be expensive to attend.

But recently one polo club, located on a picturesque estancia about an hour’s drive outside the center of Buenos Aires, opened itself up to non-member visitors for daylong excursions. The program is simply called Argentina Polo Day. READ MORE

If you came to Quito ten years ago and visited the central historical district, you probably thought you would never need to return again. The city was dirty and the streets overcrowded with vendors. And those with more refined tastes had no choice but to head to the international chains to spend the night.

Fast forward to today. The city streets are free of vendors (all have been relocated to indoor markets), old town has been dramatically restored, and luxury hotels adorn what was once an eye sore. READ MORE