Imagine ascending Corcovado Mountain to see the statue of Christ the Redeemer, relaxing on the beach in fabulous Rio, exploring the "Lost City of the Incas," or mingling with the giant tortoises of the Galapagos Islands. The continent of South America is as full of exciting travel adventures as it is thick with rain forests and culture.

• South America Highlights
• Iguassu Falls
• Itaipú - the largest hydroelectric dam
• Is Costa Rica a good destination for a family vacation?
• Currency Information
• Explore South America Vacations

South America Highlights Costa Rica: You'll find references in Costa Rica to pura vida or "pure life." This common expression is used throughout the country as both "hello" and "good-bye" by the locals, who are friendly, laid back, and very environmentally aware. Machu Picchu is most commonly known for its archeological significance however, it is also home to a stunning variety of flora and fauna, including over 300 species of birds and some 200 species of orchids. Brazil is the world's largest coffee producer so it is no wonder that a warm welcome is often extended with a cup of cafezhino. Served in tiny demitasse cups, it is not uncommon for a Brazilian to consume more than a dozen of these diminutive sips of java a day. Enjoy. Iguassu Falls Words and photographs have tried to do Iguassu Falls justice. Both have failed. Wider than Victoria and higher than Niagara, Iguassu Falls is arguably more spectacular than both. The thunder of the water and the brilliance of the rainbow that crowns the furious torrent at first boggle the mind, then linger on as a rare testimony to the grandeur of Earth. Beginning its course close to the Atlantic seaboard, the Iguassu River then crosses the western highlands of the states of São Paulo and Paranà and arrives at the edge of a plateau unequally divided between Brazil and Argentina. There, a series of islands divides the massive falls into some275 separate waterfalls or "cataracts," hurtling themselves headlong into the canyon below-a geologic formation aptly named the Devil's Throat. The falls actually derive their name from the Gaurani Indian word meaning "great water." Little wonder, seeing as how they discharge their waters at a startling rate of almost 60,000 cubic feet per second. To truly experience the dazzling spectacle of the waters, one should really view Iguassu from both sides. Or, more appropriately, both countries. In Brazil, from the vantage point of the precipice, the grand overview is simply hypnotizing. In Argentina, you're treated to a closer look. It's a multi-sensory experience of roaring falls, rainbow arcs and drenching mist amidst a backdrop of parrots and hawks cruising aloft over the deep green jungle. Itaipú The largest hydroelectric dam. The Brazilian city of Foz do Iguassu, is home to both Iguassu Falls and the Itaipú Dam. The Itaipú hydroelectric power plant is by far the largest development of its kind in operation in the world. The dam is responsible for supplying 89% of the energy consumed in Paraguay as well as 25% of demand in the Brazilian market. One look and you can see why engineers consider Itaipú Dam one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. During construction, its workers were said to have "reenacted a labor of Hercules" as they shifted the course of the Paraná River-the seventh largest in the world-and removed more than 50 million tons of earth and rock. But the true marvel of Itaipú is its powerhouse-a single building that puts out 12,600 megawatts- nearly enough to power most of California. Is Costa Rica a good destination for a family vacation? With natural wonders and sights that appeal to all ages, Costa Rica is an excellent destination for a family vacation. Whether you're 8 or 80, you'll be captivated by the rain forests, hot springs, jungles and volcanoes - and enthralled with the possibility of spotting turtles, toucans and monkeys. Globus has just introduced a collection of Family Vacations, including "Natural Wonders of Costa Rica". These vacations are specifically designed for intergenerational travel and are all about having fun and bonding as a family. You can also rest assured that with more than 75 years of travel experience, Globus will ensure a worry-free and hassle-free vacation, allowing you and your relatives to concentrate on enjoying each other's company. Spanish Phrases Hello Hola Ohlah Please Por favor Pohr fahVOHR Thank you Gracias GRAHssyahss Excuse me Perdonamme PearDonAmay Do you speak English? Habla usted ingles? Ahblah OOSTAYD eenGLAYSS? Where is the bathroom? Donde esta el bano? DoneDAY EsTA El BanEYo? Currency & Travel If you are in the process of planning your vacation and need information on currency exchange rates, click here to access our currency converter tool. While you're on vacation you will need spending money for meals and entrance fees not already included, beverages, excursions, gratuities and shopping. Currency Converter