Ah Rio…(de Janeiro)…but you knew that…not for nothing is it nicknamed Cidade Maravilhosa…the marvelous city. When Napoleon invaded Portugal, the reigning king packed up his court and moved it all here…making Rio the capital of one of Europe’s largest Kingdoms…they had a lot of overseas territory. King Joao VI wasted no time investing in his new home…the grand palaces & churches he built can still be visited today. He also brought his books …the National Library is the 8th largest in the world. On the negative side, he established the world’s largest slave port. Rio still does things big…biggest canivale, biggest art deco sculpture, biggest urban forest, biggest football (soccer if you are in North America) match and the cental clock is bigger than London’s Ben.. Not surprisingly there is a lot to keep a visitor busy. A few ideas:
Get close to Christ the Redeemer’s statue… Like New York’s liberty, he also came from France in pieces…50 for the head alone. Inaugurated in 1931 as tribute to the city’s 100th anniversary it has become it’s most recognized symbol. And a one of the 7 Wonders of the New World. Take the train to the top…yes its touristy and crowded…but it’s a piece of history and safer than the hike.
Attend the Roxy…especially if you’re not attending Carnivale…where Rio’s nightlife gets a glamorous, high-heeled twist! Think dazzling drag queens, sultry samba, and a side of cocktails that could make even Christ the Redeemer shimmy. It’s part cabaret, part feast, and 100% fabulous—because dinner is better with a little drama!
Hit the Beach…Sip on a coconut, play a game of beach volleyball, or just soak up the sun. Copacabana is lively and classic, while Ipanema is a bit more stylish (and home to that famous song!). The people watching is fab!
Visit the Botanical Garden & Tijuca Forest… Get a taste of the jungle without leaving the city! The Jardim Botânico is home to towering palm trees, orchids, and even wild monkeys. For more adventure, hike through Tijuca National Park to hidden waterfalls and viewpoints.
Visit the ‘Museum of Tomorrow’ for a Sci-Fi Fix…Part spaceship, part architectural wonder, this futuristic museum explores sustainability, AI, and the future of humanity. Bonus: It looks like something out of Blade Runner and makes for killer photos.
Drink a Caipirinha in a Cemetery
Wait, what?! Yep! São João Batista Cemetery is filled with elaborate tombs and famous residents, but the nearby bars cater to visitors with strong drinks and ghost stories. Cheers to the afterlife!