Latin America

Spread across an area of approximately 19,197,000 km sq. (7,412,000 sq mi), covering almost 13% of the Earth’s land surface, Latin America is a large region that consists of 13 dependencies and 20 countries stretching from the northern border of Mexico to the southern tip of South America, including the Caribbean. As of 2016, its population was estimated to be more than 639 million and in 2014, Latin America had a combined nominal GDP of US$5,573,397 million and a GDP PPP of 7,531,585 million USD.
It is full of diversity, culture, and traditions and is well known for the hospitality and happiness of its people.
Until the 19th-century, most Latin-American countries were colonies of Spain and Portugal. This European influence was very important and contributed to the language and religion, as well as the culture and food. Latin America is a combination of European and indigenous customs and practices, along with traditions brought by Africans to the continent during colonial times.
Some quick facts:

• The region has a population of over 600 million people
• Portuguese is spoken in Brazil, but Spanish is the main language in most Latin American countries. However, different accents, words, and phrases create local adaptations and identities.
• The population is a mixture of different ethnicities. The majority identify themselves as mestizos, a mixture of European, indigenous, and African ancestors.
• Chile and Argentina are large wine producers.
• Brazil is the world’s largest coffee and sugar producer.
• Colombia produces about 90% of the world’s emeralds.
• Venezuelan women have won more beauty titles than any other country.
• Soccer is really popular in the region, and there is strong, passionate support for the local and national teams.

With so many different influences and local variations, the many traditions, foods, and cultural elements of the entire region can be overwhelming.