São Paulo

For the last post of the year I decided to write about the city we all live in right now, São Paulo. I lived here for almost 14 years and therefore I was able to see and experience the best of São Paulo. Museums and theaters are abundant in São Paulo such as the MASP. National and international art and drama/musical/comedies can be seen weekly. But for those who are not great fans of museums and theaters like me, São Paulo also offers entertainment. Oscar Freire is the brazilian version of the 5th avenue where luxurious brazilian and international stores can be found. Other great places to shop is in Daslu, Shopping Iguatemi, Cidade Jardim, and the many other malls that can be found here. São Paulo is home to many other cultures as well such as the Liberdade, which is the largest japanese community out of Japan. The many immigrants that came to São Paulo brought a little of their culture that can now be found in many parts of São Paulo. Nightlife in São Paulo is great as well if you know where to go. I believe that São Paulo is a great city to live and even if I didn't live here, I would still want to visit it.

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International

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Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is probably one of the most popular and beautiful place to visit. Also known as the "Eternal City", Rome has incredible antique arquitecture, mouth-watering foods and drinks, amazing art and shopping. From my experience, it is impossible get bored in Rome because there are so many places to visit and foods to eat. Top places you should visit in Rome are the Vatican, Colosseum, Pantheon, all the beautiful fountains and squares such as the Trevi Fountain, and all other arquitectures not mentioned. They are all unique and extraordinary in thier own way, even the buildings that are not famous or important are stunning. When you say Rome, pasta and pizzas are probably one of the first things that come to your mind. You can taste the true italian food in Rome and they are with no doubt, delicious. There are so many types of pizzas and pastas that you take about 20 minutes only reading through the menu. I've spent 6 days in Rome and didn't get the chance to taste them all. The arts in Rome are breathtaking, every museum you go there are different types of art. The most famous museum is the Vaticans Museum. I think this reason is mostly for girls, but shopping in Rome is the best! You can just walk through one long street (Via del Corso) and you find all the stores you can imagine.
You could live your whole life in Rome, and not a day in your life you'd have nothing to do. If I had to describe Rome in one word it would be PERFECT! Rome is certainly a city you must visit before you die.

Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa is also a city that I would want to visit especially now that the 2010 FIFA World Cup is about to start. The games, the stadiums and the soccer players would be enough to make me want to visit this city, but Michael told me that it is also a beautiful city. Cape Town is mostly known for it's amazing scenery full of natural beauties such as mountains and the beach. The Atlantic ocean surrounds the city and from all the mountains, Table Mountain is the most famous and beautiful from them all. It has this name because the top of the mountain is as flat as a table and it is enormous. According to capetownmagazine.com, the scenery sets an relaxing mood so for all of those seeking for a relaxing vacation should go visit this town. It also says that it is sunny and hot till 7pm so there is plenty of time to relax on the beautiful beaches. Scenery is not the only thing Cape Town has to offer, another reason to visit this city are the old architecture. Capetownmagazine.com says that Cape Town is a mixture of new and old, in between modern skyscrapers we can find older buildings. Each building has a history and a unique beauty. I know Cape Town sound like a calm and relaxing place, but if you are seeking a vacation full of thrills it can be found as well. There are extreme sports such as shark cage diving, sky diving, bungee jumping, para gliding, and etc. Wine is very famous in Cape Town and there are many restaurants with foods from different cultures. Cape Town is also the home of the best hotels in the world, many of them are rated 5 stars and offers great comfort for all tourists.

I believe this city has everything it needs to make someone's vacation perfect; natural beauty, entertainment, food, and hotels. I would love to go there in June but I don't think it'll be possible.

