Category Archives: Brazil

Exploring Brazil beyond Rio de Janeiro

With world-famous beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema, and the unique Christ the Redeemer statue, Rio de Janeiro is undoubtedly the most popular tourist destination in Brazil. But that doesn’t mean Rio is the only place worth visiting in Brazil.

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There are in fact so many fascinating cities and natural attractions in this South American country that a holidaymaker may end up facing the problem of plenty. Here are five splendid places to go to, if you plan to explore Brazil beyond Rio.

Florianopolis

Florianopolis has as many as 42 beaches to its name, and is definitely a beach-bummer’s haven. Here, you can expect all usual beach activities, ranging from sunbathing and swimming to surfing and scuba diving. A plethora of hotels and resorts offer amenities to suit families, couples and solo travellers alike. Barra da Lagoa, Praia da Joaquina and Praia Brava are among the must-visit beaches in Florianopolis. Praia da Galheta beach is well known as a place for sunbathing in the nude.

Brasilia

While it is likely that many foreigners have not heard of it, Brasilia is the charming capital of Brazil. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is filled with an amazing mix of modern and historical architecture. Head to the Paranoa Lake to feast your eyes on the panoramic lake and many splendid structures including the world-famous Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge. The Cathedral of Brasilia, Itamaraty Palace, and Supreme Federal Home are famed architectural marvels in the city.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls, on Brazil-Argentina border, is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world and is a true magnet for nature-lovers and adrenaline junkies alike. Enjoy splendid views of the falls, especially at the U-shaped Devil’s Throat, from the viewpoints on the Brazilian side. Also trek in the Iguacu National Park to explore the region’s exotic wild beauty. A helicopter ride will let you enjoy aerial views of the falls.

Upper Town, Salvador

If you’re a history buff, the Upper Town in Brazil’s former colonial capital will enthral you no end. The area boasts an awesome collection of colonial buildings, museums, historical churches and monasteries, most of which were built during the colonial era (17th and 18th century) in Brazil. It is now a UNESCO World-heritage site and a must-visit place for culture and history lovers. Some popular attractions in the area include the Museu da Cidade, Palácio Rio Branco, and the church of the Franciscan Third Order.

Holidays in Rio de Janeiro – Three of the Top Things to do in the Brazilian City

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s second largest city is a terrific holiday destination. A well-developed urban centre with Atlantic coast on one side and the mountains on the other, Rio provides a fascinating experience to the millions of tourists who visit here annually.

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The city is also gearing up for the mega event – Olympic 2016; new hotels and restaurants are mushrooming along the beaches, roads are being broadened, and transport infrastructure is being build up. It surely is an exciting time to be in the city. Here are some of the must-do activities in the Brazilian metropolis.

Marvel At the Enormity of Christ the Redeemer

Rio’s famous landmark, the imposing statue of Cristo Redentor is impossible to miss. Take a funicular train to reach the top of the 710 m high Corcovado hill for admiring not just this fascinating (32 meter tall) structure but also the marvellous views of the city. The train passes through the dense Tijuca forest, which brims with scenic vistas.

Enjoy Free Walking Tour of Downtown Rio

A few local agencies offer free walking tours through the cultural centre of the city. The tour usually begins from Carioca square and takes visitors through tiny pathways in the downtown area, known as Centro. Enjoy views of marvellous buildings, explore intriguing street arts or visit some popular tourist attractions such as the Imperial palace and the Selaron steps. The downtown brims with souvenir shops, cosy cafés and lively art galleries, making it a delightful place for one and all.

Visit the Beaches

No visit to Rio is complete without the fun and frolic at the legendary Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. With the fascinating blend of sun, sea and sand, these beaches are just fabulous.

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You can see men and women playing games of football and volleyball, or just laying on the sands to soak up the sun. Ipanema is a popular haunt for adrenaline junkies, with a variety of water sports to enjoy. If you’re looking for a tranquil retreat, head to Barra da Tijuca beach. Even in peak season, you might have the entire beach to yourself!

Tips for Attending Rio Carnival 2015, Brazil

Rio Carnival is the largest street party on earth. Hundreds of thousands of people descend upon Rio de Janeiro to celebrate the festival with songs, dances, parades and overall boisterous merrymaking.

