One of the world?s largest countries, Brazil is well known to the world through its perennial football heroes, the Amazon jungle, the samba, stunning Rio, and the local?s reputation for partying.

Rio de Janeiro is undoubtedly Brazil?s most famous tourist destination, and arguably boasts one of the world?s most perfect settings. Set among mountains and inland bays, the city has magnificent sweeping beaches and excellent vistas from Corcovado (on which stands a statue of Christ the redeemer with arms outstretched), and P? de A?car (Sugar Loaf). Adding to this are the Serra da Carioca and Parque Nacional da Tijuca that divide the city. Copacabana beach is probably the best landmark in this crowded city, and stretches 4.5 kms. Its waterfront is heavily built up and bustling with beautiful bodies and sun-soaked people over every ilk. Ipanema is where the chic hang out, but there are plenty more beaches.

Carnival atmosphere is incredible, though crowded, yet at any time of the year there?s plenty of entertainment. The city never seems to sleep and has many contrasting characters, from the hillside slums to the highrises of the waterfront.

Several hundred kilometers inland, Bras?ia is a sterile, purpose-built capital, scarcely 40 years old. It was an incredibly ambitious project, perfectly designed and landscaped and even makes it onto the World Heritage list, but pretty dull by night. The popular Parque Nacional de Bras?ia ecological reserve is a good place to escape to.

S? Paulo is one of the world?s largest cities, made of immigrants and ethnic neighbourhoods. It?s brimming with people and ever lively, matching its obvious South American-styled sophistication, and cultural and intellectual superiority. It has some good museums and plenty of entertainment options, though it can be quite intimidating.