All about the Beach in Brazil

As the 5th largest country in the world, Brazil's boundaries encompass a stunning variety of climates, topographies, cultures and ecosystems. Eons of sandy coastline, lush Amazonian rainforests, interesting colonial towns, the impressive Iguaçu Falls, and the colorful, buzzing metropolis of Rio de Janeiro are just a few of the highlights you can expect when visiting this intriguing destination. And no doubt the best thing about Brazil is its people – open, inquisitive, passionate, welcoming, spontaneous and always ready for fun, they will certainly make an impression upon you. The following itinerary definitely has a coastal flavor to it, although Brazil has much to love in its interior as well.

Start your Brazilian adventures by flying into...

Rio or Sao Paolo and connecting directly to the city of Florianopolis, to the south. As a way to ease into your travels, we recommend a few days relaxing at Ponta dos Ganchos, a romantic property set on an intimate beach near the quaint fishing town of Santa Teresa. The seclusion of this resort is most welcomed after the chaos of flying, and days here are lazy and relaxed. In addition to the stunning setting, one of the highlights of staying here is the food – one of Brazil's few Relais and Chateaux properties, the resort is know for its heavenly cuisine; even breakfast is a 10-course tasting menu! One day you'll have a private boat excursion to explore the nearby coastline and some of its islands – a perfect way to relax and appreciate the area at the same time. On your last evening, Ponta dos Ganchos' private island is reserved for dinner – just the two of you, as a surprise for your loved one. But otherwise, soak up the sun, enjoy each other's company, and appreciate the blessings of life as the Brazilians do.

When you're ready for some excitement, you'll...

fly to the colonial city of Salvador, Brazil's former capital, also located on the coast. The twisting cobblestone streets of the central Pelourihno district are lined with pastel mansions, stunning baroque churches, and colorful open-air markets. Colorful Baiana women wearing traditional dress dot the streets. Spontaneous performances by local music clubs and street-corner demonstrations of capoeira dancing mean new discoveries await at every turn. You too will have a chance to try capoeira – a local master will teach you the moves, as well as the music, as you learn accompanying rhythm on the bongos. Salvador is also a fantastic place to do some shopping and dine al fresco at a charming restaurant or café. We've arranged for you to stay at one of the most charming places in town, the lovingly resorted Aram Yami, in the historic quarter overlooking the ocean, just outside the old town.

After Salvador, fly south to Rio, where you'll be met by a private driver for an easy 2.5 hour trip to the seaside town of Buzios. Made famous in the 1960s by the vacationing Bridgette Bardot, Buzios is a sophisticated yet laid-back paradise. There are a handful of charming accommodations, including Solito Boutique Hotel, where you'll stay. The hotel's vibe is somewhat retro but chic, cool yet comfortable. From here it's easy walking distance to this historic fishing village's international caliber seafood restaurants, many of the peninsula's 26 beaches, nightlife options and shops that stay open until dawn. If you are looking for a chilled out beach town with just enough to do but not too much, Buzios is your place.

And finally, on to Rio for three nights to...

explore this vibrant city including its rugged hills and miles of sandy beaches. Music, nightlife, dining, shopping, museums, sights, rainforest – Rio captures your attention and your heart. Your nights will be spent at Rio's most sophisticated address, the Fasano Hotel, located in the heart of the city's famous Ipanema Beach district. Your room overlooks the beach, but the roof-top pool is surely the place to be, whether working on your tan or working on a Caipirinha (Brazil's national drink) at the fashionable pool bar.

While in Rio, there is ...

no end to cool things to do. For adrenaline junkies, there are scenic hang gliding flights from atop Rio's mountains. One can also hike the famous Sugarloaf Mountain (although the cable car is easier!) Stroll the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana in your flip flops, swim trunks and t-shirt, watching the volleyball games, soccer matches, and of course the scores of Cariocas who would much rather be at the beach than anywhere else. Your first full day you'll have a half day tour to marvel at Rio's Tijuca Rainforest, within the city limites, and then Corcovado Mountain, atop which lies the famous Cristo Redentor statue. On the way down you'll stop in the mountainside barrio of Santa Teresa to make your own moquete lunch with a colorful woman of the neighborhood. One evening, definitely head to the Rio Scenarium or the Comuna da Semente for live samba music and energetic ambiance.

This trip has been a perfect introduction to the many many splendors of this amazing country. Will you be back? Most definitely; and with a list of many other places to add next time around!

Who will enjoy this trip:

Those who value a warm and open culture. City lovers and beach lovers. Nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Those who enjoy music, art and dance will be enthralled with Brazil. Nightlife mavens can go strong all night long in many places. People who are free spirited, fun, and can go with the flow.

Who should avoid this trip:

Brazil is a large country, so once you arrive, you have many internal flights in order to see multiple locations. For a simpler trip, consider Uruguay. If you are not comfortable seeing those at a different living standard from our own, consider another destination. In places you do need to be safety-aware, so you must be comfortable with that environment. While there are a handful of luxury hotel options, Brazil does not offer unlimited choice in 5* accommodations.