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Rio de Janeiro may be an iconic destination, but many travelers have reported that it’s not all it’s cracked up to be.
Sure, it’s absolutely gorgeous from the outside and looking in, but we’ve all heard of the sketchiness of the city favelas as a place to avoid.
Well, the US Consulate certainly isn’t helping their reputation with last month’s new travel safety alert.
Rio may be at the top of many travellers’ wish lists, but Brazil is perhaps the most diverse country in Latin America, with much more to see than Copacabana Beach and the statue of Christ the Redeemer.
Here are 7 reasons why you should visit this undiscovered region of Brazil above Rio:
No beach needed to enjoy Minas Gerais
Beaches are currently in high demand, and will be even more so in the coming months. There’s not a beach in sight in Minas Gerais, the vast bordering region of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janiero – the country’s top destinations.
Despite its lack of sandy beaches, this sunny, mountainous region has flown under the radar for many travelers, yet is packed with history, cultural attractions, beautiful nature and world-class nightlife.
It’s the kind of place that doesn’t make sense why it isn’t more popular, especially since it’s so close to Brazil’s other world-famous cities.
Direct flights from 2 major US cities
Book a trip to Minas Gerais now and enjoy it before the secret is out! No US airlines fly here, but those in Florida can hop on direct flights to the capital Minas Gerais Belo Horizonte.
Of course, it’s easy to connect through Florida as it’s one of the most popular vacation destinations in the US
Brazil’s own lover Azul Brazilian Airlines offers flights from Orlando and Fort Lauderdale and a new report confirms this may be the calm before the storm, with a 60% increase in connectivity to this lesser-known region.
Worth the price of admission
Security concerns and the hassle of obtaining a visa can deter travelers and since that is the case, Brazil is not doing itself any favors in boosting tourism.
That said, Minas Gerais is definitely worth the price of admission for the country’s newly implemented e-visa requirements.
Although it only takes 3 simple steps to get this, no one likes having to spend extra money before setting foot in the country.
That’s why it’s celebrated by travelers from popular destinations like Turkiye, who lower their entrance fees even though it only costs $20.
For Brazil, which costs around $80, you won’t even remember paying it when you visit Minas Gerais as this area is very affordable once you arrive.
Much safer than Rio and budget friendly
If there are two things that travelers immediately notice, it’s safety and affordability. Minas Gerais ticks both boxes wherever you go… and there’s a lot to discover.
Obviously Rio isn’t considered safe for tourists at the moment, but Brazil is just too beautiful to pass up elsewhere.
The US Consulate’s latest warning focused mainly on Rio, while the US State Department has not updated its view on Brazil since October 2023, when the country was designated a ‘Tier 2’ destination.
Not only is Minas Gerais safe, but it is also very affordable for hotels, shopping, transportation and, last but not least, food.
The foodie capital of Brazil
Brazil is so much more than steakhouses and açaí bowls. There is no better place in Brazil to surprise your taste buds than Minas Gerais.
You can imagine yourself sipping caipirinhas on a beautiful beach in Rio, but how about a rooftop bar in the sprawling city of Belo Horizonte? Not so bad, right?
This city can make a mean cocktail, but its menus of endless savory food are second to none. From street vendors to fine dining, the only way you can go wrong is if you do not stop at the always busy one Mercado Central for an authentic meal.
Freshness is the most important ingredient of Brazilian cuisine and conversely the reason it is not more popular in the US, because importing is not feasible.
A mix of old and new
Belo Horizonte is very well equipped to get around even if you decide to go outside the city limits.
Uber is popular and so is the subway – both very cheap. The centrally located bus station takes you to one of Brazil’s most historic cities, just 90 minutes from the urban sprawl of Belo Horizonte.
Ouro Preto is an absolute must-visit. This dates back to the 17th century UNESCO heritage site exudes charm and history, away from the bright city lights with beautiful mountains and winding, cobbled streets.
Travelers can spend their day exploring this breathtaking city and then return to the city for a fun night out.
An underrated destination for digital nomads
Not to overshadow any other great places in Minas Gerais – as there are many – but Belo Horizonte and Ouro Preto are the two to focus on.
Both cater to digital nomads with cheap places to stay, nice weather, friendly locals and plenty of ways to keep busy.
It’s not unreasonable to find a price of $600 per month in both Airbnbs. Although Belo Horizonte is incomparably larger, both can handle the digital nomad life.
It’s really up to you to choose between an action-packed city or a relaxed, timeless city full of history as your base.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
