Blueprint- Book 3: America

BRAZIL

Intro

On the whole Brazil is a pretty western country - somewhere it's easy to travel and have a good time. It's also home to some of the world's most beautiful scenery, particularly along it's southern coast. Jungle regions may disappoint, as prices run high and any tour is likely to have you not seeing the wood for the trees as the expression goes, as with all trips of these nature the focus is very much on flora and not fauna. Trips to the Pantanal (wet land areas) are far more worthwhile, but it can be quite a touristic experience, costs are still comparatively high and there a more than a few stories running around of cheap tours turning into a disaster.

Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
classic tourist attraction: carnival

others: caipirinhas (cocktail variations mixed very strong)
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GUATEMALA

Intro

Guatemala has no shortage of visitors for this reason and most routes/sights are far removed from virgin ground, but in a country of this size with time and effort it is easy to find yourself a little space. Here's what makes Guatemala such a deservedly popular destination: major ruins, beautiful colonial cities, two coast lines (both distinctly different, far from first class beaches, but nesting turtles and good value compensate), scenic volcanoes plus dramatic mountains (does make transport slow in places, but keeps the climate cool and hides real gems), lakes and people (the continuation of ancient traditions and costumes makes for a truly 'back-in-time' spectacle - plus some crazy festivals).

Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
classic tourist attraction: carnival

others: Fear of robbery when walking between villages with all your stuff, for fear of robbery.
Jewellery on street stalls
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MEXICO

Intro

Viva México! It's huge and has tons to offer! Right across the spectrum, from the nadir of Cancún to the zenith's of Palenque, Oaxaca (Wa-ha-ka) and Porto Escondido to mention a few.The downside from the country's size (and terrain which is far from flat) is the necessity to spend many hours on buses of which the cost of can seriously mount up - even more so if you take advantage of the better services.Enjoy México for the right reasons (take touristy attractions especially the Yucatan, like the tequila - with a pinch of salt), learn some Spanish, get off the beaten track and enjoy for along with Guatemala it is a real highlight of this region and one of the world's most underrated country's.

Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
classic tourist attraction: Cancun beach

others: body shot with tequila
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CANADA

Intro

Canada might be stereotyped as the land of beer-drinking hockey players who pass the time producing maple syrup or partaking in lumberjack activities. Some will probably think of it as adrift politically and culturally to the USA and as a second thought to it's much publicised, big-city, neighbour to the South. Where some of the stereotypes are true, there is much more to Canada. Canada can be considered liberal, tolerant and without doubt, very tourist-friendly. Several aspects of Canada will appeal to the independent traveller. From coast to coast, there is an extensive range of hostels and budget accommodations. There are also campsites all around that are popular among Canadians and tourists. It is also affordable and safe, especially in comparison to the US and certainly parts of Western Europe. Canada is sparsely populated outside the big cities and getting off the beaten track is not difficult at all.

Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
classic tourist attraction: Niagara falls

others: multicultural city (restaurants + people)
shoveling snow
sightings of wild animals near the city






THE UNITED STATES

Intro

The world's dominant economy, military power and origin of so much mass culture. Its third most populous country, and fourth biggest in area. Many of the world's most exciting cities, and a good chunk of its best scenery. The people are also remarkably diverse, from the Cajuns of Louisiana to the cowboys of Montana to Little Italy in New York to the Melungeons of West Virginia or the indigenous Hawaiians. Although Americans reading this might find it strange to hear, but America is every bit as strange and culturally bizarre/perverse to other nationalities as somewhere in Asia might be for an American. Everyone has an opinion on America and Americans. Too many closed-minded independent travelers object to American foreign policy or American mass culture, and don't bother with it. Their loss.

Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
classic tourist attraction: statue of liberty

others: street vendors / artists in NY
city poverty (rats in subway stations)
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