INTRODUCING LATIN AMERICA


With such diverse geographical and cultural charms spread throughout so many nations, selling Latin America should not be difficult – just so long as you match clients with the right destination


TIME TO TANGO! L


atin America is comprised of 23 countries, home to over 100


UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a combined population of over half a billion, which, between them, speak over 1,000 languages and dialects. Its appeal is as wide-ranging as


the continent is vast, boasting the remnants of ancient empires, pretty colonial towns, trendy modern cities and landscapes that include the world’s most extensive rainforest, its largest river basin, the driest desert and the longest mountain range. No wonder Latin America can be such a daunting prospect for both visitors and travel agents alike. The region has grown rapidly in popularity in recent years with increasing numbers of UK operators issuing dedicated Latin America


6 | Latin America


brochures, and visitor numbers continue to rise despite a difficult few years for the global economy. Knowing just what’s on offer – and who to sell it to – has therefore never been more important.


WHO GOES WHERE For many potential visitors, Latin


America represents a once-in-a- lifetime trip that will incorporate well-known destinations such as Rio de Janeiro or Machu Picchu, soaking up the local culture along the way. For others it might simply mean


an all-inclusive beach break on the shores of the Caribbean, while still others will be returning in search of an off-the-beaten-track experience. Visitors short on time are spoiled for choice when it comes to classic


itineraries of Peru and Brazil, while most tour operators selling Latin America also have Mexico, Ecuador, Chile and Argentina covered. All of these countries have well


developed tourism infrastructure and plentiful hotel options, with the latter two generally considered the most western of Latin American nations. They are regularly paired together in longer itineraries, as are Peru and Ecuador, or Mexico and the Central American nations. Bolivia, Venezuela, and the Guianas are emerging destinations, while Colombia is now something of a rising star. It goes without saying that each


nation has its own idiosyncrasies and charms, and that while the iconic archaeological sites of Machu Picchu, Chichen Itza or Tikal will


■ Pictured above: Mayan remains in Belize; Guatemalan wildlife; indigenous culture of Ecuador; snorkelling in the Mexican Caribbean; pedal Power in the Chilean Andes


appeal to some, sophisticated Buenos Aires or flamboyant Rio de Janeiro have a more modern appeal. Browsing the handicraft markets


of indigenous cultures and admiring the colonial architecture and churches of the Spanish will do it for some, while diving off Central America’s Caribbean coast or getting high in the Andes will tick the boxes for others. Clients that appreciate fine-dining


and luxury hotels are also well catered for, and don’t forget niche markets such as bird-watching, skiing, wine tourism, diving, golf, surfing and horse-riding.


© METROPOLITAN TOURING


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