Editor's note: This segment originally aired on Feb. 5, 2015.
Travelers from the United States spend a lot of time abroad, mostly in Europe. Far fewer head to South America. KNKX travel expert Matthew Brumley has five things everyone should see and do in two South American countries: Chile and Argentina.
1. Walk Around Santiago
There are great markets here, and some incredible parks, including Parque Metropolitano, which offers sweeping views of the city. A good place to acclimate to South America.
2. Visit Wine Country
Chile features hundreds of miles of vineyards. “These wine estates are so amazing,” Brumley said. “Wonderful old historic buildings that date back to the 16th century.” Try, in particular, the old estates in Santa Cruz. Also look at wines in Valparaiso and Casablanca.
3. Take A Bus From Chile Into Argentina
Get up at sunrise and take the all-day trip. It’s six or seven hours, but with views of Mount Aconcagua on a clear day, it’s an astonishingly beautiful route, and you’ll quickly lose track of the time.
4. More Wine — And Food — In Mendoza
You’ll find life on the Argentine side of the border slightly more relaxed than in Chile, Brumley said. A perfect place to relax with a nice dinner. Argentina produces its famous Malbec wines in Mendoza. It’s also famous for its steaks.
5. Spend A Couple Days In Buenos Aires
It takes less than two hours to fly there from Mendoza. Brumley calls it one of his favorite cities in South America. “It’s like a cross between New York and Rome,” he said.
--
"Going Places" is 88.5's weekly exploration of travel. Our travel expert, Matthew Brumley, is co-founder of Earthbound Expeditions on Bainbridge Island, which provides small group travel to clients, including KNKX. Never miss an episode again. Subscribe to "Going Places" with iTunes, Google Play or Stitcher.
