Reflections: On Brazilian Seduction
Feliz Ano Novo! ("Happy New Year!") Indeed, New Year’s is something very special in the only lusophone nation in the Americas. With millions dressed in white, jumping waves on the beach, and tossing gladiolas into the ocean, Brazil’s celebration is unlike any other as we detailed back in our Third Edition.
I’m always taken aback by winter travels southward, from a brown and barren land here in the northern hemisphere, to a lush, verdant, and seductive landscape that somehow revives my creative spirit. Really, anytime from October to March is a fantastic time for such South American reinvigoration. For me, Brazil is one of the world’s most sensual countries - from the curvaceousness of their modern architecture, to the exotic cornucopias of their forests, and the alluring rhythms of their bodies and their voices – I challenge you not to find yourself charmed and perhaps seduced.
I’ve been to Brazil more than twenty five times, easily claiming the unofficial honor of being a Brazilophile. And it just so happens to be one of our favorite countries on Earth for good reason. It is HUGE. In fact, the distance from Canada to Brazil is shorter than the distance from Brazil’s northernmost to its southernmost points. Flying over the green abyss of the Amazon basin evokes similar sensations of flying over the Atlantic. Flying into São Paulo and seeing the infinite expanse of skyscrapers on the horizon is captivating. I truly believe that there is no more beautiful cityscape than Rio de Janeiro, with the silhouettes of sculpted mountaintops cradling a crescent moon of urban chic beaches. I warn people to make sure they see Niagara before going to Iguazu Falls as they will be sorely disappointed afterward. And of course, strolling along the endless stretches of white sand beaches lined by coconut palms is indulgent, picture-postcard-perfection.
Yet, weirdly, so few Americans come here. Only recently have international resort chains entered the market in a meaningful way. Service is generally unpolished, but easily forgivable given an ultra-friendly demeanour. Brazil remains a challenging place – one ripe for exploration and new discovery, but requires security precautions. In this feature, simply we dip our toes into the vastness just to whet your appetite – sharing favorite spots in both Rio and São Paulo, tempting you with budget-friendly boutiques on pristine beaches, and venturing on ‘safari’ deep into the Amazon. Like me, you’ll likely catch the bug and come back, again and again. Bem vindo!
Return to all the content in the Brazil Feature
Photo Credit: Syllogi
