Rio De Janeiro is a truly beautiful and unique city. It is a
cultural centre for Brazil and South America and plays host to the world famous
Rio Carnaval. From a tourist’s point of view, the Zona Sul is the most
important.
The Beaches
This part of the city revolves around three famous beaches;
Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon. Each of these beaches are surrounded by
fashionable and usually expensive districts. The beaches are a centre focus for
socialising and entertainment, during any major event in the city. For a
visitor to Brazil, these beaches can be a great place to people watch and take
in ‘Carioca’ life.
Christ the
Redeemer
However, there are many more great sites that are world
renowned. One such site is statue of Christ the Redeemer which sits on top of
one of the numerous steep hills that surround the coastal parts of the city.
From this statue, the views are spectacular, with a panoramic view of the cities
primary beaches.
Other sites
of interest
Sugar Loaf Mountain with its impressive cable car are a must
for any tourist. Again the views are spectacular from this beautiful location.
Maracana stadium is also a very popular place to visit in the northern part of
Rio De Janeiro.
Favelas and Social
Issues
Brazil and Rio are famous for a high crime rate and social
inequality. You will notice in parts of Rio, many million dollar apartments,
which are overlooked by favelas (slums) on the hillside. Many famous Brazilian
moves like City of God and Elite Squad have illustrated this issue. However,
Brazil has witnessed a period of extended economic growth. This has led to an
improvement in the living standards of many people. Furthermore, with the onset
of the Olympics and World Cup in Rio De Janeiro, the authorities are actively improving
these issues in Brazil.
Day Trips
Rio is surrounded by small and beautiful beaches and
islands. These towns are definitely worth a visit. We will focus on the
beautiful island of Ilha Grande, which is a piece of nature close to a large
city. There are no roads or cars on the island and some beautiful scenes to
witness.
Paraty is a nearby town on the mainland, with stylish
Portuguese colonial architecture. Paraty is like a little Venice, as the
central streets flood during the high tide and drain on low tide. The town is
popular with foreigners and Brazilians. There are great restaurants and bars in
the town and it even has a colourful and loud carnaval. The harbour is full of
boats which can take you on memorable boat trips in the crystal clear inlets
between the mainland and the numerous islands. There is also usually great fish
barbeques available on board.
Image courtesy of wikipedia and Author Fontela01