Information from here and Michael

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Madrid

One more city to add to the list is Madrid, Spain. The capital of Spain has much to offer to all of those who decides to visit this city. According to letsgo2.com, there are many places to visit for it is a very cultural city. Spain has many museums and historical architecture such as the Thyssen Borneimsza Museum, Museum of Fashion, Royal Palace, Conde Duque Centre, Reina Sofia Museum, and etc. All these places represents the city's best historical and some modern arts and buildings. Entertainment is another thing that does not lack in this city. Letsgo2.com has listed some of the fun that can be found there like all the daily live performances, flamenco bars and clubs, and obviously the traditional spanish bull fighting. I personally always wanted to see bull fighting live although it may end up bad sometimes. In Madrid, you can also visit the Madrid Zoo that contains 3000 animals that walk freely instead of being behind steel bars. There is also the Aquopolis, which is one of the largest water attractions in Europe offering fun for the whole family. If spanish food here is delicious, I only imagine how many times better it might be in Madrid, Spain. All dishes are known to be extremely good and I'd probably gain some weight if I ever went there. Spain is also a great place to shop in boutiques such as Serrano, Castello, Goya, Velazquez, and etc.

Madrid is probably one of the cities I most want to visit. All of those, including my parents, that has been there claims that it certainly is a great place to go. From what I researched about Madrid, it really does look like a city I would enjoy.

Information from here

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Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal had to be part of this list. It is said to be a great city for people of all generations and worth visiting. One of the reasons one should visit Lisbon are its amazing and exotic attractions over the city. According to skvots.net, such attractions include the Tiepolo at the Medeiros E Almeida Museum, Tropical Gardens, Rossio Square to the Sao Carlos Theater, aquaducts, and etc. These beautiful architectures displayed throughout the city reflects on Lisbon's strong cultural heritage and shows the long history of Lisbon. Food is another major reason to visit Lisbon. This city is particularly known for its wonderful wines, which can only be found in Portugal. Seafood is the typical food in Lisbon, everything is fresh and tastes perfectly good. Besides these reasons, Lisbon is also known to offer a great night life for all generations. There are bars, clubs and even concerts that you might be interested. Climate in Lisbon is a typical mediterranean climate, summers are warm and winters are cool. All these reasons make Lisbon one of the cities I would desperately want to visit soon.

Information from here

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Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan is known to be a city full of excitement, fast-paced and very complex that awakens the curiosity of many tourists. Personally, this is one of the cities I really want to visit because of the many advertising I saw in places such as movies and tv shows. According to www.blog.hotelclub.com, there are many reasons to visit Tokyo. One of the reasons would definitely be the technology. Tokyo is the home of most of the technologies developed throughout the world meaning that they have the ultimate gadgets. There are many gadgets that Japan has developed, which is not on the markets yet. Tokyo is a great shopping destinations for the gadget freaks who wants the latest technological advances although it may be pricy. But besides the busy and advanced Tokyo, the culture also stands out that is another great reason to visit this wonderful city. Samurais, geishas, temples, and gardens are all examples of the beautiful culture Japan has. The site also advices the tourists to visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace, which is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. By the pictures I saw, it really is extremely beautiful and I could see how the architecture is different. A reason we could certainly not forget is the food. It is said that there are over 200,000 restaurants and bars throughout the city with foods such as sushi and many other traditional japanese food. Tokyo would be perfect for me because I love sushi!

I really want to visit Tokyo one day, it seems to be a very exciting city to visit.

Information from here

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New Zealand

After representing this country in BRAMUN last week, I got curious to know more about this city and found out it is surely a great vacation destination. One of the main reasons to visit is New Zealand's extraordinary landscape and natural beauty. It's varied landscapes include mountains, lakes, fjords, alpine glaciers, volcanos, geysers, valleys, and etc. The varied landscape offers the tourists several natural attractions such as bungee jumping, swimming through caves, skydiving, mountain biking, rafting, and others. Many of The Lord of the Ring's trilogy was filmed in the amazing landscapes of New Zealand, which introduced it's beauty to the whole world. The Marlborough region in New Zealand produces one of the world's finest wine, the Sauvignon Blancs. The productions of wine is constantly growing, which makes this city a great place for those who appreciates wine. Another great attraction New Zealand offers the tourists is called the Whale Watch, where the tourist is able to see whales and a variety of other marine mammals in the South Pacific Ocean encircling the islands. It certainly looks like it would be very fun to see these huge animals right in front of you, I would not know whether I had to be scared or excited. Food is also known to be amazing due to the city's fertile soil and fishing. The foods are healthy and there is a large variety for different people.

