I based in Brazil, Sao Paulo, but I come very often to the states, and I travel all over the world.
We've got clouds and rain, just like in Seattle .. but Sao Paulo is better.
I discovered that close to half the planet is 'pristine.' We live in towns such as London, Paris or Sao Paulo and have the impression that all the pristine areas are gone, but they are not.
Brazil has its own fashion identity. Many very talented Brazilian designers show every season at Sao Paulo and Rio fashion weeks.