Belo Horizonte (or simply "BH" (beh-ah-GAH) to locals) is little over a century old. With a metropolitan population reaching more than 5 million (edging out Salvador), it was built as a planned city to take the place of Ouro Preto as the State's capital. Its layout features square sections drawn out by broad avenues, intersected diagonally by smaller streets.

The city lies in the center of the Minas Gerais state, and is intended to bring together the many parts of this very diverse state. To truly understand Belo Horizonte, you must embrace the rich tapestry of Brazilian culture, cuisine, and history that this vibrant city has to offer. The capital of the state of Minas Gerais, "Beagá," as it's affectionately known, is a city that beautifully merges tradition with modernity.

Belo Horizonte is celebrated for its culinary delights, with a strong emphasis on local dishes such as pão de queijo (cheese bread) and feijão tropeiro (a traditional bean dish). Exploring the local markets, like the Central Market (Mercado Central), is a sensory adventure, where you can savor the flavors of Minas Gerais.

The city also boasts a thriving arts and music scene, with various cultural festivals and events that showcase Brazil's artistic diversity. And don't miss the Pampulha Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which houses masterpieces of architecture designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

But what truly sets Belo Horizonte apart is its warm and welcoming people, who are always eager to share their stories and traditions. By immersing yourself in the local culture and embracing the open-hearted spirit of its residents, you'll gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating city and its place in the heart of Brazil.