New World Heritage sites 2009

Most of us could name a few World Heritage sites across the globe, but each year UNESCO adds some lesser-known locations to a list of more famous names. Reputation isn’t everything though, so here's our pick of the highlights of 2009 new additions that are vying for your affection.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines

Few diving destinations around the world can offer such a personal underwater experience as Tubbataha Reef. Situated off the coast of the Philippines in the Sulu Sea, the isolated reef was formed thousands of years ago when volcanic islands sunk into the ocean. The attached coral reefs weren't willing to go down without a fight and continued growing upwards towards the surface. Over time this resulted in the creation of a unique 100m (328ft) underwater coral wall and two coral islands that are home to over 100 species of bird and 500 different types of fish including manta rays, lionfish and clownfish.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal, Wales

One of the major achievements of the Industrial Revolution, the design of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal in northeastern Wales was used as an inspirational template for similar projects all over the world. The elegance of the structure and the fact that the canal was built without the use of locks is even more impressive given the undulating nature of the landscape that surrounds it. All that engineering innovation, courtesy of pioneering designer Thomas Telford, certainly benefits anyone who visits today. Whether you cross by foot or by boat, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the River Dee valley from 38m (125ft) in the air.

The Dolomites, Italy

Although the Dolomites are hardly a well-kept secret, it's not surprising that the mountain range in northeastern Italy has been acknowledged as a site of global significance. The mountain range is a series of stunning visual contrasts, with pale faced limestone rock faces towering over a variety of different types of forests and meadows. In the spring and summer, take a walk in the Dolomites; watch the sun bounce off glassy lakes and go home with photos of picture-perfect villages or one of the 50 types of orchid found here. In the winter, enjoy some of the most thrilling ski runs on the continent.

The Wadden Sea, Germany/Netherlands

This 400km (248-mile) stretch of coast that covers both Germany and the Netherlands is a nature lover's paradise. As the largest unbroken system of mud and sands flats in the world, it has as unsurprising wealth of bird and marine wildlife. Around 12 million birds, such as the common shelduck and hen harrier, pass through the area throughout the year and the Wadden Sea is a stopping point for migratory journeys from across the globe. These transitory visitors join the more permanent residents, such as harbour and grey seal. Turn inland and vibrant green salt marshes await, or at low tide turn the other way to walk out to one of the nearby islands. Just watch out for the prawns and hermit crabs that are bound to be darting around your feet.

Cidade Velha, Cape Verde Islands

In the south of Santiago Island, the town of Cidade Velha is a testament to Europe's colonial impact on Africa during the slave trade. It was a major stopping point for slaves being transported to the Caribbean and Brazil, and those who disobeyed their masters were punished on the white marble whipping post located in the centre of the town. Potential invaders were faced with the daunting sight of Forte Real de São Filipe, built to see off a variety of pirates, as well as the French and English. Cidade Velha has had its fair share of illustrious visitors; Vasco de Gama and Christopher Columbus moored here on different journeys across the globe.

Mount Wutai, China

Peace and tranquillity is guaranteed for anyone who visits the last of our picks from the 2009 UNESCO World Heritage sites. One of the four sacred Buddhist Mountains in China, Mount Wutai and the 53 sacred monasteries found on its five terraces had a profound affect on the country's palace architecture for 1,000 years. Hundreds of statues line the site, each telling a different story, while the vertical forests that fall away from Mount Wutai spend much of the year topped with a dusting of snow. Designed to show the harmony between man and nature, it's easy to see why pilgrims still visit Mount Wutai today.

Author: Jonathan Moore

Alternative winter break in Chamonix

Snowshoeing under the stars, eating delicious fondue in a traditional wooden mountain chalet, paragliding above one of France's most famous ski resorts... A winter break doesn't have to be all about skiing. Discover alternative snow activities, with our guide to adventure holidays in Chamonix.

Chamonix ski resort

Set at the foot of the Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest mountain, Chamonix is an exciting, bustling town surrounded by five ski resorts: Les Houches, Le Brévent, La Flégère, Grand Montets and Balme. With challenging slopes and plenty of après-ski options and alternative snow activities, Chamonix is a great winter sports destination for adrenaline-junkies of all ages.

