Boats in Brazil

With the recent announcements that the 2016 Olympic Games and 2014 FIFA World Cup would be hosted by Brazil, the largest country in South America is now being propelled into the spotlight as one of the top travel destinations for this new decade.  While these major sports attractions are historical events in themselves, Brazil happens to be one of the most diverse places on the planet offering its visitors a glorious coastline, bustling metropolitan cities, and a tropical rainforest that promises adventures abound. 

For your first trip to Brazil, it is wise to sample a little of all the country has to offer.  Once you have completed your trip and you have discovered what you love best, you will then know where to further explore when you return in the future (and I can promise you that you will return).  I recently visited Brazil myself and followed an itinerary that I highly recommend.  I can confidently say that I experienced the real Brazil and was of course left wanting more.

I started my 10-day trip in the northern sea-side village of Porto de Galinhas.  Porto is about a 1 hour car ride away from Recife, the city you must fly into in order to get to Porto.  It is known for its awesome reefs and breathtaking beaches. 

Beach in Brazil

For scuba diving and/or snorkeling enthusiasts, there are many dive shops in the center of town.  There is no need to book in advance, just show up and they will book your water activities that same day.

As for the beaches, well, no matter which one you chose you can be certain that you will never want to leave!  One of the reasons why so many Brazilians choose to vacation in Porto is that the beaches are more secluded than others in the country, allowing for true relaxation.

After Porto, I returned to civilization in the famed city of Rio de Janeiro.  I was there wearing my white dress for the extraordinary New Year’s Eve fireworks show on Copacabana Beach.  I strongly suggest you plan your trip either around New Year’s Eve or Carnival, because these celebrations are experiences of a lifetime.  Take note that arrangements should be made at least 6 months in advance for these holidays.

Rio de Janeiro

Cidade Maravilhosa, or Marvelous City, as Rio is affectionately called by the locals, is one of the most beloved cities throughout the world, and it will not take you but 5 minutes after arriving to understand why.  Besides the fact that it is simply picturesque, the city offers a multitude of activities; from making the pilgrimage to the top of Corcovado Mountain to see the statue of Christ the Redeemer (1 of the 7 Wonders of the World) to touring one of the notorious favelas to taking in a soccer game in Maracana the world’s largest stadium to sunbathing on sands of Ipanema Beach.

Each day I was there was filled with one joyous adventure after another.  Although I struggled to decide what activities I could fit into my busy schedule, I always made sure that I found time to enjoy a caipirinha or two. 

My final stop on my trip was to Manaus, the gateway into the Amazon.  From Manaus, I boarded a boat which led me up the Amazon River deeper into the jungle.  I stayed in an eco-lodge, however depending on your preference there are ways to see the Amazon on all budgets.

On the daily excursions I was introduced to the native flora and fauna.  The indigenous people that you will most likely encounter on you tours will take delight in showing off their “pets,” which will include animals such as sloths, monkeys, and crocodiles.  I was even brave enough to wear an anaconda around my neck when I was presented with one.

At night as we would float down the river in our canoes I really did have to pinch myself a couple of times.  Between the intense starry sky and the sound of the animals singing, it felt completely surreal.  What a perfect ending to a perfect trip!

If you intend to take multiple domestic flights within Brasil you should consider purchasing the Brazil Airpass, which starts at 4 domestic flights for $500 and goes all the way up to 9 domestic flights for $1100.  I decided to purchase the 4-flight package, as it saved me a lot of money.

So, what are you waiting for?  Apply for your Brazil visa  right here (http://passportsandvisas.com/visas/brazil.asp), download some Samba music to your Ipod to get you in the mood, and book your ticket to this enchanting land.

– Andi Perullo