Before this research, I knew very little about this city but now it has become one of the places I want to visit one day.

Information from here

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Stockholm

Stockholm attracts several tourists around the world because you can have the perfect view of Sweden. Everything about this city has the authentic Swedish feel, such as its old architecture, colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and etc. Stockholm has the ideal structure that many cities should have; there is no cramped and stressful feel that many big cities have because although there are many buildings, it is balanced with green spaces and less pollution. Because of this structure, there are many outdoor activities. You can either explore the city by bikes or on foot. There are bike paths everywhere, and bike rental programs are located practically everywhere for the tourists. Walking is just as fun because you can easily go to one place to another. My friend, Ida Palmgren, has already been there and said it is a very entertaining and beautiful city to visit with your whole family. By her words, it really sounds like a wonderful place and I surely want to visit one day.

Information from Ida Palmgren

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Dubai

Dubai has developed into one of the most fascinating countries and is rapidly becoming a very notable holiday destination for many. Architecture is one of the most popular reasons to visit Dubai; all buildings are modern and gives a futuristic feeling. From the pictures I saw, it looks exactly like how I imagined the future to be, the constructions are extremely beautiful such as the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, Burj Al Arab Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the twin Emirate Towers, the Dubai Gulf & Yacht Club and etc. Each and every building is unique and breathtaking. Another reason to go to Dubai are the luxurious hotels and resorts offered. This city is known to have the best hotels and resorts, for example the Burj Al Arab Hotel that has 7 stars. People in Dubai are also known to be friendly, making your stay much more pleasant. Dubai is filled with entertainment as well. Firstly, there are beautiful and perfect white beaches where you can enjoy Dubai's warm weather and relax. There are also dune safaris you can visit, it is meters of piles sand and known to be a great site. And for those who loves adventure, the world's largest indoor ski slope is available. Shopping is another factor that attracts several vistors, stores can be easily found.

I really want to visit this city that everybody is talking about now. It sure does look like a great travel destination.

information from here

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Belo Horizonte

Belo Horizonte is Brazil's third largest city and also a wonderful city. I was introduced to this city by Raphaella Faria last year when we went there to attend her 15 year old party and we visited some places in our 10th grade WOC. Although we only stayed about 2 days the first time, we were able to see how Belo Horizonte is a beautiful, calm and fun city. Firstly, Belo Horizonte offers many places to go sightseeing. The most famous place is called The Pampulha Lagoon and the building around it, which we saw in the last day of our WOC trip. Right besides it, you can see the Mineirão, the soccer stadium, and the Mineirinho, the city's multi-sport arena. Another famous area is called the Américo Renê Giannetti Munipal Park, whch is the city's first public park. It is the perfect place for those who just wants to walk around with some company. People in Belo Horizonte are extremely fashionable and so, there are many places where you can go shopping. The mall my friends and I went to there looked very much alike the malls we see here in São Paulo. A factor I liked about this city is that it is very calm and at night you can see many of the stars that you can't see in São Paulo.

Belo Horizonte is a very beautiful city, and I certainly had lots of fun both in the party and sightseeing. I look forward to go back to this city one day.

Las Vegas

"What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas". This is probably one of the most famous quotes known and for those who have watched the film 'The Hangover' knows that everything can happen in Las Vegas, from a broken tooth to a tiger in your bathroom. It is probably not the best place to go in our age, especially because we're not allowed in many places. But my friends and I've decided that as soon as we are 21, we are certainly visiting Las Vegas. For those who loves to gamble, Las Vegas is the perfect place. One thing that doesn't lack in this cities are casinos, which are open all night long for those who wants to have a good time and earn money if you are lucky! Nightlife in Las Vegas is also considered to be the best. It is the kind of place that can make you stay awake all night long. But after the busy night, it is always good to have a great place to relax. In Las Vegas, there are luxurious themed hotels such as the Excalibur, Sphinx of Giza and Luxor. Besides from all the partying, there is also activities to do as a family. You could go on a sightseeing tour of the Grand Canyon and see its immense size. Las Vegas also offers many shows and events for everyone. It has one of the best musical and theatrical shows in the world such as the Blue Man Group. It is also recommended to visit the Circus Circus, which is the world's largest circus and carnival. As you can see, Las Vegas offers activities for everybody so that all visitors may have the time of their lives. When I have the appropriate age, it is probably the 1 city I will visit together with my friends!

