Top 7 Shark Attack Hotspots in the World

by Jules on May 18, 2013

The average risk of death from a shark attack is 1 in 3,748,067 – to put that into context, you’re 30 times more likely to die from lightening than a shark attack! Still, statistics dictate that some destinations are more likely to be shark hotspots than others.

There are more than 470 different shark species on earth from the biggest whale shark (12 meters long) to the smallest dwarf lantern shark (17cm long). All sharks can attack but there are just 4 species that inflict fatal attacks on humans; the mighty great white, bull, oceanic white tip and tiger sharks.

New South Wales, Australia

The east Australian state of NSW is the deadliest shark attack hotspot in the world, with a total of 195 shark attacks (since records began). What’s more shocking however is the fatal attack ration – 57 of these attacks have been fatal – that’s nearly 30% death rate. Although with local education and awareness campaigns there have been no shark fatalities since 2008. Just last month a 51 year old fisherman was attacked by a grey nurse shark as he tried to free it from his fishing net, suffering puncture wounds.

Australia as a whole however has had a total of 510 shark attacks with 144 proving fatal, the last in 2012.

South Africa

South Africa is the most shark-prone country in Africa, where shark cage diving with great white species is a popular tourist attraction.  A group of holidaymakers got more than they bargained for in March when a great white shark actually bit through the cage in Gansbaai in the Western Cape! Watch the scary video below! South Africa has had 52 fatalities from a total of 234 attacks. Africa as a whole has faced 326 shark attacks since records began with 89 fatal attacks.

Florida, USA

Next up is the US State of Florida, which is the destination with the most shark attacks anywhere on earth! A total of 663 people have been attacked, with fortunately only 11 fatalities. Just last week a 16 year old lad was surfing at Melbourne Beach when he was nibbled on the ankle – he was more annoyed that by attending hospital, he’d missed the surf!

Continental USA (excluding Hawaii) is the most prolific shark hotspot on earth with 1,022 attacks and 36 fatalities since records began.

Queensland, Australia

A shark attack was foiled by a British tourist holidaying in Queensland as he bravely grabbed the tail of the two meter long shark! The quick actions of the 62 year old prevented an attack in shallow waters where children were playing. Amazingly, a local film crew caught the action – see the video below. In total 45 people have been killed from 161 shark attacks.

Hawaii, USA

The seas surrounding the islands of Hawaii are a hotbed of shark action. West Coast sharks and mako sharks are commonly found in the waters, with white sharks only venturing to Hawaii occasionally. There have been 116 attacks with 8 fatalities.

California, USA

The state of California is on the Pacific Coast and sees a fair amount of shark action. In fact it ranks sixth in the world for attacks with 109, resulting in 10 deaths. There are an abundance of great white sharks that prey in the Pacific.

Brazil

And finally to Brazil in South America, whose coastline sees the most shark-related trouble with 23 deaths from 97 attacks. This is by far the highest in South America, where there has been a total of 113 attacks resulting in 25 deaths.

Thanks for the data from Ichthyology at the Florida Museum of Natural History – their website is fantastic with the latest stats (Last updated: 11 February 2013) and profiles of various shark species.

By Julie Bowman

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Enter our Travel Writing Competition 2013 and Win £1,000/$1,500

by Jules on May 17, 2013

Imagine winning enough money to explore your dream destination! Well, one lucky winner of our Travel Writing Competition will get that chance with a fantastic first prize of either 1,000 GBP or 1,500 USD!

All you have to do is write and tell us about “The worst journey of your life” – which, let’s face it, we’ve all encountered during our travels! Tell us about your disastrous missed connections, horrendous weather or disgusting food! Make us wince, laugh or cry and the most interesting entries will make it onto our shortlist, which is then put forward for public voting.

So what are you waiting for?

Kiss goodbye to tedious Monday mornings with the opportunity to get out there and explore the world – go on a camel trek through Morocco, try cooking authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Hoi An or experience the party atmosphere of Brazil for yourself – the world is your (proverbial) oyster!

Click to enter now!

It really is that simple!