Alternative ways to see Chamonix

Paragliding
Take the cable car to the summit of the 3,840m (12,600ft) Aiguille du Midi for spectacular panoramic views. Then on the way back, stop at its halfway point, the Plan de l'Aiguille (2,317m), to paraglide. The 20-minute flight costs around €90 (£80) but this unique experience - the closest one can get to flying like a bird - is well worth the price.

Hors-piste skiing
Chamonix offers some of the world's most challenging terrain, with sensational off-piste options for good skiers, such as the breathtaking 24km (15-mile) Vallée Blanche off-piste run from the top of the Aiguille du Midi and the magnificent off-piste options of Grands Montets. A full-day off-piste session with a ski expert costs around €115 (£102) or €75 (£67) if you join a small group. As for ski gear, you'll have no problem hiring it since the town and its ski resorts are inundated with ski hire businesses.

Snowshoeing
Try a traditional trapper evening: in pitch-black darkness, snowshoe to a mountain refuge for an unforgettable dinner and return by sledge. On a clear night, snowshoeing under the stars is just magical. It can be quite intense exercise but consider it as burning off all the calories you're about to gulp down with one of the best cheese fondues you could have at Les Vieilles Luges (www.lesvieillesluges.com).

Other fun snow activities
Try tobogganing, dog sledding, skijoering (being towed behind a pony on your skis) or ice climbing. In the centre of town, there's also a well-equipped sports complex which has an indoor ice rink and climbing wall.

Chamonix town: shops & après-ski

Chamonix is a charming, lively town with plenty of shops and après-ski bars and pubs to keep you busy. Along the main pedestrianised street, you'll find heaps of shops selling wooden handicraft, as well as regional products like chestnut liquor and saucisson (salami). For après-ski, try the cool Chambre 9, 272 avenue Michel Croz, great for food, drinks and live music. Le Mix Bar, 90 rue des Moulins, is a modern and funky new bar run by two DJ brothers known as The Hoax. For a quieter evening and a chic cocktail by the fireplace, head to The Clubhouse bar, 74 promenade des Sonnailles.

Chamonix hotels

WTG recommends...

Best Western Premier Le Morgane
Sleep at the foot of Mont Blanc in this attractive Savoyard-style hotel. Ideally located footsteps from the Aiguille du Midi cable car and Chamonix town centre, Le Morgane is an eco-friendly 4-star hotel that offers great-value themed packages (well-being, gourmet or ski addict options), from €110 for a double room. All the rooms have balconies with stunning mountain views. The hotel also boasts a spa and fantastic Michelin-starred restaurant. Make sure you try the seasonal cocktail at the bar - a delicious, original mix of champagne, orange juice, secret Christmas spices and vodka.

145 avenue de l'Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Tel: 0033 (0)4 5053 5715.
Website: www.morgane-hotel-chamonix.com

Getting there

Chamonix's nearest airport is Geneva International Airport, Switzerland. Located just 88km (55 miles) from the resort, you can get there in less than 1 hour 30 minutes by shuttle bus (running regularly throughout the day). New budget airline routes to Geneva also mean Chamonix is an achievable destination for a long weekend. Easyjet and British Airways both fly there for around £70 return (inc. taxes).

Insider tip to Chamonix

Chamonix's second Best Western hotel, Les Aiglons, 270 avenue de Courmayeur, has a great mountain spa, with sauna and Turkish bath cabins in the garden and an outdoor heated swimming pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of intense snow activities. Plus, you don't need to be a hotel guest to access the spa and it's only €25 (£22) for one day.

Useful Chamonix links

Chamonix's official website: www.chamonix.com
Evolution 2 (for all snow activities mentioned and off-piste): www.evolution2.com
Compagnie Des Guides (to hire guides): www.chamonix-guides.com

Author: Coralie Modschiedler

Top destinations 2010

With the New Year just a couple of weeks away, get your finger on next year's travel pulse with World Travel Guide's top destinations 2010. From lush Colombian greenery to the gleaming streets of Stockholm, here's a heads up on the places offering travellers the most over the next 12 months.

