October 12 (or the nearest Monday to it) is traditionally commemorated throughout the Americas as the day Christopher Columbus arrived in 1492. In English speaking countries, the day is celebrated as Columbus Day or Native American Day. In Spanish speaking countries and communities, is is known as Día de la Raza, the Day of the Race.

Read more about Christopher Columbus, also known as Cristoforo Colombo and Cristóbal Colón.

Beaches, dune buggies, fishing boats. miscommunication, self-aggrandizement and trickery mark the challenges the remaining ten teams of the Amazing Race face in achieving success, or not, in northeastern Brazil.

Keep up with all the action in The Amazing Race Episodes in South America.

Photo of fishing boats along a Fortaleza beach thanks to ClipArt.com.

Fordors advises travelers to Deal in local currency: "Before you charge something, ask the merchant whether or not he or she plans to do a dynamic currency conversion (DCC). In such a transaction the credit-card processor (a shop, restaurant, or hotel, for instance) converts the currency and charges you in dollars. In most cases you'll pay the merchant a 3% fee for this service in addition to any credit-card company and issuing-bank foreign-transaction surcharges. DCC is optional—speak up to avoid these hidden charges. American Express card carriers needn't bother; DCC is not offered at all."

Exchange Your Money where feasible for small purchases, local transportation, tips, and the like.

This view of the Lost City of Machu Picchu, seen from Huayna Picchu, presents a different perspective on the terraces, scope and intricacy of the ruins. Note: Machu Picchu means Old Mountain in the local dialect and Huayna Picchu is Young Peak.

Click on the photo or the link for more information about this prime destination in Peru. Do you have a photo that you'd like to see featured as our photo of the week? If you do, send it to me via the Submit a Photo Form.

Photograph displayed with the kind permission of Katie Duran