There's a little bit of Carnival celebrated here everyday. From its famous beaches to its iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer, Rio radiates an air of exuberance that is hard to find anywhere else. Make the scene on trendy Ipanema or take a cable car to the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain and enjoy the amazing views. Sway your hips to the rhythm at a samba show or enjoy the tranquility of king Dom João VI's Botanical Gardens and verdant Tijuca Forest.

Búzios, a tiny fishing village 105 miles from Rio de Janeiro, is considered one of the world's ten most beautiful places. It rose to fame after Brigitte Bardot visited; a statue of her now stands on the Orla Bardot. Today it's an international resort-like St. Tropez with a Brazilian beat-offering some of South America's most attractive beaches, enough for a different one each hour, caipirinhas in hand.

120 miles south of Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande offers some of Brazil's most beautiful beaches and tropical rainforest. With 200+ beaches and a history as a pirate hideaway, it's ideal for hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, diving, or relaxing by the sea. Explore dense Atlantic forest and abundant wildlife-birds, flowers, iguanas, and monkeys-in this protected reserve. Note: due to its underdeveloped nature, organized tours are not available.

Explore Ilhabela's exotic natural beauty: pristine beaches, lush mountains, rain forests, waterfalls, toucans, and colorful parrots. Tour the island, then find your own spot to enjoy sun, sea, and the island's joyful spirit. Browse the old town's shops for beachwear, clothing, crafts, and décor. Ilhabela is also famous for the best shrimp in Brazil, plus spectacular fresh-caught seafood in this verdant island paradise set in the turquoise sea.

São Francisco do Sul, a major port in Santa Catarina at the entrance to Babitonga Bay, offers immaculate beaches and colonial architecture. Visit its historic waterfront district for preserved German, Norwegian, and Portuguese buildings. Nearby Joinville adds 18th- and 19th-century architecture, a domed cathedral, and a viewpoint over the bay. For the beach experience, head to Enseada Beach and its white sand.

Discover the quaint fishing-village charm and lively beach atmosphere of Porto Belo, set beneath lush mountains on an emerald bay. Browse the wharf shops, then head to the main square downtown for unique Brazilian beachwear, jewelry, and hand-carved wooden art. Enjoy a tour of the area, then visit Quatros Ilhas Beach for fresh seafood, shrimp, and a famous caipirinha at a beachside café. Relax to the soft whisper of the waves in this beach lover's paradise.

Explore this lovely old Portuguese city, its gracious squares and beautiful churches. Visit the Museum of Sacred Art and the fascinating Oceanographic Museum. Or see the vast pampas and feel the gaucho life on a local estancia.

Laid-back Montevideo is home to nearly half of Uruguay's population. The relatively small capital is the nation's only major city, yet visitors do not come here in search of the hustle and bustle of a large metropolis. It is said that Montevideanos themselves travel to Buenos Aires and São Paulo when they crave big city excitement. As Uruguay's cultural, political and economical center, the city boasts a good number of monuments, museums and impressive architecture.

Laid-back Montevideo is home to nearly half of Uruguay's population. The relatively small capital is the nation's only major city, yet visitors do not come here in search of the hustle and bustle of a large metropolis. It is said that Montevideanos themselves travel to Buenos Aires and São Paulo when they crave big city excitement. As Uruguay's cultural, political and economical center, the city boasts a good number of monuments, museums and impressive architecture.

Rivaling Madrid or Paris for sophistication and culture, the tree-lined boulevards of fashionable Buenos Aires are home to superb restaurants, art galleries, museums, the magnificent Teatro de Colon and the brightly colored houses of La Boca barrio. As the sun sets, Recoleta awakens and the passionate melodies of the tango rise from the milangas along San Telmo's cobbled streets. Few cities in South America share the ambiance, lifestyle and amenities that make Buenos Aires so endearing.