Brazil’s indelible imprint on the human mind is the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop the summit of Corcovado towering over Rio. The monument’s image is actually mesmerized by the engulfing elegance of the metropolis common in films, songs as well as picture books. Add to it the wonderful coastline of Rio and the equally as classic Rio landmark, the rock of Sugar Loaf, and one feels compelled to go taste the flavor of Rio de Janeiro in a heartbeat.

While it’s challenging for any visitor to disregard Brazil’s colonial hangover, the slavery upon which the Portuguese rooted their power, and which took forever to abolish, taking until 1888, the monuments, church arts and colonial remain as true testament of man’s prowess and creativity during the first three hundred years following Brazil’s discovery by a Portuguese navigator Pedro Álvares Cabral in the year 1500.

Although you may be tempted most by Brazil’s beaches, the undeniable impressive natural sites of Iguassu Falls, Pantanal and Amazonia, do take your time to explore the monuments of its colonial era. While cities like Salvador typically are part of most visitors’ itinerary, few venture to Minas Gerais, the province next to that of the Rio de Janeiro state.

Minas towns of Sao Joao del Rey, Tiradentes, Congonhas, Ouro Preto and Diamantina are not only full of priceless monuments, they are among the most picturesque small towns to visit in South America.

Outside Minas Gerais Salvador is indeed a town bound to give you the feel of old Portugal and Africa. On account of large black population, descendants of the slaves, it possesses the most African elements of attraction, from to dance, in all of Brazil. This influence is remarkably strong on this city. You will note the Afro-impression also in religion practices and food. The African influence is a part and parcel of the people’s life in Salvador. The ever smiling faces of the city dwellers win every visitor’s heart and the happy go lucky crowds here are known to stage the best and biggest street parties in Brazil, indeed they are the specialties of Salvador.

Last place not to forget when tracing the colonial roots of Brazil is Paraty. A journey by foot to the historical centre of Paraty may very well be the most enjoyable part of your Brazil tour. Marked by rough cobblestones, a slow walk through Paraty’s streets will let you enjoy this small town to the fullest. Paraty retains the colonial spirit well as its houses have been perfectly renovated.

Therefore go and bask in the beauty of Brazil, include Brazil in your next trip to South America! Take immense pleasure from your Brazil-sojourn by enjoying its golden beaches, its glorious heritage, mouth-watering food, and abundant rainforests. Brazil is truly a blessed land and tourists from all over the world throng the country just because it is a unique experience in itself.