Brazil
Why BrazilBrazil occupies an immense area along the eastern coast of South America, it shares a border with every country in South America, except for Ecuador and Chile. The factors of size, climate, and natural resources make Brazil geographically diverse. Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world and third largest in the Americas; with a total area of 5,289,090 mi, including 34,458 mi of water. With a coastline stretching more than 7,000 kilometers, Brazil boasts exquisite beaches such as Ipanema and Copacabana, along the Carioca coast; Joaquina, in the southern part of the country is ideal for surfing; Praiado Forte, and the fabled beaches of the Fernando de Noronha archipelago. Brazil possesses one of the world’s most-recognized ecological icons: the Amazon, covering approximately 5.5 million square kilometers. It is estimated that 60% of the planet’s life forms are found in its forests. Among its well-known cities is Fortaleza, with its museums, churches, forts and historic buildings, in addition to its beaches and tourist infrastructure. São Paulo is the country’s leading commercial and industrial city; its wide avenues and skyscrapers mix with its older constructions, parks and plazas. Brasilia, the capital, is one of the best examples of urban planning in the world; its modern architecture is outstanding. CarnivalRio de Janeiro, known as the “Marvelous City,” is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and is headquarters for the biggest party in the world: Carnival. Each year, thousands of people enjoy its unequaled atmosphere and the parades put on by the Samba schools. Carnival is also celebrated in the cities of São Paulo and Recife, Pernambuco, where the giant puppets are the attraction; and in Salvador, Bahia, with its mobile stages. Gallery |