Florianopolis, Brazil

Located on Santa Catarina Island, which is joined to the mainland by three bridges, the late 19th-century, pastel-colored buildings still recall faint “old world” images, while the relaxed small-town atmosphere provides a total contrast to the excitement of cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Most visitors head straight for the island’s 42 beaches, with the best ones found on the north and west coast along with fashionable resorts.

Language: Portuguese     Currency: Real (R$)