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The 3 Top Trending South American Destinations You Need to Visit in 2020

Food, culture, history: these hot spots have it all.

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South America is a fascinating part of the world, offering destinations for any traveler–from the adventurer to the foodie to the luxuriant. But there are three destinations in particular right now that are trending more than others.

Louise Bang, Vice President, Global Sales, Caribbean and Latin America, Marriott International, the world's largest travel company with a strong presence in the region, revealed that Peru, Brazil, and Argentina are the hottest right now given good airlift, favorable exchange rates, and—for Brazil—a recent visa lift for US travelers. Plus, all three are known culinary destinations and World Heritage sites, but also offer off-the-beaten-path experiences like up-and-coming arts districts, vibrant music scenes, and unexpected cocktail culture.

Peru

As travelers are taking a more active role in curating their own travel experiences, they are also looking to incorporate that which interests them most: gastronomy, culture, wellness, and more.

“Peru has become globally renowned for its gastronomy, and this has brought renewed interest to this fabulous destination,” said Bang. “Plus, the country boasts a deep history and natural marvels, such as the mystical Machu Picchu.”

Where to Stay:

There are hotels scattered throughout the country, from the capital of Lima to the enchanting cities in the Sacred Valley. Properties include JW Marriott Hotel Lima, Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center, AC Hotel by Marriott Lima Miraflores, and Aloft Lima Miraflores, all of which just recently opened. Outside the capital, there’s JW Marriott El Convento Cusco, and American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts properties Palacio del Inka in Cusco and Tambo del Inka in the Sacred Valley.

“Travelers have the opportunity to reconnect with an ancient civilization, admire the most scenic views, dig deeper into more spiritual experiences and replenish the body through wellness and gastronomy at the JW Marriott and Luxury Collection hotels in Peru,” said Bang.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

“A capital city that never sleeps, where early European architecture meets modern design, where culture and arts are only rivaled by fabulous dining and exquisite wines,” said Bang. “This destination is of great value currently, and the warmth, elegance, and sophistication of Buenos Aires await the luxury traveler.”

Where to Stay:

The recently announced W Buenos Aires will fit perfectly into the city scene in the hip area of Porto Madero while Sheraton Buenos Aires remains a classic go-to. Outside the capital, head to Auberge du Vin, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, in the Mendoza wine region and Tupungato, which is nestled in a vineyard with fantastic views of the Andes.

Sao Paolo, Brazil

“A large city that keeps surprising you at every turn, as independent boutiques, restaurants, and galleries keep emerging in different neighborhoods,” said Bang. “As main streets convert to social gatherings on Sundays where runners and bikers abound, live music is played throughout, and travelers may stroll through and feel part of the city life while popping in and out of galleries, museums, and fabulous restaurants.”

Where to Stay:

The W Sao Paolo will be a gathering place for fashionable locals and travelers alike. “A place to hang out, where the hours of the day will pass by in a blink of an eye as travelers mix business and leisure, a destination easily defined by leisure,” described Bang. Until that opening in 2021, book a room at the Renaissance Sao Paulo Hotel, JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro, and Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort.

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