Moonraker, the famous James Bond movie starring Roger Moore, was released in 1979 and became hugely popular. This movie took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The movie features Sugarloaf Mountain and the Amazon river.

It's no surprise that James Bond would visit Brazil - he always goes to the most exotic and beautiful locations he can find. Bond's nemesis, Drax, is first found in the lovely city of Venice, but as Bond closes in Drax decides to relocate to Rio de Janeiro. Bond quickly follows.

There's a famous cable car scene involving the terrifying metal-mouthed Jaws on Sugarloaf Mountain. Then Bond realizes that he is chasing down a rare orchid and it's off to the Amazon river. You get to see the beautiful Iguacu Falls! This is almost like a travel documentary of some sights to see when you visit Brazil.

Unfortunately that's it for Brazil locations, as Bond and his entourage head up into space. Still, that was quite a lot to enjoy!

The Iguacu Falls lie on the border between Argentina and Brazil and are truly a sight to behold. They are made up of many cascades, some falling between vibrant green faces. They are enormous, and platforms are set up to allow viewing of the various areas.

The Sugarloaf cable car system was built in 1912 and it currently works in two parts. One car takes you part way up the mountain, while a second line brings you up the rest of the way.

Interestingly, I can find very little information on Emily Bolton, the actress who played "Manuela" - the Brazilian contact in this story. Usually you can find at least a little information about an actress, but here I can't seem to find her birth date or background or anything. It seems as if she is NOT Brazilian which is a shame. It would have been nice to add that authentic touch to a Bond movie which is helping to promote learning more about the Brazilian culture!

At least Brazil *is* well known for its orchids and its lush jungles.

If you're able to visit Brazil, be sure to check out the cable cars and waterfalls - both are lovely!