Argentina Travel

An MBendi Travel Profile: Argentina - Travel Advertise on MBendi Travel Search our directories for: - Accommodation - Airlines - Airports - Attractions - Car Rentals - Countries - Embassies - Event Venues - Events - Health Centres - Hotel Groups - Places - Publications - Restaurants - Tourist Bureaux - Travel Companies - Travel Specials - Travel Tips Tell us about your favourite: - Accommodation - Attraction - Event Venue - Restaurant - Travel Tips More ... - MBendi Travel - MBendi Business - About MBendi - Contact us Argentina - Travel General Information Places to Visit Travel Facilities MBendi Travel Directories Note to Travel Organisations More For This Country: - Tourism Industry ______________________________ Regions: ------------------------------------------ Country List ------------------------------------------ World Africa Antarctica Asia Australasia Europe North America South America ______________________________ General Information Time Zone: GMT-2h00 ISO Code: AR Dialing Code: +54 Continent: South America Places to Visit Bariloche , Cordoba , Buenos Aires :[ View All ] Travel Facilities Attractions (2) : Bariloche , Iguassu Falls Event Venues : La Rural Convention & Exhibition Center Transport : Buenos Aires Port MBendi Travel Directories The MBendi Travel website provides some of the most comprehensive information on African travel and tourism anywhere on the Internet. With your help, we would also like to make it one of the best sources of information on travel to Argentina ! MBendi Travel's directory of Tourist Attractions includes places to visit on each continent. If you find we've missed one of your own personal favourites, you can record the details on our website so others can share your pleasure. You can even E-mail us some of your holiday photographs , the best of which we will display on our website, with your ownership clearly attributed, or share your experiences of visiting some special spot by adding a glowing description through our website. While we provide information on somewhere to stay in every African country we are keen to know about similar places in Argentina and you can help other travellers by recording those details on our website. You can also give your favourite restaurants, at home or abroad, some free publicity by recording their details on our website. But first search the Accommodation or Restaurants directory to make sure some other fan has not already listed your special favourites. We also provide a Directory of Places so that you can see information you need tourist- or business-wise related a specific city, town or village. Again you can expect this directory of places to grow as new information is added to our other directories. You can use MBendi's directory of Event Venues to find the ideal place for your conference or exhibition, large or small, while MBendi's directory of Events provides one of the most comprehensive lists of public conferences and events anywhere on the Internet. If you are the manager of a venue or the organiser of a public event which is not recorded in our directories, then please submit their details via our website after first checking to ensure they are not already there. If you're an experienced traveller, you might like to use MBendi's Travel Tips section to share your special lore, while if you're a novice traveller, you could use MBendi's directory of Travel Organisations to find everything from tourist bureaux to event organisers ready to assist. In our directory of Publications , we are also compiling details of travel guides and other publications. If you're planning to visit Argentina on business, we also encourage you to refer to MBendi's business and industry profiles for Argentina. Note to Travel Organisations Travel organisations are particularly encouraged to ensure the MBendi Travel directories are comprehensive, current and correct as your businesses can only prosper from an increase in tourist numbers. MBendi's Business Opportunities section has details of leisure properties for sale, while the Employment Space includes job vacancies in the industry. Map of Argentina Iguazu Falls Tango in La Boca, Buenos Aires Buenos Aires Information Source: MBendi - Modified: 08.Mar.2004 [ Home Page ] [ About MBendi ] [ Contact MBendi ] [ Policy ] [ Legal Disclaimer ] Users of the MBendi Travel website are assumed to have read and agreed to our terms and conditions © 1995-2005 , MBendi and its associated information providers

Hotel Travel

Web 2.0 Conference 2005 ! -- ! -- -- Home Conference Coverage Why Attend Register Speakers Schedule Sessions Workshops Events Sponsors Media Center Hotel/Travel See & Do 2004 Highlights Newsletter O'Reilly Conferences MediaLive Conferences Hotel and Travel Information Hotel Info | Travel Assistance | Rental Cars | Airline Tickets Hotel Information The 2005 Web 2.0 Conference will be held at the Argent Hotel. If you're looking for the right place in San Francisco to revel in the excitement of The City, The Argent Hotel is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of the City, The Argent stands 36 floors tall with 667 luxurious guestrooms, overlooking the beautiful San Francisco City skyline. Activities within walking distance include Yerba Buena Gardens, Union Square, SFMOMA, Sony Metreon, and San