Búzios: chicest hotel is owned by countess Emmanuelle de Clermont Tonnerre

Búzios: chicest hotel is owned by countess Emmanuelle de Clermont Tonnerre

Búzios Búzios hotels Insólito

adword March 25, 2010 Add Comment

By Alexandra Forbes

Búzios.... a mere two-hour drive from Rio, but a whole different world. Brazil's answer to Saint-Tropez, made famous by habitué Brigitte Bardot, is positively charming - providing you know exactly where to stay and eat...

The chicest hotel, the Insólito, is owned by countess Emmanuelle Meeus de Clermont Tonnerre.

It sits perched above the Praia da Ferradura and has all those comforts we expect from a 5-star: Egyptian cotton sheets, iPods, flatscreen TVs, etc.

Here are photos of the top 2 suites:

 SUÍTE ORFEU DA CONCEIÇÃO

SUÍTE O GUARANI
 

Insólito
Praia da Ferradura – Rua E1 - Lotes 3 e 4
Condomínio Atlântico
Búzios
Tel.  +55 22 2623 2172

Click here to read more about Búzios on this blog

Best boutiques in Brazil, according to Ana Beatriz Barros

Best boutiques in Brazil, according to Ana Beatriz Barros

adword March 22, 2010 Add Comment

By Beatriz Tasso Fragoso, special contributor

First Brazilian top model to join the Victoria’s Secret team of “angels” – the lingerie-clad winged goddesses that strut the catwalk once a year for the world’s biggest televised fashion show – Ana Beatriz Barros is a green-eyed stunner from a small town in Minas Gerais state.

She splits her time between New York, São Paulo and runways on both sides of the Atlantic and made her name for starring in several Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues and landing countless magazine covers. The latest two? Vogue Homme and Vogue España.

She’s not a big party girl, but on the rare occasions when she goes clubbing, favourite night spots include Disco, in São Paulo. She loves to dress up at night – heels are a must - but during the day, she prefers dressing down (jeans, flat sandals and a plain t-shirt are her standard get-up). Ana’s favourite shops in Brazil are Daslu, Forum, Reinaldo Lourenço and, for beachwear, Lenny.

Addresses:

Daslu: Av. Juscelino Kubitschek, 2041, São Paulo, tel. (55-11) 4841-4000
Click here to see map

Forum: Rua Oscar Freire, 916, São Paulo, tel. (55-11) 3085-6269

Reinaldo Lourenço: Rua Bela Cintra, 2167, Jardins
São Paulo Telefones 55 11 3085-8150 / 7755-2429


Lenny boutiques in Rio:

Lenny boutiques in São Paulo:















More São Paulo shopping on this blog:

• Outlet Premium, Brazil's first upscale outlet mall
  
• Marc Jacobs rocks the São Paulo fashion world and opens a flagship in town
  
• Rua Oscar Freire, in the Jardins district, has the best shopping
• The best beachwear: Lenny, Rosa Chá, Cia. Marítima
• Pelu, Jo de Mer and other Baixo Jardins finds
• Beach Couture: luxe beachwear in the Jardins district
• Christian Louboutin opens store in the Shopping Iguatemi mall
• Piva sisters open Pollignano al Mare shoe boutique in the Shopping Iguatemi mall
• Daslu, the Barneys New York of São Paulo: high luxe
• Who is Eliana Tranchesi, the owner of Daslu
• The flagship of Rio brand Farm, in Vila Madalena: a "living" lowrise designed by hyped architecture firm Triptyque

Pedra Azul : trekking the mountains of Espírito Santo state

Pedra Azul : trekking the mountains of Espírito Santo state

Espírito Santo state fauna hiking mountains natural pools Pedra Azul steep trails wilderness

adword March 21, 2010 Add Comment

by Antonella Kann

You won´t find the name of Pedra Azul ( Blue Rock) by itself in a common guide book. That´s because this place is best known for being the landmark of the Parque Florestal of Pedra Azul, a state park located in the county of Domingos Martins, 88 quilometres away from Vitória´s airport.

And if you think that the state of Espírito Santo is only about its coastline, here´s the surprise: there´s much more than sea and beach to look forward to, and you should definitely check this mountain range close to the capital.

The landmark Pedra Azul and its famous "Lizzard "rock

Although off-the-beaten path and not so popular as many other fancy spots of this southeastern state, the region is worth visiting, specially for its great surroundings, fresh air and preserved natural beauty. The main attraction is the 12km2 park, of course, and its 1909 meters high peak, which got its name due to the blue tonality reflected on the rock at some moments of the day.

