Travel Destination Ideas?

[greenacres]

I've got two weeks vacation coming to me in August and I'm thinking of heading to South America. I'm in to scenic landscape photography and also local cultural festivals.

Any suggestions where to head? I've never been to South America and I'm open to anywhere.

[davege]

Saw a place called bariloche on one of the Amazing Race series. Looked pretty interesting. Check out www.bariloche.com for more info. Let us know where you decide to go.

Dave

[andyrichter]

For some of the most spectacular scenery, head down to Sothern Patagonia. You will not be let down...In Chile I suggest Parque Nacional Torres del Paine. There are amazing trekking routes and even more amazing mountains, when the weather clears that is. Skies are often very dramatic during these transitions in weather though. In Argentina, Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is unbelievable, especially around the Fitzroy area, and is slightly easier access and trekking. Of anywhere along the Andes, this is a must see. I have travelled along the entire range from the Cape to Equador and have spent extensive time in Venezuela, so feel free to ask about any other areas too. It's a huge continent, requiring much exploration and time. You may want to just focus on one area and do it well and get to know it. Peru and Bolivia are very rich; culturally, in terms of the natural environment, and fantastic snowy and rugged mountains. You have much to be excited about...

[metal3]

Hi,
There's a great site I found featuring must see places around the world called: SeeBeforeYouDie.Net
If you have great photos of must see places around the world or if you want to see photos of others check it out.
What I liked most is that you can add your own places and photos, rank places and post your comments.

[samchadwick]

I was recently in Patagonia. I went to both Bariloche and Torres del Paine mentioned above.
The photos are online here: http://www.samchadwickphoto.com/expedition-patagonia.html

[gldiana]

I just went to Perù and the country was amazing, the food awesome and the people the nicest I have ever met.
I don't recommend going down to Patagonia and Torre del Paine in August because it's winter there and the temperature can get pretty brutal, I'm actually going to Ushuaia, Patagonia and Easter Island next November. Consider staying in the tropical/equatorial zone for better weather. Costa Rica (cheap to get there, Continental usually has flights for about $300 R/T from major cities) has amazing scenery and colors, but August is also great in Alaska as well as Scandinavian countries.

For great ideas check this article from the NY Times:

The 53 Places to go in 2008 (You need to register, it's free)

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/09/travel/09where.html?_r=2&em&ex=1197694800&en=7e247eb246f4f30a&ei=5087%0A&oref=login&oref=slogin