Exotic. Untamed. Sizzling. Festive. These are just some of the words that describe Brazil. This enormous country takes up nearly one half of the South American continent, and shares a border with all but two of the countries in South America. It is a country of incredible coastlines, the vast Amazon rainforest, ancient traditions and bustling cities.

Many visitors to Brazil are enthralled by the country's vibrant cities. Places like Sao Paulo, Rio de Janiero and Salvador flourish with festivals, arts, culture, and of course, tourists. The beaches of Rio de Janiero and Salvador are nothing short of dazzling, while Sao Paulo has excellent shopping.

Many of Brazil's smaller cities have distinct cultural roots. The southern city of Blumenau was settled by many German immigrants and still maintains German festivals and traditions. The annual Oktoberfest celebration rivals that of many native German cities, with nearly 100,000 gallons of beer being consumed over the three-week festival. Other cities such as Curitiba and Belem are influenced by settlers from countries like England, France, Spain, The Netherlands and Portugal.

Brazil is still most famous for its rugged and wild side. The mighty Amazon River flows through the country and is surrounded by the world's largest tract of rainforest, home to one-fifth of the world's plant, animal and insect species. Visitor's can experience this unspoiled wilderness in the Amazon Basin, an area teeming with alligators, dolphins, sharks, turtles and snakes.

Brazil's northeast has several modern towns, but travelers do not have to venture far out of town to find Brazilians living in conditions ranging from traditional to quite primitive. The most uninhabited part of Brazil is in the west. There you will find wide expanses of marshland as well as savanna habitat, fantastic for wildlife viewing.

Iguassu Falls is a natural wonder located on the border with Argentina. The falls are 60 feet higher and 150% wider than Niagara, making them a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Perhaps the best know attraction in Brazil, however, is the annual Carnival held in February or March. The dates vary somewhat depending on when Easter occurs, but what doesn't vary is the huge party that consumes the city during the festival.

Getting there and getting around

Due to Brazil's size, organized tours are the best way for travelers to see the country. Eco-tours of the rainforest are popular.

Brazil has many international airports, including the Rio de Janeiro Galeao Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport and Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport.

Portuguese is Brazil's official language so make sure you bring along a dictionary.