If you’ve ever doubted whether traveling light and with a toddler is possible, let me tell you — it absolutely is! Our recent two-week adventure across Brazil (plus a few bonus stops) was proof that you don’t need a giant suitcase to create memories that last a lifetime. A carry-on was all we needed — along with a sense of adventure, a love for seafood, and a lot of curiosity.
We started our journey flying from Toronto to Orlando, catching our breath before heading to Recife, Brazil. There, we stayed in a lovely hotel overlooking the endless blue waters. Our days were slow and scenic, with strolls around Boa Viagem Square, taking in the relaxed coastal vibe.
Next, it was off to the buzzing heart of São Paulo. We wandered through an incredible open-air street gallery, where colorful, vibrant graffiti splashed the walls with life. A highlight was Mercado Municipal de São Paulo, a sprawling fruit and vegetable market. We lunched there on a massive, mouthwatering paella — and honestly, it became a running theme for the rest of our trip. Brazil’s take on paella was unforgettable, and we simply couldn’t get enough!
Rio de Janeiro dazzled us next. We played along the sands of Copacabana Beach, where the energy was infectious. Of course, we found ourselves indulging in yet another fresh, flavourful paella right by the oceanfront, our toddler happily tossing pebbles into the surf nearby.
In Brasília, the capital city, we explored the clean, modern lines of the Federal District and spent a sunny afternoon at Fonte da Torre Park, letting our little one run free among fountains and wide-open green spaces.
Then came Salvador de Bahia, a personal favorite. We stayed in a charming hotel in the historic old town, surrounded by colorful, weathered buildings and authentic street art. At Mercado Modelo, a beautiful seaside market, we browsed local crafts, soaked in the salty air, and marveled at the artistic soul of the city.
Fortaleza gave us the grand finale we didn’t know we needed. Our hotel boasted breathtaking beach views, and each evening we made our way to the famous Mercado dos Peixes Fortaleza. There, we feasted on fresh lobster, prawns, crabs, and more — whatever the fishermen had just pulled from the sea. Beira Mar de Fortaleza beach was the perfect place to digest it all, playing on the sands until sunset.
Reflections on the Trip
Before returning home, we made brief stops in French Guiana and Curaçao, adding a splash of Caribbean flavor to the end of our South American journey.
Traveling across a continent with just a carry-on and a toddler might sound daunting, but it was freeing. We moved easily between cities, focused more on the experiences than the logistics. If we needed something, we found it locally. Otherwise, we realized how little we truly needed.
Memories, not luggage, are what matter most.
So if you’ve been holding back, wondering if you can travel with less — you can! And if you’re wondering if you can do it with a toddler? You absolutely can. Just pack a little lighter, keep your heart open, and chase the next adventure.
Until the next journey!
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