Been living in Pattaya 7 yrers now, still love it but fancy something different, done Asia but never been to South America. Any advice please, ie, cheep airfare, best destination, best route. I have a home still in UK, would it be easier to go via there ? Many thanks.

South America is great. It's a fantastic place to explore. A bit of a crime problem, but mostly pickpockets, etc.

I've been to most of the countries in SA. My favorite is Argentina. But each one has it's own special charm. Visas shouldn't be a problem for you...most are on arrival and can be obtained at the airport or border. Except for Brazil which is a problem for American's.

I would check out this thread also:

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/347262-alternative-retirement-destinations-for-expats-other-than-thailand/

I have to agree with craigt about Argentina. Beautiful & diverse topography, cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, good steak and friendly people. Can't go to South America without visiting Machu Picchu in Peru however. It's the best known archeological site in all of South America. I enjoyed Chile as well.

I can't be of any help concerning airfare nor traveling via the UK.

Learn some Spanish before going anywhere in South America (except Portuguese if you visit Brazil). Makes getting around MUCH easier. Be careful in the big cities, especially Rio as pickpockets are abundant. Use common sense, learn some Spanish and have a great time!

Edited May 16, 201115 yr by Microwave

Excellent point about the Spanish. It's a must. No way to travel about without at least a basic knowledge of Spanish.

Galapagos is also an incredible place to visit. Next on my list would be Patagonia and surrounding areas, including S. Chile. I didn't make it to N. Chile, but heard it is cool also....