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There may be no better time to plan a trip to South America for a sunny escape off the trail. Many American travelers choose Mexico and the Caribbean, but South America offers a wide range of travel experiences.
This time of year brings bitterly cold weather to many parts of the US, giving travelers even more motivation to seek out a sun-filled getaway.
One country in particular has skyrocketed in popularity, thanks in large part to the Americans. With more than 4.7 million international tourists until October 2023, that is a whopping number 74% increase of the previous year.
Here are 5 reasons why Americans are flocking to the diverse South American country Brazil:
Culture is a driving force
Embratur, Brazil’s tourism board, claims that their unique culture has been a driving force for increased tourism across the country this year.
Well over half a million American travelers have come there Brazilwhere every destination in the country seems to have its own personality.
Some cities are of course more popular than others, but many cities are still put on the map beyond the recognizable names we all know.
In addition to culture, Embratur claims that travelers are looking for different ways to experience their diverse country, such as beaches, nature, historic cities, gastronomy, sunny escapes and sustainable tourism.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio perhaps has the greatest recognition when we think of Brazil. Although it’s one of the furthest destinations in the US, that doesn’t stop Americans from crossing this beach city off their bucket list.
With unparalleled scenery and a vibrant, vibrant culture, Rio is non-stop action, even on the famous Copacabana Beach.
This area is not intended for a quiet beach holiday, as you can get lost in a maze of crowds, a mix of both locals and tourists.
Rio is a gem all year round, but thousands of people flock to the city for the late winter Carnival celebrations.
Sao Paulo
Those looking for an escape to an urban jungle packed with cultural experiences should look no further than Brazil’s capital: Sao Paulo.
Often seen as the engine that powers Brazil, travelers can immerse themselves cheaply in this underrated cosmopolitan giant.
This is one of many places in the country where you can take advantage of phenomenal cuisine, art and a variety of entertainment.
Stays are much cheaper compared to Rio, and there are plenty of direct flights from the US, often saving travelers money on airfare.
Sao Paulo is then even closer, a cheap domestic flight to other popular destinations or a reasonable bus ride to Rio or other beautiful coastlines.
Other destinations Being in the spotlight
Brazil is a vast country with many cities and regions unknown to the average Joe or Jane. Not only Rio and Sao Paulo are gateways to the country.
Sao Paulo could be your city break, while Rio is the luxury beach destination, but what about the Amazon jungle or the peaceful mountains of Minas Gerais?
There are also other coastal cities, such as Salvador, that are attracting attention as a cultural center and beautiful beach destination – all easily connected by air.
According to Travelmath, American travelers can fly nonstop to Manaus to explore the Amazon, Sao Paulo for a taste of city life, and Rio for a bucket list beach vacation.
Benefit from visa deferment
The US requires a visa for Brazilian travelers, so Brazil has flipped the script and will require the same.
In April 2024, after a recent delay in implementation, all US travelers will have to pay an $81 fee to obtain a visa to enter the country.
Americans are pouring in while they can to avoid the hassle and payment.
Although the increase in travelers was only reported in October, when the new visa requirements were originally supposed to be introduced, it will be interesting to see if tourist numbers drop from April.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