Franciscos finest in dining, shopping, and entertainment. Web 2.0 has negotiated a special, low hotel rate for overnight participants in San Francisco. To reserve a room at the Argent Hotel, please follow the instructions below. Hotel Reservations Due to an overwhelming response, the Web 2.0 conference room block at the Argent Hotel is completely sold out. We have secured additional hotel rooms for the Web 2.0 Conference at the hotels listed below. Please note: In order to get our special conference rate, you must say you are with the Web 2.0 Conference . Renaissance Parc 55 Hotel Union Square 55 Cyril Magnin St. San Francisco, CA 94102 Room Rate: $209.00 Single/Double To make a reservation by telephone, please call: 1-800-621-1187 or 1-800-228-9290 (24 hrs) To book, modify or cancel a reservation online parc55hotel.com . W San Francisco Yerba Buena 181 Third Street San Francisco, CA 94103 Room Rate: $309.00 Wonderful Rooms Single/Double $349.00 Spectacular Rooms Single/Double To make a reservation by telephone, please call 1-877-946-8357. To make a reservation online W Hotel . Hotel Address Argent Hotel 50 3rd Street San Francisco, CA 94103 Phone: (415) 974-6400 If you have any questions please email us at hotels@mlii.com or call Donna Ortiz @ 415-905-2397 Getting There Airport Shuttle Services From Oakland or San Francisco SuperShuttle Phone: 800-258-3826 Driving Directions From San Francisco Int'l Airport Take Highway 101 North and exit at 4th Street Exit onto Bryant. Continue one block and turn left onto 3rd Street. Continue for four and a half blocks. The hotel is located on the left side of Third Street. From Oakland Int'l Airport Take 880 North, cross the Bay Bridge and take the Fremont Street Exit on the right. Turn left onto Howard Street. Turn fight on Third Street. The hotel is located one and a half blocks on the left side of Third Street. From the Golden Gate Bridge (north) Cross the bridge and exit at Lombard Street. Turn right onto Van Ness, and then turn left onto Bush Street. Turn right on Montgomery Street. Continue across Market Street onto New Montgomery. Turn right on Mission Street. Turn right on Third Street. The hotel is located half a block on the left side of Third Street. Parking Overnight: $39.00 per day (subject to change without notice) Please Note: Parking fees are approximate and completely subject to change without notice. Travel Assistance The official conference travel planner offers one-stop shopping for your air travel and other travel needs in connection with your attendance at a conference. Vivian V. Russell Travel Services 182 Farmers Lane, Suite 102 Santa Rosa, CA 95405 Phone: (707) 525-0550 Fax: (707) 525-0560 Email: International Attendees Please visit www.unitedstatesvisas.gov for important information about international travel to the United States. Rental Cars Should you choose to make travel arrangements independently, you may contact Hertz directly to receive the special discount on rental cars at the Web 2.0 Conference 2005. To reserve a car with your special rate, call Hertz : 1 (800) 654-2240 in the U.S. 1 (800) 263-0600 in Canada (405) 749-4434 outside of these areas or call your nearest Hertz reservation center, your corporate travel department, or your travel agent. You must give the agent the Hertz CV #01XY0025 . Air Travel United Airlines is the official airline of the Web 2.0 Conference 2005. If you or your travel agent call United's toll-free number (1-800-521-4041) to book your reservations, you will receive a 5% discounnt off the lowest applicable discount fare, including First Class or a 10% discount off full fare unrestricted coach fares, purchased 7 days in advance. An additional 5% discount will apply when tickets are purchased at least 30 days in advance of your travel date. Discounts also apply on Shuttle by United and United Express. Call United's Specialized Meeting Reservations Center at 1-800-521-4041 to obtain the best fares and schedule information. Make sure you refer to Meeting ID #538GO. Dedicated reservation agents are on duty 7 days a week from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM EST. Mileaage Plus members receive full credit for all miles flown to this meeting. You must refer to Meeting ID #538GO in order to receive the conference attendee discount. Be certain to give either your travel planner or the United reservation agent (1-800-521-4041) this number. MediaLive and O'Reilly Media, Inc. assume no responsibility or liability for the facilities or services provided by the vendors and suppliers. Anyone attending this conference releases MediaLive and O'Reilly from any and all claims that may arise out of attending at this conference. -- ! -- Media Sponsors Web 2.0 Sponsor Opportunities --Reach business leaders and technology influencers at the Web 2.0 conference. Call Amber Rattu at 415-905-2647, email or click here for more info. Download the Web 2.0 Sponsor Prospectus .! -- For media-related inquiries, contact Ben Stricker: or Suzanne Axtell: Due to the overwhelming number of requests for press passes for the Web 2.0 Conference, press credentials for the conference are no longer available. Speaking opportunities are by invitation only. Speaker suggestions can be forwarded to Vee McMillen at For registration questions, contact us at

family vacations  You are

