(The Independent) Tango, steak, football, Maradona, Evita… a whole host of stereotypes are stuck to Argentina, but what makes the South American country really special is uncovering its contrasts and diversity.

Given its vast size, there are landscapes, climates and activities to suit all tastes, from mountains to lakes, beaches to forests and jungle – which makes it a year-round destination.

Metropolis lovers will relish the culture and architecture of capital Buenos Aires, but a two-hour flight in any direction can land you in wine country, high-altitude plateau, sub-tropical jungle or ski resorts. It’s also often overlooked just how fun and friendly Argentines are, some of the most hospitable people in the world.

Argentina is in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are the reverse of the UK. Given the diverse latitudes of the world’s eighth-largest country, it is usually cold and snowy year-round in the southerly Patagonian province Tierra del Fuego, yet humid and warm in Misiones, home to the impressive Iguazú waterfalls.

Buenos Aires is, however, seasonal and the best time to enjoy the capital is spring (late October to December) and autumn (March and April). Many Argentine towns don their glad rags for Carnaval, evidence that it isn’t unique to Brazil, while March in Mendoza focuses on the annual vendimia, or grape harvest festival, where many of the province’s districts are invited to participate and show off their own agricultural prowess.

For the rest of this, please visit The Independent, July 2023.