With winter coming right up, now is the time to start thinking ahead (and in many ways, it’s already last minute!) about that beach escape in order to anticipate the cold blues of January and February. But if you’re not sure exactly where to even start considering visiting down south, these 4 destinations should help inspire you to start planning your perfect South American holiday.

Costa Rica – The good thing about trips to Costa Rica is that the country can be economically reached by most of the major cities in the USA. The best thing about Costa Rica, however, is the beaches. The country is surrounded on both sides by two of the most impressive bodies of water in the world: the Pacific Ocean in the west, and the Caribbean Sea in the east. That makes the western coast a great spot for taking advantage of the Pacific’s dramatic surfing waves, and the east for more rest and relaxation.

Brazil – If there is one country known in South America for its beaches, it is Brazil. From the shores of Buzios to the lusty atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro with its infamous Copacabana and Ipanema sands, there is no better place to experience sand and sun than in Brazil. Go in the beginning of February in particular to experience the world-renowned Carnival celebrations that bring color and music to the city unlike during any other time of the year. Read the rest of this entry »