17. The best of Mexico for a delicious nap – Can Si'aan beaches of white sand beaches Biosphere supply and crystal blue waters. This nature reserve, located in the Yucatan peninsula, just outside of Tulum, is also home to iguanas and exotic sea birds. It is likely that, just be you, a good book and animals here. If falling asleep, waking only thing that can be the sound of the waves.

18. The best sunset views of Nicaragua – Rancho Santana, a 1,700-acre reserve along the southern coast of Nicaragua, has two miles of coastline and three secluded beaches: Playa Rosada (Rose Beach), Playa Dorada (Playa Golden) and Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach). Situated on a hill, the reserve offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Do not be too quick to leave after taking the sun, sunset here is unbelievably beautiful.

19. Secret bright Panama – Less than 25 miles from Panama City, Contadora Island has beaches white sand, turquoise waters, hidden coves and wildlife observation. The beaches here are much less crowded than in the tourist areas of the country. However, for a private experience, visit the beaches of other islands by boat or jet ski.

20. Argentina's best chill-out session – the Atlantic coast of Argentina-just 200 kilometers from Buenos Aires, offers beautiful scenery, numerous sports activities and a fair amount of solitude. The beaches in the small tourist town Pinamar are pristine and relatively few people. Located next to a pine forest, this area is one of the finest in the country. Moreover, the seafood restaurants here are excellent.

21. Best place for gliders and onlookers Brazil – São Conrado beach, but not too far from downtown Rio de Janeiro, is much less crowded than in Ipanema or Copacabana, and the water is cleaner. Moreover, the conditions here are perfect for hang gliding. If you are not for the experience of floating in the air for hours, watching the gliders is particularly satisfying leisure activity.

22. Brazil's best reason to drive 90 miles – Cabo Frio, located some 90 kilometers north of Rio de Janeiro, offers a retreat rather than Sao Conrado. The beach is practically deserted and is adjacent to a 17th century convent and forts that give a sense Gothic of drama to the experience. Bathers are advised to leave valuables in your safe as thieves in nearby favelas (slums) are known to the area.

23. In Ecuador the best of both worlds – For lovers of natural beaches (as opposed to theme parks), Salinas offers white sand, turquoise waters clear and excellent whale watching. Although this area is technically on the "Ruta del Sol Pacific" (known for its many stations tourists), tends to be less crowded and more friendly. On the other hand, if you need a little excitement, the main road here offers a leisurely stroll, shops, few restaurants and discotheques.

24. Uruguay's best place to go to "that relates only" – Punta del Este is widely known for its ski pending and, as such, tends to be quite resort. The good news is that you do not have to charter a flight to reach the more secluded surroundings. A mere 52 miles from the multitude of Punta del Este, Grande Bay has beautiful beaches (wider, in fact, that their Punta del Este, partners), only a handful of people and blue-green water. Visit the beachfront town of La Paloma, who is known for its remarkable lighthouse.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Travel [http://travel-guided.com]

Summer out West 08