A chance to live like locals in this stylish penthouse parallel to famous Posto 9, the most coveted hot spot along the beach in the heart of fashionable Ipanema. Designed to evoke the spirit of bossa nova, the two-storey apartment enjoys great views of the mountains and statue of Christ from the privacy of its top floor terrace.

When he's not photographing the Beckhams, Dean Freeman is sensitively snapping more interesing if less famous subjects in Brazil. His fabulous beach house, with its hip New York loft vibe and exclusive cliff-top location, has magical views of the Atlantic Forest, in the Bahian village of Arraial d'Ajuda.

From its vantage point in the Santa Teresa district of Rio de Janeiro, this former colonial mansion, turned intimate guest house, commands spectacular views of Guanabara Bay and Sugarloaf Mountain. At Mama Ruisa, the proprietor has skillfully blended an exotic Brazillian feel with a modern French touch.

Less motorhome, more juggernaut, the Exploranter overland hotel weaves its way through Brazil, Argentina, Chile on custom-made itineraries. With beds for up to 28 people and fully equipped with hot showers and kitchen, the Exploranter is based out of São Paulo with routes in Patagonia, Pantanal, Atacama and beyond.

This contemporary loft apartment is ideally situated in the heart of the trendy and lively neighbourhood of Ipanema, a few steps from Rio de Janeiro's best beach. The apartment commands magnificent views of Ipanema's twin peaks, Dois Irmaõs, and along with the guest annex can easily accommodate up to 6 people.