Brazil

Carnival is one of Brazil's biggest cultural celebrations, with huge street parties, music, dancing and elaborate parades. Rio is famous for its samba parades, but Carnival is celebrated across the country, with different cities and regions having their own traditions and styles.

Absolutely, especially if you want to experience one of the world's most incredible ecosystems up close. Most travellers visit from Manaus, where you can join river trips, stay in jungle lodges and explore the rainforest by boat or on foot. The Brazilian Amazon is enormous, so expect long journeys, basic accommodation in some areas and plenty of wildlife-spotting rather than a polished tourist experience.

Churrasco is the Brazilian take on barbecue, and it's a pretty serious affair. Traditionally, different cuts of meat are cooked over charcoal and served alongside things like farofa, vinaigrette and pão de alho. You'll find churrascarias across Brazil, where waiters often bring different cuts straight to your table. Come hungry, because this is definitely not the place for a light lunch.

Absolutely. The Pantanal is one of the best places in Brazil for wildlife spotting and can actually be easier for seeing animals than the Amazon. This huge wetland is home to jaguars, capybaras, caimans, giant otters and hundreds of bird species. Head out on a boat, 4x4 safari or walking excursion and keep your eyes peeled, you never know what you're going to spot.