Some of us are programmed to explore, others are programmed to dream. Regardless of which category you fall into, there is a whole world out there just waiting to be discovered.
Her.ie’s new weekly travel guide brings you to some of the most inspiring places in the world and dares you to turn those dreams into an adventure of a lifetime.
As the saying goes, ‘home is where your passport is’ – so where will your passport end up next?
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Blazing with colour and with a steady samba beat throbbing through its city, Rio de Janeiro invites you in and dances you through its incredible city. From world-famous landmarks to the preparations for the Olympics in 2016 – Brazil is a country that is full of contradictions, yet will get under your skin and entice you to set up camp and stay there forever.
Christ the Redeemer
No visit to Rio will be complete without seeing their most famous landmark, the Christ the Redeemer statue.
Handy hint: Get up early and make your way there before your selfie with the statue becomes a selfie with you and hundreds of other tourists.
Samba, samba
Take in a samba show and prepare to be wowed by the extremely talented dancers that will dazzle you with their footwork.
Handy hint: If you have some extra time, take in a samba lesson too.
Iguazu Falls
If you are staying in Brazil for a while, take a bus from Rio down to Iguazu Falls and prepare to be blown away by the majestic beauty of the waterfalls.
Handy hint: Stay overnight and get down to the falls early. Take a boat trip through for some outstanding views.
Soccer fun
Brazil have been footballing giants for many years. Home to greats such as Pelé, Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos, taking in a soccer match while you are in Rio is a must.
Handy hint: Book tickets to a game through your accommodation as tour groups usually travel together.
Ipanema
The inspiration behind the famous Girl from Ipanema song, the Ipanema beach is a firm favourite for holiday makers.
Handy hint: Pick up a pair (or ten) or Havaiana flip-flops here and take a stroll further down the shore to the famous Copacabana beach.
Escaderia Selarón
Rio’s world-famous steps Escaderia Selarón are the work of Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón who says the steps are his “tribute to the Brazilian people”. The 250 steps are said to be covered with more than 2,000 tiles from over 60 countries in the world.
Handy hint: Make sure to pick up one of his paintings or postcards as he considers the work as “never complete” and you just don't know if it will have changed the next time you visit.
Florianopolis
Another trip to make out of Rio would be to Florianopolis, which boasts 42 beaches and is extremely popular with surfers.
Handy hint: Take your time to soak up some colonial architecture and stunning beaches.
Carnival
Famous around the world, the carnival celebrations in Rio de Janeiro attract hundreds of thousands of people.
Handy hint: Be ready on day four of the celebrations to head to the spectacular Rio Samba Parade at the Sambadrome.
Sugarloaf Mountain
One of Brazil's most famous peaks, the Sugar Loaf towers over Rio de Janeiro and is a must-visit for tourists to the area.
Handy hint: Take the cable car to the top for some jaw-dropping views.
Tijuca National Park
Tijuca National Park is one of the largest urban forests in the world. Visitors can take a trip to the highest peak in the city – the Pico da Tijuca – for some breath-taking views of the city below.
Handy hint: Bring plenty of water and snacks as this can be a long day.
Botanical Gardens
The botanical gardens are well worth a visit and boast more than 8,000 different types of plants. Explore the Japanese garden take in the new Museum and wander through the stunning surrounds.
Handy hint: Again, good walking shoes and plenty of water will get you through a trip here.