By Julie Bowman

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Revealed: Top Songs to Calm Nervous Travellers

by Jules on May 17, 2013

Up to a quarter of adults are nervous travellers and reading, watching a movie and listening to music are all great ways to relax and unwind when flying. And when it comes to calming music, Spotify have just revealed their top picks to calm the nerves of anxious travellers. And top of the pile is British singer Adele, with ‘Someone Like You’.

Adele’s tracks are perfect thanks to the slow tempo and chilled sound. In fact slow tempo tracks (around 60 beats per minute) are ideal as they can lower travellers’ heart rates and blood pressure. The study shows that music that is both stimulating and emotional is beneficial to those of a nervous flying disposition. Time for me to ditch the heavy metal beats of Metallica then?

The 15 tracks on Spotify’s ‘Calming Music To Fly To’ playlist is an eclectic mix, ranging from Enya’s Orinoco Flow (you have to be of a certain age to remember that one), classic Buffalo Soldier from Bob Marley (I get the whole chilled-reggae vibe) and , personal favourite Scar Tissue from the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. There are also songs from Beyoncé, Coldplay and curiously, The Christmas Song from Nat King Cole, which may seem out of place if you’re flying to the Caribbean for a sun-soaked getaway!

Last up on the list is the classic Space Oddity track from David Bowie, which has just been reworked by Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield. He sings and plays guitar along to the track whilst floating weightlessly. You can spot the earth outside the spaceship window – which makes for a rather surreal (and slightly eerie) sight! Check it out below if you haven’t seen it yet – although it’s currently had more than 12 million pageviews!

So what are you favourite songs to listen to when flying? Leave your comments below…

By Julie Bowman

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Top Greek Holiday Islands Explored

by Jules on May 16, 2013

More than 6,000 islands and islets make up the Greek Islands, within the Ionian and Aegean Seas. But each island offers a different experience so which of the Greek holiday islands is perfect for you?

Only 227 of the Greek islands are inhabited but this still offers a fantastic choice and variety. And with a combined 7,500km of coastline, it’s no wonder that watersports and beach sports are high on the agenda. With sheltered coves, crystal clear seas, vast dunes, volcanic sands, deep forests, ancient sites and delicious food – it’s time to make your choice;

Mediterranean Sea Islands

Crete is the largest and most populated of all the Greek Islands. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, it is the fifth largest island in the Med and retains its own unique culture. Famed for being the birthplace of the earliest European civilisation, the Minoans settled here in c. 2700BC. With a rich diversity ranging from buzzing metropolitan cities to laidback hillside villages, there’s something here for everyone.

Heraklion is the capital city of Crete and the most famous landmark is The Minoan Palace of Knossos, where king Minos used to reside. Here the legends of both the Labyrinth and the Minotaur are revealed. Explore the Venetian Walls and the Venetian castle of Koules located in the historic harbour. Wander the pretty St. Minas Cathedral, explore the rich Minoan heritage within the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and take in the exhibits at the Museum of Natural History. The other large towns on Crete include Rethymno, Chania and Agios Nikolaos.

Aegean Islands

Within the Aegean Islands lies Greece’s second largest island, the little-known Euboea, which is actually just off the west coast of Turkey. With a chilled out vibe, activities here are centered around the beaches with excellent watersports facilities, try scuba diving and swimming on Euboea. Be warned that Chiliadou Beach at Steni is a nudist beach! Explore the ancient ruins of the Dragon House at Ochi Mountain and visit the pretty St. John the Russian Church at Khalkis.

The island of Lesbos is Greece’s third largest island and is known for its poets and writers. You too can be inspired by the diverse landscapes and easygoing culture. Explore the Molivos Castle and the carefully preserved Gattilusi Castle in the town of Molyvos. Don’t miss the interesting Natural History Museum and take a hike in the Petrified Forest of Lesbos.

Known as the birthplace of Pythagoras, Samos is small but well-connected. Hire a bike or walk the key sites around the capital Pythagorion, such as the Panagia Spiliani Monastery, the curious Archaeological Museum and ruins of the Temple of Hera (Heraion).

Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes is the largest island within the Dodecanese Islands and is popular with travellers drawn to the pristine beaches, multitude of rich archaeological sites and fascinating medieval town. One of the most beautiful beaches is St Pauls Bay at Lindos and keen surfers should head to Prasonisi Beach which is quieter. Lindos is also home to the ruins of the ancient Acropolis, Kleoboulous’s tomb and the ornate Church of the Assumption. The Colossus of Rhodes site is one of the orignal 7 ancient wonders. Rhodes City is still surrounded by its medieval wall and a walk of the Old Town reveals the Grandmaster´s castle and the historic Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. Explore the Archbishops Palace and take in the superb views atop the Rhodes Archaeological Museum. The Medieval City of Rhodes is of huge cultural importance and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Faliraki is the party town on Rhodes with 24/7 bars and clubs.

Quaint Symi offers a real change of pace in the Dodecanese. Think laidback traditional charm within the hilltop villages and small guesthouses. With one of the prettiest harbours in the Greek Islands, Symi offers plenty to do by day. Explore the Panormitis Monastery, visit the Archaeological & Folklore Museum and discover the Symi Museum housed within an impressive building.

The island of Kos is just 2.5 miles (4km) off the coast of Turkey and travellers are drawn to the 112km long coast which offers some fantastic beaches. Wander the Eleftherias Square of Kos Town, explore the ancient ruins of Asklepion and discover the Knights Templar Castle at Kos Town. Get away from the bustle with a hike in the Plaka Forest and cool off at the local Lido Waterpark at Mastichari.

Cyclades Islands

Mykonos is a developed tourist island in the Greek Cyclades islands, although there are pockets of heritage attractions waiting to be discovered. Walk, shop and haggle along Little Venice and Matoyianni Street in Mykonos Town. Explore the local historical sights including the pretty Byzantine Church of Paraportiani, the quaint Windmills and the imposing Castle Panigirakis. Notable beaches include the main Platis Gialos Beach, Agios Stefanos Beach and the Elia Beach which attracts nudist sunbathers!

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands and offers fantastic opportunities for watersports such as kitsesurfing and windsurfing.  The beaches of Agios Prokopios, Plaka, Alyko and Agia Anna are the most popular. And for a chance of pace, try hiking the mountainous center of the island. Explore The Portara ruins of the 6BC marble gates in Naxos harbour. Explore the 13th century Kastro Castle and take in the local exhibits at the Venetian Museum.

The beautiful whitewashed villages on Santorini island have long been popular with tourists, and has just been named one of the top islands in the world, and rightly so. Landscapes are dotted with the iconic blue domes of the local churches and the pick of the beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach and secluded Thirasia Beach. Santorini offers some great walking trails and rich cultural sights, including the fascinating Museum of Prehistoric Thera, the 11th century CB remains of Ancient Thera and Akrotiri which was carefully preserved by volcanic ash.

Sporades Islands

The island of Skiathos was made famous thanks to the hugely popular Mamma Mia! movie. A multitude of pristine beaches await alongside Greek historic sites. Visit the Papadiamandis House which showcases the life and times of the local novelist Alexandros Papadiamantis. The exhibits depict life on Skiathos 150 years ago. Best beaches in Skiathos include the Koukounaries Beach, Mandraki Elias Beach and the ‘Hidden Beach’ at Koukounaries.

Ionian Islands

Lying off Greece’s west coast are the Ionian Islands and the largest is Kefalonia. With dense forests, steep mountains and sheer cliffs, Kefalonia is an adventure seekers dream destination! Pack your climbing boots to scale the heights and admire the beautiful natural landscapes from on high. Activities here are rich and varied and include descending into the underground cave system at Melisani Caves in Argostolion. Admire the traditional Monastery of Agios Gerasimos and visit the ancient St George’s Castle at Peratata.

The island of Corfu lies in the Adriatic Sea and presents a rich and varied culture thanks to past rule by the British and Venetians. Generally the north is quieter and more laidback and the south attracts a party-focussed crowd. Corfu Town offers 24/7 bars, clubs and eateries. Explore the former fishing village of Benitses, try walking the highest point at Mount Pantokrator and discover the pretty Sissi’s Palace of Achilleon at Gastouri. The Museum of Asian Art features over 1,000 works of Japanese and Chinese art and a visit to the breathtaking Church of Saint Spiridon is an absolute must! Corfu has also been confirmed as one of the cheapest destinations right now!

