Watch for another word, which is hardly new, to gain traction during 2012. If that Mayan prediction that the world will end, or almost end, this word will surge in use and popularity at the perfect time. And mercifully, it will not be “Occupy.”

Mauricio Tiomno Tolmasquim explains how Brazil’s wind power industry has emerged as a global leader for its significant contributions in improving energy and economic efficiency.

Morro de São Paulo offers visitors to Brazil’s Bahia plenty of quiet and little transport options other than wheelbarrows and an occasional tractor.

While Brasília is his best known work, other buildings Oscar Niemeyer has designed stand tall around the world. Happy 104th birthday to a global treasure!

Less than a three hour bus ride from Rio de Janeiro is Armação dos Búzios, or just better known as Búzios, a delightful corner of Brazil.

With Brazilians’ love of the water and sports including swimming come the need for rigorous lifeguard training. And that training offers amusing and seductive scenery.

Jorge Selarón is a Chilean artist who has lived near downtown Rio for years. Between the neighborhoods of Santa Teresa and Lapa, over 250 steps that were once unkempt and dilapidated became his life work.

Rio de Janeiro’s sidewalks of mosaic pavement make travel to this corner of Brazil a more intimate experience. Feel chic as you walk along these masterpieces of Portuguese pavement.