Argentina - Salta

One of the factors is its excellent mild climate, the sense of traditions will be another, noticeable in its architecture and its interesting craft production, from fabrics to the regional food, among which should not be forgotten the famous Salta -empanadas- filled with meat and cheese. As a matter of fact, one of the major attractions of Salta is the harmony upon which important buildings from vice-royal times combine, and the valuable amount of creations belonging to the late 19th century and the 1930 to 1950 period.

The life in Salta treasures some of the rhythm of centuries ago. People live with no rush and the "siesta" remains in use and, furthermore, is strictly complied with. Today, as it was in the times when its foundation took place, and as determined by the colonial urbanism, the Salta life develops around the Plaza 9 de Julio Square, although modern alternatives are beginning to appear like the shopping mall area along the Virrey Toledo Avenue and as usually happens among big cities, the country arises as an option for Salta families.

The tourist circuit of the city of Salta is usually accomplished with a stroll across the centre of the city, allowed for by the short distances between the historical monuments. The traveller must not neglect a visit to the Cerro San Bernardo Hill and behold from its crest the extraordinary panorama of the city. By day or night it constitutes a real spectacle in itself.

"Ah, Salta the Beautiful." That this northern province isn't better known to the rest of the world is an injustice. The road south from the province's eponymous capital to Cafayate, home to a cluster of vineyards, boasts breathtaking scenery, with cliffs of many hues shaped by water and wind. With the addition of tasty food, a rich musical tradition and powerful wines, the place should not be missed. This is one of the beautiful cities on Argentina 

The city of Salta used to be known only for its colonial charms, like the late 19th century cathedral whose pink and custard- facade looks down on the orange trees that line Ninth of July Plaza.

The Church of San Francisco is one of Salta's most loved buildings. The church's majestic white pillars and bright facade are engraved in the heart of many Argentines. Originally built in 1625, the structure was rebuilt in 1882 after a fire destroyed the old structure. A 173 foot belfry houses a bell made from the bronze of cannons used in the Argentine War of Indipendence.

The new Salta is on show at innovative restaurants like José Balcarce, where you can try Lalo Angelina's modern takes on northern staples, including supple llama carpaccio and beef tenderloin in a creamy sauce enriched with quinoa. Salta's new restaurants and bars would give any big city's night life a run for its money, but the city's more traditional spots offer an entirely different — and more distinctive — experience.

To start with, you can eat home-style favorites like oven-baked empanadas, tamales, humita (corn paste with cheese wrapped in corn leaves), locro (a stew of meat and corn kernels with chopped scallions) and mondongo (a rich tripe soup flavored with red pepper) at La Criollita. It's a modest place, but the food attracts men in business suits by the half-dozen along with older couples and working-class families.