Itinerary

Samba on down to Rio, famous for its dramatic landscape and beach culture. It is usually quite easy going, except for the four days of its feather-festooned Carnival.

From the summits of Sugarloaf and Corcovado, take in breathtaking views of a magnificent bay set against a mountain backdrop. Check out the activity at one or two of the 23 beaches, crowded with sunbathers, swimmers, surfers, and bikers.

For lunch or dinner, pull up a chair at a churrascaria and dine on the delicious grilled meat of your choice, washed down with a caipirinha, the national cocktail.

No journey to Rio would be complete without a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer). At the top of the Corcovado Mountain, towering high above the city below, this 125-foot tall statue of Jesus Christ spreads its arms over Rio and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Guanabara Bay.

Fashionable Punta del Este is one of the world’s most appealing seaside resorts. Fashionable cafes and shops line the streets, and an evening harbor-front stroll will no doubt include a serenade by street musicians and entertainers. Gorlero Street is the main street, where you will find a bulk of Punta del Este’s prime attractions, it is about 10 blocks long and easily walkable. Be sure and keep your eyes peeled as you never know who you might see stroll by, it is a popular hotspot for the famous during this time of year.

The town projects an artsy vibe, with a contemporary museum and the Brava Beach open-air sculpture park displaying large works in steel, concrete, wood, iron, and marble. Don’t miss out on the photo opportunity with The Hand, a sculpture depicting five gigantic fingers coming out of the sand. Then, visit the fascinating Casa Pueblo, home of artist Carlos Paez Vilaros, a dazzling white fantasy on a hillside overlooking the town.

After a day out, it’s time to get the party started. Punta del Este is best enjoyed for its nightlife. Day parties start around 5:00 p.m., long dinners with cocktails flowing around start at 10:00 p.m., and the clubs and bars last long past sunrise.

Welcome to elegant, cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, with its European colonial architecture and colorful mix of cultures. Each district has its own style: enjoy Palermo, with its mansions and parks; shop in the chic boutiques of Soho and Hollywood; and soak up the Italian flavor of La Boca, where tango dancers and artists display their talents for passersby.

A visit to Buenos Aires is not complete without a visit to the National Museum of Fine Arts. It is not only a unique experience, but one of the oldest and most respected attractions in the city. From classic to controversial, you will find works from extraordinary artists such as Van Gogh, Degas, Monet, and Picasso.

Be sure to squeeze in a visit to Colon Theater, one of the most important opera houses in the world. Performances on this stage have shaped its world-renowned prestige. The exceptional acoustic and architectural conditions of this building place it withing the top 10 theaters worldwide.

The spectacular Puente de la Mujer (Spanish for Woman’s Bridge), inspired by tango, is a rotating footbridge that was designed by Santiago Calatrava. The white mast symbolizing the man, and the curve of the bridge, the woman. This footbridge is one of the most famous landmarks in the neighborhood of Puerto Madero.

You and your partner can witness much of the city’s history from the balconies of Casa Rosada, from which Juan and “Evita” Perón addressed the masses during the late 40s and early 50s. Dominating Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada (the Pink House) is the seat of the Argentine national government and houses the president’s office.Finally, top off the perfect day with an Argentine steak, perfectly grilled over a fire of glowing coals, and wash it down with an excellent glass of Malbec.