A dynamic coastal neighbourhood synonymous with leisure, luxury and nightlife, Copacabana is characterised by million-dollar penthouses, stunning neoclassical buildings and tiny apartments set against a magnificent backdrop of jungle-clad mountains in Rio de Janeiro. From its humble origins as a small fishing village, the "Princess of the Sea" is now a leisure seeker's paradise, bursting with restaurants, nightclubs, bars and hotels, and emits a lively, effervescent energy, perfect for the social traveller. To learn its history, visit Forte de Copacabana, a fort and museum that traces the early days of the Portuguese colony through to the mid-19th century. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to The Eva Klabin Foundation (Casa Museu Eva Klabin), a historical home of famous art and antique collector Eva Klabin that houses over 1000 art pieces from all over the world. A visit to Copacabana is incomplete without the world-famous Copacabana Beach, a 4-kilometre stretch of golden sand dotted with brightly-coloured umbrellas, bars and a popular playground for watersports, football, volleyball, or simply lazing in the sun.
Brazil’s second-largest city and one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations, Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain and the massive, majestic statue of Christ atop the Corcavado peak. The highlight of Rio’s social calendar is Carnaval, in the weeks leading up to Lent, when the city becomes a riot of colour, music and festivities, with thousands of costumed revellers parading through the street in what the locals call the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’.
On the Costa Verde, surrounded by quiet beaches and peninsulas, beguiling Paraty is known for its exceptional colonial architecture. The historical district is a joy to explore, with cobblestone streets winding between whitewashed buildings and baroque churches. Cultural offerings are not limited to the historical, however – Paraty is home to many creative souls and entrepreneurs from around the world, whose restaurants, galleries, and shops give the town a cosmopolitan feel. Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby reserves, parks, and mountains that surround this enticing destination.
Vila do Abraao is a small, picturesque village in a bay on the northeastern coast of Brazil’s Ilha Grande Island. As the main town on the island, it provides the necessary shops and services among the otherwise quite stunningly untamed wilderness. The town’s palm-fringed, golden-sanded beach, and its surrounding 150 kilometres of trails through virgin Atlantic rainforest make it appeal to adventure-seekers. Hikers will see brightly coloured birds, howler monkeys, and stunning vegetation. From a historical perspective, Vila do Abraao has functioned as a pirate’s lair, leper colony and prison - all of which have now fallen away, leaving traces here and there. Meander the cobbled streets at night for a relaxed atmosphere, live music, and several buffet-style restaurants.
