A hellish journey, with large and heavy backpacks front and back, using public transport during rush hour in the 3rd largest city in the world, wasn´t a great start to our stay in Sao Paulo. Sweating profusely and swearing heavily we heaved our way into tubes and buses and were possibly the most hated people in the city! Our initial frustration of the city didn't last long. Fortunately we were staying with our friend, Thiago, who we met in Panama. The beauty o...

Costa Verde - the Green Coast - is exactly that. Pristine beaches framed by forested mountains as far the eye can see. We were given some top tips from local Cariocas (Rio inhabitants) so we headed to our first destination - Ilha Grande. The largest island off the coast of Brazil, it boasts 106 beaches, the majority with white sand (which squeaks when you walk on it) and crystal blue sea. It's currently the main holiday season for Brasilians and Argentinians, so...

A pre-planned highlight of the trip - NYE in Rio! After an 8 hr flight, we land and head straight to the hotel to charge our batteries before hitting the city. Our hotel is based in the Central district which is a bit of a trek from Copacabana and all the festivities, so after a few hours kip we get in amongst the action.When we arrive things are only just getting started so we enjoy a few beers on the street before setting ourselves up on the beach once things ...