Change of tune: Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
Rio's Ipanema is already well-known for a song and a beach - so discover its shopping
Beaches. Bossa Nova. Football. Food. Sun. Samba. Rio de Janeiro has long been known for the aforementioned, but thanks to its booming economy, the Cidade Maravilhosa (marvellous city) can add "sensational shopping" to its long list of attractions.
And what do cashed-up, image-conscious Cariocas (Rio residents) want to splash their reais on? Clothes, of course - for as Bruna, a taut, tanned public relations professional, informs me: "Image is everything right now in Rio."
Consequently, stores have sprung up across the samba state, but the best are found in upscale Ipanema.
Immortalised in song, Ipanema is famous for its sugar-sand beach, but good retail therapy is another draw. Carrie Bradshaw and the girls would feel at home here.
You'll find leading luxury brands, including Burberry and Louis Vuitton, along tree-lined streets, such as Rua Garcia D'Ávila. This is the thoroughfare favoured by the cast of Mulheres Ricas (Rich Women), a popular reality TV show revolving around the lives of wealthy Rio women.