Taking up nearly half of the continent of South America, Brazil is known for its miles and miles of sun kissed and bustling beaches (especially in Rio de Janeiro), the otherworldly Amazon jungle, the mammoth and awe inspiring Iguassu Falls, and its fun loving population that embraces celebrations and annual festivals, particularly Carnival.

Iguassu Falls / Foz do Iguaçu - Brazil (Hotel das Cataratas) Select The name Iguassu Falls come from the Guarani Indian words that mean "great water," and indeed, the size of these cataracts are spectacular. The Brazilian side offers a panoramic view of the entire set of falls in the town of Foz de Iguazu an ideal place to take photographs.

Manaus (Tropical Manaus) Select Gateway to the Amazon rainforest, Manaus is where many guided jungle tours and river trips begin. On the banks of the Rio Negro (Black River, which reflects the dark color of the water), Manaus boomed in the late nineteenth century during the rubber industry heyday. See the opulence reflected in the ornate Amazonas Opera House.

Rio de Janeiro (Vila d'este, Blue Tree Park Angra dos Reis, Pestana Angra Beach Bungalows, Caesar Park Ipanema, Copacabana Palace) Select This coastal city is dominated by the famous rocky outcrop, Sugar Loaf Mountain, as well as Corcovado (Hunchback) peak. The massive Christ the Redeemer statue stands on top of Corcovado, and it is accessible by cog train. Of course, Rio's other famous landmarks are its beaches, including Copacabana and Ipanema.

Salvador / Bahia (Pestana Bahia Hotel) Select On the Atlantic coast, Salvador/Bahia is split into upper and lower sections, with the Old Town perched at the top of a cliff. It is connected to the lower city by steep streets, a funicular railway and the nifty Elevador Lacerdo. Museums abound here, and shoppers should head for the Mercado Modelo for a wide variety of local handicrafts.

Sao Paulo (Gran Melia Mofarrej) Select Brazil's largest city is also its financial and economic center, but visitors can enjoy its many beaches and cultural attractions, such as the Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo, which holds a renowned collection of Impressionist art.

Iguassu Falls / Foz do Iguaçu - Brazil  Manaus  Rio de Janeiro  Salvador / Bahia  Sao Paulo