Colombia

Green mountains, vibrant culture and sun-soaked beaches: Colombia's delights are varied and plentiful. Once plagued by violence and avoided by all but the most hardy of travellers, this South American beauty is now as desirable a destination as its flamboyant Brazilian neighbour. In particular, capital city Bogotá is reaping the rewards of widespread rejuvenation, with visitors enjoying a wealth of intriguing museums, great shopping and a thriving night scene. Outside the capital, hedonists rejoice in the dusk-til-dawn party hotspot Cali, while relaxing days tick slowly by amid the balmy temperatures of Medellín and the laid-back pleasures of coastal Cartagena.

Best time to go: Enjoy dry sunny days in December-March, and July-August.

India

The lively and colourful city of Delhi comes even more alive in 2010 when the Commonwealth Games come to town. India's frantic urban heart is hosting the sporting event from 3-14 October. Delhi is undergoing a series of improvements to prepare for the influx of visitors, including expansions to the metro system and airport, and a hearty push to teach basic English to as many in the hospitality and transport industries as possible. Away from the urban sprawl, this is a vast and diverse land, with tranquil beaches, parched deserts and fresh mountain retreats; for a contrast to Delhi's wonderful chaos, vanish for a spell of rejuvenation in Kerala or embark on one of the country's breathtaking train journeys.

Best time to go: Soak up the buzz of the 2010 Commonwealth Games in October.

New Zealand

New Zealand's crashing waves and emerald mountains are hardly newcomers to the world's travel scene, but with eco and adventure tourism set to continue rocketing in 2010, these windswept isles have taken on an even more prominent position among the world's most relevant outdoorsy destinations; for active holidays that take your breath away, New Zealand remains leader of the pack, boasting winter sports, glacier hiking, trekking, caving, bungee jumping and watersports. As well as catering for no-frills backpacking holidays, New Zealand has fully grasped that eco and adventure have penetrated the luxury market, and offers a range of luxurious green and adventure opportunities, from deluxe wilderness lodges to exclusive natural remedy spas.

Best time to go: For outdoor pursuits, November-April offers the best conditions, while June-August is high season for skiing.

Nepal

From the icy peaks of the Himalayas to the humid plains of Chitwan National Park, Nepal is well and truly open for business. Following an unsettled political period, this mountainous slice of Asia is ready to fully show off its numerous assets. Trekkers are flocking back to the Annapurna region and Everest Base Camp, paragliders can be seen sailing the skies over lakeside Pokara, and the country's national parks are filling with people eager to glimpse impressive wildlife such as the endangered one-horned Indian rhino and the Bengal tiger. Capital city Kathmandu vibrates with swarms of rickshaws, mopeds and wide-eyed travellers; head to frantic Thamel for rooftop bars, lively backpacker hostels, and endless streams of shops stuffed with colourful souvenirs.

Best time to go: See the striking Himalayas at their most welcoming during October-November and March-April.

South Africa

When the sporting world's spotlight hits South Africa next summer, it will not only be shining on football's most famous tournament, but also on one of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth. Africa's southernmost tip is a powerful collage of vast savannas, thundering wildlife and tropical pockets. Cities pack an equally big punch, with cosmopolitan Cape Town promising to be electric during the build up to the 2010 World Cup. Also hosting games, Johannesburg, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port Elisabeth, Nelspruit, Polokwane, Rustenburg and Pretoria will be buzzing with holidaymakers, so join in the urban festivities before escaping the crowds and heading off for adventures in the wildernesses.

Best time to go: Catch World Cup fever in June and July.

Mozambique

As exotic as its name suggests, Mozambique is fast becoming one of Africa's prime destinations. This tropical strip is lapped by a gleaming stretch of Indian Ocean peppered with archipelagos, offering world class diving, snorkelling and fishing. A civil war lasting nearly 20 years once made Mozambique entirely inaccessible, but over the last decade it has steadily emerged onto the travelling map: for golden sands and turquoise waters, this is an idyllic destination. Mozambique has great transport links with neighbouring South Africa, so World Cup travellers can easily pop over the boarder; Mozambique's capital Maputo is only 171km (106 miles), and four hours by bus, from South African city Nelspruit.

Best time to go: Have a dose of golden beach-life from May-November.

