Tips to Explore All of The Americas

The American continents are diverse and intriguing places. Most travelers outside of the U.S. think of the United States when they hear the word “America.”  Yet The Americas encompass far more than its northern continent (which also includes Central America). If you really want to experience this fascinating part of the world, then allow us to offer these tips to explore all of The Americas.

3 Tips to Explore All of The Americas

If you live here, you already know how vast and amazing are The Americas.  If you don’t, then you should make it your mission to explore all of the Americas. No idea where to begin on such an arduous task? Well, get ready with these tips to explore all of The Americas: North America, Central America, and South America.

Travel to North America

Where to begin to explore in North America? This is a continent entirely within the Northern Hemisphere and almost all within the Western Hemisphere.  It is also the most northern subcontinent of The Americas. For a quick geography lesson, the North American Continent consists of up of 23 different countries and 9 dependent territories. Of the 23 countries that divide up the continent, Canada, and the United States comprise nearly 80% of the total land area. 

For those who don’t call this home, the United States is a vast and diverse place. United though they may be, don’t fool yourself into thinking for a second that each state is the same.

If you’ve not visited the U.S., this country is best looked at as 50 countries. Each state boasts its own government and sub-culture. It’s difficult to know where you should start because you likely don’t have the time, money, or energy to see all 50 (not in one go, at least).

Marvel at the towering skyline of New York or dive into the sunny world of the rich and famous in California in Hollywood.

Purple Mountain Majesties of Colorado

One state that we would definitely recommend, however, is Colorado. Situated amongst the Southern Rocky Mountains, this is a state marked by beautiful landscapes as much as it is by human culture.

You definitely need to visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park while visiting Colorado because it’s absolutely mesmerizing. It’s often dubbed the “mini Grand Canyon” but this doesn’t do the Black Canyon justice. See some of the most fascinating ecosystems and most weathered rock faces in all of North America.

Better still, you can ride through the canyon by motorbike, car, or some form of off-road transport if you want to take one of the more adventurous routes.

Vacation in Central America

Central America is the hub of many popular tourist destinations. Costa Rica is most likely the country which entices you with its promise of beaches and beautiful views. And while that’s most certainly a worthwhile visit, it’s not everything that the southernmost portion of the North American continent has to offer.

If you want to experience something eye-opening while also admiring incredible views, then you should visit Guatemala. It’s one of the most stunning countries in Central America in terms of both natural scenery and ancient human history. In the depths of its stunning and diverse rainforests, you’ll find the ruins of once-great cities such as Tikal (likely to have been called Yax Mutal in ancient times).

Ancient Ruins of Tikal in Guatemala, Central America in The Americas.

If you want an insight into the complex and mysterious pre-Columbian Maya civilization then the ruins of historic sites are the best places to really come to understand the magnitude of these ancient people. It puts things into perspective when you see an iconic ancient ruin in the flesh.

Spend some time getting to know Tikal and the surrounding rainforest with a stay at places such as the Hotel Jaguar Inn in Tikal, Guatemala. It’s the sort of place that you can’t take in at a glance. You really need to appreciate this wonderful piece of culture and history. Take a tour if you want to understand the rich history behind this and other ancient sites in Guatemala.

Explore Stunning South America

The continent of South America is a hub of rich and hugely-differing cultures. Still, the most intriguing country in this continent, by far, is Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro is the most popular tourist destination in this huge country. Its vibrant culture of both music and stunning scenery is definitely an enticing factor when it comes to people visiting this beautiful city.

However, if you want an experience that takes you a little off the commonly-beaten track then you should head to a sweet little town called Paraty between Rio and Sao Paulo. Built on the wealth of the gold trade three centuries ago, this town still displays its wealth through colonial buildings such as the Santa Rita Church.

Of course, it has more to offer than a history lesson. This town is home to beautiful hotels and exquisite restaurants. It’s well worth a visit if you’re passing through the area.

What are your tips to explore The Americas?

Did we miss your favorite destinations in The Americas?