Christ the Redeemer, holding his arms out to the people of Rio de Janeiro, is one of South America’s most iconic images. Christ looks down on world-famous beaches, vibrant communities and a passionate city whose heart beats that little bit faster when the carnival comes to town.
Rio de Janeiro is a captivating city of contrasts. Glitzy malls back on to run-down neighbourhoods, and the Cariocas (as residents of Rio are known), live passionately amid the tourists that flock to their vibrant pocket of this continent to marvel and enjoy all that it has to offer.
The samba beat is relentless in this city that really does come alive on weekends. There are always a couple of notable street parties with local food vendors, cocktail makers and general hedonism abounding.
Combining a stay in Rio with a trip to the Amazon, Iguacu Falls and, ideally, the beaches of Trancoso would make for an unbeatable Brazil Family Holiday or South America Honeymoon, depending on the hotels you choose.
You cannot mention Rio without talking about its love affair with football. Locals play the game everywhere, and joining in for a kick about on one of Rios beaches is a sure way to work up a sweat, (and possibly be humiliated!).
Football is not the only sport here; you will also find an abundance of volleyball, surfing and - the popular favourite on the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema - sunbathing.
Rio has beautiful beaches, a beautiful setting and friendly locals. All of these add to the beat of this buzzing city.
We recommend staying in one of the hotels overlooking the smarter, more boutiquey beach of Ipanema or the buzzing, non-stop action of the Copacabana; both are great spots to base yourself as you can enjoy the beaches and the café scene in the area, and with easy access to the main sites of interest.
The samba beat is relentless in this city that really does come alive on weekends. There are always a couple of notable street parties with local food vendors, cocktail makers and general hedonism abounding.
Combining a stay in Rio with a trip to the Amazon, Iguacu Falls and, ideally, the beaches of Trancoso would make for an unbeatable Brazil Family Holiday or South America Honeymoon, depending on the hotels you choose.
What to do in Rio
You cannot mention Rio without talking about its love affair with football. Locals play the game everywhere, and joining in for a kick about on one of Rios beaches is a sure way to work up a sweat, (and possibly be humiliated!).
Football is not the only sport here; you will also find an abundance of volleyball, surfing and - the popular favourite on the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema - sunbathing.
Our opinion
Rio has beautiful beaches, a beautiful setting and friendly locals. All of these add to the beat of this buzzing city.
Where to stay
We recommend staying in one of the hotels overlooking the smarter, more boutiquey beach of Ipanema or the buzzing, non-stop action of the Copacabana; both are great spots to base yourself as you can enjoy the beaches and the café scene in the area, and with easy access to the main sites of interest.
