The two continents which make up this part of the world were largely unknown to the outside world until the 15th century when Christopher Columbus accidentally discovered North America. Although the Norse explorer Leif Erikson had already sailed to this part of the planet before the Spanish, he did not colonize the land and left it just as he had found it. Mass emigration from Europe to these ‘exotic’ lands resulted in large indigenous populations being wiped out from diseases and enslavement, leading to a huge loss of history and culture. However, today, the legacy of colonization has ensured that both the Americas share many common traits, common Indo-European languages, and a dominant religion, Christianity, which accounts for 86% of the population. The English influence on Anglo America which includes Canada and the United States is quite apparent when compared to Latin America which had a larger Spanish and Portuguese presence.

Given the extent of land that the Americas cover, from north to south, the diversity of the landscape and climate is vast. Kaffeklubben Island, the northernmost point on the earth lies in this region, while the southernmost point of the Americas extends to Antarctica. Running along the west coast is the American Cordillera which comprises the Andes in South America and the Rocky Mountains and other ranges in North America. The eastern side which is much flatter is characterized by large river basins such as the Mississippi and the Amazon. Today, travelers to the Americas are as ‘wowed’ by the New World as were the explorers. The blend of the old with the new, the gleaming metropolises such as Chicago, New York, Rio de Janeiro, and Miami to name a few, with some of the most advanced technology in the world, the rugged Wild West, and the lost worlds of South America, draw thousands of travelers to this part of the world.

Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels In Valparaiso

Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels In Valparaiso

Affectionately called a “mini-Berlin by the seaside,” coastal Valparaiso overlooking the waters of the South Pacific Ocean is one of the most vibrant of Chile’s cities. What’s more, Valparaiso and its neighboring Viña del Mar are amongst the gayest places on the continent! Santiago might be home to a larger gay scene, but it’s Valpo,…

11 Best Hotels Near Santiago Airport, Chile

11 Best Hotels Near Santiago Airport, Chile

Cosmopolitan, lively, and sophisticated are the words we’d use to describe Santiago, Chile’s capital. It’s a wonderful place for strolling, and each neighborhood has its own unique flavor. Head out for the day to take in the museums, art galleries, and pedestrian malls before an afternoon picnic in one of the lush parks. Then, enjoy…

11 Best Hotels in Santiago, Chile

11 Best Hotels in Santiago, Chile

Chile covers almost the whole length of South America, from north to south. This results in such diversity in cuisine, weather, natural beauty, and even culture. Whichever part of Chile you’re visiting, chances are you’ll be spending some time in Santiago even just for quick transit. Why stay only for a few hours if you…

11 Best Hotels in Valparaiso

11 Best Hotels in Valparaiso, Chile

When it comes to visiting Chile, most of you will probably think of Santiago or Patagonia. However, there are so many reasons why you should visit Valparaiso as well. It’s safe to say that this is one of the most underrated cities in South America. Not many people talk about this city. While in fact,…

Top 12 Things To Do In Valparaiso

Top 12 Things To Do In Valparaiso

The city of Valparaiso in Chile is one of the South Pacific’s most important seaports. In the second half of the 19th century, it was a major port of call for ships that crossed the Straits of Magellan, traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific. The opening of the Panama Canal brought an end to its…

Top 8 Things To Do In Easter Island

Top 8 Things To Do In Easter Island

Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a tiny volcanic island halfway between Oceania and South America, at the southeasternmost point of the Polynesian triangle. Easter Island is mostly famous for the Moai, massive human figures carved from stone by the Rapa Nui people between 1250 and 1500 AD. The 887 giant Moai statues…

Top 10 Things To Do In Santiago

Top 10 Things To Do In Santiago

Santiago is the sprawling capital city of Chile, often praised for its idyllic location, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It has a population of over 6 million people and is divided into ‘comunas’ which are similar to large suburbs, each with their own city council. Here, ancient traditions coexist with 21st-century life on every street and…