Stories from the Islands

Travel stories, practical guides, and food adventures from 20+ trips across the Brazilan archipelago.

These are our stories to you — from the places we've been, the food we've eaten, and the people who've shaped every trip. We'll keep them fresh, like the mangoes in the Brazil.

culture

Salvador & Bahia: Afro-Brazilian Culture, Beaches & the Real Northeast

Why Salvador and the Bahia coast belong on every Brazil itinerary — the historic Pelourinho, Candomblé culture, Carnival traditions, and beaches that most international travelers skip entirely.

Scott Jun 3, 2026 8 min read
wildlife

The Pantanal vs the Amazon: Where to Actually See Brazil's Wildlife

An honest comparison of Brazil's two great wildlife destinations — the Pantanal and the Amazon — so you can choose where to go, or how to combine both.

Scott May 12, 2026 8 min read
nature

Iguaçu Falls: Brazil Side vs Argentina Side and How to Do Both

A practical comparison of the Brazil and Argentina sides of Iguaçu Falls — what you see from each, how to cross the border, and how to plan a visit that covers both.

Scott Apr 8, 2026 7 min read
festival

Brazil Carnival 2027: How to Book, Costs, and What to Expect

Everything you need to know about experiencing Brazil Carnival 2027 — Rio vs Salvador, costs, when to book, Sambadrome tickets, blocos, and how to survive the week.

Scott Mar 5, 2026 11 min read
practical

Rio de Janeiro Safety Guide: What You Actually Need to Know

A realistic, practical safety guide for Rio de Janeiro — what the risks actually are, how to minimize them, and why millions of visitors have a great time every year.

Scott Mar 1, 2026 9 min read
destination

Amazon Jungle Lodge Guide: How to Pick the Right Experience from Manaus

How to choose an Amazon jungle lodge from Manaus, what to expect, costs, wildlife, and the honest differences between budget and premium experiences.

Scott Feb 20, 2026 8 min read
practical

Brazil First-Timer Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

A comprehensive first-timer's guide to Brazil — visas, costs, safety, regions, language, transport, and how to make the most of the world's fifth-largest country.

Scott Feb 15, 2026 12 min read
destination

Brazil's Best Beaches: A Region-by-Region Guide

Brazil has over 7,000 km of coastline. Here is how to find the right beach for you — from Fernando de Noronha to Florianópolis, Jericoacoara to Ipanema.

Scott Feb 10, 2026 10 min read