Mexico family vacations -- recommended ideas for Mexico family vacations - plan Maya Riviera and other Mexico family vacations  You are here: About > Travel > Travel with Kids > Mexico Family Vacations Travel Travel with Kids Essentials Family Vacation Ideas Winter and Spring Break All-Inclusive Resorts Ten Latest Family Travel Deals Family Resorts: top places; photos Articles & Resources Family Travel: What's Hot Top Vacation Spots VT, ME, NH, CT, MA, NY, PA Mexico Family Vacations Caribbean Vacations More Beach Vacations Florida Family Vacations Resorts with Water Park More Family Resorts Fun Places for Kids Disney Vacations Family Cruises Babies;Teens;Single Parents Lots More Destinations Family Travel TIPS, GAMES Buyer's Guide TAKE ALONG: Christmas books Christmas flicks Activity Kits more CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Travel with Kids newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Travel with Kids > Mexico Family Vacations Mexico Family Vacations Mexico family vacations offer a great chance to combine: resort amenities, great beaches and snorkeling; plus cultural interest. All-INCLUSIVES are a popular choice-- click on the Resorts FOLDER for Cancun, Riviera Maya, and other choices. Subtopics Mexico Family Vacations: RESORTS @ Articles & Resources Sort By : Guide Picks | Alphabetical | Recent Mexico Family Vacations: Deals Check for bargains for Mexico family vacations, at the deals pages at TWKids. Mexico Family Vacations: Mayan Riviera The Mayan Riviera, south of busy Cancun, is a top area for Mexico family vacations, with coral reef, lagoons for snorkeling, Mayan ruins, and unique "eco- theme" parks. Mayan Riviera: Xcaret Theme Park Xcaret "eco-archeological" theme park is an hour south of Cancun and a beautiful place to spend a day. Activities include: underground river swim; snorkeling lagoon; tube floats; dolphin experience; butterfly pavilion; Mayan village; great restaurants; impressive re-enactment at dusk of an ancient Mayan ball game, and an excellent folklorico show at night. Mexico For Visitors About.com's site on Mexico/Central America for Visitors site covers many areas and aspects of holidays. Mexico Family Vacations: Cozumel Kid-friendly activities on this island not far from Cancun; also, advice on other aspects of Mexico famly vacations.        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Grand Floridian Chinese New Year - 2006 Poconos Great Wolf Lodge photo Dog Friendly Hotels, inns, lodges -- find dog-friendly vacat... Kwanzaa Headlines Bunch of family travel deals Latest deals added include a January Travel Special at the... First Nights! "First Night" events celebrate New Year's with family-friendly festivities-- and... Top Family Travel Trends in 2005 It's that time of year... to pause the mad dash... Bookmark the NORAD Tracks Santa site! It's not a family trip, but it's certainly a trip...

Cruise Vacations, Small Ship

Cruise Vacations, Cruise Lines, Small Ship Cruises, Luxury Cruise Ships, Cruise Booking Cruise Vacations, Luxury Cruise Lines, Small Ship Cruises, Cruise Ships, Barge Cruises Cruise Vacations, Small Ship Cruises, Luxury Cruise Lines, Luxury Cruises Guide Cruise Vacation Specialists: Virtuoso Cruise Consultants Cruise vacations: Call 1 800 330 8820 to book now. Open every day! Cruise Destinations Cruise Specials!! World Luxury Cruises Hawaii Luxury Cruises South Pacific/Tahiti Baltic/Russia Cruises Scandinavia/North Cape Cruises Alaska Luxury Cruises Caribbean Cruises Panama Canal Cruises Mexico Luxury Cruises Mediterranean West Cruises Europe Western Cruises British Isles/ Ireland Greek Isle/Aegean Bermuda Cruises Costa Rica Cruises South America Cruises Amazon River Cruises Antarctica Cruises Australia/New Zealand Bahamas Luxury Cruises Southern Africa Luxury Cruises Canarys/North Africa Far East/Orient Luxury Cruises Southeast Asia Luxury Cruises Trans-Atlantic Luxury Cruises Trans-Pacific Luxury Cruises Russia Europe Cruises Costa Rica Luxury Cruises East Coast Cruises India Luxury Cruises Israel/Egypt Luxury Cruises New England/Canada Red Sea/Suez Canal West Coast Cruises Alaska Cruise Private Shore Excursions Testimonials Contact Us Luxury Cruise Vacation Guide "The sophisticated traveler's cruise vacation planners." Cruise Vacations, Luxury Cruise Lines, Small Ship Cruises, Cruise Ships, River Barge Cruises Why Should You Use our Virtuoso Luxury Vacation, Travel and Cruise Specialists ? We are Virtuoso, "Specialists in the Art of Travel". Described by Conde Nast Traveler as "one of the finest agencies...a reliable indicator of experience, knowledge, and industry clout." We are recommended by the Discovery Travel Channel, the Today Show, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes Magazine, ESPN TV, Fine Living TV, Neiman Marcus Awards Program and The Wall Street Journal. Our Virtuoso Cruise Specialists offer exclusive insider connections and industry expertise on luxury vacations- along with the guidance and know-how you require to make educated travel choices. We are very innovative, add valuable solutions that consistently exceed our customers expectations and strive to always provide the ultimate travel experience. We are one of the most successful, and highly recommended luxury cruise companies in the world. Our phenomenal success is due