But the original touch is due to a natural sculpture on its right slope, known as the Pedra do Lagarto ( the Lizzard Rock), because depending from which angle the sun is, it really resembles to a gigantic reptile climbing up the slope. Seen from the bottom , it´s really impressing.

A perfect choice for those fans of ecotourism, as there are long walks around the park, in open fields, during which you can pick up wild berries and watch wild animals from the brazilian fauna, like the tamanduá and threatened species of micos ( tiny monkeys ).

For those really fit, there´s a trail to reach the upper levels of the Pedra Azul, where there are a few natural pools carved inside the rock. So, after at least one hour hike, you´ll be able to refresh and admire the idyllic view while taking a rewarding dip in the icy waters.

You can go trekking all year round, at any day of the week. But, bear in mind that it´s a state park, where it´s not allowed to hike on your own. Local guides are available to take people up the rock, and the hikes are scheduled to start every morning around 8 and finish at noon.

Lately, several hotels have opened around the park and tourism has developed pretty fast. Almost all the pousadas have sauna, swimming pool and sometimes even a tennis court. Most of the rooms have their own fireplace, as in the forthcoming months of winter, temperatures tend to drop quite heavily if compared to the ones in coastal towns. That's why it became fashionable for local restaurants to offer fondue on their menu. http://www.pedraazul.com.br

Wild little monkeys, called "micos", come as close as they can.

Papagaio, a refuge under the southern sun

Papagaio, a refuge under the southern sun

Bahia beaches beach exclusive island privacy

adword March 16, 2010 Add Comment

by Antonella Kann

In the southern state of Santa Catarina, only 40 kms from the airport of capital Florianopolis, there is an island called Papagaio - which means parrot. It´s not exactly Fantasy Island, but almost. Framed by abundant tropical vegetation, it´s home to one and only property, the exclusive Pousada Papagaio, member of the Conde Nast Johansens chain as well as Brazil´s Roteiros de Charme, which selects the best establishments in the country.

An ideal spot for those seeking coziness and complete privacy, allied with comfort and pampering. Only 20 bungalows are spread out within a huge setting, some have seaviews and others garden views. I suggest either number 1 or 2, as they almost drop into the water and from your private veranda you can watch the sunset - it´s really awesome. Fireplace, internet, plasma TV, dvd, you name it – they´ve got everything on the list to make your stay memorable.

Although you may expect an early winter, with cooler temperatures around 20º C , you can still lounge on the pousada´s private beach, have a swim in the sea or the pool, enjoy watersports or do a bit of exploring walking through trails around the island. At some point, there´s a chance of spotting migrating whales.

You´ll be agreeably surprised by local gastronomy : the pousada has its own restaurant where guests are offered Thai specialties, Japanese and Italian food, plus a signature dish, the home made paella.

The climate there is always cooler and the sea hosts the most reputed quality of oysters and clams. Be sure to visit one of those farms and enjoy the best seafood for incredible prices.

Pousada Ilha do Papagaio.
www.papagaio.com.br

Jericoacoara is still an authentic fishermens´village with special privileges

Jericoacoara is still an authentic fishermens´village with special privileges

deserted beaches fishermen´s village national park sophisticated pousadas

adword March 07, 2010 Add Comment

by Antonella Kann
Jericoacoara, a fishermen´s village located 330 kms from Fortaleza, was discovered by the hippies in the 70´s and remained untouched by “modern” civilization until a decade ago, as even electricity was unavailable. And when tourists slowly appeared, many from overseas, Jeri – as it is called among the Brazilians – became a favorite spot for those in search of unspoilt natural beauty, calm sea, hospitable people and warm climate.

Although now the village is boosting with all types of charming restaurants serving from typical seafood to sophisticated fusion recipes, cosy inns as well as boutique hotels, attractive shops and a wide range of outdoor activities offered by several local tour operators, it has not lost its original languorous and laid-back atmosphere, which are genuine characteristics of the northeastern part of Brazil.

The coast of Ceará runs parallel to the Equator, which makes it different from the rest of the Brazilian coastline. For this reason, the best time to go to Jeri is from June to January, which locals describe as “summer”, when it never rains. This period also attracts windsurfers, as weather conditions are perfect for the practice of all sports related to sailing.

Getting to Jericoacoara is not so complicated: from Fortaleza airport you can either rent a car at the airport ( Hertz, Avis, Localiza, Unidas, Europecar & other companies) and drive along the BR-222. Best option is to leave you car in Jijoca and have your hotel provide you with adequate 4x4 transfer from there to Jeri and back at the end of your stay. Your car will be kept safe too. It´s not advisable to risk driving by yourself as the sandy road is tricky.

