Gay and lesbian travellers

Brazil is a good country for gay and lesbian travellers as attitudes are fairly liberal, especially in the big cities. Opinions in the interior and rural areas are far more conservative and it is wise to adapt to this. There is a well-developed scene in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo while Salvador is also a popular destination. Local information can be obtained from the Rio Gay Guide, www.riogayguide.com, and in Salvador from the Centro Cultura, R do Sodre 45, close to the Museu de Arte Sacra da Bahia, which publishes a guide to the gay scene in the city for US$5.

São Paulo's Pride march (usually in May) is one of the biggest in the world, with more than 2 million people and there are many supporting cultural and musical events and parties. The Rio de Janeiro Pride march (usually Jun) takes place on Copacabana and is the centrepiece of an annual event that includes numerous activities, especially around Carnaval. Other festivals include the nationwide Mix Brasil festival of Sexual diversity, www.mixbrasil.uol.com.br.