Everyone I know is enchanted by Brazil. Either its the sheer size and power of the Amazon, the fame of Rio or the lure of the famously attractive women. One tour guide book I read said something interesting. "Most people think of going to Brazil for the first time to see Carnaval in Rio. Dont be stupid. For a lot of people, Brazil on a rainy off-season Monday night is just way too much. Try that first and see how you cope. If that works ok, progress up to trying maybe a weekend night out. Only then should you consider the major holidays like Carnaval and New Years Eve in Rio. But whatever you do, you have to go visit Brazil. Life will never be the same afterwards."

The book was completely right. Even for someone who thinks of himself as a seasoned traveller, life after Brazil has never been the same.

as always, take care
John.