In no order
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Cusco, Peru: the people, culture and altitude all make for an incredible experience. Drink the tea when they tell you too. You may get sick, but it is worth it. Listen to the people, they are trustworthy and will help you make your way through the Andes, if that is your destination. I hiked for a week to get to Machu Pichu. It changed me forever.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: Extremely friendly city, latin culture driven with mild European sub-culture. Excellent steak and wine for very low cost. See the Teatro Colon for a breathtaking experience.
Prague: 3rd world, castles, excellent food. Feels at times as though you are in a vampire setting when evening comes.
Bankok, Thailand: Eastern culture but IMO, Asia is not for the first time world traveler. Cab drivers and merchants will take liberties with foreigners. The buddahs are amazing, although some are contrived now in the way that they are solely set up for tourist attractions. Although most will tell you that the outskirts speak english, I do not agree. I stayed in an apartment outside of Bangkok and no one spoke english. I had to communicate with my hands and the cab drivers dropped me off repeatedly in areas that would not appeal to most Americans
It made for a long day.
Rio, Brazil: Vibrant culture. I get shot down for this, but this is another place I do not suggest for the first time world traveler. Not near as many people speak english as the guides say and portugese is difficult. The ATM machines are known crime havens and most either close at dark or do not accept your card. Crime is overrated and relies on your ability to use common sense (a problem found in Americans). The views are incredible. The Cristo monument was more breathtaking than the Eiffel Tower. I suggest the helicopter ride. Cost is minimal and it offers amazing views.
Amsterdamn: Smoke the herb but be careful, it is potent. See the Ann Frank home. Very moving.
12-28-2004
Hybrid Mode
