Beth

Hi, <BR> <BR>My husband has some business in Sao Paolo in early June and we've decided to extend the trip and spend our anniversary in the area. <BR> <BR>We have never been anywhere in Latin America and are looking for ideas.... Should we stay in the area, hit a nearby city, visit the mountains/rainforest or go to an Island? We really don't know much about the area and would love any advice or suggestions. <BR> <BR>Thanks!! <BR>

Beth

Just found out that he also has business in Rio... if that changes anything. <BR> <BR>Any suggestions in either area or elsewhere?? <BR> <BR>

mindy

So many options, so little time...I'd get out of SP (city) asap--too big for my taste! I spent 15 months there (Brazil) in the 80's and we were back for a visit last year. Sao Paulo state has some fun beaches, I'm quite partial to Sao Sebastiao and Isla Bonita. Guaruja is fine if you're looking for a Spring Break type atmosphere. If you head to Rio (state) and have some bucks to spend, Angra dos Reis and Porto Bracuy were gorgeous 20 years ago, and not overdeveloped. I'm sure the choices now are stunning. City of Rio is always lovely, just don't stay on Copacabana, head for Ipanema or others. Boa Viagem!

Mindy

Give the Cabo Frio area near Rio a look. Otherwise, you could spend the whole time in Rio. I like Ipanema. Copacabana's prostitutes are not subtle! It has gotten very seedy since my stint in 1984! Let me know if I can help! Mindy

Larry

Hi - <BR>I would recommend a trip from Sao Paulo to Campos de Jordao, not too far,a beautiful resort in the mountains. There are buses that go there or you can rent a car. There is also Ilha Bela, an island nearby. <BR>If in Rio, see if you can get a conducted tour or go to Angra dos Reis and Parati, a colonial city. The scenery driving to these locations is breathtaking. Rio is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Try to stay at a hotel which is located either in Ipanema or Leblon. Must see for Rio: Corcovado (the statue of Christ), Pao de Acucar (Sugar Loaf Mountain) and Tijuca Forest. <BR> If you have two days fly to Iguassu Falls, you'll be amazed at size and quantity of the water. There is also <BR>the Itaipu Hydroelectric plant, the largest in the world. <BR>As they say in Portuguese: Boa viajem. <BR> <BR>

anna

Brazil is such a big country andthere isso much to see! If you are going to be Rio I would recommend at least 4-5 days to get to know the city. there are also several day trips thatyou can take such as Buzio which is a beach to the north , about 2 hours by car. th town is very quaint, lovely beches and good restaurants since a lot of french people have decided to stay . It s a bit like the French Cote dÁzur. As a matter of fact it was just a fishing village and became know after Brigitte bardot spent some time ther in the '60's. anothe place to visit is petropolis in the mountans- it is the old summer capital of Brazil-it islocated 880 mteters above sea level. their is the Imperial museum and several other historic sites to see- the ride is lovely- its mostly uphill through the rin forest. If you have more time you should go to Bahis which is very exotic w. all the african influence. Have fun and boa vagem!