Celebrating New Year’s in Brasil is an exotic blend of tradition, superstition and zest!  Adding to that is the fact that most everyone heads towards the beaches since the country is at the peak of summer.  Ringing in 2013 on the sand is tempting enough, but what about the idea of an entirely unique, cultural experience?  Here are some of the charming “rituals” that make New Year's in Brasil all the more fascinating:

They wear white!

It not only makes sense in the midst of the summer heat, but ladies and gents, alike, will dress in white to ...

Christmas in Brasil is often celebrated on Christmas Eve.  Families will gather together around tables heavily laden with rich, delicious food.  It’s an important time to relax and enjoy the time spent with friends, family and loved ones.

The following day, meals are usually smaller and more casual.  For ViX designer Paula Hermanny, she loves to serve light and healthy dishes.  With seafood being her absolute favorite, she opts for one of her signature recipes: shrimp couscous. 

Though not a traditional holiday meal, shrimp couscous still works great for the season.  It’s simple to make and calorie concious ...

In the region of Lagos, very close to Rio de Janeiro, there is a place that even Paula Hermanny deems as paradise.  This place is called Buzios, and it made a splash in the 1960’s with a visit from the iconic beauty, Brigitte Bardot.

With over twenty beaches, charming inns and boutique hotels plus haute cuisine, the city is abuzz during Brasil's high summer.  Below, find the best that Buzios has to offer:

Where to stay…

Insolito is located in Horseshoe Beach and is the perfect hotel for those who want to learn more about Brasilian culture.  Rooms ...

Last week, the world got a little sadder.  At the venerable age of 104, Oscar Niemeyer, one of the world’s most brilliant and renowned architects, passed away.  His masterful works of art have long impressed ViX designer Paula Hermanny, especially as his buildings have become landmarks of their own right in Brasil.  Each has an important contribution to the country’s urban landscape and each is a cultural site not to be missed:

Brasília (1957)

Undeniably the greatest work of Oscar Niemeyer, the country’s capital is home to several buildings that carry his signature architectural style.  Among ...

Dias Ferreira in Leblon is a charming little street that is chock full of restaurants, shops and bookstores.  A bonified Carioca hideout, this little haven is also a must stop for ViX designer Paula Hermanny every time she visits Rio de Janeiro.  Below, are the best places to visit (and to assume the identity of a Carioca, yourself)!

Poeira

Poeira means “dust” in Portuguese, but this home goods store is anything but dusty. Bursting with colorful patterns, contemporary furniture and home décor, this is the perfect place to find that new, special accent that will make any living space ...