Brazil

(1) The Girl from Ipanema

11 days, 9 nights

Overview:
Brazil is on top of most people’s travel to do list--- for good reason. Rio de Janeiro isn’t nicknamed the “Marvellous City” for nothing. To be frank, there seems to be no other people on the planet in pursuit of pleasure like Brazilians (and Carnaval is living proof). You could picture Rio as four cities mixed into one. It’s a city bigger than New York, with a better beach than Miami, the tropical feel of Honolulu, and the cultural mix of Barcelona. A massive metropolis, a world class beach, a backdrop of rugged cliffs... enough said. More and more people have begun to notice—that’s why Rio was chosen as the host city for the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After you’ve had your fill of Rio, there’s ample time to relax in Buzios. This coastal town east of Rio boasts over 20 beaches and has been dubbed the “St. Tropez of Brazil.” You can’t miss a meal at a Brazilian churrasceria or fejoada, a classic Brazilian black bean stew with meat.

The Basics:
Fly into Rio de Janeiro for a six night stay. First, take a helicopter tour of the city to see all the sites from a bird’s eye view. Enjoy famed beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, as well as Sugarloaf Mountain, Lapa, and Christ the Redeemer statue (one of the New Seven Wonders of the World) on Corcovado Mountain. Day trips to Ihla Grande and Barra da Tijuca are also a must. Get out on the water with a professional sailor to check out Guanabara Bay and Ihla Grande for a day. Lastly, drive to Buzios for 3 nights at the relaxing fishing village. Return to Rio to fly home.

Additional options:
- Kite surfing in Buzios
- Hang gliding in Barra da Tijuca.
- Deep sea boating in Buzios
- Soccer match at 200,000 seat, Maracana Stadium in Rio
- Take samba dancing lessons in Rio.

Physical difficulty: EASY

razil was sick. Got to see Cristor Redentor, one of the seven wonders of the world. Gazed at the hot bodies and bicycle kick spikes down at ipanema beach. Took a gondola ride up to Sugar loaf mtn. Stayed in a mansion for 4 days in Buzios, the Brazilian St. Tropez and ran out of gas and pushing a sand buggy 1/2 a mile to a gas station to make our bus back to Rio… memories.
Sam G, New York, NY

I've gone on 3 trips using Croft Global Travel (Puerto Rico, Brazil and Mexico). All three of them were fabulous, and having a guide who speaks the language was super helpful. We didn't have to worry about planning anything on any of the trips, but the guides are totally open to changing plans if you're feeling somethi...ng different one day... so it doesn't feel like you have a strict agenda to stick to. I also went on all three trips only knowing a few people... and every group was amazing! Good mix of exploring, relaxing and enjoying the nightlife.
Chrisi M, Arlington, VA

Been on two trips now with CGT, Brazil and Mexico. Both were pretty incredible and it was real helpful to have someone along who knows the language. Both trips were a great mix of incredible sightseeing, relaxation and crazy nightlife.
Matt G, Vienna, VA

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