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Vancouver

2010's Winter Olympics' host is known to be one of the top 10 cities to visit. One of the reasons why you should visit Vancouver is because of its natural beauty. Vancouver has a great urban environment but at the same beautiful nature. Stanley Park, Burnaby Mountain and Grouse Mountain are some of the many parks, mountains, beaches and great views in this city. Vancouver is the perfect city for those who are fans of outdoor sports. Skiing and snowboarding in Vancouver can't be beat, which is why it was chosen as 2010's Winter Olympics' home. You can also go mountain-biking, hiking, kayaking, and etc. I definitely want to go skiing or snowboarding in Vancouver one day! Robson Street is the place for those who love to shop because there is wide range of stores you can chose from. Another place is the Commercial Drive where you can find many boutiques and don't forget to visit the new department store called Holt Renfrew. Food in Vancouver is also known to be delicious because they are all locally grown and produced. Those you love to eat should definitely visit Granville Island and its Public Market.

Vancouver is a place that everybody would love, from those who wants to relax to those you loves exciting sports. It is a city known to be extremely beautiful and I hope I'll be able to visit this wonderful city one day.

Picture from here

Salvador

Salvador, Bahia was our WOC destination in 9th grade and it was the best WOC trip we had until now. Brazil's first capital is surely a beautiful place notable for its architecture, culture and beaches. Salvador has preserved most of the historic building and we were able to see that in the Pelourinho, which is the historical centre of Salvador. Each and every building was unique and we thought it was beautiful. Salvador's culture was greatly influenced by the africans, we can see it in Salvador's cuisine, music and religion. It's cuisine is simply delicious but heavy because it is spicy and based on seafood. All the ingredients and techniques are all typically African. Acarajé and moqueca are two of the most traditional dishes. Capoeira is a mix of dance and martial arts used only for defense in a combat. Music accompanies this fight with instruments such as the berimbau, which makes it very entertaining to watch. It was dance/martial art practiced by the slaves. The religion dominating is called the Candomblé, where there is a god for each element such as the sun, wind, earth, water, etc. We visited many churches in Salvador and they were very beautiful. Apart from the historical part, we also visited some beaches where we were able to relax and enjoy the sun.

I surely had a lot of sun in Salvador, especially because I went with my friends. We visit many places from museums to beaches. Don't forget to buy the famous colorful wish bracelets when visiting Salvador.

Natal

I would like to start my 2nd semester posts with the place I visited this vacation, Natal, the capital and larges city of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. It is a place full of natural beauties and it is also very safe making it a perfect place to visit with your family. The most famous tourist attraction is probably the Dunas (Dunes), which is a big area full of sand looking like a desert. It is the perfect example of natural beauty in Natal, I personally thought it was beautiful. In the Dunas, buggy rides are offered to take a ride through the Dunas and you can chose to have the ride with or without emotion. Of course I chose with emotion, although my mom wanted to kill me we all enjoyed the ride because it was very entertaining. Buggy rides aren't the only entertainment you can find in the sand, there is also a dromedary ride where you immediately feel like you're in india because they make you wear the colorful cloths on your head. They're slow, but I thought it was so amazing because I'd only seen people riding dromedaries in films. You can also go sand boarding on a big natural ramp. It can be a little tricky at first, but after 2 times I was able to get to the finish line without falling. Beaches are also a major tourist attraction. There are more than 1 beach in Natal and we visited a different one every day. Each and every one of them was beautiful and clean, but DON'T forget to use a lot of sunblock because the sun is very strong and I got really tan. You can also take a ride in Asa Delta in one of the beaches, it makes you feel like you're flying and you can see the whole city from up there!! I enjoyed spending my new years in Natal, it is certainly a very calm, beautiful and relaxing place to spend your vacations. It is a great place for people of all ages to have a good time.