South American Vacations

Brazil is known as the Federative Republic of Brazil and is the largest
country in South America, based on population and size.  In fact, it is
the largest fifth country in the world when measuring by size alone. 
The population of the country is estimated to be 189,393,918, making it
one of the most populated countries worldwide.  It is bordered by the
Atlantic Ocean on the east (giving it a very large coastline),
Venezuela, Suriname, Guyana, as well as Bolivia on the west and Uruguay
on the south.

The country was once a colony of Portugal but won its independence in
the early 19th century.  It wasn’t until 1889 that the country became a
Republic.  The country is a major force on the world scene when it
comes to economy.  It is easily identified as a country of wildlife,
great natural resources and love of football. 

Because of the country’s size, it actually has different zones of
climate.  For instance, in the northern part of the country you can
expect a very wet and dry season, as this area is near the equator. 
However, from Sao Paulo to the southern part of the country, there is
more of a traditional season according to spring, summer and winter.

Brazil is a country rich on culture and yet united by language, namely,
the official language of Portuguese.  English is not widely spoken in
the country, except around tourist areas.  If you don’t speak any
Portuguese the next best thing is to speak Spanish.  What’s interesting
about Brazil is that though the country is unified by language, there
are many distinct regions that are so different from one another than
they almost seem like different countries sometimes.  Music is very
close to the heart of Brazil, so expect to hear plenty of choro, samba,
bossa nova and caipira music.  However, there is also more
urban-influenced funk, dance, electronic and techno.

Brazilians, though very diverse in race and culture, are marked by
their fun-loving spirit.  Northern Brazil is especially friendly, while
Southern Brazil stays a bit reserved in comparison.  This is a nation
very keen on family values so it’s not surprising to learn how
hospitable strangers are to tourists. 

When it comes to food, Brazil’s best dishes vary according to the
culture of its cities.  There are some regional foods here, but a great
deal of what you will find is actually cuisine inspired by other
regions of the world, having been brought over by immigrants and
adapted to local Brazilian standards. 

Major Cities in Brazil

Brasília: The capital city and of great interest to travelers
interested in Brazil’s architectural side.  Look for the Arches Palace
and the Cathedral. 

Belém: The second largest city and home to many grand festivals like
Cirio de Nazare as well as many colonial buildings from way back when. 

Curitiba: Highly influenced by Italy and Germany culture, and a major city of industry.

Florianópolis: Well known and appreciated for its lakes, lagoons,
natural landmarks and many miles of beautiful, sandy beaches—over 40 in
all!

Fortaleza: Not only renowned for beaches but has also earned a reputation for forró music and comedy acts.

Rio de Janeiro: Famous for amazing landscapes, a thriving beach scene and exciting carnivals.

Salvador: Another city well known for its carnivals and one mixed with
indigenous, African and European cultures and populations.

São Paulo: The wealthiest city of the lot and welcomes a variety of cultures from all corners of the world.

Things To Do In Brazil

Chapada dos Veadeiros: A national park that offers tropical conditions, free-roaming wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.

Iguaçu Falls: More waterfalls, as well as wildlife preserves and boating activity.

Itatiaia National Park: Another national park that offers more forests,
rain forests, lakes, granite cliffs and alpine meadows than other
nearby locations. 

Pantanal: The largest wetlands anywhere in the world, which promotes great eco-tourism, biodiversity and wildlife. 

Brazil Trivia: Cheek kissing is common in Brazil between men and women, though the handshake is favored among men.