As a Coastal City in the State of Rio de Janeiro , Paraty (in Portuguese, instead of an "y" it is spelled with an "i"), is popular because of its beauty associated with its mountains and Ocean. But that's not all it is famous for. Paraty has a rich history, including its use as a port for the gold that came from Minas Gerais ( State in Brazil ), in the early to mid 1700's. In the early 1800's, the gold was running out and an upgraded rail road system made other routes to more preferable port cities. These events basically took Paraty off the map for a good 150 years.

In the 1970's a paved road was built from Rio de Janeiro to Santos , ( City in Sao Paulo ), which began a flurry of new activity around and in Paraty. Since then the city has grown from what was primarily a fishing and agricultural area to a major tourism force. However it is important to point out that while many people visit Paraty, it has preserved much of its historical appearance. Much of its architecture dates back 250 years ago; it has cobble stone streets, an old colonial ? style fort, historical churches, old colonial houses ( which in many cases have been converted to quaint little shops and restaurants). Paraty is also well renowned for its avid participation in most Brazilian holidays and Festivals. Perhaps the most famous of which is the Literary Festival.

If you like tropical Islands and beautiful Brazilian Beach scenes, you're in luck-- the mountains just beside Paraty is the place you're looking for. It has about 65 Islands just waiting for you to experience; you'll have to come back for a long second visit to even come close to seeing all the beaches and Islands Paraty offers. Experience Luxury tours and stay in a high class hotel if you like. Paraty would be a great place for a Romantic Honeymoon in Brazil- either a first or second (or even a third). Paraty certainly has Luxury Hotels that have comfort with a capital ?C?. With all these beaches, Festivals, history, and legends of gold and precious gems, the questions is not why Paraty? It is why not Paraty?