Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is one of the world's most dramatic cities — Christ the Redeemer watches over a landscape of granite peaks, tropical forest, and golden beaches. Copacabana and Ipanema are iconic, the Carnival is legendary, and the carioca lifestyle of samba, beach volleyball, and acai bowls is infectious. A city that pulses with energy.

South America's largest metropolis is a powerhouse of culture, cuisine, and nightlife. The food scene rivals any city on earth with incredible Japanese, Italian, and regional Brazilian restaurants. Vila Madalena's street art and Paulista Avenue's energy define the city.

Brazil's first capital (1549-1763) and the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture. The pastel-painted Pelourinho (UNESCO 1985) is a colonial maze of cobblestones, baroque churches, and gold-leafed Igreja São Francisco. Birthplace of capoeira, candomblé, and samba-reggae — Olodum still drums Tuesdays. Acarajé from street vendors, moqueca from neighborhood spots, and a Carnival that rivals Rio's for the world's largest street party. Beaches strung along the Atlantic coast.