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The festival is held 40 days before Easter and one of its main highlights is the Sambadrome Parade. There are many free parties and black tie balls for you to take part in if you are looking for a budget holiday. We have come up with some simple but useful tips for revellers.

Organizing flights, carnival tickets and costumes

As Rio is the world’s largest and most famous street celebration, lots of people from all parts of the will be joining in the fun. We recommend you to book your flights well in advance for two reasons. First, you may not be able to get tickets at the last moment; and second, even if seats are available, the price of those tickets will keep increasing as the date of the carnival gets closer. The next important thing is to check for accommodation options for the duration of your stay in the city.  You can either club your hotel reservations along with your flight bookings or you can choose to do them separately. However, it is important to book in advance as the chances of getting a room might be pretty slim at the last moment.

Precautions

You don’t need to be anxious or afraid about losing valuables and money if you take some precautions. Try to keep your camera out of sight as much as possible. Also keep it in a cheap bag to make it seem like a cheap knockoff. In fact, if possible, buy a cheap knockoff for the occasion. Instead of carrying your backpack on your back, put it in front of you and secure it with your passive arm. It is not advisable to wear expensive jewellery in the carnival, so get some cheap plastic or metal beads. Keep your money in secret pockets or –underwear– if possible, to avoid the chance of losing the money while dancing. Also make sure to withdraw some cash well in advance as the banks are closed during the carnival and the ATMs run out of cash.

Choosing the seats and costumes

It is very important to choose your seats during the carnival as getting a seat with an obstructed view may ruin all the fun.  You can get the best views of the Sambadrome Parade from the ground-level seats, known as cadeiras, the terrace seats, known as arquibancadas and box seats known as camarotes. It’s not mandatory to wear a costume but if you want authentic costumes, you may buy the same from the official website of the carnival. Most of the costumes available can be worn by men as well as women. After you’re all set for the carnival, just hit the streets and samba with the revellers. Some people also tend to exchange head gears or breastplates as a sign of goodwill.

A Backpacker’s Paradise: Four Ways to Explore São Paulo Inside Out!!

Sao-PaulooOne of the great things about São Paulo is that you’ll never run out of things to do here. It is friendly, affordable and beguilingly beautiful, making it one of the preeminent backpacking destinations in South America. From captivating landscapes to wild party venues and cheap options for shopping as well as dining, take a look at all that can keep you engrossed as a backpacker in São Paulo.

Soak in Some History

art-and-historyIt wouldn’t take long to understand why São Paulo is considered Brazil’s nucleus of art and history. It is home to numerous museums, historical monuments and cultural centres that stand testimony to the city’s fabulous past. Museu do Ipiranga and Memorial da América Latina are among the must-visit attractions, owing to their splendid architecture and grand historical significance. Many art connoisseurs discover that their flights of fancy get wings at places like Pinacoteca do Estado and useu de Arte Contemporânea.

Enjoy a Crazy Party Scene

Apart from the intriguing history, São Paulo also lives up to its reputation of being a favoured haunt of party animals. Scores of bars, clubs and discotheques here beckon all to get high and wassail in nightlife revelries. Vila Olímpia, Vila Madalena, and Barra Funda – all the major areas in the city have an amazing nightlife that is at its craziest best during the weekends.

Look For Pocket-Friendly Accessories & Memento

São Paulo is known for its high-end fashion boutiques and uber-luxury malls. However, it doesn’t mean that there is nothing for backpackers seeking retail therapy. Head to the Rua 25 de Março, where countless small shops and stalls will certainly quench your appetite! From gadgets to accessories and textiles and gift items – the place offers a diverse range of bargains and is a big hit with shoppers. Brás neighbourhood is another place to indulge in gratifying retail therapy without spending a fortune.

Living the Nature’s Way

Sao-PauloNot too far from this chaotic metropolis lie lofty mountains and lush rainforests that prove to be a nature-lover’s paradise. Apart from the soul-soothing scenery, tourists may enjoy wonderful adventure activities like hiking, trailing and camping. The magnificent Paulista Coast with its heavenly beaches is also just an hour’s drive away.

Rio Carnival 2015 – A Chance to Peep into the Fun-Loving Soul of Brazil!