Sweden

Sweden's stylish capital is leading the eco way over the next 12 months as the European Green Capital. Gleaming Stockholm is a mesh of 14 islands, slick architecture and fresh green spaces; the city's public transport system largely runs on renewable fuels and Stockholm releases a whacking 50% less green house gases than the national average. A network of pretty cycling routes provides visitors with plenty of eco-friendly sightseeing opportunities, and the addition of clean streets and polite (and extortionately good-looking) people make Stockholm a thoroughly pleasant stay. Once an appetite has been worked up by wandering the city's many art galleries, a platter of fresh seafood is never very far away.

Best time to go: Enjoy balmy temperatures and predominantly clear days from May-October.

Croatia

Following the mass hype a few years ago that touted Croatia as one of Europe's rising stars, the Balkan country is now well and truly established as a holiday destination for all ages. Beachside areas see continual waves of new restaurants and hotels, and increasing crowds of glitterati enjoy the crystal waters and remote beaches via their shiny yachts. For a cultural break, the walled city of Dubrovnik is found in Croatia's southernmost point and features stunning baroque architecture and cosy cafés. Dubrovnik Carnival in February is a great way to get a taster of traditional Croatian life, which includes an eclectic mix of musicians and even jousting. Croatia has also emerged as one of Europe's leading wine producers, with both coastal and inland wine regions to explore.

Best time to go: See Croatia's popular beaches at their best from May-September.

Turkey

2010 is Istanbul's year to shine. As one of the year's European Capitals of Culture (along with Pécs in Hungary and Essen in Germany), the Turkish city is gearing up for a flourish of exciting new cultural events, and mass promotion of the city's numerous established galleries, historic buildings and festivals. From the 1st Istanbul Literature Festival to Turkey's largest ever stadium concert by Irish rockers U2, the next 12 months will see Istanbul bursting with activity. Escape the bustle with a daytrip to nearby Princes' Islands: this is a car-free zone, so hop in a caleche (horse-drawn carriage) to enjoy the views. Outside the capital, Turkey has an abundance of attractive coastline - slip away to its Mediterranean shores for clean beaches and inviting seas.

Best time to go: Avoid the intense summer heat by visiting in April-May and September-October.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the glamorous United Arab Emirates' largest and richest component, and it is shimmying its way to the top of the luxury tourism ladder, eclipsing neighbouring Dubai. While Dubai's "biggest is best" mantra has become a bit passé, Abu Dhabi is established as the UAE's cultural, financial and political hub; the capital city is now in the midst of creating an impressive high-end cultural district on Saadiyat Island, whose rainbow of glossy attractions will include a vast Guggenheim Museum. A prominent expat community means English is widely spoken across Abu Dhabi, and, for those with a large enough wallet, a decadent lifestyle of golden champagne in glittering cocktail bar Cristal and no-expense-spared nights at the Emirates Palace awaits with open, well-dressed arms.

Best time to go: Visit in October-November and February-March to avoid the most stifling summer heat and the possibility of chilly December and January days.

Author: Ruth-Ellen Davis

World Cup 2010: England match guide

Follow England on their pursuit to South Africa World Cup 2010 glory and discover more about the match locations, from where to celebrate wins to sightseeing highlights.

Match 1: England Vs USA

Date: 12 June 2010
Kick off time: 2030
Location: Rustenberg, South Africa

Set in the heart of the savannah bushland, Rustenberg is nestled at the foothills of the breathtaking Magaliesburg Mountains. The internationally renowned Sun City resort is on the doorstep. Billed as South Africa's premier holiday resort visitors can marvel at the stunning view over the sprawling savannah and majestic mountains with a hot air balloon ride, cool off at the Valley of Waves water park or explore the resort's very own jungle.

The Rustenburg Nature Reserve lies on the edge of the Magaliesberg Protected Natural Environment and is dominated by the rocky ridges of the Magaliesberg, with sightings of roaming kudu, antelopes, leopards and over 230 species of birds all common.

Where to celebrate: Make like the locals and celebrate a win in true African style at a Lucky's Tavern for traditional music and festivities or head to Castle Corner, Heystek Street, and party with fellow World Cup supporters at the English-style pub.

Explore further afield: Take a short drive to the energetic city of Johannesburg and explore the city's highlights, including vibrant Soweto, Gold Reef City Theme Park and Casino, the Johannesburg Zoo and Military History Museum, the culturally alive Newtown district, and the excellent thought-provoking Apartheid Museum.

