Rio de Janeiro
Who flies there: Varig and British Airways offer the only direct service from the UK.
Visa: not required.
Language: Portuguese.
Time: GMT -3hrs.
Currency: real, but US dollars can also be used.
Temperature: summer (December-March) 29C-35C. winter (June-August) 20C-21C.
Where to eat: Jardineto’s, just outside town; Aprazivel in Santa Teresa; or Colombo in the centre of Rio.
Highlights: experience the atmosphere of a Brazilian football match at the Maracana stadium. The cost of a seat is between $5-$8 and can be booked at hotels.
Carnival: March 5 2000. Samba school Carnival rehearsals are held from November onwards.
Nightlife: check out one of the big samba schools. The Beija Flor school performs on the Urca Hill every Monday night.