Rio Carnival by Leandro Neumann Ciuffo/ CC BYRio Carnival by Leandro Neumann Ciuffo/ CC BY

Whether you are a party animal, a samba dancer, a music freak or a culture vulture, mark 13th to 17th February on your 2015 calendar. Why? These five days are once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse in the invigorating extravaganza of the Brazil’s grandest fiesta i.e., Rio Carnival. The menu of this fiesta comprises of street parties, samba school nights, live bands and of course, Samba Parade. Here’s some more information on Rio Carnival 2015.

Samba Parade

This parade often shows up in the list of ‘Things to Do At least once in Life!’ Scores of travellers have already booked tickets aboard flights to Rio de Janeiro to be a part of this splendid parade. The main highlight of this parade is the competition between Samba schools! The synchronized dance moves, matching beats and ostentatious costumes add a distinctive flavour to the effervescence of the parade. Buy tickets for the Samba Parade to enjoy the captivating performances of various schools that are divided into various sections and wings. Carnival floats depict various themes and act as a division between wings.

Be a Part of a Performance

Numerous holidaymakers often inquire about participating in the Rio Carnival as a performer. If you are one of them, you just need to select the costume on the official website of the festival and send them your size details. You can select your currency to pay for the costume; the payment not only covers your costume but also your participation fee. But remember, to enjoy the performances of other samba schools, tourists need to buy separate tickets.

Tickets and Seats

There are six types of seats at the parade venue namely Grandstands, Open Front Boxes, Covered Grand Tier Boxes, Private Chairs, Party Lounge and Luxury Suites. Majority of tickets in Open Front Boxes for the main parade day have already been booked. Visit the official site to grab tickets for your preferred day at the earliest. Sybarites boarding flights to experience the magnificence of Rio carnival should not settle for anything less than Luxury Suites to continue with their luxurious trip to Brazil. These suites are known to offer the perfect view of the Samba Parade!

Brazil’s Craziest Parties: Be A Part of Them This Festive Season!!

brazilFrom the endless strands of sun-kissed coast to the whimsically vibrant metropolises and a fun-loving population that celebrates many fascinating events year-round – everything that Brazil is made of looks hale and hearty! In case you’re planning a sojourn to this South American nation this festive season, from December to March, chances are you’ve invited yourself to few of the most exotic and thrilling parties you’ve ever been to! Though, there are scores of enthralling events on calendar, the following two are outstandingly delicious and allure many to buy tickets on flights landing in Brazil.

The New Year’s Eve

Although, the whole world celebrates the eve before the New Year, Brazil knows how to throw a party on such a mammoth scale that other celebrations look like casual conventions! One of the best places to see the unrestrained joviality is the Rio’ gorgeous Copacabana beach! It is where the country’s deep-rooted culture and a contemporary flamboyance come together to create an intoxicating tropical cocktail that leaves visitors harum-scarum on the paradise. Along this 4-km long beach can be witnessed a variety of merrymaking, from international band performances to spectacular firework displays and unending drinking and dancing. Taking in the Brazil’s awe-inspiring culinary culture will be another mesmeric experience, well-worth the money spent on flights’ tickets and holiday deals. Olinda, Recife and Salvador are some other places in Brazil where the New Year’s Eve celebration is simply unforgettable.

Rio Carnaval

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Rio Carnaval by Nicolas de Camaret/ CC BY

Steeped in local traditions and amazingly vibrant, the celebratory extravaganza of Rio Carnaval lasts for five days (if not more) and draws fun-loving tourists from far and wide. Marking the end of the summer holidays in Brazil, it throws an invigorating hedonistic bash with plenty of dancing, music and partying on the streets. In 2015, the event will take place from February 13 to February 18, up to Ash Wednesday. People looking to visit Brazil should keep in mind that all 5days of this exotic fest are public holidays and see a massive upsurge in sale of hotel rooms, flight tickets and other holiday deals. Travellers should make their reservations well in advance.

