See the wonderful Byzantine mosaics in the churches of Ravenna, some of which are 1,500 years old. A trip to the Basilica di San Vitale is a must - the mosaics are the most impressive and of great significance. Buy a combo ticket and also see the mosaics of Basilica di Sant'Appollinare Nuovo. In total there are eight UNESCO sites. Have a wander around the historic centre, Piazza del Popolo and don't forget a visit to Dante's tomb while you're there.

www.ravennamosaici.it
Google map: bit.ly/ADKo91

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Take a trip to the mines of Cerro Rico in Potosi, once famous for silver. In the mines it is claustrophobic, hard to breathe and hot but a trip down these narrow tunnels gives an emotional insight into the miner's world and their way of life. Mouths stuffed with coca leaves, they slave on for hours spurred on by the gifts of drinks and dynamite that tourists bring from the miner’s market. Tours are run by ex-miners who talk about the history and legends of the mines, including ‘El Tio’, a figure who the miners make offerings to, to keep them safe. The tour is not easy, but definitely worth it to see how the miners work. You will definitely appreciate your own job more!!

Koala Tours: Calle Ayacucho #3, 33 Potosí, Bolivia.
www.koalabolivia.com

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At 2,847m high, it was no easy task climbing Volcano Villaricca but it was definitely one of the highlights of our gap year in South America. I did wonder if we would make it to the top, the last part is ice and we wore crampons, but the views and the sight of lava in the crater made this an experience not to be missed. The way down is much more fun as you slide through tunnels in the snow. Don’t miss the hot springs ‘Los Pozones’ in the evening, it definitely eased our aching muscles.

Andesmar on O’Higgins 480, Pucon: www.turismoandesmar.com

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Approximately four and a half hours south of Rio, Trindade is a small village on the coast with some of the most stunning beaches in Brazil. White sand contrasted with turquoise sea and framed by green forests - it is like paradise. Sometimes you might be the only person on the beach,there are no crowds here.There are also waterfalls and natural pools to explore - don't miss the 'rock that swallows'. Stay at the chilled out Sea and Forest Hostel with log cabins amid the trees to complete your experience.

seaandforesthostel.com/
Rua das Flores, Trindade, Paraty
+55 2498375690
Google map: bit.ly/qwwNo3

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In the driest desert in the world, a company called Space runs star gazing tours. The view of the night sky is fantastic - there are more stars than you could ever imagine and we were able to spot Mars, Saturn and Sirius as well as many constellations. French astronomer Alain talks through the signs of the zodiac and entertains with his hilarious stories. Despite the sub-zero temperatures, this is an experience not to be missed, and the hot chocolate at the end will warm up those freezing toes. Also not to be missed in the Atcama is the sunset at Valle de la Luna - watching the colours appear over the lunar landscapes is out of this world.

Space: Caracoles 166, San Pedro de Atacama
+56-55-851935
www.spaceobs.com
Google map: bit.ly/bef0Vk

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