Match 2: England Vs Algeria

Date: 18 June 2010
Kick off: 2030
Location: Cape Town, South Africa

With its stunning bay location, surrounded by wild, white-sand beaches and set against the canvas of Table Mountain, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

There is a vast amount to see and do in Cape Town, however, the compact centre is easy to navigate. One of the most iconic attractions is the defining landmark of Table Mountain. The cable car to the summit takes just six minutes and rotates through 360 degrees on the way up ensuring everyone gets to take in the entire view. Once at the top explore the mountain on a walking trail, or marvel at the view from one of the look-out points.

It might be South Africa's winter in June, but with many sunny days it is still perfect for exploring Cape Town's spectacular beaches. The stretch known as Millionaire's Row is the place to celeb spot, and the four beaches in Clifton are some of the city's finest.

Head further out to Cape Point, for amazing views of the city. Have lunch in the Two Oceans Restaurant, sat high above the crashing waves of False Bay.

Where to celebrate: Cape Town is a party town, which attracts frequent visits from international DJs and a lively crowd, so there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from for post-World Cup match revelry. Head to Mama Afrika, 178 Long Street, for great local food and live music in a rowdy atmosphere - you might even get to bang the bongos in celebration.

Explore further afield: Take a drive to the nearby township of Gugulethu and try some authentic South African food at a popular Mzoli braai place (barbecue) and sample some Umngqusho Nenyama (samp and beans with stew). Those with more time on their hands can make the most of the five days until England's third match in Port Elizabeth and take the scenic drive along the Garden Route. Stop off at the quaint town of Knysna and visit the local elephant sanctuary where you can feed the gentle giants and watch them roam free, and explore the many local townships and luring vineyards en route.

Match 3: England Vs Slovenia

Date: 23 June 2010
Kick off: 1600
Location: Nelson Mandela Bay / Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Nelson Mandela Bay / Port Elizabeth is surrounded by immaculate beaches and boasts wonderful Victorian architecture and the city also has the richest collection of Art Nouveau buildings in South Africa - making for a pretty base from which to explore the local 5-star game lodges, the sunshine coast, with its rugged unspoiled beaches and Hogsback, which is rumored to be the inspiration for the Lord of the Rings books.

As the country's second-oldest city, Nelson Mandela Bay / Port Elizabeth has a plethora of historical attractions. Follow the popular Donkin Heritage Walking Trail, which takes in a whopping 47 attractions, including the King George VI art gallery, an open-air theatre, a conservatory, numerous churches and an opera house.

If you want to experience Africa's wildlife, the Kragga Kamma Game Park is only 30 minutes from the city centre and is home to rhinos, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe and zebra - all roaming free in natural surroundings with guided driving tours a must-do.

Where to celebrate: The city has a vibrant nightlife and the popular Gondwana Lounge situated on the beachfront is a popular spot and sets the scene for a joyous evening of World Cup celebration.

Explore further afield: An hour's drive away, Port Alfred offers some breathtaking views and further on East London is a great spot for enjoying lunch at a beachfront restaurant. If you want to see what rural life in Africa is all about then head to Dutywa and listen to the wonderful stories of the locals, or take in the village of Qunu which is home to the Nelson Mandela Museum and just minutes from the hero's home.

Situated about 40km (25 miles) north of the city centre, Ado National Park is home to around 450 elephants and offers an unrivalled opportunity to view the 'big seven' - buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino, plus the Southern Right Whale and Great White Shark.

South Africa World Cup 2010 tickets:

It is still possible to nab a pass to the footy action, with tickets being released in phases during these dates:

5 December 2009 - 22 January 2010
9 February - 7 April 2010
15 April - 11 July 2010

To buy your World Cup 2010 tickets visit www.fifa.com.

Author: Caroline Cullern

Plane-free ski holidays

If spending hours stuck queuing at the airport with two six-foot planks stuck to your back doesn’t sound like the perfect start to your ski holiday, swap the plane for a train for a hassle-free journey.

Whichever European resort you choose to visit, your journey will probably begin with a high-speed connection from Ebbsfleet, Ashford or London St Pancras. Just make sure that when you're watching the European countryside roll by with a glass of bubbly in hand, spare a thought for the unlucky folks eating cardboard food with knees around their head thousands of feet above you.

