The days of backpacking all over Western Europe at bargain rates are over. In fact, Western Europe is arguably the most expensive region on the world travel circuit. But some of the 22 countries in this survey are much cheaper than others. It turns out there are bargains to be had after all; you just have to get (way) off the beaten path.
Read the rest of Cheapest Countries in Latin America…
Despite controversy, an incredibly well preserved mummy of a 15 year old sacrificed Incan girl is now on exhibit in the Archeological Museum in Salta, Argentina.
Thousands of people have marched against the government in the southern Argentinian city of Rio Gallegos. They represented several different sectors of society and were led by a local Roman Catholic bishop. The demonstrators demands include higher wages and the demilitarization of the province. The government will worry that the protests are taking place in President Nestor Kirchner’s home town just two months before national elections.
The Argentine economy is growing and, according to opinion polls, President Kirchner’s wife, Cristina, is almost certain to replace him after elections at the end of October. But in his home province of Santa Cruz, the protest movement against him is growing and increasingly angry.
From BBC world news:
The United Nations says the increase in the use of cocaine paste, or paco, in Argentina has risen by 200% in the past couple of years. Other agencies put the figure as high as 500%.
It is simply the case that the consumption of paco is rising so fast in the poor neighbourhoods around Buenos Aires that it is almost impossible to keep track.
What is clear, say the experts, is that urgent action needs to be taken now to prevent the situation spiralling out of control.
