This week I am sure that wherever you are in the world, you will know that it was carnival in Brazil. Maria and I stayed in São Paulo, which after the exodus of millions to the beach or retreats in the country, becomes a wonderful city to explore, empty of the incessant traffic, but full of relaxed Paulistas, some taking time to enjoy the insane number of cultural and culinary delights, and many others of course joining in the festival of dance and music.

The carnival of São Paulo often remains out of the international spotlight, slightly overshadowed by the monumental celebrations of Rio de Janeiro and in the north of Brazil. It’s funny as many Brazilians complain about stereotypes that foreigners have of Brazil, the two main ones being samba and football, and in this world cup year there was the double whammy of football featuring  in many…