As the dominant country in South America, Brazil can often seem like only a dream to normal travelers. However, a trip to this amazing country is probably more affordable than you think. Here are some ideas of where to go, how to get there, and tricks on how to maximize your fun.

The South of Brazil

You can call it the January River if you so choose (that’s the translation), though the “river” that gave Rio de Janeiro its name is actually Guanabara Bay. However, travelers don’t often let this mistake made by the Portuguese 500 years ago spoil their plans.

More than two million foreign tourists flood to the city (like New York, NY, Rio is both the name of the state and the main city) to experience Rio’s more than 120 miles of beaches, state parks and awe-inspiring monuments, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the city on Sugar Loaf Mountain. Of course, there is also the parade of the samba schools every February. Carnaval has its permanent home in the city of Rio, bringing fun-seekers from all parts of the globe together in a celebration like no other.

Still, there is so much more to the Southern part of Brazil. From the hidden golden cities of Minas Gerais, to the thriving metropolis that is Sao Paulo, to the coastal beauty of Santa Catarina, the South is the most popular of all destinations in Brazil for the foreign traveler. The sites, atmospheres and passion of the South, however, give all its visitors experiences both unique and dynamic.