Rio de Janeiro is a lively city, day or night.

Jennie has traveled extensively throughout Latin America from Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Belize, to Guatemala and Argentina. Brazil was an obvious choice for her next Latin America travel adventure. Jennie is a fun and free spirited traveler and Brazil provided her with a great travel tale to share.

Traveling from Rio de Janeiro to Iguazu falls and on to Sao Paulo her trip was full of city tours, beach days, and exploring some of the world’s greatest waterfalls. However the highlights of Jennie’s trip to Brazil were in the city of Rio de Janeiro, here are some trip ideas and advice about what to do and see in this lively city.

Rio de Janeiro held some of the best moments of Jennie’s adventure, from walking along the Copacabana beach to seeing the Christ the Redeemer statue. Rio de Janeiro was the perfect place for her and probably any traveler for that matter.

The Corcovado sits in the center of the city and at its summit is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which stands at 130 feet tall; it is no wonder this was one of the highlights of Jennie’s trip. Jennie enjoyed getting to see views of the city from above, as well as taking pictures with the impressive statue. She advises that it is typically crowded, as many tours arrive at the summit at the same time. Travelers shouldn’t expect to get pictures without other tourists in the frame, there just isn’t the space. However even with the crowds Jennie says it is well worth the journey. Check out Jennie under the massive Christ the Redeemer statue!

Jennie with the famous Christ the Redeemer statue.

If you want more great views of the city, but with less crowds Jennie suggests taking a tour to Sugar Loaf Mountain.  She explained the in’s and out’s of the tour, “we passed the Sambodrome, went into the Metropolitan Cathedral, and passed through the various districts of Rio de Janeiro. However the highlight was the view from Sugarloaf Mountain, which is incredible. I would highly recommend everyone take this tour.” The Sugar Loaf tour allowed Jennie to get some great panoramic pictures of the city. If you want to get a better view of the Copacabana beach and in general have more time to take pictures she suggests taking the Sugar Loaf tour because it is less crowded and you can spend more time without feeling rushed.

Jennie took this great picture from the cable car on the way up Sugarloaf Mountain.

Rio de Janeiro is also home to the Copacabana beach, perfect for locals and tourists alike who want to enjoy the fabulous tropical Brazil weather.  Jennie’s favorite day in the city included a stop here, “In the morning we hit Copacabana beach to catch up on our tans and to watch the locals play foot volley; foot volley is basically volleyball but you cannot use your hands.” Take a day to relax at the Copacabana as it is one of Brazil’s best beach scenes and a great way to interact with the locals and indulge in the beach culture. Jennie also advises travelers to beware, swimsuits are different on the beaches of Brazil so don’t be surprised to see women and men in less clothing than your typical beach.

Jennie captured some locals playing foot volley on the Copacabana Beach.

Jennie also has a few more pointers for those planning a trip to Brazil. The first is to learn some Portuguese before going. Learning the local language will enhance your experience by being able to interact with the locals better. Check out some Portuguese phrases for your trip.

Most importantly indulge in the culture and delicious cuisine to really experience Rio de Janeiro. The city boasts some of the best Brazilian cuisine, which Jennie enjoyed; “we went to a local churrasqueria to eat some Brazilian food, the Brazilian way: as much meat as you can eat served to you at your table.”  Here are some more great ideas on where to eat in Rio de Janeiro.

If you are going to spend some time in Rio de Janeiro take some of Jennie’s advice and make the most out of your Brazil vacation.

The magnificent coastline of Manaus, Brazil

Manaus located in the northern region of Brazil, in the heart of the lush Amazon Jungle is a city within one of nature’s most spectacular environments. Manaus is mostly used as a starting point for Amazon Jungle tours. Within the city many different options are available for accommodations; however it is outside of the city in the jungle where some of the most spectacular Jungle retreats can be found.

Ariau Amazon Towers:

The spectacular treetop hotel, Ariau Amazon Towers

Located two hours outside of the city of Manaus, by boat, you will find one of the most spectacular hotels in the entire Amazon. The Ariau Amazon Towers puts guests up in the air, literally, as it is the largest treetop hotel in the world. With 268 rooms connected by a system of walkways  of approximately five miles in total, this extensive treetop maze is set 30 feet above the ground putting guests eye-level with monkeys, macaws, and other jungle inhabitants. Apart from the up close and personal views and interactions with wildlife guests also have views of the Rio Negro and Rio Amazonas, truly creating an ‘at one with nature’ experience.

There a wide variety of rooms offered at the Ariau Amazon Towers, from the standard room to the private tree houses, accommodations include air conditioning, hot water, mini bars, and private bathrooms. Suites and Private Tree houses provide private balconies, and more spacious accommodations. The hotel also has four bars, two open-air restaurants serving Brazilian cuisine, two treetop swimming pools, and a gym. The Ariau Amazon Towers is the perfect location for jungle activities, and will ensure you have the ultimate Amazon experience.

Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge:

The luxurious Anavilhanas Lodge

Nestled far into the Amazon, 112 miles outside of the city of Manaus, the Anavilhanas Jungle lodge, sits across from the Anavilhanas National Park, and provides a retreat amidst the wonders of the forest. Described by National Geographic as one of the most authentic and unique hotels in Brazil, and for good reason, Anavilhanas provides 20 luxurious suites all equipped with the top amenities and decorated to perfection. The 16 two-room cottages are all equipped with air conditioning, hot showers, mini bars, and a private balcony with hammock. The four exclusive bungalows provide privacy as well as luxury, creating the ultimate jungle oasis. Equipped with LCD TV, work desk, air-conditioning, hot shower, mini bar, roof fan, and a private balcony with two hammocks, it provides the perfect place to escape.

The hotel also provides a library, game room, swimming pool, restaurant, and jungle activities such as dolphin feeding, piranha fishing, and various jungle hikes.

Amazon Ecopark:

The Amazon Ecopark located on the Taruma Riverbank

Only a thirty minute boat ride outside of Manaus travelers will find a jungle retreat located on the Taruma Riverbank. With 20 rustic bungalows divided into 64 apartments, the Amazon Ecopark provides absolute comfort, an oasis on the white-sand beaches of the Rio Negro. Each room comes with the modern amenities of air conditioning and hot water and are decorated with rustic décor, including thatched roofs, wide screened windows, and private porches.

Guests can explore the Amazon with the many jungle adventures provided by the hotel, such as hikes, canoeing, and wild life activities.

Get up close and personal with nature, on your Amazon Jungle vacation, by choosing one of these top class retreats for your Amazon accommodations. Let your Brazil vacation lead you to discover the mysteries of the Amazon Jungle.

Start planning your fully customized Amazon tour  by contacting one of our expert travel advisors at Brazil For Less. 

Throughout the festival, music and dance literally invade all parts of the city and its inhabitants. Day and night, people gather in the streets to show off their samba moves, musical talents, complicated costumes, and more than anything, to have fun and share their culture and cheerfulness with the rest of the world.

Samba is at the heart of the Rio Carnival. This typical Brazilian dance and music originated in the Afro-Brazilian community in the 17^th, 18^th, and 19^th century, and is now one of the core elements of the Brazilian culture. The term samba derives from the Angolan word “semba” which referred to a type of ritual music in African countries.

During Carnival, all the best samba schools of Rio participate in a contest, the Samba Parade, the highlight of the entire week. Each school represents a specific neighborhood, with its own dances, music, and costumes. They practice for months before the Carnival to make sure they put on the best show in the Sambodromo, a gigantic hall where the parade takes place every year.

Other noteworthy events are the Carnival Balls, which are held in all the most popular venues in the city. The most famous (and expensive) one takes place at the Copacabana Palace, a 5-star luxury resort. If you’re on a budget, there are many other balls to attend, with tickets ranging from $70 to $150. Everyone dresses up in shiny party costumes and come to the ball to dance the night away. There are balls scheduled every night during the length of the Carnival. Check out the official Rio Carnival 2012 website to find the detailed program.

Of course, there are also ways to partake in the festivities without spending too much money. It can be expensive to purchase tickets to the Samba Parade or to the various balls. However, it’s free to enjoy the hundreds of bands and parties that take to the streets every day. Some parties are held in specific places, such as the city’s parks, and others are processions of dancers and merrymakers that just follow bands as they play. The largest street party takes place in Cinelandia Square. And even if you don’t have a ticket to the parade, it’s worth taking a look outside the Sambodromo on parade days as the street is generally packed with people that just want to join in on the fun.

June is one of the busiest months of the year in terms of cultural events in Brazil, and probably one of the best times to immerse yourself in the rich Brazilian culture, and soak up the sun in some of its most picturesque beach towns. Read this guide to Brazil’s cultural calendar in June and start planning your exciting Brazil vacation. Although this is a time when temperatures can drop, as it coincides with the South American winter, the country enjoys a mild and pleasant climate year round. Just pack a light sweater for the chillier nights and you’re ready to go!

June is a month of many religious celebrations in Brazil, which are generally held with great excitement and always involve massive festivities. Most of the population is fervently catholic and the country almost seems to come to a halt to celebrate Christianity. The main commemoration, Corpus Christi, celebrating the Holy Sacrament during the Last Supper between Jesus Christ and his disciples, is one of the most important days in the Catholic calendar, and will be held on June 23^rd this year.

This is a national holiday, so be prepared for most shops and some restaurants to be closed. Some of the most impressive festivities are held in Sao Paulo. Streets are covered with colorful carpets made of wooden shavings and other materials representing scenes of the Last Supper, and the city gives way to the joyful and moving “March for Jesus,” a parade that moves to the sounds of live Christian bands leading the way on decorated trucks.

