South America, at once both a cinematic cityscape and a grimy urban front line, Rio de Janeiro, known as the cidade maravilhosa (marvelous city), is nothing if not exhilarating. Flanked by gorgeous mountains, white-sand beaches and verdant rainforests fronting deep blue sea, the city of Rio de Janeiro occupies one of the most spectacular settings of any metropolis in the world. With the seductive sounds of samba as their rallying cry, Rio's residents, known as cariocas, have perfected the art of living. With the world largest annual 'Marti Gras' festival South America boasts one of the sexiest populations on the planet, like an intoxicating tropical cocktail that leaves visitors punch-drunk on paradise.

Sweat yourself dizzy on an Amazon canoe ride before ending the day caiman-watching on a black-water lagoon. Brave a white-knuckle bus ride down Peruvian slopes and be astounded by endless Andean vistas. Visit acient temple ruins of the Mayans, and Toltec's or endure Patagonia's wind-driven rain while chasing life-affirming sunsets or simply lose yourself (and possibly your belongings) in the break-neck chaos of Buenos Aires or Salvador.

The real reward, however, is the South American spirit. It seems like the entire continent approaches life with the enthusiasm of an old-fashioned road trip: windows down and stereo's blaring. There is as much music as there are adventures to be had. Samba spices up the sandy streets of Brazilian beach towns, and panpipes liven Andean markets. South America is a continent that engulfs you and changes you - your state of mind, your outlook on life.