Tarija (Bolivia)

Epicureans will enjoy staying in Tarija, a city full of smiles and Bolivian wine, which is located over 1,860 metres above sea level. The majority of Bolivia's wine production occurs in Tarija's green hills.

Less known than their Argentine or Chilean neighbours, true Bolivians manage to defend themselves rather well. Put your prejudices aside and throw yourself into exploring the region's bodegas by bike. Who knew you could exercise and have fun at the same time!

First taste: I'm pleasantly surprised by the incredibly sweet flavour of my Bolivian Cabernet Sauvignon. The winemaker explained that it tasted like tropical fruits because of the vines' intense exposure to the sun's UV rays. And then? A two-hour walk through the green and ochre scenery of this wine region.

Tarija is the perfect placeto relax in when travelling in Bolivia. It's also where I drank my first Poncho Negro, a drink based on Singani and Coca-Cola. I'd like to give a special mention to the Tarijeños, the city's residents, who seemed much more friendly than the Bolivians in the north. That might be because of the climate, who knows...