Only 70 miles northwest of capital Santiago, Valparaiso is Chile's main port and known for its bohemian, artistic vibe and lovely vistas. Its UNESCO-designated historic downtown offers charming colonial architecture, great seafood restaurants, markets and stores. Take 100-year-old funicular Ascensor Artilleria or climb Cerro Concepcion for stunning ocean and city views. Back at street level, visit writer Pablo Neruda's house.

Where can you find breathtaking waterfalls, glowing natural pools, and mind-boggling rock formations? Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. Located in the center of Brazil, the park is known for its trails (Sete Quedas, dos Saltos, dos Cânions, and da Seriema) where visitors can walk among nature while taking in toucans, armadillos, and other native wildlife. Framed by sun-dappled trees and pooling deep emerald water, the roaring Prata and Santa Bárbara falls are other destinations that can’t be missed.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly island vacation, consider the Bay Islands. Each one appeals to different travelers—Roatan’s the most developed (but still not as built-up as, say, St. Thomas), Guanaia’s rustic and Utila’s in between. All three have great dive spots and beaches.