to our forging personal relationships based on trust and integrity with our customers. We are Virtuoso luxury cruise planning experts that specialize in connecting you to the worlds best cruise destinations - in the best ways possible. Our luxury cruise specialists take the time to get to know you so that your personal vacation dreams become reality. Our renowned Master Cruise Consultants are extremely knowledgeable, with over fifteen to twenty years of industry experience in the luxury cruise business. They are experts in the art of cruising, will serve as your advocate and will always available to you. We readily handle luxury cruises, vacations, tours and travel requests from all parts of the globe We have Master Cruise Consultants that are specialists for Silversea Cruise Line, Crystal Cruise Line, Radisson Cruise Line, Windstar Cruise Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, Princess Cruise line, Disney Cruise Line, Cunard Cruise Line, ResidenSea, SeaDream Yachts, Holland America Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Orient Cruise Line, Le Levant Cruise Line, Clipper Cruise Line, Royal Olympic Cruise Line, Peter Deilman Cruise Lines, American Safari Cruises, Society Expeditions, Star Clipper Cruise Line, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Oceania Cruises, American West Steamboat Cruises and First European Cruises. We can get you the best luxury cruise accommodations when others fail! We will provide you with every up to the minute special. You get a lot more than you pay for with us---like free shore excursions, free upgrades, past passenger rates, even pre and post hotel packages, business or first class air discounts, including outstanding amenities such as complimentary upgrades, privileged access opportunities and private events at many top international and domestic destinations. You will get unsurpassed value in the world of upscale travel. Our Virtuoso Master Cruise Consultants start with the best price on over 400 luxury cruise departures. Then we add nights in five-star resorts; dinner at Michelin-starred restaurants; private tours and great parties. All with the compliments of Voyager Club, by Virtuoso. We can also arrange private shore excursions in any port around the world, for just the two of you. Ask about our Voyager Club Sailings in our extensive inventory of luxury cruise vacations. Sophisticated cruise travelers know the extraordinary value of our custom designed luxury cruise vacations and renowned service. Our professional services suit the world's most demanding travelers. Our name opens doors and guarantees value. Our network of specialists span the world. Travelwizard.com, a Virtuoso Member, was picked by the NBC Today Show to orchestrate the perfect honeymoon destination for their " Throws a Wedding " show. We are very proud that the Today Show turned to Travelwizard.com to find the perfect honeymoon. Travelwizard.com's renowned destination specialists designed the perfect honeymoon for the NBC Today Show Ellen DeGeneres, on the Ellen DeGeneres Show uses Travelwizard.com as her number one source for luxury cruise vacations throughout the world. We are very proud to be the first choice for sophisticated travelers like Ellen DeGeneres! In an uncertain world, be certain about us About Travel Wizard & Virtuoso Travel and Cruise Consultants Virtuoso Luxury Vacations and Cruise Specials Escape to Alaska Cruise Specials! Escape to Europe Cruise Specials! Search Your Vacation, Tour or Cruise Luxury Cruise Line of the Month --- Seabourn Cruise Line Radisson Seven Seas Silversea Cruises Windstar Cruises MSC Cruises Oceania Cruises Sea Dream Yacht Club Crystal Cruises Cunard Line Clipper Cruises Holland America Line Star Clippers Princess Cruises Norwegian Cruise Line Hebridean Island Cruises Orient Lines Celebrity Cruises Peter Deilmann Cruises Viking River Cruises Le Levant Cruises Travel Dynamics Cruises American West Steamboat Cruises Lindblad Expeditions Swan Hellenic ResidenSea American Safari Cruise West Costa Cruises Globus European River Cruises Delta Queen River Cruises Zegrahm Expeditions Disney Cruises Tauck World Discovery French Waterways The Moorings National Geographic Cruises International Expeditions Orient Express Cruises Royal Caribbean Carnival Cruise Line Alaska Cruise Private Shore Excursions Other Helpful Travel Links Testimonials Helpful cruise Info Contact Us State of California seller of travel License # 2061139-40 We accept credit cards: Submit a Free, Full Service Cruise Vacation Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your cruise vacation with our full service Virtuoso Travel Consultants . We are recommended, authorized Virtuoso Cruise Travel Consultants, and will arrange every little detail to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree vacation experience at no extra charge! You may call our Cruise Travel Consultants, but first--- we'd really appreciate it if you complete our "Cruise Vacation Planner" so we have all your requirements beforehand and are prepared to present you with all your options and up-to-the-minute specials. Thank you very much! Call 1- 800 -330 -8820 to book your Cruise vacation. For Luxury Vacations: "Submit a Luxury Vacation Planner" For Luxury Tours: "Submit a Tour Planner" After you've completed your vacation