Chile is Latin America at its finest. Unlike its neighbors, when you land at Santiago’s clean, modern airport, speed into town via its new freeway system, drink the water from any tap in the country, or make use of the medical facilities, you’ll feel distinctly First World. It has the lowest level of corruption in Latin America, the strongest economy, the highest standard of living, and lowest level of poverty. It boasts primary and secondary roads that are fast and well maintained from one end of the country to the other, modern telephone and cell service, high-speed Internet, and quality cable TV.

In Northern Chile, Valle de Luna’s lack of humidity means it can’t sustain any kind of life–no animals, birds, or plants. So…silence.

Built around a quiet sheltered cove, and surrounded by ancient oaks and pines, the beach here is excellent for swimming and sunbathing.

I often wish I could find an old Spanish colonial city that was also near the beach, which would satisfy two of my personal property cravings with a single purchase. Now I’ve found it.

Now is one of the best times to make an investment in Chile. I’ll explain why in just a moment. First, however, let me explain why Chile is one of my favorite places in the world.

I could see the big wave coming while it was still a long way from shore, one of those waves that reward the surfers who patiently hang around far out from the beach. I could see that one of the half dozen surfers out there had it timed just right; he paddled furiously and caught the wave perfectly while his companions were left behind.

Santiago, Chile–the next city to fall under our Roving Latin America Editor’s grueling review. How will it fare? Read on…