Brazil becoming more accessible on a gap year

When planning a gap year in South America, Brits will find that air travel to Brazil is becoming increasingly accessible, according to one expert.

Marco Lomanto, director of products and destinations at the Brazilian tourism board Embratur, said the number of UK travellers choosing Brazil as their gap year destination is rising all the time.

He added that while tourism hot spots remain firmly atop the agenda for Brits on a gap year in South America, there are also places slightly off the beaten track with plenty to offer gappers.

"Everyone knows about Rio de Janeiro, but we have a lot on the north-east coast of Brazil, [such as] Fortaleza, Recife and Bahia. It has beautiful beaches, cultural heritage and … the sea is always warm," Mr Lomanto explained.

Last month, Lonely Planet author Kevin Raub urged UK travellers to ensure they visit the vibrant Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro on their gap year in South America. He said the lively metropolis has "something for everyone".

See the different gap year destinations on offer