As we shiver in the northern hemisphere, our neighbors south of the equator in the southern hemisphere are enjoying a beautiful summer. While many retreat to Florida, The Caribbean and Latin America, may we suggest you consider Trancoso, Bahia, Brazil, a historic beach village in this most beautiful country. It was the landing point of the Portuguese explorer, Pedro Alvares Cabral in Brazil, on April 21, 1500) in this most beautiful country. Located on Brazil’s northeast coast fronting the southern Atlantic Ocean, Novo Casa is a beach home which will impress and exceed all expectations. The home, designed by Robert and Cortney Novogratz of Sixx Design is the quintessential southern hemisphere beach house, literally blending the interiors and exteriors to provide guests with a true year-round escape.

Upon arriving at the airport, Novo Casa’s guests will be greeted by the concierge and driver (one of three full-time time Portuguese and English speaking staff). Novo Casa is situated on a hill overlooking the waves of the Southern Atlantic Ocean, and is just a short walk (approximately .25 km) from the beach

The spacious wooden house is open and breezy, with four private suites that are connected to the main living area by the shared deck that leads to the pool, the outdoor bar and the outdoor pool table. Novo Casa comfortably sleeps up to 12 people and features amenities such as flat-screen TV, DVD player, high speed wireless internet, music, books and games, a private infinity pool overlooking the ocean, both an indoor and outdoor bar, a pool- table, 2 sets of golf clubs, and air conditioning.

We suggest starting your morning off with a cup of world-renowned Brazilian coffee on the deck overlooking the infinity pool and the Atlantic Ocean. then head down the dirt path and over the foot bridge to the beach. Once on the beach, you have the option of lounging on a secluded beach or strolling farther down the beach to sip caipraihanas and dine at nearby Estrella de Agua Inn.

Golfers will enjoy playing Terra Vista, the most enchanting and challenging golf course in South America, which overlooks the colorful cliffs of Trancoso. In the afternoon head into town (Trancoso is the perfect mix of hippy chic and cosmopolitan beach town) to the Quadrado (town square) which is surrounded by great restaurants, perfect for dinner, antique shops and for the history buffs, the second oldest church in Brazil. Of course, many guests stay at the home and have meals prepared by the staff, If you’d rather you can stay at home and have fresh meals prepared to your liking by the staff at Novo Casa.

Many travel planners have commented this decade will be the decade of South America. Located in northeastern Brazil, Trancoso is best accessed by air into Porto Seguro (Airport Code = BPS). Regional service is available from Belo Horizonte, Sao Paulo and Salvador (Brazil) Airports.