Deep down in the blue ocean, a shadowy flap of wings makes an appearance. Time seems to stop as the silhouette inches closer. Slowly, the wings turn into flippers and the shadow becomes a solid shell with intricate patterns as if expertly placed, brushstroke by brushstroke, by a master painter. …

Every year in late February people from all across the world flood the streets of Rio de Janeiro to be at the epicentre of what may well be the greatest party known to humankind. Intoxicating samba rhythms everywhere – check. Funky outfits – check. Ice cold caipirinhas in the scorching …

High above in the cloudless sky, I wake up from my overnight slumber to an unexpected spectacle. The sun, ever the artist, is painting the horizon in 100 shades of orange. Maybe it’s his way of greeting the new day and, at the same time, my new adventure. Down below, …