planner you may call 1- 800 -330 -8820 to book your luxury vacation. Thank you very much! Regional Travel and Vacation Guides Africa Asia Australia Caribbean Islands Canada Central America Europe Fiji Islands Hawaiian Islands Indian Ocean Costa Rica Mexico Mediterranean Middle East New Zealand South America South Pacific Tahiti Islands United States Special Interest Vacations Corporate V acations Adventure Travel Ski Vacations Culinary Vacations Small Ship V acations Virtuoso Hotels Spa Vacations Private Jet Vacations Family Vacations Food and Wine Scuba Diving All-inclusive Vacations River Cruises Luxury Villas Luxury Tours Honeymoon Specials Wedding Vacations National Geographic Space Adventures Yacht Charters Golfing Vacations Active Vacations Biking Vacations Hiking Vacations Sports Travel Train Vacations ClubMed Vacations Luxury Cruise Destinations Luxury Cruises Cruise Vacations South Pacific/Tahiti Hawaiian Islands Scandinavia Alaska Cruises Caribbean Panama Canal Mexico Cruises Mediterranean West Europe Western British Isles/ Ireland Greek Isle/Aegean Bermuda Cruises Costa Rica South America River Amazon Antarctica Australia/New Zealand Bahamas Africa Southern Canarys/North Africa Far East/Orient Southeast Asia Trans-Atlantic Trans-Pacific Russia Europe East Coast Cruises India Cruises Israel/Egypt New England/Canada Red Sea/Suez Canal West Coast World Cruises Baltic/Russia Luxury Cruise Lines Crystal Cruises Radisson Seven Seas Windstar Cruises Clipper Cruises Silversea Cruises Oceania Cruises Am West Steamboat Princess Cruises European River Norwegian Cruise ResidenSea Holland America Line Sea Dream Yacht Club American Safari Travel Dynamics Seabourn Cruise Orient Express Royal Caribbean Orient Lines Star Clippers Cunard Line Costa Cruises Cruise West Celebrity Cruises National Geographic Hebridean Cruises MSC Cruises Lindblad Expeditions Peter Deilmann Viking River Cruises Swan Hellenic Delta Queen River Zegrahm Expeditions Disney Cruises Tauck Discovery French Waterways The Moorings Int'l Expeditions Carnival Cruise Great American River Journeys About Travel Wizard Advertising Info Privacy Contact Us Home We accept credit cards: During this time of price volatility in the travel, tour and cruise industry, please be advised the pricing can fluctuate within the same day. All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, prices will not be guaranteed until booked. State of California seller of travel License # 2061139-40 We are on the Better Business Bureau Honor Roll. Travel Agent Opportunities Contact Information Advertise with Travel Wizard 1998 TravelWizard.Com, Tropical Island Vacation Dept. All rights reserved.

South America Travel Tips

South America Travel Tips Book Online or call (800) 682-3333 Europe Asia Americas Caribbean Mediterranean Pacific Cruises Home Hotels Find a Vacation Specials Contact Us Italy & Sicily Spain & Portugal Britain & Ireland France Belgium & Holland Central Europe Scandinavia Greece River Cruises China & Japan Southeast Asia Thailand India South America Brazil Peru Costa Rica Bahamas Caribbean & Mexico Bahamas Cancun Riviera Maya Punta Cana Jamaica Greece & Turkey Israel Egypt Morocco Australia & New Zealand Tahiti China & Japan Southeast Asia Sea Cruises River Cruises South America Travel Tips Climate / Clothing Language Code of Conduct Currency Holidays Travel Insurance Departure Tax Luggage Local Emergency/Phone Health Precautions Passports and Visas Driving Electricity Shopping Tipping Airport Tax - Chile Climate /Clothing Brazil: The weather in Brazil is temperate to hot year round. Bring casual, lightweight clothing that can be layered. Sunscreen and a hat are advisable. Bring insect repellent if you plan on a visit to the rainforest. Brazil Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/south-america-travel/weather/Brazil-weather.htm . Peru: Peru's climate can be divided into 2 seasons - wet and dry. The coast and the slopes of the Western Andes are dry with summer falling between December and April. In the Andean highlands, the dry season is from May to September, while the wet season takes up the remainder of the year. Bring casual, lightweight clothes that can be layered and a jacket if you are going up into the mountains. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the strong sun along the coast and in the rainforest. Insect repellent is necessary as well. Peru Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/south-america-travel/weather/Peru-weather.htm . Argentina: The climate of Argentina is mostly temperate; arid in the southeast and sub-Antarctic in the southwest. Bring lightweight clothes you can layer, a sweater and an all-weather coat. Dress is more formal in the city of Buenos Aires and a jacket a tie or cocktail dress may be required at some of the finer restaurants. Casual dress is more appropriate in the countryside. Argentina Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/south-america-travel/weather/Argentina-weather.htm . Chile: Climate varies from subtropical and sunny in the extreme north; dry and arid in the Atacama north desert; mild, pleasant and Mediterranean in the fertile central valley; cool, temperate and rainy in the southern region; and covered with ice and snow in the Antarctic