Brazil’s popularity among lovers looking for the trip of a lifetime is due to sheer range of romantic range vacations available. They can relax far away from it all on a luxurious secluded beach or spend quality time together in cosmopolitan centres that seethe with life. Here are some of Brazil’s hottest destinations for St Valentine’s Day:
1. Fernando do Noronha
creativecommons.org/Andrei
Follow in the footsteps of Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem and head to the secluded archipelago of Fernando do Noronha off the northeast coast of Brazil. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and only 500 people at any given time allowed to stay there. In addition to the pristine white beaches, the crystal clear waters are full of dolphins, colourful fish and turtles, making it a diving paradise for your romantic getaway.
2. Trancoso
creativecommons.org/Leo Quintino
If you’re looking for a laid back atmosphere where you can truly enjoy each other’s company, take a trip to the sleepy fishing village of Trancoso in the state of Bahia, in the northeast of Brazil. Not only is it filled with luxury boutiques, restaurants and pousadas (guesthouses), it is also a hotspot for celebs. Gisèle Bundchen and Naomi Campbell holiday there regularly.
3. Amazon Rainforest
Get down with nature and stay in a unique tree-house hotel in the Amazon Rainforest. Take a romantic cruise along the Amazon River, where rare Pink River dolphins may pop up and witness the ‘Meeting of the Waters’ – where the ‘white’ Solimoes River meets the ‘black’ Rio Negro.
4. Rio de Janeiro
creativecommons.org/Justin Vidamo
For a more cosmopolitan break, head to Rio de Janeiro. Not only does the city offer an array of world-famous beaches, including Copacabana and Ipanema, but you can also take the iconic cable car ride up to Sugarloaf Mountain and take in the breathtaking views of the city together. As Rio prepares as a host city for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil and the 2016 Rio Olympic and Paralympic Games, there are new museums and attractions opening up all the time. Rio also showcases some of the best food in the country, ranging from typical Brazilian cuisine like steakhouses specialities, to gourmet seafood dishes. Don’t forget to try some Samba and Caipirinhas while you’re there, especially as the world famous Carnival takes place the weekend before St Valentine’s Day!