Dare to Go Bare Winter 2011 – Buzios, Brazil
Ever wonder where Brazilians go on holiday? For a nearby escape that would be Buzios, cherished for its’ beaches, nightlife, restaurants and shopping. Founded by the Portuguese, it is surrounded by islands with more than 23 beaches to choose from depending on your mood and folly. Located a mere 100 miles from Rio de Janeiro, Buzios couldn’t seem farther away. Triggering the town’s popularity in 1964 by bombshell Brigitte Bardot, her statue gazes out to sea. Rua das Pedras and the Orla Bardot is where it all happens…socializing, romancing, dining, dancing, shopping, people-watching and struttin’ your stuff. It is a friendly and eclectic street, where running into famous people and hearing foreign languages is commonplace. Though restrained, Buzios oozes glamour.
You don’t have to worry about exposing your body here, Praia Olho de Boi beach is a nude beach. The rest of the beaches glisten with fit bodies adorned with barely-there Brazilian bikinis. Enjoy scuba diving among ship-wrecks, coral reefs and nearby islands; snorkeling in the warm turquoise waters, kite-surfing, sailing and the best surfing around. Truly drinking in all that Buzios offers requires little more than just seeing the stunning beauty of the place. Of course, drinking a caipirinha while doing so is the perfect accompaniment.
Eat
Restaurants offer fresh seafood, French, Italian, Thai, and Moroccan cuisine. Local favorite, S´EssaRua Fosse Minha, specializes in local and international seafood dishes attracting an international crowd and rave reviews. Most restaurants aren’t open before 2 pm since the nightlife goes late. Nightlife offerings are simply world-class including shows, nightclubs, parties, restaurants and bars to suit all tastes. After dark Buzios comes alive with the rhythm of the disco beat, but the party doesn’t begin until after 1 am. Privilege Nightclub, where the party goes all night long. Anexo’s Bar, for a cool lounge scene overlooking the ocean for a caipirinha or house draft beer. Pátio Havana, for jazz, blues and popular Brazilian music along with great food. It is all found in the buzzing downtown area for getting your groove on in numerous spots. Dress to impress as men must wear collared shirts and adult shoes. Women get away with just about any attire…or without.
Stay
Insolito Hotel located on Ferradura Beach has individually designed rooms decorated with art and colors from Brazil’s rich cultural heritage. Relax in the Wellness Center for facials, body treatments, massage and Indian rituals to balance your spirit. Explore the beautiful coast with the two boats available to hotel guests or enjoy the hotel’s sweet and salt water pools, dry sauna, steam sauna, Jacuzzi and Ofurô. At Insólito Restaurant, Brazilian dishes are accented with French flavors from Chef Rocha.
