Discovering Brazil: An Unforgettable Adventure

My recent journey to Brazil was spectacular, offering a medley of breathtaking natural wonders, cultural treasures and culinary delights.

Iguazu Falls: Nature’s Thunderous Marvel

Connecting Brazil and Argentina, the Iguazu Falls, or “Big Water”, is a majestic spectacle of raw power and beauty. Walking along the trails on the Argentine and Brazilian sides provided two distinct yet equally mesmerising perspectives. We tried to pick a favourite side but it’s not an easy decision to make! Each step brought us closer to the roaring cascading falls, with the thundering noise and misty spray creating an exhilarating experience; it’s no wonder Eleanor Roosevelt remarked, “Poor Niagara” when she saw the Iguazu Falls.

Taking to the skies, we soared above the falls in a helicopter, witnessing the panoramic view of the immense curtain of water from a vantage point few are lucky to see. The aerial perspective was breathtaking, but nothing quite compared to the adrenaline rush of getting drenched under the falls during our thrilling boat ride! I can confirm that ponchos do not work so embrace the experience but do take a spare set of clothes.

Our culinary adventure in Brazil was equally unforgettable. We had the pleasure of experiencing a history of Brazilian food at Casa Do Chef, owned by Fabio who previously worked at Hotel das Cataras, indulging in an array of traditional dishes that showcased the country’s rich gastronomic heritage. Each dish was a celebration of flavours and local ingredients, leaving our taste buds dancing with delight. The multi-talented Fabio then played a piece of Brazilian Jazz on his flute before letting us into a secret…..samba didn’t originate in Rio but in Bahia!

Hotel das Cataratas: An Oasis by the Falls

Staying at the Hotel das Cataratas was a dream come true. Nestled within the national park and the only hotel on the grounds, it granted us exclusive early access to the falls before the public. This meant we could enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings undisturbed by crowds. Waking up to the sight and sound of the falls, enveloped in the lush greenery, and getting to feed the colourful birds at breakfast was a magical experience.

Exploring Paraty: A Colonial Gem

Our next stop was the charming colonial town of Paraty. Its cobbled streets, lined with colourful houses and historic churches, exuded old-world charm. We stayed at the Pousada Literária de Paraty, a delightful retreat in the heart of the town. The hotel‘s central location allowed us to explore the local shops and fabulous restaurants, yet it still offered a tranquil haven to unwind after a day of exploration, aided by the fabulous massage I enjoyed there. A lot of Brazilians will spend their honeymoon here and you can see why as the town has a romantic setting. Do try the cheese waffles with cream cheese and guava jam for breakfast as you enjoy marvelling at the 200-year-old ficus tree on the grounds.

A day on a private boat took our Paraty experience to the next level. With access to paddle boards and kayaks, we explored the crystal-clear calm waters all whilst savouring a range of tasty food and the best cocktails; you need to ask for the Jorge Amado. It’s the perfect spot for a group to spend the day or even as a honeymoon treat.

Angra dos Reis: Caribbean Vibes in Brazil

From Paraty, we travelled to Angra dos Reis and checked into the elegant Fasano hotel. We were greeted by a sea of capybaras at the entrance. With stunning views out to the coast, it felt like a slice of the Caribbean in Brazil. Here, we enjoyed a rejuvenating massage, a fun cocktail-making class and a refreshing walk to a nearby waterfall. We did manage a few hours relaxing on the beach and enjoying the water sports before enjoying a tasty lunch with Fasano wine. It’s a world away from Rio, which is captivating in its way, but for those who want to switch off in beautiful tropical surroundings, I couldn’t recommend this hotel more highly and it’s just over 3 hours away from Rio.

Rio de Janeiro: Vibrant City Life

Our final stop was the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, where 12 million people live, work and play. We all became resident Cariocas for our three nights here, throwing ourselves in the Brazilian way of life. We stayed at the iconic Copacabana Palace known for hosting celebrities from Royalty to pop legends and the hotel lived up to its reputation, welcoming us with a Michelin-starred meal at Mee. Our Rio adventure included a private gondola ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, offering expansive views of the city, and a helicopter flight around Christ the Redeemer, a truly unforgettable sight. It is possible to have a private breakfast at the statue and even climb to the head!

Immersing ourselves in the carnival spirit, we visited a top samba school and experienced first-hand the hard work and passion that goes into the carnival preparations. Samba to Rio is how football is to the UK – it’s serious. Around 3,500 people compete from each school with just 70 to 80 minutes to prove they deserve the win. Dressing up, dancing, and drumming away, we were swept up in the infectious energy of the samba although I am not sure many of us would cope in the heat!

Exploring the famous Selarón Steps and the artistic Santa Teresa district added a creative flair to our Rio experience. However, the highlight of our trip was an afternoon in Vidigal, a favela bursting with spirit, innovation, and positivity. Meeting Isis, who teaches children drumming, and learning about the incredible work of Favela Inc. left a lasting impression. I brought home a beautiful souvenir from their shop as a reminder of the remarkable experiences and memories this trip provided.

Brazil, with its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and incredibly friendly people has truly captured my heart. As a vegetarian, I have never eaten so well and I came home with a full tummy and a happy heart! This adventure was a perfect blend of nature, culture, and luxury, leaving me with memories to cherish forever.