Audley in Central America,Mexico and CubaOur knowledge of this region is second tonone and we are proud to specialise in fullytailor-made trips. Some people choose tospend their time focusing on one country,exploring in depth whilst others prefer tovisit several in one trip or visit as anextension to time in South America.Whichever way you choose to discover theregion we can help you to make the most of your time. Our specialists have travelledextensively throughout Central America andhave hand-picked a portfolio of characterhotels, some wonderful guides and a broadrange of excursions. We believe theirenthusiasm and in-depth knowledge isreflected in our dedicated Central America,Mexico & Cuba brochure.PracticalitiesAccommodation in Central America variesgreatly from country to country and thereare endless options. We work with theregions' most progressive ecolodges, simpleB&Bs, some charming colonial properties and luxury hotels which are selected to matchyour personal requirements. The region isbest visited between December and Aprilwhen days tend to be sunny and rainfall low.Many Central American countries lie in theCaribbean 'hurricane belt' and, whilst thereare numerous local variances, you shouldconsult our specialists when considering atrip between June and October.Central America brochureFor your copy of ourCentral America, Mexico and Cubabrochure, please call our specialists on01993 838 638.Find out more For suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in Central Americaplease see our website.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our CentralAmerica specialists 01993 838 638?WildlifeCosta Rica is a natural and appealing choice forwildlife lovers. From mist-shrouded cloudforeststo tropical rainforests it is a mecca for birdlife andnumerous mammal, reptile and amphibian species.However it is not alone with neighbouringPanama offering excellent birdwatching along thebanks of the Panama Canal and on the slopes ofvolcanoes in the west of the country. For marinelife, the spectacular coral reefs off the coasts ofBelize and Honduras offer excellent diving andsnorkelling opportunities.BeachesTurquoise waters lapping up against white sandbeaches are synonymous with the coastlines ofthe Mayan Riviera in Mexico, the cayes off Belizeand the northern shores of Cuba. Costa Rica and Panama also have delightful beaches alongboth the Pacific and Caribbean coastlines makingthem popular extensions to trips to the westcoast of South America where good beaches are in short supply.HistoryVisitors are reminded of Central America's richhistory at every turn. Ancient ruins with remnantsof the Aztec, Mayan and Toltec civilisations dotthe continent from northern Mexico throughGuatemala and Belize and into Honduras. Thesemagnificent sites sit alongside well-preservedcolonial cities and traditional highland markettowns such as Oaxaca and Mérida in Mexico and Antigua in Guatemala. The Spanish influenceextends further afield with the crumbling cities ofGranada in Nicaragua, the Casco Viejo in PanamaCity and Havana in Cuba. The region's uniqueand turbulent modern history also ensuresintriguing trips to Nicaragua and Cuba.Central America57Antigua, GuatemalaChichen Itzá, MexicoHavana, Cuba

58Brazilits own place on the political and economicworld stage. Brazil is a scintillating placethat surpasses all expectations; the smilingbarefoot boys skillfully playing football onthe beach, the colours and sounds of itsfamous cities and the steamy expanses ofemerald rainforest are all here, and with somuch more besides. From the roar of thethundering Iguaçu waterfalls to the cobbledstreets of charming colonial towns of thenortheast, from the Pantanal wetlands andAmazon basin teeming with wildlife todeserted sandy beaches, Brazil is ageographically, ethnically and culturallydiverse country. With the rythmicalsoundtrack of a samba or a bossa nova, andwith a caipirinha in hand, jump in andimmerse yourself in the wonder that is Brazil.Immense in size and offering a veritable wealth of experiences, this SouthAmerican giant provides a delightfullyheady mix of natural spectacles, vibrantcities, intoxicating music and picturepostcard beaches. It is a burgeoning country, currently investing heavily in itsinfrastructure for the forthcoming OlympicGames and the World Cup, whilst forging