Brazil in shoulder season — best decision I made

Visited Brazil in shoulder season deliberately and the decision paid off completely. Lençóis Maranhenses without peak crowds is a totally different experience. Manaus felt lived-in rather than touristy. Found a small place doing the best churrasco I've ever tasted — something that would have been invisible in high season when everything fills with visitors.

electric carnival culture was particularly magical with fewer people around. The weather was fine. The prices were better. If you have flexibility, avoid peak season.