Brazil is such a large country that it is administrated as five separate regions, each containing states with cities, towns and villages of their own. While some regions may not be well known outside of the country, the Southeast region of Brazil is probably the most famous. It is home to the country’s strongest economic activity, but also to its most well recognized cities – Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

 

In fact, the entire region contains only four states but also holds a major portion of the entire population. Both Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo are states that contain the capital cities of the same name, and while Rio de Janeiro sees many more tourists than Sao Paulo, it is the lesser visited city that contains eleven million full time residents and approximately twenty million if the population of the outskirts of the city are added to the count.

 

Apart from the two world famous cities the region also contains some of the country’s most historical sites and towns. In fact the area is home to the Royal Road

which cuts through several states as it makes its way to the sea. The Royal Road is one of the oldest existing roads throughout the Americas and it was used during the early days of gold and diamond mining, and served as one of the only connections between the countries first towns and cities. This means that it has existed since the 1500s, and serves as a time capsule for many different eras. Many visitors come just to walk or hike the old paths and routes, and some will follow a specific “theme” during their adventure, taking, for example the “Diamond Route” to Mariana. The cultural and social influences that were delivered along the Royal Road can still be seen today in the local architecture, activities and foods.

 

For those looking for a brief history of the nation, the Southeast region is probably the best place to visit. While it is home to some of the most modern facilities and cosmopolitan atmospheres, it is also home to some of the most historic locations and sites. From the history of industry in Brazil to the introduction of world cultures, the region has much to offer.

 

For visitors looking to travel to the Southeast region of the country, great savings are made available to those who select from their wide variety of combination packages and travel options.