South America is full of places with fascinating histories. From the mighty Inca civilization cradled in Cusco, to the mysterious islands of Lake Titicaca, to the ravaged silver mines of PotosÃ, the continent is distingushed by a rich past. But the modern capital of Brazil has an entirely unique story to tell. There is no other city like Brasilia, at least on this planet.
Built with an Eye Towards the Heavens
South America is full of places with fascinating histories. From the mighty Inca civilization cradled in Cusco, to the mysterious islands of Lake Titicaca, to the ravaged silver mines of PotosÃ, the continent is distingushed by a rich past. But the modern capital of Brazil has an entirely unique story to tell. There is no other city like Brasilia, at least on this planet.
A Tale of Two Rios
There are two sides to every metropolis. On one hand, there is the picture-postcard ready city that invites tourists to come and marvel at its attractions. On the other, exists the city that most tourists and wealthier residents would rather avoid. While this happens all over the world, perhaps nowhere is this divide more pronounced than in Rio de Janeiro.Northern Adventure
I shifted into fifth gear, released the clutch, and pressed down on the accelerator. The speedometer climbed to 140 kilometers per hour as the never ending fields of northeastern Brazil raced past. Rounding the crest of a hill, my heart suddenly dropped. I slammed on the brakes and skidded to a stop mere feet from the lazy goat blocking the middle of the road. Everyone in the car released their breath and sank back into their seats. With an irritated glance in our direction, the bearded animal plodded forward and out of our path.The Bash of Brazil
When most people think of Carnival in Brazil, they think of brightly colored, scantily clad samba dancers in Rio de Janeiro. But the most popular Carnaval celebration in Brazil is not in Rio; it is in the tropical locale of Salvador de Bahia. For one week every year, well over a million people descend on this bustling port city to join a party that is unrivaled in the world.Unforgettable Falls
At the intersection of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, lies one of the natural wonders of the world. The falls of Iguazu draws visitors from all over the globe, and for good reason. The beauty of this place surpasses anything that mankind could ever hope to create.