Caracas

Situated in a picturesque valley on the north coast and founded by Diego de Losada in 1567, Venezuela's capital is a bustling metropolis. Fast, progressive and cosmopolitan, Caracas is now highly modernized, retaining little of its colonial character. Its old building buildings have been replaced by gleaming skyscrapers. Nonetheless, there's a rich tradition which guides the town folks in their day-to-day activities.

Although Caracas brags some of the most impressive modern architecture in South America, the vast expanse of ranchos - sprawling slums of tin sheds and cardboard boxes covering the surrounding hills- is a striking contrast to its soaring skyscrapers. This is essentially a product of the uncontrolled surge of post-war immigration.

Stroll the Plaza Bolívar and stop by its 17th century cathedral- the Casa Natal de Bolívar. The city is also home to the birthplace of Simón Bolívar. Santa Capilla, a 19th-century neo-Gothic church modeled on Paris's Sainte Chapelle, is worth a visit. The monumental Palacio de Miraflores and the modern Parque Central are a must. Those who admire history will fall in love with the historical Petares district, which retains much of its colonial character.