Brazil

Brazil

One of the nicest things I can tell you about flying to South America is that you don’t get any jet lag travelling from North America. The last time I went, I checked in the hotel, had a shower and change of clothes, and took off to do some sightseeing. Another thing is you no longer need a visa which saves you money.

It is the world’s fifth largest country, the third most populous, and home to the amazing Amazon river and rainforest. It is a land of rhythms and contrasts and stunning beaches, fascinating history, friendly people and fabulous music. One thing I don’t like, they don’t eat their dinner until 10.00p.m which is when I normally go to bed. Wonderful steaks and of course, great wine. I had never bought Malbec until I went to South America, a delightful red wine, which I was happy to find in my local supermarket at a good price.

Brazil’s most famous city – Rio De Janeiro – has been enchanting visitors for more than 100 years. Two top attractions, Sugarloaf and Corcovado won’t disappoint you. Either at dawn, or dusk taking photos will delight you with the most fantastic views. An amazing experience is to attend Carnival. It is held on February 12-20, the week before Lent, and is the biggest party on the planet. It is amazing to see everyone there become a Samba expert. All ages, all sizes, all have rhythm.

Rio is all about sand and sea. Famous beaches are Ipanema and Copacabana and if you want to go somewhere with less crowds, check out Sao Conrado, Crumari, and Prainha. Afterwards visit Centro, the city’s oldest district with impressive buildings. Don’t miss the Paco Imperial, a palace which is now a museum. Enjoy a coffee and pastry at Confeitaria Colombo, a well known meeting place.

Enjoy live bands and dancing in the bohemian Lapa district at top venues like Bar Carioca and Rio Scenarium. I love to see the locals dance. All ages seem to have rhythm like you haven’t seen before. I could watch someone doing a tango all night long. If gardening is of interest, go see the Jardim Botanico, a real showcase. The city is known for its outdoor adventure, including hiking up Pedfra da Gavea mountain, or rappelling, hang gliding, kayaking, sailing and biking. Shopping is great. Especially for leather goods. I always get myself a handbag and shoes.

The most famous hotel in all of South America is Belmond Copacabana Palace. Worth checking out. I stayed at the Hotel Fasano Rio at Ipanema Beach, or last time at the Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema.

Don’t leave Brazil without seeing Iguassu Falls, the largest in the world at almost two miles wide and 270 feet high. It’s an easy flight from Rio. More impressive than Niagara Falls, or Victoria Falls in Africa. Iguassu is made up of more than 200 distinct waterfalls crashing down in two dramatic steps into Argentina. The roar of the cataracts, combined with the spectacular jungle setting is remarkable. Even though you have a long plastic raincoat on, given by the hotel, you will get totally soaked as you descend paths leading to the Devil’s Throat, the deepest and most dramatic area of the falls. For a truly unique experience, visit both the Brazilian and Argentinian sections for two completely different perspectives. Don’t wear any clothes or shoes, or take a bag, which you aren’t prepared to get soaked. I always carry a large plastic garbage bag in my suitcase that I can put my damp clothes in since you cant get them dry if you are leaving the next day. Be prepared. Stay at Belmond Hotel das Cataratas which has exceptional views and easy access to the falls. Take insect repellent with you. The mosquitoes are big enough to drive a Volkswagen. First time I was there I had to go to a doctor. $200, cash only, to get some anti itch cream.

For anyone interested in architecture and if you have the time, try and visit Brasilia, built from scratch in the country’s remote interior and opened in 1960. Brazil’s capital is the only 20th century city with UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Amazing how they built it. No roads, all construction material had to be flown in.

Well worth visiting no matter what time of year.

Maureen Jones

All Horizons Travel/Frosch

825 Santa Cruz Ave

Menlo Park, CA 94025

650-961-2340 direct

www.froschvacations. Com

Maureen.jones@frosch.com