For those who want to experience some authentic Latin American culture, it’s essential to travel to Bolivia’s capital, La Paz. Set atop the Bolivian plateau at an altitude of 3,739 m., this destination will literally take your breath away. La Paz is often referred to as the ‘Tibet of the Americas’ and, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it is easy to see why. The city is famed for its witches’ markets, where superstitious travelers can purchase good-luck talismans or ingredients for spells – dried llama foetus, anyone? If not, you can just head straight to the salt palace, a spectacular hotel made of…yep, you guessed it – salt! In La Paz, traditional clothing is worn regularly so expect to see women walking the streets in brightly coloured petticoats and bowler hats. Nowhere else in South America is tradition so central to everyday life.

Another alluring city is Puerto Madryn, one of the main gateways to Argentinean Patagonia. Here eco-tourists can get a rare glimpse of the local whale and penguin populations. Alternatively, you might find yourself more intrigued by Gaiman, the Welsh town, which is populated by descendants of the original Welsh settlers. Here the Welsh language and traditions have been fiercely preserved and you can even try out some famous Welsh Tea. Another highlight is the Valdes Peninsula, one of the few places in the world where tour companies offer the chance to go whale watching.