Exploring Brazil: Highlights of Sao Paulo, Florianopolis, Rio NYE, and Iguazu Falls

Brazil has always been on my bucket list. When a friend from LA was going and meeting up with a Brazilian, I knew this was my shot. Brazil isn’t the kind of place I wanted to do solo—it’s not known for being the safest, and not many people speak English, so having someone with us who spoke Portuguese made all the difference.

I flew a red-eye from New York on Christmas Day and landed in São Paulo the next morning.

Quick tips: I brought a second phone but never used it—just kept my iPhone close in a fanny pack. Credit cards work almost everywhere. Use Uber to get around. Most Airbnbs won’t let you bring guests. Keep an eye on your stuff and stick together when you can.

São Paulo

São Paulo is massive—one of the biggest cities in the world. We ate amazing food, hit a rooftop with killer views, biked through the park, and got a taste of the nightlife. The weather wasn’t perfect, but if you’re into big city energy, this is a great stop.

Highlights:

• Ibirapuera Park – the city’s version of Central Park.

• Beco do Batman – colorful street art alley in Vila Madalena.

• MASP – iconic art museum on Paulista Avenue.

• Mercadão – legendary market with fresh fruit + stacked mortadella sandwiches.

Even in the rain, São Paulo was buzzing—food, art, history, nightlife all smashed together. Sao Polalo was a quick part of the trip, while only staying there 2 nights. Hotels were quite reasonable.

🏨 Hotel Novotel SP Jardins - while nothing to rave about, it was fine for a place to rest at the end of the day and location was central.

Florianópolis

My next stop was Florianópolis. I flew direct from São Paulo (LATM Airlines) and went solo—mainly because it’s known as the safest city in Brazil and has some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, which I wasn’t about to miss. I stayed in the city center, which worked out well since it’s walkable to bars and restaurants. The only downside? The best beaches are on the other side of the island, and with just one road in and out, the drive (11 miles) can take up to two hours in traffic.

My first full day, I had lunch at a gorgeous spot overlooking the bay, then headed to Campeche beach with a friend of a friend. The beach was stunning—clear water, lively but not overwhelming, and super easy to get too. Definitely recommend.

The next day I went to Praia Mole. Getting there was a trek, but it’s 100% worth it. Think: party on the sand—multiple beach clubs, beautiful water, amazing vibe. The tricky part is getting back without a car. I ended up walking to the main strip of restaurants, grabbed dinner, and from there was able to order an Uber (luckily the ride home was way quicker than the ride there). Next time, I’d stay on that side of the island to be closer to the beaches.

At night I went out a bit, but honestly Florianópolis isn’t really a party city—so there’s no real reason to stay downtown unless you have a car and prefer being in the "city."

Worth noting though: I didn’t make it there, but Jurerê Internacional is the bougie side of the island with upscale beach clubs, famous people and a totally different vibe. Florianópolis is a must-see—laid-back beach vibes, super green, the friendliest people, and really great food.

🏨 Hotel Porto da Ilha – solid choice. Clean, friendly staff, central location, and super convenient since I didn’t rent a car.

3 Days in Rio de Janeiro (New Year’s Edition)

Rio de Janeiro is one of those places that just feels alive. The beaches, the people, the energy—it’s electric in a way that’s hard to put into words. I spent a few days here over New Year’s Eve, and while it was short, it was unforgettable. Here’s how I’d break it down:

Day 1: Beaches & Exploring

• Stay: Our Airbnb was perfectly located between Copacabana and Ipanema, just a few minutes’ walk to both beaches.

• Beach time: Rent a chair, order caipirinhas straight to your spot, and swim in the clear water. The beaches are buzzing with vendors selling hats, jewelry, and clothes along the sidewalks.

• Evening: Stroll around, take in the city’s vibe, and save your energy for New Year’s Eve.

Day 2: New Year’s Eve in Rio

• Daytime: Chill on the sand—Copacabana and Ipanema are the best places to spend the day.

• Night: Dress in white (it’s tradition!) and head to Copacabana Beach for the world-famous New Year’s Eve fireworks.

  • The fireworks are long, gorgeous, and totally worth braving the crowds.

  • Locals head into the ocean to jump seven waves and make seven wishes—a tradition I’ll definitely do next time.

• Pro tip: Streets close and crowds are massive. If you’re heading to a party outside Copacabana, the subway is the way to go.

Day 3: Rio Highlights

• Morning Tour: Book a GetYourGuide tour of Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer. Go early (7:30 a.m.) to avoid the crowds. Bring sunscreen and water—it’s hot, but the views are unreal.

• Food: We didn’t have time for long sit-down meals, but açaí bowls and breakfasts were always fresh and delicious. (Restaurants can get packed, and service is slow around the holidays.)

• Optional Add-Ons for Next Time:

  • Santa Teresa – artsy neighborhood near Gloria/Lapa.

  • Selarón Steps – famous colorful staircase.

  • Parque Lage – beautiful park + great brunch spot.

  • Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico).

  • Cabo Frio – for a day trip out of the city.

  • Sunset cruise – I booked one but didn’t make it—saving this for my next visit.

Rio is chaotic, vibrant, and beautiful all at once. Between the beaches, the people, the culture, and that New Year’s Eve fireworks show, it’s a city that leaves you buzzing. Just go with the flow, expect the crowds, and soak it all in.

Last Stop: Iguazu Falls

I flew direct from Rio to Iguazu Falls (on the Brazilian side - LATM Airlines) by myself. It felt super safe and was filled with tourists since the main thing to do there is, of course, see the waterfalls. Honestly, when I saw pictures online, I knew I had to go—and I think my friends totally missed out!

You really only need two nights here. One full day is perfect for a tour. I did the Iguazu Falls: Full-Day Tour of Brazil & Argentina Sides and highly recommend it. You get to see both perspectives (they really are different!) and learn about the history of the falls. It’s a long day, but 100% worth it.

For an additional charge you can even go on a boat and it will take you underneath the falls - totally worth it!

Outside of the falls, there’s not a ton to do. I did go to an all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ that was amazing, but otherwise it’s pretty quiet.

🏨 Bogari Hotel—was super central, clean, very reasonable, nothing fancy, but perfect for a place to crash.

Brazil in summary: I loved it. I got to experience so many different vibes—beach, city, and one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. The people are gorgeous, the food I had was delicious, and the prices can’t be beat. Just keep an eye on your stuff, travel in groups in the big cities, and get ready for a blast. I will definitely be going back!