Because I've always wanted to...
Greetings All!
Well I am often asked what is my favourite country/my top city?
Having spent 3 weeks in Brazil in August, travelling around a
country I already know very well - I know how to answer - BRAZIL
and RIO! To validate my reasoning, Michael Palin has just finished
filming in Brazil and a 4 week series starts on Wed, October 24.
Please watch it!! Finding a holiday destination (for families) in
July and August with perfect weather and plenty to interest all is
certainly a challenge. No longer - go to Brazil!!
Beaches, colonial towns, Amazon, Pantanal, jaguars, the wondrous
Iguacu falls and certainly the most attractive and fun city one
could every wish to experience. - Rio!
Enough said! With my best personal wishes
Laterally Yours,
Nick Matthews, LateralLife London, UK.
Chilli Beach
This breath taking boutique hotel is the new favourite in Jeri,
situated on a headland facing west just 3 minutes walk from town.
The views from the infinity pool are of blue sea dotted with kites
and wind surfers. The menu is just exquisite and very much leaning
towards seafood. The sunset caipirinhas are the best in the
business! Jericoacoara is west of Fortaleza and the world renown
beach venue in Northern Brazil. It is from here that one accesses
the infamous area of Lencois Maranhenses.
Araras Lodge
Deep in the wet land region of S.W. Brazil lies Araras
Lodge which was originally a hacienda (farm house). It is now one
of the leading places to stay in the Pantanal should you wish to
witness the extraordinary quantity of bird life that resides here
throughout the year. Other activities include riding, jeep safaris,
kayaking and, of course, walking. Animal life is also abundant with
capybara's deer, tapirs, anteaters, armadillos and river otters
being the ones most frequently sighted.
Cristalino Lodge
"Set deep in the Amazon is a lodge that exemplifies jungle
living perfection!! Primary rain forest, a floating deck to
sunbathe and swim off (No Crocs or Piranha!!), stupendous insect
proof accommodation, stunning architecture blending into the forest
canopy, beaches on river islands where one can safely swim,
memorable river trips, innumerable walking trails, a high above the
canopy tower, learned guides, great food and we saw a Harpy Eagle
take a monkey out of a tree!!!! A must visit in my book!!
Cataratas Hotel
In my opinion there is only one hotel to stay at in
Iguacu! Situated in the heart of a national park overlooking the
Argentinian side of the falls, is this classic, Orient Express
owned hotel. It has walking access to the Brazilian side of the
falls from the hotel car park not to mention the experience of
having dinner under the stars overlooking these hugely impressive
waterfalls. A day trip over to Argentina is a must do as the falls
are at their best from this side.
The Fasano
Well this superb hotel is really one of life's great treats but
beware the bar and restaurant prices!!! Situated bang on Ipanema
beach with a roof top terrace pool that has views of to die for.
The Marina All Suites can be found further down the beach and is
certainly another wonderful more realistic option. Within walking
distance are the famous restaurants of Leblon and the infamous
"Academy of Cachaca"!! If you have the time do go and spend a few
nights at the Santa Theresa hotel. A fascinating area of old
Rio.