Top 3 Waterfalls in the World That are Sure to Stun You with their Lustre

World is an enormous platter peppered with an array of ingredients ranging from spices of culture to aromas of history and desserts of nature. The variety of desserts comprises of diversified facets such as lush jungles, majestic mountains, breathtaking landscapes and gorgeous beaches. If you are an avid dessert lover, don’t miss out on trying the specialty on World’s platter known as Waterfalls! Our earth is home to myriad of cascading waterfalls. Let’s check few most stunning ones.

Sutherland Falls

Sutherland Falls by chiropractical/ CC BY

Sutherland Falls by chiropractical/ CC BY

Natural grandeur of New Zealand does not require much of introduction. While taking about waterfalls, this splendid country is home to some of the most dazzling ones in the world. Sutherland Falls is considered as one of the world’s tallest. It is located near Milford Sound and its scenic beauty incorporates snow capped peaks of green mountains and Lake Quill. Hikers booking tickets aboard flights to the Kiwi Nation must keep this site in their itineraries. While hiking along Milford Track, hikers get an opportunity to revive their soul while admiring the grandiosity of nature.

Niagara Falls

Niagara-FallsNo list of waterfalls is complete without the mention of Niagara Falls. These falls acts as a border between USA and Canada and is one of the most enchanting attractions in both countries. Several travellers’ board flight to Canada or USA to experience the magnificence of Niagara Falls. It is well connected by train and road network from New York and Ontario in USA and Canada respectively. If you are visiting here from New York, main highlights are Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds and Aquarium of Niagara whereas the Ontario side is famous for Niagara Parks, Maid of the Mist and Journey Behind the Falls.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls by SF Brit/ CC BY

Iguazu Falls by SF Brit/ CC BY

This heart-pounding waterfall is located near the borders of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. Hence, if you are interested in exploring its unparalleled charm, you can consider grabbing tickets for any of these three nations. These falls are way taller than Niagara Falls and are often flocked by travellers who strive to explore an undefined aspect of Mother Nature. Iguaçu International Airport in Brazil and Iguazu International Airport are easily accessible from these falls.

Must Visit Attractions for Sightseers on Holidays to Salvador

Must-Visit-Attractions-for-Sightseers-on-Holidays-to-Salvador

If you are planning to book flights arriving in Brazil for holidays, do well to spare a few days in your travel itineraries to explore the fabulous city of Salvador. This Birthplace of Brazil is crammed full with attractions and activities to keep its visitors entertained and engaged for days. The city packs in a surprise lurking at every possible nook and cranny making it utterly difficult for visitors on Brazil flights not to fall in love with this metropolis. Here are top attractions that are sure to appeal to sightseers on Salvador flights.

Museu Afro-Brasileiros

The Museo Afro-Brasileiro is one of the most popular attractions in Brazil. Most culture vultures on flights to the city of Salvador ensure visiting the place for an intriguing insight into African cultural heritage. The museum packs in a staggering collection of interesting exhibits including maps, masks, jewellery, clothing, musical instruments, traditional games and pottery. The candomblé exhibit at the museum offers a closer look at roots, idols and traditions of Brazil’s colourful region. Britons and other European travellers on flights to the city who plan to visit the museums must ask for an English translation booklet which is available at the entrance of the museum.

Pelourinho

Holidays to Salvador are rendered incomplete without spending some time in Pelourinho while admiring the colourful colonial buildings, cobblestoned streets and the sense of history that abounds the place. Brazil’s first slave market, Pelourinho features a range of restaurants, bars and open-air cafes from where one may take in the colourful and architecturally rich surroundings while gorging on some of the finest cuisines and sipping on some of the most refreshing drinks. Quite expectedly, many sightseers from around the globe including the UK book tickets aboard flights arriving in the city of Salvador to explore Brazil’s chequered past.

São Francisco Church and Convent

It’s hard not to get impressed by the significance of spirituality in Salvador with over 365 Catholic churches peppered across the city. The oldest of these churches, São Francisco Church and Convent dates back to the 1700s and boasts well-preserved artefacts of Baroque and colonial architecture. One of the most impressive churches in Salvador, São Francisco Church and Convent was burned down to ashes in early 1600s during Dutch invasion. Curious sightseers booking seats aboard direct/indirect flights bound for the city of Salvador must do well to spend some admiring the architectural genius and exploring some history at the São Francisco Church and Convent.

