Santiago, Chile

Located on a 1,706 foot plateau, with the Andes as a backdrop, Santiago blends 18th and 19th century buildings, sleek skyscrapers and Spanish colonial cathedrals. The pre-Columbian museum offers fascinating cultural insights, as does a stroll around Plaza de Armas or a visit to any of the markets. Chile is one of the two places in the world producing lapis lazuli. Other specialities include wicker and the fine wines from the area vineyards.