Brazil

 “Order and progress” adorn the flag, an unlikely motif for a country whose vibrant culture and sun-drenched tropical coast will more likely have you swaying to the heady beats of bossa nova! Brazil dances to its own rhythm in South America, a global icon synonymous with the Amazon Rainforest, Rio Carnival and the legendary beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. And yet, this is only the tip of the iceberg. From Atlantic rainforest to the Pantanal wetlands and tropical islands to the booming Iguassu Falls, Brazil simply pulses with life and energy, a paradise for nature-lovers and photographers alike. Inland, picture-postcard colonial towns built on the back of gold and precious stones are bordered by huge table-top “Chapada” mountains awash with crystal clear rivers and caves.

And everywhere you look, beaches - 7 thousand kilometres of golden beaches dotted with buzzing cities such as Rio and Salvador whose vibrant culture displays a heady mix of European, Amazonian and African influences. Enjoy the street demonstrations of the Brazilian martial art “capoeira”; experience “candomble” ceremonies in Bahia or simply learn samba and join in the frenzied Carnival celebrations.   

Brazil is a stand-alone destination in South America with excellent boutique hotels and infrastructure that offers a treat for all the senses.