region. Chile Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/south-america-travel/weather/Chile-weather.htm . Ecuador: The climate and geography of Ecuador vary widely. The highlands are cool and dry. Bring lightweight clothes, a jacket and comfortable shoes. Along the coast it's warm and sunny all year round. Sunscreen and a hat are important accessories to have on hand. The Amazon rain forest is tropical and humid. Light, layered clothing and plenty of insect repellent are advisable. Ecuador Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/south-america-travel/weather/Ecuador-weather.htm . Language Brazil: The official language of Brazil is Portuguese. Some English is spoken in the major cities. Peru: Spanish is the official language of Peru. In most tourist center, English is spoken. Argentina: Spanish is the official language of Argentina. English is spoken at hotels and restaurants in Buenos Aires. Chile: Spanish is the official language in Chile, although English is often spoken in hotels, restaurants and shops. Ecuador: Ecuador has two official languages - Spanish and Quechua. English is spoken in the major tourist centers. Passports and Visas Brazil: Passport and visa required. Peru: Passport required. Visa not required for tourist stay of up to 90 days, extendible after arrival. Argentina: Passport required. Visa not required for business/tourist stay of up to 90 days. Chile: Passport required. Visa not required for stay of up to 90 days. Entry fee of $100 (U.S.) charged at airport. Ecuador: (including the Galapagos Islands) - Passport required. Visa not required for a stay of up to 90 days. Columbia: All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport and proof of return ticket to enter Columbia. No visa is required. Uruguay: All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Uruguay. No visa is required for stays up to 90 days. See http://www.gate1travel.com/visas.htm for more information. Currency Brazil: The currency of Brazil is the Real. U.S. currency can be exchanged at banks, exchanges and hotels. Peru: The official currency is the Peruvian Sol. Most tourist areas accept and exchange U.S. Dollars. Exchange your currency at your hotel or a bank. Argentina: The currency of Argentina is the Pesa. It is not always easy to change money in the interior of the country. Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Chile: The unit of currency is the Chilean peso (CHP$). U.S. dollars and travelers checks are easily changed in banks and exchange bureaus. Major credit cards are widely accepted in shops and hotels. Ecuador: Official currencies are the U.S. Dollar and the Sucre. Tipping Brazil: Most services get tipped a mandatory 10%, often included in the bill. If a waiter is friendly and helpful, you may like to give more. Because of Brazil's high unemployment rate, services that may seem superfluous are customarily tipped. Parking assistants are the most notable as they receive no wages, but petrol-station attendants, shoe shiners and barbers are also frequently tipped. Taxi drivers are an exception: most people round the price up, but a tip is not expected. Peru: A combination of taxes and service charges are added to bills in the best hotels and restaurants and can total as much as 28%. The cheaper hotels and restaurants don't add taxes. Tipping is not expected in budget restaurants. A tip of 10-15% is fine in upmarket restaurants if a service charge has not already been added to the bill. Taxi drivers are not tipped - bargain hard beforehand and stick to your price. Local guides should be tipped US$3-5 per day. Argentina: Tipping around 10% is customary in restaurants. Chile: In restaurants, it is customary to tip about 10% of the bill. In general, waiters and waitresses are poorly paid, so if you can afford to eat out, you can afford to tip. Taxi drivers do not require tips, although you may round off the fare for convenience. Ecuador: Tipping is expected by tour guides, porters and other tourist industry workers, though not by taxi drivers. Quality restaurants add 10% tax and a 10% service charge to their bills; cheaper restaurants usually don't. If you want to tip your server, give the money to them directly - don't just leave it on the table. Please refer to our main brochure under www.gate1travel.com/tipping.htm for additional tipping suggestions. Electricity Brazil: Brazil's voltage is 110, however some hotels operate on 220. Peru, Argentina & Chile: The voltage used is 220. Ecuador: Ecuador's voltage is 110. *Note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. Shopping Brazil: Shops are open from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday. Brazil has a rich array of native crafts from Afro-Brazilian textiles to Bahian pottery and delicate lace tablecloths. Peru: Duty-free shops and artisan's shops offer tourists the opportunity to purchase Peruvian handicrafts such as pottery, carvings, and weavings. Argentina: Business hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Banking hours are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The shops open at 9 a.m. and generally close at 7 p.m. