Rio is also known as 'Wonderful City' or Cidade Maravilhosa. According to Brazilians, God made the world in six days and the seventh day he devoted to make Rio.
Rio is often mistaken as the capital of Brazil, but Sao Paolo is the capital of Brazil.
Rio is famous for its stunning beaches, gorgeous mountains and its mesmerizing culture. Main attractions to visit are Copacabana beach where the Biggest New years eve party in the world takes place, Ipanema beach, Sugar Loaf Mountain also known as Pao de Acucar - to go view the entire city plus the beautiful beaches, the Atlantic ocean, and the breathtaking sunsets from up there at 1295 ft you will have to catch a two-stage cable car with a length of 4625 ft , and Peak of Corcovado for viewing the Majestic 'Christ the Redeemer's' statue rising at more then 100 ft from a 20 ft Pedestal, to go view it you have to ride on 1885 rack-and-pinion train, or via a winding road by car.
Rio is one the worlds most dynamic city, bursting with character, culture, charisma, color and charm. Rio is mainly known for its Carnival which is the most advertised party in the world which goes on for nearly two weeks, when the city is taken over by the Samba dancers with lovely feathered costumes and parades - with thousands of people at each and every corner of the city dancing at the exotic beats, drinking, eating and having a non-stop party with their loved ones. We in particular did not get a chance to be a part of this enchanting festival but may be some day we will...
The second most advertised party in the world also takes place in Rio - which is the 'Reveillon Party'
- The New Years Eve Party - where almost 2 million people gather at the Copacabana beach which is around 4 km long, wearing white (as white is the theme) - The party starts a day in advance, as people camp out at the Beach for more then 24 hours for the party. There is a live band each year playing the best music to beat on with DJ's like David Guetta @ 2012 Reveillon or Singers like Leozinho @ 2013 Reveillon. The most mesmerizing event of the night is the grand fireworks when the clock struck 12... it was a truly unforgettable event for us.
Rio is divided into four regions:
Zona Sul - the south zone including Copacabana and Ipanema, this location consist of many great restaurants and Bars.
Centro - including Santa Teresa, Spanish steps, the financial centre of the city with many historical buildings.
Zona Norte - the north zone, where Maracana Stadium resides.
West Zone - with the Barra da Tijuca, popular for its beaches.
Party Guide for RIO:
LAPA area - for Friday night clubbing, street parties or food - clubs like Rio Scenarium, Teatro Odisseia and Lapa 40 Graus, are worth a visit. Street Parties and food at Rua do Mercado ( this is eventful street throughout the week)
Botafago area - for sunday clubbing at Casa de Matriz.
Ipanema - throughout the week for great food and lively bars - like Devassa, Rota 66 (Mexican food, and awesome Margaritas)
Leblon - Nice restaurants and Bars - Like Mekong serving Indian, Thai & Vietnamese food with nice Caprioska Cocktails and a nice club in this area you must visit is Botequim Informal.
Helpful tips:
Apply lots of sunscreen to avoid skin damage.
Be ready to wait in lines for anything and everything - Brazilians just LOVE LINES!
Cabs and Local buses are the most easy way to travel from one place to the other.
Best time to visit ideally is Spring and Autumn.
Fly to Tom Jobim or Galeao International Airport to Reach Rio de Janeiro.
There is a Government shuttle bus service from both the airports to all major areas in Rio for a very low cost.
If you are vegetarian there are many Subways where you can easily find pure vegetarian food easily other then this you will find something vegetarian to eat everywhere else too.
