Brasilians have a true love of nature, of their culture, of their incredible country. They are passionate, warm, generous and friendly. They want to share everything with you, from their beaches to their Samba! The coastline stretches over 7000km along the Atlantic Ocean and has many beaches that are rated as some of the best in the world. The waters are crystal clear, the fine sands seemingly never-ending, and the surroundings include views of paradisiacal islands and lush green jungle. The Brasilian rainforests are unique, home to thousands of species of wildlife, birds, flora and fauna that you won

It is widely known that much of Brasil s natural environment has been and continues to be destroyed. However, Brasilians have become a lot more environmentally aware in the last 10-15 years with the help of an international environmental movement. This has lead to a number of conservation efforts including national parks, forests, and reserves for sustainable development. The arrival of eco-tourism along with these efforts is helping to turn the tide against the destruction of Brasil s incredible flora and fauna, but much is yet to be done

And why not reflect on your day while relaxing in a typical Brasilian bar. National drinks include juices (sucos) from papaya and passion fruit, exotic guarana and agua de coco (coconut water), or the famous Brasilian caipirinha- a simple blend of chopped limes, sugar, ice and cachaca (sugarcane alcohol); simply delightful! Choose from an array of native culinary treats while sipping any of these concoctions. Brasilians love their food. You will not believe the variety and quality you can find here. Famous national dishes include arroz e feijao (black beans and rice), churrasco (traditional southern barbeque), bobo (northern seafood paste) and moqueca (seafood dish cooked in clay pots).

Brasilians love of food and drink is matched only by their love of music and dance. Your Brasilian experience would not be complete without at least making an attempt to reach the dance floor for some samba, forro (northeastern dance), axe (Caribbean fusion music) or their own version of hegae (reggae). There are samba schools all over Brasil where children and adults practice their moves all year long so they can culminate in the most over the top party on our planet

The home of Carnaval is the vibrant and energetic city of Rio de Janeiro. There is something for everyone here; glorious beaches- the surfers and swimmers paradise, the Atlantic Rainforest for some great hiking, exciting bars, dance clubs and cafes along with excellent museums and art markets abound for you to discover. Not to mention the world famous hang-glides above it all where you can really appreciate the beauty of this city.

Far north from Rio and far different in character sits the cultural gem that is the city of musical Salvador in the state of Bahia. Here you will get a taste of Afro-Brasil, the home of Capoeira, Candomble, and an unforgettable Carnaval that some say surpasses Rio. While you wander the cobblestone streets you will marvel at the colonial architecture, the number of stunning churches and be enthused to learn about the colorful history of this magical town. Salvador is a popular destination and for many very good reasons.

But most of what makes Brasil wonderful happens outside these tourist haunts. The ranching culture is as rich and interesting as that of North America s old west. Country estates are still surrounded by miles of coffee plantations. National parks are full of canyons, immense swamps, caves and fast flowing rivers. Follow the northeast coast to little fishing villages that resemble more ancient Africa than South America. The seas are deep blue and green, with uninhabited islands amidst coral reefs, with sea mammals and tropical fish, fighting to expose their colors.

Unfortunately, amongst all these blessings, Brasil is also a country with deep poverty, violent crime, rampant political corruption and tragic injustice, and these factors are just as crucial to what Brasil is as anything else. The true Brasil lies in the middle, daring you to explore it, and expose all its secrets.