International Mankini Challenge

Where there’s good there is inevitably bad. And while Latin America has a plethora of amazing places to see, there are definitely a couple you don’t need to get off the bus for.

Top 5 Worst Places in South and Central America

1. Oruro, Bolivia – Unless you are here for Carnival, and even then only come for a day as the smell of urine will be overpowering, avoid Oruro. It has no redeeming features or places of interest

2. Montevideo, Uruguay – Dull, dull and dull. The Old Town is nothing to write home about, other than to say you’ve survived it maybe, and the main Plaza is decidely average. You could visit the football stadium that hosted the first ever World Cup … if it’s not crumbled away

3. Ushuaia, Argentina – Unless you’re off to antarctica, don’t bother with Ushuaia. It’s expensive, cold and full of casinos. I can see why it’s been the southern most city in the world now

4. Matagalpa, Nicaragua – While it has a great little organic chocolate factory, it’s well promoted treks through Selva Negra should be avoided – as should the especially rude locals (which is highly unusual for Nicaragua it has to be said)

5. Cuenca, Ecuador – yes it is a pretty city, but there’s only so much building watching one can do here. I think that’s why it’s a good place to learn Spanish, there are few distractions

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