The São Paulo skyline
1) Sao Paulo
They are calling her the new new york and not only because it competes with this one in number of private helicopters flying over the streets, but because its economic growth allows spectators to attend the general madness of capitalism in its early stages. All the big firms are already in the Le Jardims neighborhood. The next four years will talk about it in all forums, especially in sports. Since in 2013, the Confederations Cup (from June 15 to 30) will kick off the matches of the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics . The hangover will be monumental, of course. But in the meantime, you can't miss its surprising nightlife in its dilapidated historic center , with an old cinema turned into the dance hall of the moment: like Cine Joia , or butcher shops transformed into vegetarian restaurants like Z-Deli , specializing in Kosher cuisine. The anarchic distribution of Sao Paulo It gives you that mysterious point where you can develop your investigative skills (yes, don't forget your map to orient yourself in a city where the subway network is small) . Their gastronomic offer will exceed all your expectations, with offers for all pockets. At the top of world cuisine, chef Alex Atala also decided to return to his Sao Paulo natal just for the good time. The more casual restaurant he Dalva e Dito, is our favorite.
The Bastion of Santo Domingo in Cartagena de Indias
2)Cartagena de Indias
It has been a well-kept secret but everyone already knows it: The best private outdoor parties in the entire Caribbean are those of Cartagena de Indias, next to the old walls and looking at the sea (at 25º). There is an entire industry specialized in decorating private events of any kind (the small size of its cobbled colonial historic center and charmingly confident has turned it into a perfect place to celebrate a wedding, or record an announcement). Fortunes from anywhere in the world they have infatuated of some of its old colonial houses, and they have their second residence here, while the modern part of the city is a kind of Miami of tall skyscrapers that attracts a convention traveler because they find it comfortable, fun and safe. Although its urban beaches are not exactly its strong point (if you are looking for white sand and crystal clear waters you will have to go to the Rosario Islands, less than an hour away by boat), Cartagena de Indias It is the perfect place to spend a few days in a charming city. the neighborhood of Gethsemane , outside the ancient walls, is in full boil : new hotels, restaurants and some of the best bars to dance until dawn like the Havana Club.
Panorama of Santiago de Chile
3) Santiago de Chile
The last few years have been for this city away from the rest of the world , but surrounded by landscapes from another planet, a shock in every way. In addition to its wines that have won deserved fame in the world market in recent years, the old historic neighborhoods are undergoing a constant transformation: new stores and businesses spring up from nowhere and travelers arrive in search of business opportunities. The neighborhood Italy has become the natural headquarters for production companies, photography studios and hidden patios with delicious coffees and artisan ice cream parlors . One of those places in which all this creative spirit that has taken over the city is the Matucana 100 Cultural Center, a kind of cultural center self-managed by local associations. Another surprising place is Bocanáriz, the best stocked warehouse in the city , very original and with delicious bites depending on the character of the wine you drink. No better place to stay than Lastarria Boutique Hotel, a mansion that hosted the EFE agency in his day.
Panama City at sunset
4) Panama City
Is he favorite destination for those who have already terminated their work period. Income from abroad is tax-free in this economic paradise and there are a dozen different visas for which foreigners become permanent residents by making investments in the country . The purchase of a house has the support of the bank that finances it up to 80% in an average period of 20 years, so the call is being brutal , especially retirees and pensioners from all over the world. The city, already converted into the Singapore of Latin America, is a brutal contrast between the most modern buildings and his colonial area . Next year 2014, when the expansion works of the Panama Canal , the city will multiply its income and its possibilities.
The Metropolitan Cathedral and the Presidential Palace of Mexico City
5) Mexico City
Tread carefully, history beats low Mexico City . Incontestable megalopolis, it recreates a reverse conquest that dazzles everyone who visits it. New-style architecture, such as the extremely modern Soumaya Museum, sponsored by the tycoon Charles Slim , or a more than careful Mexican cuisine , now attentive to the culinary currents , they make Mexico City is already a must stop in that exclusive circuit of cities where the future 'cooks'. Let yourself be pampered at the Four Seasons , the W or the St. Regis , branches of international luxury hotels in the city. And to find out what takes in these parts, plant yourself in Polanco or in Countess , the most cutting-edge neighborhoods, where the latest in fashion, gastronomy and art occupy every square meter.
If you want to know more:
- Cartagena de Indias, the silent revolution
- Barú Island and Rosario Islands
- Emerging powers at the table (I): Mexico
- Something happens with Santiago de Chile