5 Top Places in Brazil

Thinking about a Brazil vacation? Here are 5 cities in Brazil you might want to factor into your Brazil vacation package :

1. Recife & Olinda. These two cities are less than 10 kilometers apart and separated by a river and some swamps. However when most people visit, they usually make a point to see both because of their close proximity and lovely attractions. Olinda looks like it is lost in time, with many colonial buildings (especially churches) and winding streets. Parts of the town are actually a UNESCO world heritage site. Recife is a more modern city, and the economical heart of Pernambuco state. Recife is similar to Venice, because the city is divided by many waterways and connected by bridges.
2. Rio de Janeiro. No trip to Brazil is complete without a stop at Rio de Janeiro. This massive metropolis surrounded by tropic splendor is a dynamic place to visit. The city is full of worldclass beaches, museums, and restaurants. Of course, there is Sugarloaf Mountain and the statue of Christ the Redeemer to visit, which is on top of Corcovada hill. This is one of the 7 New Wonders of the World, so be sure to see it!
3. Salvador. Salvador holds the nickname of "The Happiness Capital of Brazil." With a name like that, how can you not visit it? In fact, Salvador was once the real capital of Brazil, back when it was run by the Portuguese Empire. Today Salvador is an interesting mix of Brazilian, African, and European heritages. The city is built on a hill, so there are electric elevators to connect them. And of course, there are the 30 plus miles of beaches to enjoy.
4. Sao Paulo. Don't come to this city expecting to find some backwater Latin America small town. Sao Paulo is the financial hub of Brazil, and most of South America. This city is sleek, shiny, and expensive. This is where you'll find the best restaurants, bars, clubs, and shopping centers in all of Brazil. It is also the most populated city in Brazil. However, there are also several parks to remind you that are you in the country that houses the massive Amazon rainforest.
5. Iguazu. Iguazu is down along the border with Argentina, so it is the perfect place to visit if you plan on traveling to various countries in South America. Iguazu is surrounded by national parks full of jungle animals and vegetation. But of course, the main attraction is the massive Iguazu waterfall.