Exploring Nature in Salvador – Top Nature Tours and Expeditions

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Welcome to Salvador da Bahia, the capital of happiness in Brazil, where pristine natural beauty mingles with the warmth of the people. Tourists who bag flights tickets every year to witness its historical traditions, cuisine, culture, pristine beaches and verdant greenery enjoy their holidays at this great destination. This city no doubt offers numerous opportunities for travellers disembarking Brazil flights to explore the nature and wild side of this capital of happiness.

National Park Cerro Verde – Bird Watching Tour

If you are a bird or nature lover, definitely go for this bird watching expedition in National Park Cerro Verde. The holidaymakers who book flights to Salvador often have a visit to the park on their itineraries for an exciting time here exploring the rich biodiversity. You will find a whopping variety of bird species including the hummingbirds, blue jay, hawks, eagles, green billed toucan, as well as the national bird, Torogoz, among plenty others. Watching multitudes of birds launching into flights all across the park and forming beautiful formations under the blue sky is truly fascinating. Take a stroll through striking trails from where you can watch these birds as well as breath-taking sceneries of the inactive volcano Cerro Verde, the magnificent Izalco volcano, the region of Sonsonate, the highlands of the Sierra of Apaneca and the Pacific Port of Acajutla.

Santa Ana Volcano – Climbing Tour

salvador-hThe most stunning landscapes of Salvador include the Santa Ana Volcano, also known as Ilamatepec, popular for a day tour. The Tour starts with the holidaymakers arriving on flights taking a 20 minute walk in the backwoods of Cerro Verde National Park up till the volcanic plain of San Blas Plateau. As the visitors reach the summit, they can get an impressive view of the entire landscape of El Salvador which includes the Acajutla Port, Lake Coatepeque and Izalco Volcano. With pleasant weather to aid the expedition, holidaymakers find the tour to be absolutely worth the efforts and the cost of flights to this exotic destination called Salvador.

Praia do Forte – Fishing Tour

Some of the unique experiences that tourists taking flights bound for Brazil’s capital of happiness include enjoying a Fishing Tour at Praia do Forte, a well-known fishing village and home to the Brazil’s endangered sea turtles. Additionally, the white beaches of Salvador provide countless opportunities for angling and fishing – both professional and recreational. Just throw the bait, sit back and relax and hope for a great catch! These deep pristine waters are home to thriving fish species including mackerel, barracuda, parrot fish, snook, snapper, grouper, and many others.

Rio de Janeiro Airport: Terminal Facilities and Ground Transportation

Rio de Janeiro International Airport, also known as Galeão International Airport, is the main airport serving the city of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Most of the travellers who are planning holidays to Brazil are more likely to book flights that land here. Given the significance of the airport as a gateway to an extremely popular holiday destination, it is important to be aware of various terminal facilities and transportation choices available for travellers who land at the airport and look to connect to various parts of the city and even county.

Eating

There is no dearth of eating options for people who land in the city and are all ready to pack some delectable fare after having to negotiate the boring food served in flights. The variety is heart-pleasing. From quick bites to full meals and from an espresso to a cook cocktail, choices are limitless for travellers landing off from flights. GIG Chopp & Grill, Restaurante De Moiselle, Air Café Palheta, Gate Zero Bar and Air Point are few of the several choices for foodies at the airport.

Shopping

Like eating, shopping is another popular airport activity that seems to have created a sort of traction among all new-age travellers. People are now looking as much to their shopping stint at the airport as they are to a holiday in the foreign city. Almost everything is available at the stores. Veronica Flowers & Gifts, Sodiler Bookstore, Linha do Horizonte, Palheta Artesato, Air Farma, Amigo Conveniencia and Brasil Rio are among the many stores that are located across different terminals of the airport.

To & from Rio de Janeiro International Airport

The Galeão International Airport is located 20kms from the city centre and bus, taxi and airport shuttle are few options available to those who wish to move around. Rio de Janeiro Airport Bus Service has four lines that are offered by the Real Auto Bus, serving travellers who wish to travel from the airport after disembarking flights. A host of taxi operators also maintain their presence at the airport to serve people who land from their flights and are looking to move around. Further, transfer companies are there to take care of the person’s transportation needs.