Known as the Festas Juninas (June parties), a tradition imported from Portugal under colonial times, the celebrations of Saint Anthony (June 12^th), Saint John the Baptist (June 24^th), and Saint Peter (29^th) punctuate the month and are observed throughout the country with festivities including live music, food, and of course Catholic ceremonies.

If you’re not so much into religious celebrations, don’t worry; Brazil holds many other noteworthy events in June that will make for unforgettable sights and memories. If you are traveling to Brazil with your other half, this is the perfect moment to show them your love on Brazil’s Valentine’s Day, known as the Dia dos Namorados, on June 12^th. The day is celebrated widely all over Brazil with lavish parties on the same day as Saint Anthony’s day, who is the saint patron of marriage. Another curious tradition which has made its way through the centuries is for single girls to pray to Saint Anthony on this day so he will find them a husband.

Every year in June, Sao Paulo, Brazil’s most avant-garde city, is home to the world’s largest and most exciting Gay Pride Parade (Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Transvestites and Transexual Pride Parade, or LGBT). This year, the 15^th edition of the parade will overcome the entire city on June 26^th with over 4 million people are expected to attend.

Be prepared to be shocked and dazzled as you find yourself taken in the whirl of music, costumes, and partying. Gigantic theme-decorated trucks ride throughout the city with thousands of followers dancing to the sounds of loud music and slogans. The slogan for 2011 will be “Love one another. Enough with homophobia”. The first parade was held in 1997 with a mere 2,000 participants, and is today one of the most long-awaited festivities in the country. And if you can’t make it to Brazil in June, Rio de Janeiro will be housing its own edition of the Gay Pride Parade on November 14, 2011. Book your Rio de Janeiro tour now and take part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Florianopolis Tours are popular, especially during the high season (December-February), with those who want to enjoy the beach, sun, surfing, water sports like windsurfing and jet skiing, and trendy techno nightclubs that the city of Florianopolis has on tap.

Florianopolis: beach hotspot by day, music clubs by night

Florianopolis, or just Floripa, is a tropical island surrounded by 42 beaches, but it is also a major metropolis. The capital of Santa Catarina state, the island is connected to the mainland by two major suspension bridges, Ponte Hercilio Luz (currently closed for repairs), and Colombo Machado Salles.

The downtown northern part of the Island, nicknamed Brazil’s Silicon Valley is lined with skyscrapers. After work, businesspeople rush to the beaches, especially Jurerê Internacional beach, joined by surfers and other locals to enjoy a relaxing caipirinha and catch a live music show in one of the many nightclubs.

During the off-season (March-November), the Lagoa da Conceição, the lagoon in the center of the island, is the most popular night hotspot due to the warmer climate inland.

Only a short walk from the bus station that connects you will the island in the Lagoa area, there is a main club strip that is lined with bar and clubs open till the early hours playing Brazilian samba as well as modern hits. Its trendy nightclubs are also popular year-round.

Check in surf shops and ask the locals about theme music nights, special events, and house parties. There’s always something happening in Florianopolis.

Best Florianopolis nightclubs on Jurerê Internacional

El Divino Beach: covered patios with lounge chairs and couches with an extensive menu at this upscale beach club, the sister of the sophisticated El Divino Lounge

Posh: located in Music Park, a huge concert arena, Posh is the place where celebrity DJs comes to spin

Pacha: megaclub also located in Music Park

Cafe de la Musique:  Japanese, Italian, and contemporary cuisine is on the menu at this hip dining club

Best Florianopolis nightclubs on Lagoa da Conceição

Confraria das Artes: trendy villa with a view over the Lagoon. Live music and dancing.

Circuit: extremely popular electronic music club

Latitude 27: popular with the younger crowd, a large club with live music and good drinks.

Vecchio Giorgio: a bar with live music and good food, including a oven-baked pizzas

Taiko: beachfront grill, restaurant, and club

Best Florianopolis nightclubs downtown

El Divino Lounge: it doesn´t get more sophisticated than chandeliers, purple laser lighting, retro-mod couches, and top-spinning DJs. This renovated shipyard has a lounge, restaurant, and sushi bar.

Café Cancun: three bars, a restaurant with covered patio, and dancing

Just inland from Rio de Janeiro, and nestled high in the Serra dos Orgãos mountians, Petropolis hosts Bauernfest, a week-long festival to celebrate their German heritage. The borough was colonized in the 1840s by farmers from the German Rhineland.

Prost! Down a stein of beer at the Bauernfest in Petropolis, Brazil

To get to the Heart of the Carioca, to experience the rich diversity of Rio de Janeiro life, wanderlusts must travel to Petropolis, the summer place of the emperor of Brazil, Dom Pedro II. Now the palace is a museum, whose crowning artifact is the imperial crown – studded with over 600 diamonds and pearls.

