Deserted beaches that go on forever, sensuously clad men and women, fabulous shopping -- those are just a few of the sights and adventures that make Bahia, Brazil the latest romantic destination.

Bahia, in the northeast region of Brazil, is home to some of the world's best beaches. The quartz sand is as white as sugar and the jungle backdrop is so perfect you'll think it's a movie set.

Catch a flight into Sau Paulo, the largest city in the world, and then hop a smaller plane to Salvador and Bahia. After landing, take a bus to Costa do Sauipe, a luxurious complex in the middle of the jungle. Breezes, an all-inclusive resort, is one of a handful of vacation spots there in Costa do Sauipe. At Breezes the rooms are spacious and the balconies overlook that magnificent jungle and those pristine beaches.

Drop everything when you arrive and search for a Caipirinha, the local drink made with sugarcane liquor and a few other ingredients. During my search for this lime-flavored intoxicant, I took a shortcut by the pool and saw that everyone wore Brazilian bikinis -- even the men. Some may end up lingering by pool longer than expected.

The complex is massive and holds an equestrian center, a Marriott, Renaissance, and two Sofitel hotels. There are also six-pousadas, or inns similar to Bed and Breakfasts. Breezes also offers, a village shopping center, a golf course, and my favorite, a spa. The Costa do Sauipe's tennis center is host to the Brazil Open every year.

Now, what's a Romantic getaway with out a massage? At Breezes there is a secluded pavilion, right at the edge of the jungle, dedicated just to outdoor massages. The cost is 90 reais or $27 American for a one-and one-half-hour massage. I immediately exchanged my American money for 836 reais. After relaxing at the spa, I took a walk to Villa Nova da Praia, the shopping village. This is a great place to buy woven baskets, rugs, hand-rolled Cuban cigars, and chocolates. It is also a nice place for a romantic after dinner walk.

Couples looking for soft adventure can arrange surfing lessons or other water sports. If the water proves to be too rough opt for an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) ride in the rainforest with Bahia Ecotourism Adventures.

The last night before departure, do a little dancing and walking on the smooth virgin beach. Drink some Caipirinhas and dance the night away. You'll sleep the entire flight home.

Here's the 411 on Costa do Sauipe:

Go on a diet before you leave. I bought a Brazilian bikini, but the sizes run much smaller than in the United States. I couldn't even get the bottoms over my thighs.

Make sure you have a passport with at least six month left before expiration. You will also need a VISA from the Brazilian Consulate.

Exchange your American money for Brazilian Reais in the Sau Paulo airport. If you exchange more than $250, there is no service charge and the rate is far better than the tourist areas.

Take advantage of the all-inclusive vacation at Breezes, food, alcohol - all you can drink - and non-motorized water sports that include surf lessons. The exchange rate is so good the Marriott Spa Costa do Sauipe offers a five-day spa package for about $328 American dollars. Roundtrip shuttle service from Sauipe to Salvador for shopping is less than $3.

Buy the Multilingual Phrase Book from Portside Languages. It has a section on Portuguese that will communicating with shopowners and the locals