Hey Mark. I guess it depends if you're looking at it from a UK/US perspective. Which I always assumed most of the members on this forum are from.

The most popular continent to travel for Europeans is by far, Europe. For obvious reasons.

If you're talking about the exotic, then yes, I have to agree that South America is where it's at. And for very good reason. It's got EVERYTHING !!

Easy Visas, no carnets, low cost(ish), great people, easy travel, good infrastructure, great food and awesome roads and scenery.
However, I think the biggest factor is the diversity. You've got everything from rain forests to Glaciers, ancient temples to modern luxuries. Even though it's 'exotic' , it's also got a European 'theme' to it. You can tell the Spanish and Portuguese were there. And I suppose it's not too difficult to learn some basic Spanish before you go.

If you compare that to crossing Africa is central Asia, it's a whole different ball game. Changing languages, Visa Woes, expensive carnets, impossible to learn languages etc etc.

South America is easy and incredibly rewarding. There's a reason that even the most seasoned hard core travellers keep going back.

To answer your question about India/Pakistan. I think Pakistan put's off A LOT of people. Axis of evil and all that !! It's hard to not absorb the Rhetoric about such places.

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Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.