Where?

La Paz, Bolivia

Why now?

La Paz is among the hottest emerging destinations for 2017. And
if you think that’s a lofty statement, you should check out its
recently opened Atix Hotel, resting some 3,650
metres above sea level on the Andes’ Altiplano plateau – the first
Design Hotel to open in the city.

The Bolivian capital is the second highest city in the world,
its buildings carved into the surrounding mountains. Here you’ll
find an eclectic range of architecture; nineteenth century churches
and worn Spanish colonial buildings rub shoulders with the
40,000-capacity Estadio Hernando Siles sports arena.

As October through April heralds the southern hemisphere’s
spring and summer, with temperatures clinging between a pleasant
nine and 21 degrees celsius, it’s the ideal time to discover the
country’s rich and unique culture.

When to go?

Bear in mind that, though it’s the city’s warmest time of year,
between December and March it’s also the rainy season. An average
rainfall of 200-800 mm can be expected. This doesn’t make travel
impossible, but some roads do flood. The best time to visit is in
the months just before or after the wet season, such as October,
November, April and May – you’ll still benefit from the warmer
temperatures but save the need for rain gear.

Who to take with you?

Someone with a sense of adventure and an appreciation for the
unique.

Most likely to bump into?

Aside from the dreadlocked ‘gap-yahs’, dripping in ethnic
jewellery (don’t be put off), you’ll likely encounter visitors
using La Paz as a base for outdoors expeditions.

Don’t miss

Be sure to visit El Mercado de Hechicería, the Witches’ Market.
Located along Calles Jiménez and Linares between Sagárnaga and
Santa Cruz, you’ll find wares such as dried toucan beaks and llama
foetuses, each part of mystic Aymarán folk remedies. Be sure to ask
before snapping photos as this could be met with some
hostility.

Essentials to bring with you

If you have any concerns about the altitude, be sure to pick up
a preventative medication such as Acetazolamide. However, know that
there is no real substitute for becoming acclimatised, many
travellers experience illness within the first few days of their
visit. Bring comfortable shoes for exploring and warmer layers for
when the temperature drops at night (it can reach 0 degree
celsius). Don’t forget a water bottle – it’s important to stay
hydrated at higher altitudes.

How to get there

Before booking a trip to La Paz, be prepared for a long-haul
flight. Total travel time from London is just over 20
hours. Most flights include a stopover in Florida which many take a
second pitstop in
Lima or another major
South American city. Return flights cost between £650 and
£900.