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Good buys include leather goods, jewelry and furs. Chile: Good shopping can be found in the streets of Providencia and Santiago. There are also a few big shopping malls. Handicrafts in Chile are the best bargains. Local jewelry made of lapis lazuli, found only in Chile and Afghanistan, makes a beautiful souvenir. Ecuador: Duty-free shops and artisan's shops offer visitors the opportunity to buy Ecuadorian handcrafts such as ponchos, tapestries, ceramics, jewelry. Health Precautions Brazil: No vaccinations are required to enter Brazil. However, it may be advisable to get inoculated against yellow fever, malaria and typhoid. Be sure to consult your doctor before your trip, especially if you are planning to go up the Amazon River. Drink only bottled water and do not eat raw fruits and vegetables. Peru: A yellow fever vaccination is recommended if you are going into the Amazon rain forest. Travelers with heart conditions or high blood pressure should check with their doctor about high-altitude travel if you will be visiting the mountainous regions. Avoid the tap water and raw fruits and vegetables. Bottled water is widely available Argentina: No inoculations are necessary when arriving in Argentina from the U.S. Chile: Tap water is fairly safe to drink, but it is advisable to drink bottled water. Consult with your doctor if you are planning to visit the higher altitudes. English speaking doctors are easy to find in all major cities. Ecuador: No inoculations are required for entry. Travelers with heart conditions or high blood pressure who plan to visit the highlands should check with their doctor about high-altitude travel. Bottled water is advisable and is available everywhere. *To prevent "Montezuma's Revenge," avoid the tap water, including raw fruits and vegetables washed in tap water. Your stomach may still become upset due to the change in diet. Bring anti-diarrhea medicine just in case. *For the latest overseas travel health information, call the Center for Disease Control's traveler's hotline at 404-332-4559. Or visit their web site at www.cdc.gov Conservation/Code of Conduct Brazil: Handshaking is customary on meeting and taking ones leave, and normal European courtesies are observed. Frequent offers of coffee and tea are customary. Flowers are acceptable as a gift on arrival or following a visit for a meal. A souvenir from the visitors home country will be well received as a gift of appreciation. Casual wear is normal, particularly during hot weather. In nightclubs smart-casual (eg blazer, no tie) is acceptable. For more formal occasions the mode of dress will be indicated on invitations. Smoking is acceptable unless notified otherwise. The Catholic Church is highly respected in the community, something which should be kept in mind by the visitor. Peru: Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting. Visitors should follow normal social courtesies and the atmosphere is generally informal. A small gift from a company or home country is sufficient. Dress is usually informal, although for some business meetings and social occasions men wear a jacket and tie. Life is conducted at a leisurely pace. Argentina: The most common form of greeting between friends is kissing cheeks. When invited to somebodys house it is quite common to take a homemade dish or dessert. Dinner is usually served between 7pm - 10pm. Avoid casual discussion of the Falklands/Malvinas war. Dress is not usually formal, though clothes should be conservative away from the beach. Formal wear is worn for official functions and dinners, particularly in exclusive restaurants. Smoking is prohibited on public transport, in cinemas and theatres. Chile: Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. Most Chileans use a double surname and only the first part should be used in addressing them. Normal courtesies should be observed when visiting local people. It is very common to entertain at home and it is acceptable for invitees to give small presents as a token of thanks. Informal, conservative clothes are acceptable in most places but women should not wear shorts outside resort areas. Ecuador: Casual wear is widely acceptable, but businesspeople are expected to dress smartly. It is important to be punctual when arriving for meetings. Smart clothes are often required when visiting hotel dining rooms and better restaurants. Beachwear should only be worn on the beach and revealing clothes should not be worn in towns. Smoking is widely accepted. A tip may be requested if you wish to take someones photograph and it is better to seek permission first. Luggage *Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If you luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/destinations/luggage.htm for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers. Departure Tax There is no Departure tax levied in Brazil. Please see www.gate1travel.com/Destinations/departure_tax.htm for more information. Travel Insurance We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance as additional security in the case of cancellation or interruption of travel plans, lost or damaged luggage, travel delays, illness, or accident. Keep all boarding passes, ticket copies and receipts for expenses paid during your trip if it later becomes necessary to file a claim. Local Emergency Phone # Brazil: general emergency: 911 Peru: general emergency: 011 or 5114 Argentina: ambulance/medical: 101 fire: 107 police: 101 Chile: ambulance/medical: 131 fire: 132 police: 133 Ecuador: ambulance/medical: 131 Holidays Brazil : Public Holidays Jan 1 New Years Day Jan 20 *Founding of Rio de Janeiro Jan 25 *Founding of So Paulo Feb 19-23 Carnival Mar 25 Good Friday Apr 21 Tiradentes May 1 St of Brazil May 26 Corpus Christi Sep 7 Independence Day Oct 12 Our Lady Aparecida, Patron St of Brazil. Nov 2 All Souls Day Nov 15 Republic Day Dec 24 Christmas Eve (half day) Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 31 New Years Eve (half day) *Note: Regional observances only. Argentina : Public Holidays Jan 1 New Years Day Mar 24 Maundy Thursday Mar 25 Good Friday Apr 4 Malvinas Day May 1 Labor Day May 25 National Day (Anniversary of the 1810 Revolution) June 20 National Flag Day Jul 9 Independence Day Aug 17 Death of General Jos de San Martn Oct 12 Day of the Americas (Columbus Day). Dec 8 Immaculate Conception Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 31 New Years Eve Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 31 New Years Eve (half day) Peru : Public Holidays Jan 1 New Years Day Mar 24 Maundy Thursday (half day) Mar 25 Good Friday May 1 Labor Day Jun 29 St Peters and St Pauls Day Jul 28-29 Independence Day Celebrations Aug 30 St Rosa of Lima Day Oct 8 Angamos Battle Nov 1 All Saints Day Dec 8 Immaculate Conception Dec 24 Christmas Eve (half day) Dec 25 Christmas Day Chile : Public Holidays Jan 1 New Years Day Mar 25 Good Friday Mar 26 Holy Saturday May 1 Labor Day May 21 Navy Day May 23 *Corpus Christi Jun 29 St Peter and St Paul Aug 15 Assumption Sep 5 Reconciliation Day Sep 18 Independence Day Sep 19 Army Day Oct 12 Dia de la Raza (Columbus Day) Nov 1 All Saints Day Dec 8 Immaculate Conception Dec 25 Christmas Day *Note: Corpus Christi dates for 2004 and 2005 are actually Jun 10 and May 26 respectively, however, the holiday is observed on the Monday closest to these dates. Ecuador : Public Holidays Jan 1 New Years Day Feb 7-8 *Carnival Mar 24 Maundy Thursday Mar 25 Good Friday May 1 Labor Day May 24 Battle of Pichincha May 26 Corpus Christi Jul 24 Simon Bolivar Day Aug 10 Independence Day Oct 9 *Foundation of Guayaquil Nov 2 All Souls Day Nov 3 *Foundation of Cuenca Dec 6 *Foundation of Quito Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 31 New Years Eve *Note: These holidays are not official public holidays, but are widely observed. Other holidays, in addition to the above, may be marked locally. Driving Brazil: Brazil has 1,940,400km (1,202,800 miles) of roads. Traffic drives on the right. Peru: The Central Highway connects Lima with La Oroya and Huancayo. From La Oroya there is a road connecting Cerro de Pasco, Hunuco, Tingo Mara and Pucallpa on the Ucayali River. Landslides are frequent in the rainy season (December to March), making for slow travel. The Touring y Automvil Club del Per and the Instituto Geogrfico Nacional sell maps. Travel guides like Gua Toyota and Gua Inca del Per include good road maps. Traffic drives on the right. Argentina: Major privatization programmes have resulted in many trunk roads being upgraded, and roads are generally in good condition. Expect tolls on motorways. Rural roads, composed of packed dirt, become impassable after rain. Nonetheless, buses are considered to be a more reliable form of long-distance transport than trains. Traffic drives on the right. Car hire: There are a number of agencies in Buenos Aires (including Avis , Dollar and Hertz ). Drivers must be at least 21 years of age (sometimes up to 25 years of age). International Driving Permit is required and this must be stamped at the offices of the Automvil Club Argentino (website: www.aca.org.ar ). These documents must be carried at all times whilst driving: proof of ownership, proof of insurance and receipt for last tax payment. Chile: Chile has about 80,000km (49,460 miles) of good roads. The Pan American Highway crosses the country from north to south (a total of 3455km or 2147 miles) from the Peruvian border to Puerto Montt. It is advisable in remoter areas to carry spare petrol and an additional spare tyre. Tires should be hard-wearing. Traffic drives on the right. Ecuador: Traffic drives on the right. An extensive network of roads spreads out from the main northsouth axis of the Pan-American Highway. The Government and PetroEcuador are developing highways into the Oriente. In general, road improvements are being put into effect rapidly but, due to the effect of earthquakes and flooding (in the south) during the last 10 years, conditions remain variable; potholes and cracks in the road are sometimes sizable.The roads between Quito and Guayaquil and between Quito, Latacunga, Ambato and Riobamba are completely paved. A road connects Quito, Otavalo, Ibarra and Tulcn, the frontier with Colombia. Airport Tax - Chile There is an entry fee of $45 per passenger that must be paid before proceeding through Immigration. Return to the South America brochure More TravelInformation Email This Page to a Friend © 2005 Gate 1 Travel Home | About Us | Travel Agent | Free Brochure | Help | Site Map | (800) 682-3333 Read our privacy policy . Contact Us . This site can be best viewed using Internet Explorer 4.0, or higher. The browser software can be downloaded, free of charge, from the Microsoft website at http://www.microsoft.com . All external sites will open in a new browser. Gate1travel.com does not endorse external sites.