One question we get asked a lot is whether we prefer Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires. They both offer so much, and they are both quite different. We definitely prefer one over the other, but our preference changes bases on the time of year, and what we're in the mood for.

If someone called us and said "I want to go to South America, but I'm not sure whether I want to go to Buenos Aires or Rio. What should I do?" my answer would depend on the time of year they wished to travel.

I think that Fall and Spring in South America are fantastic times to Visit Buenos Aires. The Jacaranda trees are in bloom all over the city in November, and the weather is perfect for Argentineans to sport the latest fashions. Outdoor restaurant terraces open, and the city feels alive It's the perfect time to be there, and few locals leave the city in the Spring and Fall because of this.

Buenos Aires is a busy urban city, not a beach city like Rio, and many locals, particularly those of the gay community choose their summer months to leave the city on Vacation. Where do a lot of them go? Rio!

Especially during New Years and Carnival, Rio is incredibly popular. In the hottest months, Rio feels like a large beach town. It is sultry and sexy, and while Rio also has great fashion, you'll find that most people will be wearing very little. In Casual but nice restaurants, people may be sitting around you wearing nothing more than bikinis.

When travelers have flexible dates and they can't decide between Rio and Buenos Aires, I always ask people where their interests lie. While both cities are beautiful, cultural, and gay-friendly each city excels in different areas.

If you are most interested in fashion, architecture, food, antiques, or shopping, then I would recommend Buenos Aires.

If you desire the beach, outdoor recreation, and natural beauty, then definitely head to Rio. Rio de Janeiro is also the only city in the world that has one of the Seven Natural Wonders, Guanabana Bay and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Christo Redento (Christ the Redeemer) Statue, which stands watch over this magnificent city.

While both cities enjoy reputations for having beautiful people, I have found that most gay people who have been to both cities favor Argentineans for their handsome faces, and Brazilians for their sensational physiques.

Rio may be a little more casual than Buenos Aires, which can sometimes feel more formal in attitude and attire.

Bryan Herb works for Zoom Vacations, a Chicago-based global gay vacation company offering incredible gay group and independent trips all over the world, including Rio for New Years and Carnaval, and Argentina in November. You can find more information on their website at www.zoomvacations.com or call 866 966-6822.

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