Known as the “Brazilian Caribbean,” Fernando de Noronha is an exotic archipelago of islands off the northeastern shores of the country.  It’s a tranquil mix of azure ocean, white beaches and verdant backdrops.  The perfect place to get back in touch with nature, these islands are the ideal setting for a different kind of experience in Brazil.  Here’s why:

Beaches

Fernando de Noronha is easily recognized as having the most beautiful and pristine beaches of Brazil.  Sancho Beach, in particular, is famous for its level of seclusion and unspoiled charm.  Part of a bay enclosed by natural walls ...

The last travel guide featured Buzios, one of ViX designer Paula Hermanny’s favorite places in Brazil.  Florianópolis is another island city famous for its variety of beautiful beaches.  Known affectionately as “Floripa” to locals, the diverse city attracts both posh urbanites and easy-going surfers.  It is also the capital city of Santa Catarina, a state in the southern region of the country.

A trip to Florianópolis gives the visitor a chance for peaceful relaxation without want of nearby city hotspots.  Below, are the must-see places of the city:

Beaches

Yes, there are plenty but it is still ...

Brazilian Carnival has come to a close but not without the ViX team capturing the best moments in Rio!  As the most popular party in the country and perhaps in the world, Carnival is a riveting four days of celebrating, dancing and feasting…a massive party, carried out the Brazilian way!

Block Party

The most common way to celebrate Carnival is out on the streets.  Everyone--young and old--comes out, dressed up and moves to the sound of the music.  The summer sun is out and shining, giving ample opportunity for risqué outfits to make an appearance.  

School of Samba

Perhaps ...

Though perhaps the most famous place for holding Carnival, Brazil cannot actually take credit for its invention.  Rooted in a solemn kind of history, Carnival arose because of the period of Lent, as defined by the Christian calendar.   Lent comes before Easter and is traditionally a period of abstaining from rich foods, such as meats and sugar.  Therefore, communities would try to consume these delicacies before Lent.  These focused gatherings of feasting is thought to be the origin of Carnival.  In time, Carnival emerged mainly in areas with large Catholic populations, including places like Venice, where the use of masquerade ...

Set on a hill near the center of Rio de Janeiro, sprawls the bohemian enclave of Santa Teresa.  Considered the Brasilian version of Paris’ Montmartre district, Santa Teresa is a charming neighborhood with panoramic vistas and winding streets dotted with art studios, cafes and restaurants.  The area is a famous destination for artists and tourists, yet also maintains its ever present aura of history and culture.  Find out about ViX designer Paula Hermanny's must-see hotspots in this picturesque quarter of Rio de Janeiro:

Hotel Santa Teresa

A getaway within a getaway, the Hotel Santa Teresa is a boutique hotel ...