Page 29 - Flipbook

SAY HELLO TO RIO
Whether you land in Rio de Janiero to sunbathe on the infamous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, or to experience the crazy Rio Carnival, you can’t possibly fail to have a great time in Brazil’s most vibrant city. Don’t be afraid to go off the tourist trail, but there are a couple of must-sees you simply can’t miss.
Unveiled in 1931, Cristo Redentor (or Christ the Redeemer) was erected as a symbol of the city and is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Take
a train or car (the train is cheaper, but it doesn’t run all day) and it’s easy to spend
a few hours in His Holy Shadow as you sip an acai berry smoothie from one of the drink kiosks and marvel at the city below.
But for the best views of Rio de Janeiro, you simply must visit Sugarloaf Mountain – an impossibly striking natural landmark requiring two cable cars to reach. It will by far be the best rock you’ve ever climbed, but don’t forget the sunscreen. The South American sun is a sizzler, especially when you’re standing up high.
Back down at sea level, you’ll be hard- pressed not to get several sightings of bare bums on Copacabana and Leme Beach, which runs alongside sparkling blue sea. For the best place to people-watch in Rio you can’t miss it. You’ll be lining up with bronzed locals for your caipirinhas (a local cocktail) at a series of kiosks and renting an umbrella from a vendor on his carefully
staked piece of land as curious favela kids giggle at your accent and show off their soccer skills. Let the ogling commence.
SAMPLE THE
NATIONAL PASTIMES
If there’s two things you must do while in Brazil, it’s to experience the country’s two greatest passions – football and samba. As Rio gears up for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, things have changed slightly at Maracanã Stadium but taking in a soccer game is an option no sports fan can refuse. Matches are loud, raucous, exciting and feature terrible food, but enjoy it while it lasts and listen to those samba drums pound. Oh, and watch out for smoke bombs – it’s all just part of the fun.
ENDLESS VACATION 27