Places+of+Interest+-+Dominique

Overview
A large proportion of Brazil's huge population should have good reason to be unhappy about their lot in life. Yet, the long-lasting impression one has of this magical country is of carefree, colourful people dancing and celebrating in the street parades at Carnival. It is this passion for life and exuberance of spirit that charms visitors from around the world. Tourists descending on the country's fabulous cities, such as hedonistic Rio de Janeiro, can enjoy the five-star hotels, shopping malls, beautiful beaches, sunny skies, bustling nightlife and inspirational restaurants. Beaches With over 5000 miles of coastline, the list of beaches well worth your visit is endless. · Bird watching · Caving · Diving · Fishing · Golf · Hang gliding and Paragliding · Horseback riding · Kayaking · Rafting · Sea turtles · Soccer · Surfing · Trekking · Volleyball · Botanical Gardens
 * Things to do:**


 * Rio De Janeiro**

Arguably one of the world’s most beautiful city settings, between rainforest-clad cliffs and the sea, Rio’s panorama offers one stunning view after another; from the unique landmarks of Corcovado Mountain, crowned by the statue of Christ the Redeemer, to Sugar Loaf Mountain at the entrance of Guanabara Bay. Boasting year-round sunshine, Rio’s beaches define life in this marvellous city with names recognised worldwide, such as Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon. Its diversity will make you dizzy. Famous for its Carnival, Rio is a sophisticated centre of music and dance, offering a nightlife that is legendary. The city also has a colonial legacy evidenced by its centuries-old churches and palaces.

In Rio de Janeiro will you encounter the mesmerising multi-sensory effects of the parade of samba schools. Combined, the extravagance of the floats, the colourful brilliance of the costumes, the magic of the music, the infectious laughter and the energy of the dancers makes for a complete integration of the arts. And, the excitement of the crowd is absolutely unimaginable!
 * Carnival in Rio de Janeiro**
 * The main tourist attractions in the five regions:**

__Northern Region:__

If you are looking for exotic sights, visit the north of Brazil. You will be overwhelmed by the natural beauty of this paradise on earth. The architecture of Manaus, capital of the state of Amaziona, is highly impressive. The façade of its famous theatre, the “Teatro Amazonas,” is neo-classical, but inside the décor is art nouveau. The city’s hotels and restaurants with their typical dishes provide tourists with the necessary infrastructure for a pleasant stay. The big attraction, however, is spending one or two nights in the jungle to get the feel of it. But there is no need to rough it: hotels and guides are available, and the safety of tourists is assured. The Bananal Island in the state of Tocantins is the largest river island in the world, known for its lovely beaches and good fishing. Belém, the capital of the state of Pará, is a major trade and economic centre.

__North East Region:__

The Northeast is rich in folklore and tradition. Salvador, capital of the state of Bahia, is said to have 365 churches. The city’s carnival is an event of and for its people at which tourists are welcome to participate. It is one of the region’s major attractions. Due to the canals that abound in the city, Recife, the capital of the state of Pernambuco, is often called Brazil’s Venice. Recife also has beautiful beaches. Olinda, a historical town, has long ago become an extension of Recife. In 1982, UNESCO listed it as a Cultural and Natural Heritage of Humanity. João Pessoa is the capital of the state of Paraiba. One of its major attractions is the Cabo Branco lighthouse. In Teresina, the capital of the state of Piaui, the main attraction is the National Park of Seven Cities.

__Central West Region:__

In the region lies Brasilia, the Capital of Brazil. The city is listed as a historical heritage fo humanity. Due to its untra modern architecture, it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There is harmony among its buildings, such as the Alvorada Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Congress. Cuiabá, the capital of the state of Mato Grosso is the gateway to the Pantanal, the wetlands. It, like the Amazon Jungle is one of the world’s largest reservations of fauna and flora. Rare species of birds and animals populate the region’s countless rivers and lakes. Once you are in the Caldas Novas spa, you can take it easy, lying emersed in its favourite curative waters.

__South West Region:__

The principle gateway to Brazil.Rio de Janeiro is full of attractions: the Sugarloaf, the Christ Mountain, the Botanical Gardens, the Tijuca Forest, museums, churches, and countless beaches. The Rio Cranival, celebrated in February, is famous throughout the world for its Samba School parade. In the south of the state, along the “Costa Verde” (Green Coast) are many sandy beaches. Crossing Guanabara Bay, you are on the road to the “Costa do Sol” (Sun Coast) and its resorts. São Paulo is South America’s major commercial, industrial and economic centre. Over 600 hotels and close on 1000 restaurants are ready to cater to visitors. Belo Horizonte is the capital of the state of Minas Gerais where Brazil’s architectural past has been preserved.

__Southern Region:__

The South if the only region in Brazil where a change in season is clearly defined. The state of Paraná offers tourist an unforgettable sight: the world famous Iguassú Waterfall. Porto Legre is the capital of Rio Grande do Sul, a state typical for the south of Brazil. The Gauchos, as its people are called, provide the finest gastronomic delicacy of the region: the “churrasco” or barbecue. The hill towns of this state are well worth visiting: Caxias do Sul, Farroupilha, Canela and Gramado.


 * Conclusion:**

Brazil has many wonderful places of interests for tourists of all likings; from historical buildings to natural beautiful beaches to architectural beaches. Brazil’s main attraction is the Rio de Janeiro Carnival which attracts many tourists and viewers from all around the world. There’s something to do and see from the morning to the evening, to keep you entertained. A holiday to Brazil doesn’t have to be costly, there are simple things to do to keep the whole family occupied, without costing too much; for example: Bird Watching, Soccer, Kayaking.