From geographic size to resources, everything in Brazil is big. In the south, where most people have European heritage (especially Portuguese, Spanish, German and Italian) you will find beautiful beaches, mountains and European style cities. In the north east you will find white sand beaches with palm trees and typical tropical surroundings.

The people in Brazil are considered friendly and helpful. You will experience the Samba dance and Churrascaria (barbecue) which will treat you to Brazil's much celebrated beef, pork rice and beans. You will find many traditional family values as well as modern and new thinking. Amidst all contradictions, it is in the free spirited and nationalistic Brazilian people that you will discover Brazil's magic – an affinity for romance and beauty.

Brazil was discovered by Pedro Alvares Cabral, a Portuguese navigator on April 22, 1500. The name Brazil comes from a wood called “pau brasil” from which was extracted red paint to dye clothes. It was at this time that the first movement of colonization of Brazil started. Due to the wealth of the land, Portugal had to sign several agreements with Spain, England, Holland and France in order to prevent invasions.

In 1822 the Prince of Portugal officially proclaimed Brazil an independent country. In 1889, after a period of economic crisis which created mistrust towards the Monarchy, the proclaiming of the Republic took place without much commotion on November 15. On the following day the Royal Family was requested to leave and went back to Portugal. The head of the State is now the President who is nominated and elected through direct voting by the people for a five year period.

Brazil's origins – the Indians with their reed flutes, the Portuguese with their singers and viola players, and the Africans with their many thrilling rythms – make it a musical country. From the classical compositions of Villa-Lobos to the soft sounds of bossa nova and to the driving beat of samba, Brazil has developed music of striking sophistication, quality and diversity.