South America

Venezuela

The political environment in Venezuela is unstable, and concerns about its economic viability are growing. No one knows what will happen in a year, perhaps longer, until the situation changes. More expatriates, including those who often brave tumult such as journalists and businesspersons, have left the country. Airlines and foreign companies have cut back on their local presence or ceased operations in the country altogether. Travel to Venezuela is inadvisable at this time.

I look forward to visiting Venezuela someday, but even a World Adventurer knows when they’re not welcome.

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Have an Unrest, Venezuela

As Venezuelans go to the polls in state elections, I’m reminded of an article that I wrote a decade ago called “Have a Rest, Sr. Presidente Chávez.” Ten years on, Venezuela’s economy has deteriorated considerably, and the country has grown politically unstable with the ruling Partido Socialista Unido de Venezuela (PSUV) and opposition political parties fighting for control of the Venezuelan government.

My thoughts go out to those caught in the middle of a devastating impasse that has left millions of Venezuelans without sustenance and livelihoods, whose lives have been marred by escalating violence.

I pray that the outcome of this election will not trigger a new round of crackdowns and violence. Whether Venezuela has more crises in store or can find a peaceful resolution to its problems, one cannot tell. No matter what the outcome, may it bring the people of Venezuela much-needed relief.

Royalty-free image courtesy of GraphicStock.

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Argentina

From the Atlantic Ocean to the top of the Andes Mountains, Argentina is a bridge between the Old and New Worlds. Innately European but distinctly Latin American, the country is a melding of cultural influences brought by the Spaniards and western immigrants and a unique geographic backdrop that offers some of earth’s most stunning scenes. Renown Argentine writer Ernesto Sabato described his homeland thus: “Because of our European roots, we deeply link the nation with the enduring values of the Old World; because of our condition of Americans we link ourselves to the rest of the continent.” One cannot sit drinking a glass of Mendoza wine in the foothills of the Andes or enjoying parrilla (grill) in the shadow of the cruise ships bound for Antarctica departing from Tierra del Fuego without thinking of Europe and the Americas. Argentines are rightly proud of their country and culture that invite visitors to indulge in and savor.

More About Argentina

Casa Rosada in Buenos Aires

Penguin and Seal Colony in the Beagle Channel, Tierra del Fuego

Llao Llao Resort and Nahuel Huapi Lake near San Carlos de Bariloche

Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glacieres National Park