One of the palafita´s room in Vila Kalango

Consider staying in one of these pousadas: Pousada Vila Kalango
www.vilakalango.com.br Charm and rusticity combined in comfy accommodations amidst coconut trees. If you can, book the rooms perched on “palafitas” (perched 5meters above the sand) with panoramic view to the sea, beach and dunes. Luxury with an Asian touch. Perfect choice for couples in search of total privacy. Check their interesting rates for March, April and May. Or MosquitoBlue www.mosquitoblue.com.br .Top of the list hotel with large accommodations and international standard of comfort. Large swimming pool. Ideal for families with small children. Located in front of the beach and also at stone´s throw of the center of the village.

As the beaches are part of a National Park, you can walk for miles without a soul on sight. The sea is calm and the water warm. Now and then, there is a very simple and rustic hut selling beer and coconut water to quench your thirst and tempt you with grilled shrimps. On the other end, the devices used to carry the tourists from one place to another have been upgraded.

Though donkey rides are still available and quite folkloric, nowadays it became common practice to rent a buggy with a driver (it is mandatory) and explore the region through the coastline while the tides are down. This rustic vehicle with large tires is perfectly adequate for sandy terrain and the most reliable way to reach other attractive faraway sites and beaches. The journeys are thrilling as it will usually include river crossing and experience roller coasting on white sand dunes. Consider Tatajuba, 36 kilometers from Jeri, or the Blue Lagoon where you can soak in dark sweet water.

Mangue Seco is only 5 kilometers away from the village and Jijoca´s lagoon is an excellent spot for windsurfing. But before booking with the local tour operators located in the centre of the village, compare prices and discuss the fare beforehand. The former most attractive program still persists: walk or rent a horse and head for Pedra Furada, the rock formation with a hole- the eternal post card. It is a one- hour ride or two-hours hike to this small beach along trails and cliffs, and the view is fabulous. You can spend some time in the beach or take a rest before returning.

Beware of the heat and always protect head and body from the sun, which is known to be even stronger in this part of Brazil. And while talking about the sunset, it is still the most sought-after show on earth. Daily, around 5:30 p.m., a crowd begins the ascend to the 30 meters high Sunset Dune, the highest in Jeri. Some people walk, others ride up on horseback, with the same goal in mind: to watch step by step the rays as they start spreading across the ocean while the sun gently falls into the line of the horizon and disappear into the sea as an enormous ball of fire. When it´s over, the public cheers, acclaims and applauds.

The ritual of climbing the dune to watch the sunset

Barbacoa restaurants in São Paulo and Salvador now serve fish from the Amazon

Barbacoa restaurants in São Paulo and Salvador now serve fish from the Amazon

Amazon river Amazonian fishes Barbacoa exotic foods Salvador restaurrants São Paulo dining

adword March 03, 2010 Add Comment

Pirarucu with mandioquinha purée


Ever wonder what it's like to eat a fish from the Amazon? Now, it's becoming easier to do so, since restaurants in bigger cities, like Rio and São Paulo, have finally started to offer Amazonian fishes like pirarucu, filhote and tucunaré. Barbacoa, a great churrascaria (restaurant specializing in grilled meats) with outposts in Campinas, São Paulo and Salvador, is serving from now until April 4 a special menu featuring these fishes.

THE menu:

• RACK OF TAMBAQUI WITH SHRIMP AND RICE   R$ 61,80
• PIRARUCU WITH MANDIOQUINHA PUREE AND ARUGULA   R$ 56,90
• FILHOTE WITH GRILLED PLANTAIN AND CHIVES   R$ 58,40
• TUCUNARÉ WITH RICE, LEEK, BRAZIL NUT AND BIQUINHO PEPPER  R$ 62,50

Barbacoa  – D&D Shopping – São Paulo
Tel: 55 (11) 3043-9244

Barbacoa – Morumbi Shopping  – São Paulo
Tel: 55 (11) 5181-6898

Barbacoa – Shopping Parque Dom Pedro – Campinas
Av. Projetada Leste, 500
Tel. 55 (19) 3209-1641

Barbacoa – Salvador 
Av. Tancredo Neves, 909
Tel. 55 (71) 3342-4666

FERNANDO DE NORONHA: number one destination in Brazil

FERNANDO DE NORONHA: number one destination in Brazil

dolphins idyillic beaches isolation luxurious resorts surf

adword March 01, 2010 Add Comment

by Antonella Kann


The archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, with 17 km2, easily hooks anyone who has the faintest fantasy of what paradise looks like, and is anyone´s stuff of dreams with 15 paradisiacal beaches. Until 1938 it used to be a penal colony and now it´s a National Park submitted to the strict environmental rules of the IBAMA ( Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente ).

