Population: Approximately 13 million
Time zone: GMT -2 hours
Currency: Real
Language: Portuguese
Int. dialling code: +55
Religion: Predominantly Christian
Tourist board
Julian Linley
Editor, Heat
www.heatworld.com
"Rio De Janeiro for New Year, there is nothing better than stepping off a plane, battered by the British winter, and being hit by that wall of heat. This was my first time in Brazil and I was struck straight away by the beauty and drama of Rio - soaring cliffs covered in forest, dropping straight into an ocean - and all around is a sprawling city. From the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain it almost looked like nature was trying to claim the city rather than the other way around!
"We were staying at a hotel with an amazing view over Copacabana Beach, the entire length of which was covered with people wearing white, which is traditional. We had a great time, but when the fireworks and celebrations started, we headed to the beach to get into the party spirit. We danced on the beach until day break, ran into the sea to cool off and generally had the biggest blast.
"After a few days parting in Rio, four of us took a car down the coast to Buzios and checked into a spa. Buzios is like the St Tropez of South America - much more sedate, but very glamorous. We hired a boat and spent hours exploring hidden coves, diving off the back of the boat, sunbathing, drinking cocktails and then swimming to the beach for lunch."
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro - the city of samba and street parties. Behind this vivacious facade lie a number of slums where violence and crime are the status quo. Yet the problems of Rio should not discourage the fascinated traveller from visiting the city. Referred to as 'A Cidade Maravilhosa' - the Marvelous City - Rio de Janeiro boasts an enviable setting gazing out across a natural harbour.
Spectacular mountains and some of the world's best sandy beaches can also be seen in abundance, while the lively, energetic South Zone acts as the hub of Rio's tourist activity. Despite being relieved of the title in 1960, many still regard Rio de Janeiro to be the capital of Brazil. It certainly seems fitting that the city retains the grandiosity that such a title brings.
Christ the Redeemer: Set at the summit of Corcovado Mountain, Rio's Christ the Redeemer statue stands sentinel over the city, some 700 metres above sea level. In July 2007, the statue was recognised by The New Open World Corporation as being one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Carnival: Travellers looking for a true party atmosphere should look to visit Rio during carnival season, held annually 40 days before Easter and marking the beginning of Lent. The first festivals to be held in Rio are said to date back to 1723, while the parade through the streets of the city have been occurring since the 1830s.
Copacabana Beach: The name Copacabana is instantly recognisable as home to one of the world's greatest stretches of coastline, where scantily-clad sun-seekers occupy the sands, bars and restaurants of the region. Revellers also flock to the area to experience the spectacular New Year celebrations.
Did you eat at a fantastic restaurant or stay in a wonderful hotel in Rio? Maybe you discovered a hidden sight or you have a Brazil travel tip that you want to share with other visitors?