Its indigenous peoples, African influences, and colonial history give Brazil a unique cultural flare. The subtle flavors of Bahia and the robust pleasures of barbecue; the gritty favelas of Rio and the sandy beaches of Copacabana; samba music and Carnival celebrations-these sites, sounds, and traditions are all celebrated in this volume on Brazil's customs and culture. Covering history and religion; family and friends; food and drink; school and work;...

Germany is a country of contrastsrolling hills and university towns next to big cities and the autobahn. Although once split between east and west, Germany is now a united economic force and a cultural magnet for young and old alike. Oktoberfest and bratwurst; Mercedes-Benz and BMW; Bach, Beethoven, and the night life of Berlinthese highlights and more are celebrated in this volume on Germanys customs and culture.

Russia occupies a grand place on the world's stage. Its sprawling landscape encompasses flat, grassy steppes and soaring mountains, as well as a wide array of ethnic groups and religious traditions. Hockey, bandy, and the Bolshoi Ballet; the sweeping novels of Tolstoy; the hearty richness of borscht; the springtime holiday of Maslenitsa-all these and more are celebrated in this volume on Russia's customs and culture. Covering history and religion;...

Long hailed-across history and around the world-as a cultural mecca, France truly earns that title. Its graceful cities with cafés, grand boulevards, and stylish shops; its cathedral towns and medieval fortresses; its high cuisine and artisanal traditions; its passionate and cosmopolitan people-these highlights and more are explored in this volume on France's customs and culture. Covering history and religion; family and friends; food and drink;...

Mexico's culture blends indigenous and European traditions-with its deep history still seen in ancient monuments. The country's natural beauty is matched by a vibrant culture, known the world over. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera; the Day of the Dead and Cinco de Mayo; Mexican rodeo and mariachi bands-the flavors, sites, and sounds of Mexico are all explored in this volume on the country's customs and culture. Covering history and religion; family and...