Buenos Aires is famous for it’s eclectic neighborhoods, or barios. Perhaps the most vibrant personality among these belongs to San Temlmo. Known for it’s Tango and it’s artistic population, San Telmo is the oldest neighborhood in Beunos Aires. While not the most posh area of the city, San Telmo is certainly worth a visit. Wander amongst the antique shops, cafes, churches, and colonial architecture. The snapshot above depicts an old hotel that we passed on a day’s stroll along the cobblestone streets through this colorful bario. If you visit San Telmo on a Sunday be sure to hit the  Flea Market – San Telmo is always active, but the Market brings even more liveliness to this community.

So what does Buenos Aires offer? It might be the quintessential example of character. The city is divided into neighborhoods, each with its intrinsic flair.

Perhaps the most colorful is San Telmo, the region known for its Tango shows. While most are touristy and a bit over-the-top, it’s an interesting experience and wort at least investigating. Tickets include the dance show and dinner, though you may not eat until after the show so snack before-hand.

Puerto Madera, along the waterfront, boasts restaurants and bars and is an easy walk. While some eateries cater to tourists, others are more authentic. With the city’s influence from Spain, France, Italy and Germany the cuisine is a well blended mix of international flavors.

Palermo, divided into several districts, is the neighborhood for green space and outdoor activities. weather you are looking to bike, jog, picnic or stroll through the outdoor markets, this is a great place to get away from the busy center city.

For some upscale shopping and dining, visit Recoleta. With tree-lines streets and french-inspired architecture, this neighborhood has a quiet yet distinct ambience. Recoleta is also home to the famous cemetery where Eva Peron is buried. The cemetery itself is worth wandering through for its massive graves and oddly peaceful feel.

Downtown is where you will find Florida Street, the city’s large pedestrian street bordered by shops, restaurants, cafes and vendors of virtually ever kind. Downtown is also home to the Obelisk, one of the few landmarks in Buenos Aires.

As with any city, Buenos Aires there are few key points to know about visiting. First, while considered one of the safer large international cities, it’s still a city. Be alert and use common sense with your belongings and money. Second, and on a totally different note, people here eat late. Don’t expect to go to dinner much before 9 PM, and places don’t really fill up until at least 10 PM. Finally, do not tip. It is illegal. You will not see a spot on your credit card receipt for a tip and this is why!

To honor the start of this feature, I chose a country that reflects a little of each – one of my favorite destinations which happens to be a great spot to travel as the months get colder – Costa Rica.

Costa Rica’s rainy season runs from mainly during our summer here in the U.S, which makes it a wonderful winter destination. As this Central American country dries up, it’s the perfect time the lush landscape, unique flora and fauna, sandy coastlines and opportunities for adventure.

Costa Rica has two main airports – San Jose (it’s capital city) and Liberia, closer to the western coast. Though more direct flights head to San Jose, Liberia is a good place to start when exploring the western half of the country. With the amount of diversity in this country, one could easily spend two weeks, and those going for a shorter time may want to explore a sample of the many sides to Costa Rica.

You can explore the rainforest from virtually anywhere in Costa Rica. Don’t miss the opportunity to Zip line your way through the trees – an exhilaration your sure not to forget! It’s well established, incredibly safe and virtually a must do!

Costa Rica is also well known for their volcanos – Arenal being the most popular, though Poas is also spectacular and more easily reached from San Jose. There are several resorts at Arenal whose features will make you forget you’re anywhere near a Volcano until you look out your window!

To round out your trip, head west for some time on the beach, or playa. The more developed beaches are found in the Guanacaste area, getting less developed as you move down the Pacific Coast. Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise, so if that’s your sport, bring your board! The south Pacific coast has especially great swells.

Beautiful beaches can also be found along the country’s Caribbean coast, though the region can be quite rainy in December and January, in addition to the country’s rainy season. This region, Puerto Limon, is tremendously lush and offers a great diversity in cultures as well as nature. Here you can find Tortuguero National Park, famous for it’s Turtle nesting.