Travel Agent - September 15, 2008 - (Page 41)

DESTINATIONS CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA di onsecte magnism olobor sum ea feuiscilis An expansive view from the Rio Buzios Hotel BUZIOS Brazil This getaway is becoming a hot spot for young travelers FOR AGENTS SENDING YOUNGER, NIGHTLIFE-SEEKING CLIENTS to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, recommend a detour to Buzios, a fast-growing haven for sleek nightclubs and hip restaurants. Originally a small fishing village once inhabited by French pirates, this peninsula is made up of more than 20 beaches and home to some great water sports, mainly snorkeling. Some of its most well-known beaches include Azeda Beach, a small stretch of sand with calm and crystal-clear water; João Fernandinho Beach, featuring an array of bars where clients can feast on lobster and other great seafood; Ferradura Beach, a unique horseshoe-shaped bay; and Geribá Beach, which is ideal for clients looking to surf and windsurf. Buzios is also a great destination for some excellent cuisine. There are French, Italian, Moroccan, Thai and other restaurants. Fish and seafood are the main local dishes. But this area, which actually seems more like an island, is now mostly known for its booming nightlife. “Buzios is for the young. It is really the place to party at night, sleep late and get to the beach by noon at the earliest,” says Martin Rapp of Altour, which usually sends about 60 people a year to Buzios. “I usually advise at least a threeday stay between December and February (the high season).” In fact, younger travelers are driving much of the U.S. market to Brazil. According to Embratur, Brazil’s tourist board, more than half the U.S. BY JOE PIKE vacationers in Brazil in 2006 were under 40; 30 percent were under age 32; and 25 percent were between 32 and 40 years old. The 41-to-50year-old demographic made up 24 percent, and travelers 51 and older represented 21 percent. Where to Stay Casas Brancas (www.casasbrancas.com.br) is a hip, boutique–style hotel with 32 rooms and suites. It is Mediterranean-inspired and offers a relaxed setting with some impressive views of the bay. Rapp recommends any oceanview room here, but the best of the best are the three Suites, which all come with a private balcony. It also claims its own spa, which offers the basic massages and full CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 September 15, 2008 TravelAgent | 41 http://www.casasbrancas.com.br

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Travel Agent - September 15, 2008 Online Now Contents Agent Insider From the Editor Hawaii Europe Pacific/Asia Las Vegas US Airways Vacations - Atlantis, Paradise Island Specialist Central & South America Mexico Caribbean Cruises Cover Story: Merge Mania France by Rail Weddings & Honeymoons Gay & Lesbian Travel Tours Agent Profile Triptailor Vacations Agenda: Fam Trips, Deals & Incentives, Calendar Vegas Week Insights on Singapore Travel Leaders Builds New Alliances The Latest from the Caribbean A Sneak Peek at a New Ship Classified Marketplace In the Spotlight Editorial Index Advertising Index Trendwatch Special Supplement: Thailand Travel Planner

Travel Agent - September 15, 2008

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