Also with the Ionian Islands is the island of Zakynthos (also called Zante), which offers much to both families and adventure travellers alike. History enthusiasts will also be in their element as the rich archaeological artefacts reveal that Zakynthos dates back to the Neolithic Age. Homer mentioned the island in both the Iliad and the Odyssey. Travel around the island in a day either on an organised tour or by hire car and see the breathtaking sights and experiences for yourself.

By Julie Bowman

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Top 7 Things to do in Tokyo Japan

by Jules on May 15, 2013

Tokyo is a lively pulsating super-metropolis which fascinates curious travellers, drawn to the high-tech futuristic city that also offers pockets of traditional culture dotted throughout the city. This is the city where Harajuku-styled girls mingle easily with manga pop culture and sharp-suited businessmen.

Catch the spring Cherry Blossom at the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

If you’re in Tokyo in the springtime you must head to one of the local parks to witness the delicately fragranced and colourful cherry blossom. One of the best parks is the Gyoen National Garden in the Shinjuku district which was originally opened in 1906 for royalty. Since 1949 however the exquisite gardens have been within the public domain and the 58 hectare site has around 20,000 trees including 1,500 cherry trees. This makes for a magical sight in both spring and autumn when the leaves turn to rich hues of gold, orange and red. There is an entrance fee, which keeps the crowds to a minimum. There are English, French and Japanese Gardens with an impressive botanic conservatory.

Tokyo is the largest city on earth and the bustling Shinjuku district features many luxury hotel chains, tech stores, gleaming skyscrapers and hundreds of boutique shops catering to the luxury travel market.

Explore the National Museum of Western Art

There are hundreds of intriguing museums in Tokyo covering art, history, science and speciality interests. The National Museum of western Art is located in Taito’s Ueno Park in central Tokyo and is particularly appealing thanks to its superior paintings and sculptures gallery. The museum houses more than 4,500 pieces dating back to the 14th century. There are works by Rubens, Monet, Picasso, Pollock, Rembrandt, Cézanne and many others. The block-like building was designed by a Swiss architect and opened in 1959. It’s also listed on the provisional UNESCO World Heritage List.

If you’d prefer to learn about the local history, head to the Edo-Tokyo Museum in Sumida. The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum and the Nezu Museum, both in the Minato district, have some interesting pieces.

Wonder at the Meiji Shrine

One of the most fascinating elements of Tokyo is the traditional heritage contained within the ancient shrines and temples dotted throughout the city. The most famous and arguably most stunning example is the Meiji Shrine. The magnificent Shinto shrine features two large entrance gates to the shrine that is dedicated to the Emperor and Empress Meiji. Built in 1920 the shrine was damaged in World War II. Located in the fashionable shopping district of Shibuya, the über-fashionable district of Harajuku is also within easy reach.

Get Lost in Translation

One of the biggest movies to be filmed entirely in Tokyo is the 2003 film ‘Lost in Translation’ – who can believe its 10 years old already! Director Sofia Coppola filmed Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson in various locations across the city including the colourful and lively Shinjuku and Shibuya districts. Most travellers head to the Park Hyatt Hotel in Shinjuku, to the 52 storey skyscraper where Johansson and Murray’s characters meet in the film. This is also one of the most expensive hotels in the city – a warning if you’re heading there for a drink!   Shinjuku is home to many modern architecturally-interesting buildings such as the modern Tokyo City Hall – make your own mind up about this one!

Explore Tokyo’s Temples

You cannot visit Tokyo and not take in some of the city’s exquisitely presented temples. The finest example of a Buddhist Temple has to be the Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa, Taito district. Opened in 645 AD, Sensō-ji displays typical Japanese Buddhist architecture. Pass the Kaminarimon, aka Thunder Gate, with its giant lantern and statues of gods. Head into the Kannondō, aka Kannon Hall, to witness worshippers praying and donating tokens amongst the billowing clouds of thickly scented incense.

