Drive from Sao Paulo to Rio

Q: We are considering driving from Sao Paulo to Rio to see some of the countryside. Should we be doing this, how long would it take and should we overnight en route? - Lionel Chang A: Getting in and out of these huge cities can take time and test a driver's patience, but this is still a drive worth considering. Rent a car with a GPS navigation device and you should not have a problem. The route runs along the Costa Verde, a stretch of coast with mountains, rain forests, lagoons and islands. The distance is around 400kms, which means you can do it in a day. However, as you are on holiday, it makes more sense to break your journey and and enjoy some of the scenery. A perfect stopover is the charming colonial town of Paraty, which is sandwiched between secluded beaches and steep mountains. You may strike it lucky and visit when they are holding one of their colourful local festivals. An alternative is to visit the Ilha Grande, an island just off the coast of Angra Dos Reis. It is the type of place that will make you want to stay a day or two. Driving yourself gives you flexibility to decide as your journey progresses. However, a Brazilian friend said you should consider going by bus. He said you would see just as much of the scenery, but would not have the hassle of city driving. Going by bus means you could still stop over in Paraty for a night. Car or bus - the decision is yours.