Culture rich: Innsbruck, Austria

Any ski destination that has hosted the Winter Olympics (as Innsbruck did in 1964 and 1976) obviously has some powdery pedigree, but there's much more to be done in Innsbruck than simply gliding around on a pair of skis. Innsbruck offers miles of ski runs for different levels of ability, and 25 of the surrounding village sites are easily accessible by bus. Aside from the slopes, the city itself is well worth a visit. The Tyrolean capital boasts stunning architecture and wonderful Christmas markets that light up the old town or Marktplatz. Anyone who feels like venturing into the surrounding countryside on foot rather than by ski can enjoy the 96km (60 miles) of hiking trails surrounding the city.

Party time: St Anton, Austria

The perfect destination for people who want to spend as much time in the bar as on the slopes, St Anton has become a prime destination for skiers who want to burn the candle at both ends. There are a huge number of bars and clubs, such as the Krazy Kangeruh and Mooserwirt. You don't even have to wait until the evening to get the party started; things get going here in the mid-afternoon and don't stop until the early hours. If the late nights start to wear you down and you need a little help traversing the slopes in the early morning, a horse drawn sleigh ride into the stunning Ferwall valley may be the perfect tonic (just skip the gin).

Extreme ski: Chamonix, France

Chamonix's reputation as a world class resort is well warranted. The five resorts of Brevent, Flegere, Grands Montets/Argentiere, Les Houches and Le Tour each have their own characteristics, and experienced skiers looking for exciting drops and swooping curves will not be disappointed. Chamonix's lenient ski patrol pretty much allows you to ski anything you can find, so once you have shared the lifts with the crowds, if you're willing and confident to venture forward alone, before long you'll find a thrilling stretch of snow to call your own. Alternatively, if you want the experience without running the risk of being stuck on a mountain top overnight, then off-piste guides can be easily hired in Chamonix.

Ski zen: Bardonecchia, Italy

Italy's Bardonecchia ski resort is perfect for skiers looking for a more laid-back experience. The terrain will generally suit beginner and intermediate skiers, but Bardonecchia is close to a host of different resorts in both Italy and France for the best of both worlds. Hire a car and immerse yourself in the stunning surrounding scenery, knowing that whenever you decide to return, a gentle skiing challenge and a quiet evening of contemplation await. There are rarely queues for lifts during the week, but be warned, the resort attracts many weekenders from Turin.

Snow fun: St Moritz, Switzerland

St Moritz is a resort as much about image as it is about skiing. Glitzy and glamorous, it offers a range of weird and wonderful activities that you won't find at your average ski destination. If the skiing becomes a little routine, test your skills in a relaxing round of winter golf. Or perhaps you've always wanted a game of cricket in the snow, or even a game of polo? Make sure you put on the skis regularly or you might forget why you're here. Even if it does slip you mind, the stunning array of gourmet food and regular music festivals will more than make up for it.

Author: Jonathan Moore

Seven days in Buenos Aires

A cacophony of speeding cars, brimming restaurants and passionate people, Buenos Aires is not a city for the fainthearted. After 12 months of world-class beef and dimly-lit tango halls, Ruth-Ellen Davis gives her insider's guide to a fun-filled first week in the Argentine capital.

Monday

Pretty Palermo is one of Buenos Aires' most tourist-friendly barrios (neighbourhoods). After a morning wandering around the boutiques of Palermo Soho, pick up some empanadas (savoury Latin American pastries) and take the 30-minute stroll to Palermo Park for a picnic in the rose garden.

After some sunny lounging, head for a hot stone massage at chic Home Hotel's spa (book in advance) followed by a freshly made cocktail at their poolside bar.

Finish your first BA day with the bustling and greasy delights of an Argentine parilla (meat restaurant). Palermo's El Trapiche, Paraguay 5599, is a reliable favourite; as well as thick slabs of prime Argentine beef, the more adventurous can try morcilla (blood sausage), chinchulines (intestines) and molleja (sweetbread).

Tuesday

Tick off one of the city's most popular attractions: La Recoleta Cemetery. This veritable village of tombs is found in the exclusive barrio of Recoleta, and marks the resting place of some of the country's most prestigious figures including Argentina's famous first lady, Eva Perón.

