1. Brazilian Beaches
René Nakaya/Setur Ubatuba
Photo: Ubatuba, in São Paulo
2. Amazing Landscapes & Ecosystems
Leonid Streliaev/SETUR Rio Grande do Sul
Photo: Itaimbezinho Canyon, in Aparados da Serra National Park.
3. Cities and Towns
Patricia Ribeiro
Photo: São Paulo
4. Brazilian Culture
For hundreds of years, Brazilian culture has been in the making by people with a very diverse ethnic and cultural heritage. A glorious mix of contributions is imprinted in the culture that generated easily recognizable expressions such as bossa nova, capoeira, and the yellow soccer jersey. Strong cultural resilience sustains, for example, the efforts of indigenous peoples and African-Brazilians as they reaffirm their sense of identity through strife. And it's safe to say that the people who have created Brazil are, as a rule, friendly to foreign tourists.5. Celebrations & Events
Luciano Ferreira/Prefeitura do Recife
Yes, we have Carnival. And because it's a countrywide celebration, up-and-coming cities are gradually drawing more attention as options to leaders Rio, Salvador, Recife and Olinda.
However, there's much more to the Brazilian calendar. For example, many international travelers have discovered that Reveillon, the Brazilian New Year, is as much fun as Carnival. Here's a sample of the diversity of Brazil's festivals and events:
Photo: Reveillon in Recife6. Brazilian Cuisine
From open fire pits tended in the open fields of Rio Grande do Sul by gaúchos, the South American cowboys, to upscale restaurants abroad, barbecue is one of the trends that have brought international attention to Brazilian food.
More than ever in Brazil, typical dishes share the culinary scene with a growing team of great chefs who are writing a whole new chapter in Brazilian dining. One of the best ways to get in touch with this diversity is through one of Brazil's many food festivals, such as:
- Brasil Sabor, the largest culinary festival in Brazil
- Comida di Buteco, the annual Belo Horizonte Bar Food Contest
7. Travel-Friendly Weather
Not all the time, not everywhere. And weather is definitely a very personal issue. But in Brazil, the right planning can improve your year-round chances of finding a place where the sky is blue and the temperature invites you to be outdoors. Northeastern coastal cities like Fortaleza have about 300 days of sunshine a year. Fall and winter travel in a great part of Brazil is delightful, with cool sunrises, a general shedding of sweaters during unbeliavably bright sunny days and clear, chilly nights that are perfect for cuddling by the fireplace.8. Brazil's Hotels
Quinta do Bucanero
In recent years, the hotel industry in Brazil has taken great strides. Major hotel chains are investing confidently in a market that also benefits from local initiatives. There is an increase in the number of both upscale hotels and quality budget accommodations.
Photo: Quinta do Bucanero, in Santa Catarina