Beautiful Brazil & Rio Rocks (Sights & Attractions in Rio de Janeiro)

Member Name: icetsunami

Product:	Sights & Attractions in Rio de Janeiro
Date:	29/05/09 (18 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Stunning, friendly people and Corcovado Mountain gives sublime views.

Disadvantages: Some may be put off by the terrible poverty and reputation for crime.

First things first, Zmugzy's review is excellent, thorough and accurate. Rio is an almost mystical place that really needs to be experienced. No amount of preparation can set you up for how impressive it truly is. It is also a good example of an exotic destination where you can see wealth and absolute poverty hand in hand. Ironically the precariously balanced slums on the steep hillsides have the kind of view that only big money would normally buy.

When it comes to getting around it is usually suggested you go on escorted tours or with an experienced guide. This is a matter of personal choice but to be honest we as a family just wondered about and used local taxis. The people are really friendly and if you are discreet with your valuables there is no reason why you should be unduly worried. It is a case of the usual travellers precautions, I'd be more worried on a busy med plaza personally.

Language barriers may present a problem for some as Portugeuse is the most widely spoken. Fortunately Spanish is also widely spoken which redues limitations significantly. Many of the more contemporary shopping areas have staff who are multi-linguists.

My favourite place is the awesome Corcovado Mountain topped by the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue which is frankly stunning. It is joined by cable cars to Sugarloaf Mountain which offer lovely views of the bay and the airport which is practically on the edge of the ocean. Copacabana beach is what it is, a beach. Kick a ball around on it just to say you have done it!

Speaking of football, a good place to visit is the Maracana stadium, it's a ledgenday stadium and has also hosted some big name music acts too. The botanical gardens are worth a visit too and at 340 acres they provide a substantial area to explore. Take note that this area can be considerably cooler and as such a mid afternoon visit would be ideal.

It would be possible to go on for pages and pages about the food and local culture but as said it is best to get there and experience it. Take what you can from it while you are there. I travelled north up the coast and had a fab time. Particularly enjoyed browsing the local handicrafts and the Capoeira demonstrations.

To summarise it is fair to say that Brazil is probably one of the best holiday destinations in the world. And that is a big statement to make.

Summary: Amazing and inspiring. Experience it with your eyes and you heart.