Whilst in the Asakusa district, you can also take in the Chingodo Shrine, which is dedicated to a raccoon god and Denpoin Temple which has carefully manicured gardens.

Try the local sushi

Japan’s most famous cuisine is sushi, which is often (poorly) replicated across the world. To get a taste for authentic Japanese sushi, head to the Tsukiji Fish Market, which offers the freshest and tastiest sushi in town. This huge market, also known as the Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market, has over 1,600 market stalls with rare and impressive fish species on display such as live lobster and crab and whole salmon. And yes Tokyo is home to the delicacy of the Fugu fish, whose consumption can be fatal unless it is specially prepared!

If you’re on a tight budget in Tokyo, a good dining option is the traditional street food vendors who cook up fresh noodles, yakitori and tasty takoyaki dough balls.

Experience a Japanese-style themepark

One of the busiest tourist attractions in Tokyo is the local Disneyland and DisneySea resort. This was the very first Disney franchise to open outside of the USA, in 1983. And with over 13 million visitors annually, it’s also the busiest themepark outside of America. It has to be experienced to be believed.

By Julie Bowman

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Top 12 FREE Things to do in New York City

by Jules on May 14, 2013

Entry fees at New York City’s top attractions can really ramp up the cost of your city break so it makes sense to look for a free activities and things to do to balance the travel budget;

Ride the Staten Island Ferry
The famous Staten Island Ferry has plied her trade since 1905, running from Battery Park in Manhattan over to Staten Island. And the commuter hop over New York Harbor is FREE running up to every thirty minutes. Over 19 million people use the ferry ever year which offers awesome views of the Statue of Liberty in one of the biggest cities in the world. For the best photos, get to the front of the queue and ride the ferry both ways. Note; the ferry over to the Statue of Liberty is chargeable although Ellis Island is currently closed until further notice after sustaining 59 million GBP worth of damage in Hurricane Sandy. Check before travelling.

Catch Shakespeare in the Park
If you’re in NYC in the summertime, try to get tickets to the FREE annual “Shakespeare in the Park” which is held at the Public Theatre.  If you’re lucky enough to bag tickets you’re in for a teal treat, as movie megastars Meryl Streep and Natalie Portman have performed here before! Prepare to queue at one of the box offices early and long. Perseverance wins!

Wander Central Park
Walk the most famous urban park in the world; Central Park. Spanning 38 acres and made famous by countless TV series and films, there’s always something going on. Created in the 1860s, this Manhattan super park has statues, mosaics and free events and festivals both day and night.

Walk the High Line
Have you heard of the High Line Park in New York? A disused elevated railway line has been turned into a 1 mile (1.6kkm) urban green space. You can walk the wildflower meadows, crisp lawns and unique monuments as daily life carries on beneath you. The walkway runs across Manhattan Lower West Side and was inspired by a similar project in Paris in 1993. The final section will be completed next year.

Hit the Beach
Yes New York has its fair share of beaches too and the Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk is a great place to hang out. Spanning some 170 acres of sand, Rockaway is popular with local families who come to fish, skate, swim, play volleyball and use the 7 playgrounds. This is also the only place to catch some surf in New York.

Admire Grand Central Terminal
You cannot fail to be wowed by the beautiful Main Concourse at the Grand Central terminal. With exquisite Beaux Arts detailing, this is one station you won’t mind be delayed at! And this year marks the 100th anniversary, so there are plenty of special themed events and festivals taking place.

Tour the City Hall
Enjoy a free tour of the City Hall which has housed the city’s government since 1812. The tours take in the highly decorative marble hall and the opulent governor’s room. You can also see the site where the coffin of former president Abraham Lincoln lay in state following his death in 1865. Located facing the Brooklyn Bridge, it is imperative to reserve a place on the tour in advance.

Hang out in Battery Park
Spanning 25 acres of lush green parkland is Battery Park which has superb waterfront views over Governors Island, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Filled with monuments, sculptures and memorials as well as careful planting, this is a more chilled alternative to Central Park.

