As the New Year approaches, Brazilians decorate their homes, choose gifts for loved ones, prepare their children to meet Santa Claus, known in Brazil as Papai Noel, and plan how to spend the holidays: at home or travelling.

Christmas and New Year in Brazil are two holidays that harmoniously complement each other, creating a special atmosphere. According to cultural expert Marcelo Barbosa Duarte, this period is marked by family gatherings and traditional meals. According to him, Brazilians’ Christmas table always includes chicken or turkey, fruit salad, nuts, salad with mayonnaise identical to olivier, and even potato salad.

Popular destinations for New Year’s Eve travellers in Brazil

Marcelo Barbosa Duarte revealed that many people in the country go travelling during the festive season, favouring the following destinations: Rio de Janeiro, Armacao dos Buzios, Angra dos Reis, Cabo Frio and mountain towns including Petropolis and Teresopolis.

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Metropoles, a partner of TV BRICS, has published the results of a survey conducted by the online accommodation booking service. It names the ten most popular tourist destinations for Brazilians.

Balneario Camboriu.

Known as the “Brazilian Dubai”, this city is famous for its beautiful beaches, attractions for all ages and good infrastructure.

Fernando de Noronha

This place with paradisiacal beaches and crystal clear waters is also very popular among the residents of the Republic.

Maragogi

In this city in the north-east of Brazil, you can not only relax in the resort area, but also take a buggy ride to the natural pools.

Porto de Galinhas

Located in the state of Pernambuco, this resort combines natural pools and beaches.

Arraial d’Ajuda

Here you can enjoy unforgettable landscapes and try various outdoor activities.

Rio de Janeiro

Holidays to Rio de Janeiro are an opportunity to experience the golden beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife.

Campos do Jordao

A popular winter destination with a cool climate, interesting walking routes and a variety of cultural events.

Recife and Natal

These resorts are famous not only for their beautiful nature, but also for their historical sites.

Florianopolis

The capital of the state of Santa Catarina is characterised by impressive architecture and a variety of beautiful beaches.

In addition, the study showed that most Brazilians prefer to travel with family and spend holidays with friends.

Gift ideas for a “secret friend”

The well-known game of “secret Santa” is also popular in Brazil, but there it is called “secret friend”.
Metropoles gives recommendations for gift options for this game.

Gift options for a “secret friend” who is into sports and leads a healthy lifestyle:

A personalised water bottle;

shaker;

sportswear.

For book lovers, the portal offers the following gifts:

bookmarks;

reading lamp;

book stands;

gift certificates to bookshops.

For those who love music and add new songs to their playlist every day, the following options may become relevant:

biographies of famous musicians;

T-shirts with images of bands and artists;

a waterproof portable speaker;

gift vouchers for music streaming services.

Festivities in Brazil

Different cities in the republic have interesting events and celebrations planned for the end of the year. For example, the city administration of Rio de Janeiro announced New Year’s concerts on Copacabana beach, where famous musicians will perform. Festive fireworks will be organised on the city’s beaches.

Niteroi will host a special Christmas programme at Campo de Sao Bento Square, including musical performances and cultural activities for all ages on a stage by the lake.

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