Brazil

From the jungle calls of the Amazon to the curves of Copacabana’s thong-clad crowds, Brazil is a heady celebration of the big, the bold and the beautiful. Brazil’s vast coastline is fringed with sandy beaches and island getaways, while buzzing Rio de Janeiro and stylish São Paulo offer nightlife and culture galore – as well as an annual dose of Carnival fever.

With the World Cup due to take over Brazilian stadia in 2014, and the Olympics coming to Rio in 2016, the largest country in South America is gearing up to take centre stage – and whether strolling down orderly São Paulo streets, or kicking back in the spotless coastal resort of Buzios, it seems Brazil is confidently rising to the challenge.

Prices are steadily increasing, so even the simplest Brazilian holidays don’t come cheap. Crime does happen, especially in the cities, but those who keep their wits about them and avoid certain areas are highly likely to have an incident-free trip.