Chile

Chile's intoxicating wilderness is complemented by its sophisticated cities, a gripping history, a fast-evolving culture and outdoor adventure; you could hike, bike, ski, surf, swim, horseback ride and even paraglide your way from desert to ice fields. All of which combines to make travel here reassuringly easy, always inspiring, often surprising and never, ever boring.

Flying time: Santiago - 16 hours 15 minutes

Time difference: Santiago GMT -5 hours

Getting there: Daily flights with Air France via Paris to Santiago.

Currency:  Peso

Visas: British passport holders do not require a visa. All other nationals please check visa requirements with the embassy.

Best time to visit:  Chile always has a region ripe for exploration, whatever the season. But if your heart is set on one part of the country, pick your dates carefully. Chile's southern charms, including Torres del Paine and the Lakes District, are best visited in summer (December to March) as some are all but impenetrable in winter (June to September). The summer's long days boost outdoor fun, although the spring months of November and December and autumn months of March and April can be nearly as good.