Want to make sure you get what you wish for in 2012? Look no further than our handy underwear guide – yes really! In Brazil your choice of pants on New Year's Eve can take on an unexpectedly momentous significance, since the colour is said to determine your fate in the coming year. The cash-strapped should choose yellow to bring wealth and prosperity, those unlucky in love plump for pink, and anyone already satisfied with their lot can simply wear plain white pants for a year of harmony and...

We hear a nativity scene in central Caracas has caused a stir with its unorthodox line-up of stable visitors.

Alongside the three wise men, shepherds and camels proudly stands Hugo Chávez, the country's radical socialist president. And eschewing gold, frankincense and myrrh, it seems his gift to the baby Jesus is... a cable car and some clinics for deprived areas – these and other scenes have been painstakingly recreated in miniature to represent the government's infrastructure projects...

Having just returned from Lima in business class on Iberia, I would really recommend their 'Business Plus' service.

From the moment I arrived at Heathrow I was looked after by Iberia, nothing was too much trouble for them and the whole travel experience was seamless and very enjoyable. I could list all the benefits that Iberia offers its customers travelling in business but here are the ones that stood out for me...

With just twelve days to go before Christmas, we get into the spirit of things with our take on the traditional twelve days of Christmas... 

TWELVE DRUMMERS DRUMMING       
 
An infectious drumbeat provides the soundtrack to city life in Salvador, Brazil. Salvador comes alive during a vibrant street party in the historic square of the Pelourinho ("whipping post") almost every night of the week, reaching a crescendo on Tuesdays, while regular performances by acclaimed drumming troupe Olodum are another great opportunity to experience the powerful African beat of Salvador's drums....