Returning from South America: Why Being Too Honest Can Backfire 🙏😭
Sisters, I’m back from South America! The travel guides on Xiaohongshu have been a whirlwind of inspiration, with so many must-see spots and trendy check-ins. It’s overwhelming to choose! And since I didn’t want to spend time crafting my own itinerary, I opted for a semi-independent tour 😂
Actually, joining a tour is quite nice, especially with the added safety! But this time, I also discovered that some places really don’t need to be too “by the book”! [Observing secretly R][Observing secretly R]
📍Iguazu Falls:
This waterfall is absolutely breathtaking! Our tour arranged visits to both Argentina and Brazil, but the schedule was a bit tight—morning in Brazil and afternoon in Argentina. The best photo spots were often crowded with other tour groups, and finding a good angle required some serious elbow grease!
Tip 1⃣: If you can, stay an extra night in Iguazu. Take your time to savor the beauty and avoid the crowds!
📍Machu Picchu:
The ancient Inca civilization is truly awe-inspiring! Our guide took us on the classic Route 2, where we snapped those iconic “postcard” shots.
Tip 2⃣: Machu Picchu is at a high altitude, so make sure to bring altitude sickness medication. Sun protection is crucial too; that sunlight is intense!
📍Salar de Uyuni:
The Sky Mirror is incredibly dreamy! During the rainy season, the salt flats turn into a giant mirror, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds—it’s simply breathtaking!
Tip 3⃣: When visiting the Sky Mirror, wear brightly colored clothes for the best photos. Also, bring waterproof shoes, as there might be water on the salt flats.
📍Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain):
Though the climb to Rainbow Mountain is challenging, the colorful scenery at the top makes it all worthwhile!
Tip 4⃣: Rainbow Mountain is at an even higher altitude, so prepare thoroughly. Bring some chocolate or candy to keep your energy up 🍬
⚠ Pitfall Avoidance Tips:
1⃣ Security in some South American countries, especially Brazil, can be a concern. Keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid showing off wealth 💰
2⃣ Spanish is essential in many places, so learn some basic phrases or download a translation app.
3⃣ Protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
4⃣ Respect local customs and traditions, and avoid taking photos or entering private areas without permission.
5⃣ For those with sensitive stomachs, bring along some stomach medicine.
🌟Summary:
This 17-day South American adventure cost around 60,000+. The people in the tour group were fantastic, always looking out for each other, and the uncles and aunts were super open-minded, creating a harmonious atmosphere [Frowning R][Gift R]. The tour leader was very responsible, sharing lots of insights about the local culture and customs.
This group tour completely transformed my perspective, and it’s heartwarming to see everyone growing and improving [Crying R][Crying R]. Despite the fatigue, I was amazed by the incredible diversity and richness of our world, and the breathtaking beauty of nature! I can’t wait to go on another adventure like this!
For those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain are must-visit gems. These enchanting locations offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural wonder. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a curious traveler, these places will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. A travel guide is highly recommended to fully explore and appreciate the hidden treasures and rich stories these sites have to offer.
