Ranging from balmy subtropical reaches in the north to the frosty Antarctic shores of the Patagonian south, Argentina is one of the world’s most geographically diverse countries. Its kaleidoscope of landscapes offers endless adventure and leisure opportunities, and this natural variety – coupled with its warm, animated locals, delectable carnivorous cuisine, and fascinating history – makes it a captivating and unforgettable travel destination. Allow yourself to be spellbound by the spectacular torrents of Iguazu Falls, the sprawling ski slopes of Bariloche, the vibrant capital of Buenos Aires, or the age-old Inca city of Humahuaca. Argentina has gifts to delight and mesmerize even the most seasoned explorer.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Argentine Peso
Symbol: $
ISO code: ARS
Subunit: Centavo
Banknotes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $200, $500, $1000
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1, $2, $5, $10
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Aerolíneas Argentinas, LATAM Argentina
International Airports: Ministro Pistarini International Airport (Ezeiza), Jorge Newbery Airfield (Aeroparque)
Domestic Airports: Ingeniero Ambrosio Taravella International Airport (Cordoba), Governor Francisco Gabrielli International Airport (Mendoza)
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: Yes
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, if washed well or peeled
Ice: Yes, bt check if it is tap water
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Argentine cuisine is known for its beef, especially the famous Argentine steak. Other traditional dishes include empanadas, choripán (sausage sandwich), and locro (a hearty stew). The country is also renowned for its wines, particularly Malbec, and yerba mate, a traditional South American infused drink.
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region
Average temperature: 18°C
Summer:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 20°C
Winter:
Average highs: 15°C
Average lows: 5°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Argentina is during the spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type C, Type I
Voltage (V): 220V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz
* A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
Brazil is a vast, vibrant and magnetic country situated in the central-eastern part of South America, and lapped by the Atlantic Ocean. This melting pot of cultures, ethnicities, and religions is a product of its patchwork past of local traditions, colonial rule, and the influx of immigrants. It is South America’s largest country, with a landmass comparable to that of the United States, and a mosaic of ecosystems that supports the largest array of flora and fauna on the planet. The Brazilian people are typically warm and friendly, while the country’s natural diversity lends itself to myriad travel experiences, from idyllic coastal holidays and riotous Carnaval celebrations to stopovers in the dynamic cities of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Adventures await outdoor enthusiasts in the enthralling Amazon jungle.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Brazilian Real
Symbol: R$
ISO code: BRL
Subunit: Centavo
Banknotes: R$2, R$5, R$10, R$20, R$50, R$100
Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 centavos, R$1
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: LATAM Airlines, Gol Linhas Aéreas
International Airports: São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport, Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport
Domestic Airports: Brasília International Airport, Congonhas-São Paulo Airport
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes
Subway System: Yes
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Brazilian cuisine is diverse and influenced by its multicultural heritage. Feijoada, a hearty bean stew with pork, is a staple. Churrasco, or Brazilian barbecue, is famous for its grilled meats. Other highlights include coxinha (chicken croquette) and acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters). Notable local drinks include caipirinha (cocktail with cachaca), guaraná (soft drink), and mate (tea).
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region
Average temperature: 25°C
Summer:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 22°C
Winter:
Average highs: 25°C
Average lows: 18°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Brazil depends on the region. Coastal areas are best from December to March, while the Amazon is ideal from June to November.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type N
Voltage (V): 127V, 220V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
A land of diverse landscapes, cultures and attractions, the South American nation of Colombia is every bit a tourist’s dream. The only country in the region with two ocean coasts, Colombia offers visitors the opportunity to explore Caribbean beaches, tropical jungles and snow-capped mountain peaks. In addition to its impressive terrains, the country is also home to age-old archaeological sites, historic towns, and vibrant cities where a diverse mix of Spanish, African, European and Middle-Eastern influences are reflected the food, architecture and fascinating ethnic traditions.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Colombian Peso
Symbol: $
ISO code: COP
Subunit: Centavo
Banknotes: $1000, $2000, $5000, $10000, $20000, $50000, $100000
Coins: $50, $100, $200, $500, $1000
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: Yes
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Weekends: Limited hours in urban areas
Public Holidays: Yes (hours vary)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Avianca, Viva Air Colombia, LATAM Airlines
International Airports: El Dorado International Airport (Bogotá), Rafael Núñez International Airport (Cartagena)
Domestic Airports: José María Córdova International Airport (Medellín), Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (Cali)
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Limited
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Limited
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Limited
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Colombian cuisine is diverse, with influences from Spanish, Indigenous, and African cultures. Staples include arepas (corn cakes), bandeja paisa (a hearty platter), and sancocho (a hearty soup). Coffee is a significant part of Colombian culture. Notable local drinks include aguardiente (an anise-flavoured liquor) and Colombian rum.
Tipping: 10%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region
Average temperature: 24°C
Summer:
Average highs: 28°C
Average lows: 20°C
Winter:
Average highs: 27°C
Average lows: 19°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Colombia is during the dry season, from December to March, when the weather is generally sunny and pleasant.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type A, Type B
Voltage (V): 110V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
*A travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.
Visitors to the Republic of Costa Rica will find that despite its small size, the country has an incredible number of attractions and activities to offer. Five per cent of the world’s biodiversity can be found within Costa Rica’s borders and great efforts have been made to preserve this rich resource; protected national parks make up almost 25% of the land – more than any other country in the world. From fishing and surfing to white water rafting and exploring volcanic regions, Costa Rica is the perfect playground for nature lovers and adventures seekers alike.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Costa Rican Colón
Symbol: ₡
ISO code: CRC
Subunit: Céntimo
Banknotes: ₡1000, ₡2000, ₡5000, ₡10000, ₡20000, ₡50000, ₡100000
Coins: ₡5, ₡10, ₡25, ₡50, ₡100, ₡500
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: No
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Yes
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Avianca, Copa Airlines
International Airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)
Domestic Airports: Tobias Bolaños International Airport (SYQ), Limón International Airport (LIO)
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes
Water taxis: Yes
Leisure cruises: Yes
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Costa Rican cuisine is diverse and flavorful, often featuring rice, beans, plantains, and fresh seafood. Gallo Pinto, a dish made of rice and beans, is a staple. Other highlights include Casado, a traditional lunch plate, and ceviche, a seafood dish marinated in citrus juices. Notable local drinks include horchata, refrescos (fruit drinks), and guaro, a sugarcane liquor.
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: 2000 - 5000 mm
Average temperature: 24°C
Summer:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 22°C
Winter:
Average highs: 28°C
Average lows: 20°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is sunny and the wildlife viewing is excellent.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type A, Type B
Voltage (V): 120V
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.