Imagine a view of the entire stretch of Ipanema beach—from the plush confines of an oversized bed. This is the unique brand of luxury found in Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro. With prime location in the heart of a world-renowned destination, the hotel boasts a contemporary bossa-nova aesthetic as interpreted by designer Philippe Starck.

Experience the modern opulence this Brasilian hotel has to offer: sleek ambience, architectural sophistication and gastronomical delights. It boasts an exclusive rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Two Brothers Mountain, Arpoador and the Corcovado. Perhaps W Magazine describes Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro best ...

Moqueca de Peixe or Brasilian Fish Stew is a traditional dish typical of Bahia, Brasil’s fourth most populous state. This region is known for the rich African influences tied in with local culture, producing the unique sounds of Samba and the martial art of Capoeira. A coastal state, Bahia boasts seafood as a mainstay of the region’s cuisine and Moqueca de Peixe can be viewed as Brasil’s version of American chowder. The recipe includes peppers, tomatoes, onions, coconut milk, palm oil and a white fish such as tilapia. The dish is best served with hot rice, farofa ...

As a general rule of thumb, the seasons in Brasil are the exact opposite of the seasons in the United States. From December to March is a period referred to as “high summer” in Brasil. During that time, Brasilians often go on their summer vacations and popular destinations are bustling with locals and tourists, alike. New Year’s and Carnaval provide the two major events of summertime in Brasil and are a fabulous way to experience South American culture. Another must-do is to bask in a summer time high the Brasilian way - on the beach.

One place of note is ...

In Brasil, the ushering in of the New Year or Ano Novo is a major holiday and widely celebrated event. Winter in the United States is high summer in Brasil and the New Year celebration officially marks the start of summertime revelries.

In a reflection of culture and tradition, Brasilians typically dress in all white to encourage prosperity and good fortune. Floating flowers and candles are offerings made to the Afro-Brasilian deity, Iemanja or Yemanja, Goddess of the Sea. Traditional fare such as lentils, grapes, rice, chicken, farofa (spiced tapioca grains) and marajuca (fruit) mousse are part of New Year ...