Tuck into a hearty steak sandwich at nearby La Biela, Avenida Quintana 600. Skip dessert and head to Un Altra Volta, Avenida Santa Fe 1826, for a double scoop of their mouthwatering dulce de leche flavour ice cream.

After lunch, explore Recoleta's high-end shops amid the grand French architecture. As evening draws in, hop in a cab to Milion, Paraná 1048 - a wonderfully ostentatious bar and restaurant in a converted mansion - and chill out with a frozen basil daiquiri or three.

Wednesday

Spend a relaxed morning in one of the city's many cafés, enjoying a café con leche (coffee with milk) and as many medialunas (Argentinian croissant) as you can muster.

Head to the MALBA (Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires), Avenida Figueroa Alcorta 3415, for a tranquil afternoon taking in exciting works from a variety of Latin American artists and international names; Andy Warhol's Mr America exhibition runs until 9 February 2010.

Thursday

Dive into the hustle and bustle of Florida, Microcentro's pedestrianised shopping precinct, lined with cut-price clothing and cheap leather goods.

Once you've purchased enough five peso T-shirts to last a lifetime, pop into the Richmond Café, Florida 468, once a popular haunt of Buenos Aires' literary and political elite, including the late writer Jorge Luis Borges.

Afterwards, take the short walk to the Casa Rosada, Avenida de Mayo, from whose balcony Eva Perón famously rallied the masses (and 50 years on Madonna sang Don't Cry for Me Argentina in Evita). Every Thursday at 1530, the Madres de Plaza de Mayo - a group of mothers whose children vanished during the military dictatorship of 1976-1983 - walk around the Plaza for 30 minutes, before giving a short speech.

Spend the evening appreciating mouthfuls of Argentina's famously fine wine with an organised wine tasting; Anuva Wines can arrange tastings at restaurants and hotels, as well as in their own cellars.

Friday

Take a tour to La Boca. This colourful barrio has bags of personality, with a continual stream of tourists flocking to see the painted rainbow of houses and arty souvenirs of the pedestrian street Caminito.

La Boca is also home to La Bonbonera - the stadium of BA's most famous team, Boca Juniors. An Argentinian football game is an exhilerating experience, but tourists are targets for pickpockets and crowds can get pretty rowdy. It is wise to book through agencies such as Plan BA who can provide an escort, or larger tour agencies such as Tangol. Whoever you book through, don't leave without picking up a choripan (chorizo sausage in a bread roll) for the authentic experience.

Wind down with an evening's stroll along Puerto Madero's pristine waterfront, and swing by the Faena Hotel and Universe for the city's best tango show, Fridays 2030. After the show, hang out in the fabulous Library Bar; in Argentinian terms, this is a rather pricey place for a drink, but, when surrounded by rich leather, deep red velvet and glittering chandeliers, it seems a pretty justified splash out.

Saturday

After a deservedly lengthy lie in, take a deep green breath at the Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur (Avenida Tristán Achaval Rodríguez 1550). This nature reserve is popular with tourists and locals a like, and boast lakes, tall grasses and picnickers a plenty.

For a buzzing Buenos Aires Saturday night, either opt for a milonga (tango hall) in San Telmo, where couples of all ages dance cheek-to-cheek right through the night, or, for something more up tempo, party til dawn at one of the super clubs down on Costanera Norte. Pacha, with its terrace and views over the river, is one of the most popular. Clubs don't generally get going until about 2am.

Sunday

The Sunday market on San Telmo street Defensa is a colourful and lively affair, with stalls piled high with antiques, clothing, jewellery, traditional Argentine leather products, paintings and a whole jumble of other items. Street musicians add to the convivial atmosphere and cafés spill out onto the pavement, providing many a spot to people watch.

After heading back to the hotel room for a little nap, finish the week in true Argentine style, with a hearty slab of steak and several glasses of red wine at San Telmo parilla Desnivel, Defensa 858.

Insider tip to Buenos Aires: Keep a good pocketful of change as coins are scarce. Smaller shops will give change in sweets or even refuse to serve you if they don't have enough change. Break larger bank notes at supermarkets and restaurants.

Author: Ruth-Ellen Davis