But tourism definitely is the main industry of the island. Most of its 3 thousands inhabitants, who originate from almost every state of Brazil and also from different other countries are busy doing business with tourists. But bear in mind that everything is a rip-off, mainly because except for home-made bread, all the goods are imported from the continent. There´s nothing to buy for R$ 1,00 ( U$ 0,35). Even a bottle of mineral water will cost R$ 2,50 (U$0,89), a pizza can reach R$ 30,00 (U$ 10,70) .

The sea is crystal-clear, there are natural pools, perfect aquariums with plenty of fishes to swim with, there is beauty and tranquility in every inch of nature and… there are the dolphins. Noronha´s warm tropical climate guarantees temperatures around 26 Celsius all year round, but with two distinguished periods – dry and rainy seasons. Best time is March, June, September, October and December (before New Year´s Eve): the weather is sunny, the sea is quite calm and the prices are lower than January, February and July ( school holidays). Avoid April by all means, as it rains steadily.

Bearing in mind that everything you are supposed to do is outdoors, the day must begins quite early. You can hike around the whole island in man-made trails along the coastline, framed between the sea and rocky landscape. Many people just rent a bike, a scooter or simply walk. Hitchhiking is also a regular practice. But take note: the most popular way to get moving around the island is with the buggy, – a typical convertible jeep with a VW engine – and the only type of car on the island. If you want to get intimate with Noronha ( which you MUST!), do not hesitate to rent one, even though the price is outrageous. But do ask your hotel for the car well in advance, or you´ll end up walking (and public transportation is quite inexistent). But watch out: although there is only one road, the local police considers applies the driving regulations of the continent. So expect to be urged to wear your seatbelts in the front (though in the back you are perched like a bird on a branch) or else...you risk a heavy fine.

With a map of the island, it´s really easy to get acquainted with all the beaches in a blink of an eye. Most of them are linked to each other through passes and trails, so consider walking, exploring three or four every day. Chances are that most of the time you´ll have a very large stretch of sand just to yourself. Pigs´Bay, between Sancho (considered to be the most beautiful in Brazil!) and Cacimba do Padre´s beaches will definitely cause an impression, even stronger if your glance is from the top of the cliff: it looks like a painting.

Although there are several little inns, refurbished bed& breakfast and simple accomodations around the island, those searching comfort and service should choose one of these two pousadas:
Pousada Maravilha www.pousadamaravilha.com.br . You can´t get better than that in a 5 star hotel on the continent. This establishment offers spacious and secluded bungalows, magnificient views over the Sueste Bay, plus sauna, a huge swimming pool and sophisticated restaurant to pamper its guests. Luxury guaranteed, although extremely pricey all year-round, even by international´s standards. Breakfast included and served in-room at no extra cost.

Offering much more flexibility of rates than Maravilha´s, Pousada Zé Maria www.pousadazemaria.com.br is the ideal place to stay with your family. The view to the Pico´s Mount is incredible and there´s the Conceição Beach ( think surf!) at the tip of your fingers. The food is reasonable and the owner a local character full of charm. The establishment is one of the oldest b&b of the island but has been refurbished and given an upgrade. Sauna & swimming pool with a view. Now almost all the 19 bungalows are air conditioned and have mini bar, cd player, and plasm TV. Ask for room 6 if you come with children, as you get two connected but independent rooms and a jacuzzi on the terrace with overwhelming view of the Pico´s Mount. Total privacy assured but be sure to make reservations way ahead.

The two hotels provide transportation to and from the airport, which is situated no more than a few minutes away. But do not bother about whatever noise can a nearby airport affect your vacation – there are only two flights a day, and depending on where you are standing, you don´ t even have to look at your watch: just by the sight of the plane approaching or leaving, you´ll know what time it is.

One last tip about the “Paradise Fee”: check www.noronha.com.br

Don´t forget to check this site, as you can fill in the “immigration” form (there´s an English version) through the web and print it. There´s an entry fee to pay, which you can do in a Brazilian bank, on the continent. It will save you time! The crowd at the airport is always a tantrum, as the only two daily flights leave and arrive almost at the same time (believe it or not!). When you are leaving, you must return part of the form so the authorities check if your stay is not overdue. And if it is, you´ll be charged double for each extra day you spent without previous authorization. Well, all this doesn´t enhance your fantasy about being in paradise, but once you get intimate with the place, there´s really nothing that will deceive you anymore.