Droves of folk dancers in lederhosen will parade down the streets lined with Bavarian clapboard houses and shops, and past the neo-gothic steeple of Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcântara. Kinder choirs, train rides, and a German film festival will all be on tap for those wanting to capture the zeitgeist of this charming summer resort town.

The opening ceremony is on June 25 with the mayor, his entourage, and the infantry marching out of the Crystal Palace. But the fun begins even before then, on the 19^th, with the election of the festival Queen and Princess.

Throughout the week, celebrants can enjoy sauerkraut, streudal, bratwurst, frankfurter, and other German delicacies, along with plenty of the finest Alpine beer. Plus, the World Cup games will be televised in many a beer garden.

The Bourbon Festival Paraty, to be held May 28 to 30, is only two years running, but it’s picking up speed. The rollicking, rioting line-up of jazz, blues, soul, and R&B musicians is sure to get your feet stomping.

Hosted by the Bourbon Street Music Club in Sáo Paulo, open-air, all-night long free concerts will be held at the Praça da Matriz in Paraty’s Historic Center.

The main event will be jazz guitar virtuoso John Pizzarelli. This famous guitarist, singer, and composer has recorded albums dedicated to Brazilian and bossa nova music.

Paraty, on the southern coast of Brazil has been a favorite haunt for jazz and blues legends, including Ray Charles, B.B. King, and Nina Simone. The cobblestone street colonial beach town is also worth a full Paraty tour, as there are terrific beaches and islands surrounding this Brazilian gem.

The full line-up:

Friday, May 28

Leo Gandelman – jazz

Glen David Andrews – New Orleans brass

Big Time Orchestra – rock’n’roll, soul, 50s and 60s swing, Brazilian neo-swing

DJ Bebeto – jazz, bossa, sambalanço, and other hot beats

Sat, May 29

Caviars Blues Band – classic blues

Stanley Jordan and Armandinho – jazz

Victor Brooks & Julie Mcknight and Wayne Vaughn – American soul

DJ Bebeto – jazz, bossa, sambalanço, and other hot beats

Sun, May 30

Rhandal & Trio – brasilian jazz, bossa nova, chorinho, sambalanço, baiáo and xote

Bocato – Brasilian trombones

John Pizzarelli – jazz

When Portuguese explorer Gaspar de Lemos named the bay of Guanabara Rio de Janeiro or “January River”, the Portuguese words for ¨bay¨ and ¨river¨ were the same. While Rio became a lucrative port that trafficked sugar, diamonds and gold from Minas Gerais, as well as African slaves and then later coffee, it also became a battling ground between Portuguese and French settlers.

To appreciate Rio’s early significance in the New World, check out the Museu Histórico Nacional, or National History Museum, which stands guard over 287,000 artifacts that range from the colonial conquest to the imperial era. There are indigenous weapons, impressive paintings, and library titles that include over 57,000 texts, some dating to the 15th century.

Brazil’s colorful Carnaval parade has roots in Portuguese pre-Lenten festivities and masquerades

Rio enjoyed the top spot as the Portuguese Empire’s capital from 1763 until 1808. Fleeing Napoleon, the Portuguese royal family sailed to Rio and named it the new capital of Portugal, so making Rio the only European capital outside of Europe.

The Museu Nacional de Belas Artes, or National Museum of Fine Arts, in downtown Rio houses the extensive art collection of King John VI, who could not part with 16,000 paintings, sculptures, folk and African art treasures even if Napoleon was nipping at his heels.

In 1822, Dom Pedro I declared independence from Portugal, and declared himself emperor of Brazil. The Paço Imperial, or Imperial Palace, housed the emperors Pedro I and Pedro II and their families until Brazil became a republic in 1889.

Initially built in the 1700s in the Baroque style, the Imperial Palace even included a fountain imported from Lisbon. During the Imperial period, it was used for coronations, and from its balconies Dom Pedro famously declared independence. In 1984 the palace was restored to its former grandeur, and now hosts art exhibits and festivals, plus a rare books collection in the Paulo Santos Library.

In the early 1900s, Rio began to take on the festive reputation for which it is now world famous. The Museu do Carnaval, or the Carnival Museum, is a must-see for those who visit Rio when Carnaval is not in full swing.

Carnaval, the annual week-long celebration before the Lenten season, is the best-attended carnival in the world, with more than 500,000 foreigners celebrating in Rio each year. Located in the Sambodromo, the Carnaval museum shows Brazil at its most colorful and spirited, with photographs of samba dancers and elaborate floats, costumes, and historical artifacts that trace Rio’s carnival to its roots in Portuguese pre-Lent festivities and masquerades.