As the world’s fifth-largest country and an
emerging economic power, Brazil has an
incredible amount to offer travelers. The
northeastern state of Bahia is one of the
country’s most popular tourist destinations.
Many visitors start their trip to Bahia in
the laid-back city of salvador before
heading to the spectacular beaches along
the state’s Atlantic coastline. This area is
the playground of Brazil, dotted with well-
appointed resorts overlooking the sparkling
ocean. As well as drawing sun worshippers,
who spend happy days sipping fruity drinks
on powdery sand beaches, coastal Bahia is a
haven for nature lovers. Ecotour companies
help visitors carefully observe sea turtle
colonies and humpback whales.
Inland in Bahia, another natural wonder
awaits: the Atlantic Rainforest, home to a
staggering array of rare plants and animals.
Delicate orchids, tiny hummingbirds, jewel-
toned tanagers and woolly spider monkeys
are just a few of the captivating sights that
will reward the eagle-eyed visitor.
More famous still is the amazonian
Rainforest, which covers over half of the
country. One of the best ways to explore
it is aboard the Iberostar Grand Amazon,
a luxurious hotel ship based in the city of
Manaus. The ship offers several itineraries,
all of which give travelers ample opportunity
to explore this iconic nature destination.
Onboard experts give talks on the region’s
history and ecology, focusing on everything
from exotic birds and pink dolphins to
piranha and alligators. Daytime hikes and
photo safaris are chances to see nature
up close. And as dusk settles over the
timeless river, passengers gather in the ship’s
restaurants, bars and hot tubs to share tales
of the day’s adventures.
If You Go...
for a seaside escape in bahia, try the Iberostar
Bahia, which boasts four pools, six restaurants and
a P.b. Dye-designed golf course. you can spend five
nights, all-inclusive, in a Superior room for $905
per person (land only, includes taxes and fees).
The hotel’s nearby sister property, the Iberostar
Praia do Forte, offers similar five-star comfort,
including six pools, a spa and guestrooms with
flat-screen satellite televisions. you can spend
five nights, all-inclusive, in a Superior room for
$1,065 per person. both properties are located
right on the beach, offering gorgeous views.
In the Amazon, the same company operates
the Iberostar Grand Amazon hotel-ship, an
intimate vessel with just 72 cabins that gives
passengers an up-close look at this fascinating
region. book now to enjoy three nights in a
mandi Deck Riverview room for $1,055 per
person, or four nights in a mandi Deck Riverview
room for $1,385 per person.
Prices for all of these packages are based on the
June 2009 travel period.
