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Popular Cities in Brazil

By Bonnie Hamre, About.com

These popular cities share something in common: they are all excellent examples of Brazil's varied regions, attractions and culture in large cities and favorite beach resorts.

1. Rio de Janeiro

Aerial view of Copacabana BeachPeter and Jackie Main
Truly a cidade maravilhosa, Rio is spectacularly located, and to live up to the scenery, cariocas and visitors enjoy a vivid lifestyle nestled between fabulous beaches and rainforested hills.

2. Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo Street SceneRon Miller - author of Escape from the Happy Cannibal
The city is South America's largest, Brazil's center of trade and industry. Paulistanos work hard and play hard. Here are some of the things you'll enjoy when you visit São Paulo.

3. Pelourinho and Salvador

Salvador Cathedral PelourinhoClipArt.com
Pelourinho, the old historic center of Salvador, is a city within a city. Centered around the old slave auction, Pelourinho has pastel-hued buildings, churches, museums, shops, restaurants and fantastic nightlife.

4. Recife

Recife beachClipArt.com
The capital of Pernambuco state, Recife is called the "Venice of Brazil" and offers the visitor two carnivals a year, plus beaches, dance, music, and Olinda.

5. Buzios

Buzios beachPeter and Jackie Main
An international resort, Buzios is two hours north of Rio de Janeiro, and its twenty plus beaches and relaxed hedonistic style likens it to Saint Tropez.

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