Discover fine ecclesiastical architecture
New York City has a good assortment of gothic-style churches and cathedrals that won’t fail to impress. Check out the handsome Riverside Church on Riverside Drive that opened in 1930 and wows with its elaborate Neo-Gothic architecture. This is also the tallest church in the US at 392 feet (119 meters) tall. The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Devine was built in 1892 and sports exquisite Gothic Revival architecture. And finally there is the Roman Catholic St Patricks Cathedral on the east side of Fifth Avenue which is built in Neo-Gothic-style and is currently undergoing a comprehensive $ 175 million renovation programme.

Tour the Federal Reserve Bank of New York
Prepare to be in awe of the Federal Reserve Bank’s vault which contains 10,000 tons of gold! Security is high (as you’d expect) and you’ll need to book in advance. The museum has exhibits displaying counterfeit currency and various coins of the world.

Explore the Botanical Gardens
There are two main botanic gardens that offer free entry. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden has a large orchid garden that offers respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. And the greenhouse is free to explore all day every Tuesday and from 10-12 each Saturday morning. The Bronx Botanic Garden features 50 separate gardens and is free to enter on Wednesdays and on Saturday mornings from 10-12.

Soak up the culture at the museums
Whilst the Metropolitan Museum of Art costs 25 USD and the Guggenheim Museum costs 22 USD to enter, there are some free museums in NYC. Such as the 1970’s designed Bronx Museum of the Arts which has over 800 multicultural works on display. The museum predominantly features modern art from local, African, Asian and Latino artists. See 50,000 fashions garments on display at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Museum. And in Lower Manhattan check out the National Museum of the American Indian, which has the finest collection in the US. In fact there are over 1 million cultural items on display.

By Julie Bowman

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7 Things NOT to do in Rio de Janeiro Brazil

by Jules on May 13, 2013

Rio de Janeiro is seriously hot and sexy with tons to see and do – but make sure you follow our guide to Brazil’s etiquette and customs to stay on the right track during your travels;

Don’t overdress on the beaches – Sexy is the keyword on Rio’s beaches! Just about everybody, big and small, dresses in the teeniest bikinis and trunks on earth. Head to Rio’s Ipanema and Copacabana Beaches for that perfect all-over tan – no white bits allowed. Be prepared to don a skimpy thong and teeny bra top – this applies to men and women! And it goes without saying that you’ll need lashings of high-factor suncream as pink bits are so not fashionable! Rio is seriously sexy – this is not the destination for the easily offended.

Don’t moan about how busy it is – Let’s get one thing straight right now; Brazil and in particular Rio de Janeiro is HOT stuff right now. The country is hosting both the FIFA World Cup in summer 2014 and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2016. So it goes without saying that both Rio and Brazil is going to be busy in the build-up, during, and after these huge global events.

Don’t miss the Carnaval – If you love riotous, vibrant, colourful street parades then you MUST catch the iconic annual Rio Carnival, which is held each Easter-time (March to April). If you want to sit in your hotel room watching DVDs and ordering room-service – what on earth are you doing in the party capital of South America?

Don’t skip Cristo Redentor – There’s a reason that the Christ the Redeemer, aka Cristo Redentor, statue is the iconic symbol of Rio! Make the time to travel up the Corcovado Mountain, either by hiking or via the tram – after all it is 2,330 feet (710 meters) tall! You’ll be greeted by the largest art deco statue in the world – all 38 meters and 1145 tons of it.

Ditch the bling – Avoid making yourself a target for pickpockets and thieves. Leave your expensive jewellery, watches and designer clothing at home. The same goes for cameras, phones and tablet devices. This is not the place to be waving your shiny new iPad around!

Don’t moan about the weather – Rainy season can be pretty intense in Brazil and unless you’re from the UK (heck it rains almost 24/7 here) flash floods can catch you unawares. Typically the rainy season runs from November to march in the south and southeast and from April to July in the northeast. Rio had serious landslides this March which demolished hundreds of homes.

Don’t even think about driving in Brazil – Unless you’re a top-notch driver, navigating the highways here is not recommended. The road accident rate is high and the quality of the roads is pretty poor, especially in the more rural regions. Bus and truck drivers are a pretty determined bunch too, and won’t let a tourist car get in their way!

By Julie Bowman

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