If you’re looking for the ultimate Latin vacation, heading south to Rio de Janeiro should rise to the top of your list. Known for sassy salsa music, the elaborate Carnival, fancy hotels and beautiful scenery, Rio is simultaneously one of the most relaxing and most invigorating places on earth.

When you book your flight to Rio, make sure you investigate all of the possibilities, including Brazilian Airlines. They often offer great deals on round-trip airfare, and may offer a better customer experience than the local airlines. You can also get great deals if you book through a Brazilian travel agent, of which there are many in the states.

If you’re traveling during February, the Rio Carnival is certainly an event to schedule on your itinerary. From bailes pre carnavalescos, or pre-carnival balls; to parades with colorful costumes; to celebrations in bars and pubs all over Rio, the Carnival is a celebration of Brazilian culture and an opportunity for tourists to immerse themselves in Rio life. The history of Brazil and many Latin countries is rooted in spicy music and dance, which is what you’ll experience at the Carnaval.

Of course, in order to enjoy all that Rio has to offer, you’ll need to book a hotel suite, which shouldn’t be difficult in Rio’s bustling tourist districts. Many of the city’s finest hotels are located on the beach, though many people prefer lodgings that are away from the activity. The Sheraton Rio Hotel and Towers is one of the most popular hotels because it gives visitors access to Rio commerce while keeping them away from the noise of the beach.

At night, during your stay in Rio, you’ll want to enjoy everything that nightlife has to offer. There are dozens upon dozens of bars and pubs in the city, many of which are located on the beach or on one of the cross streets leading into town. Bardot, for example, is a Bohemian bar located at 247 Rua Dias Ferreira. The focus is on high-dollar whiskey, but beer and cocktails are also served.

You’ll find that Rio, in addition to great nightlife and superb beaches, also has a culture-rich history that is worth exploring during your visits. Museums such as the Quinta da Boa Vista offer beautiful artwork, relaxing zoological gardens, brilliant sculptures and plenty of new exhibits every month. The Naïve Art Museum is also interesting because it displays exclusively primitive artwork.

Rio is one of the only cities in the world that can provide tourists with a traditional experience of Latin history while still offering a unique blend of progressive entertainment and sightseeing. Beaches such as Copacabana have changed little in the last century, but you’ll always meet new and smiling faces.

Submitted by: ST

If you are interested in learning more about Rio, check out a new episode of Three Sheets: Rio Thursday April 18th at 9P/ET, only on MOJO HD.