Travel to Rio De Janeiro
Travel to Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro, affectionately called Rio, is the second largest city in Brazil. It is divided into 3 main districts; the centre where the main city is located and most tourists gather andthe South and North which includes the sprawling suburban areas. The centre is a mixture of historic buildings, museums and skyscrapers. It is also the place where thousands of tourists come to attend the Carnival parade at the Sambodromo. The city is bustling with energy and has something for everyone to enjoy.
Transportation to Rio De Janeiro
The second largest airport in Brazil, the Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, is about 13 miles away from the city of Rio de Janeiro andcaters to both international and domestic flights. Many international airlines including Aerolineas Argentinas, Air France, American Airlines, United Airlines British Airways, Continental Airlines, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airlines land here. Public transportation to and from the airport is available by taxi and bus. Train services in Brazil are largely limited to transporting cargo and it is advisable to fly, drive or take a bus to Rio de Janeiro. The main bus station is located only 5 minutes from the city. Take the BR116 motorway to get to Rio de Janeiro, but driving in the city can be quite stressful. It is convenient to get around town using the available public transportation; taxi, bus and the two metro line services.
What to see
It is fairly impossible to see all there is at Rio de Janeiro in a day or two as the city is full of delightful places to visit. The Republic Museum, National Monument to the Victims of the Second World War, Neo Classical Museum, Indian Museum and the Villa Lobos Museum are treasure houses for those who love history and culture. Urca, situated between the Sugar Loaf and the 17th century Fort at So Joo, is the perfect place to relax while watching fishermen at work or yachts sailing. Santa Teresa and Gloria are also quiet hillside areas with inexpensive restaurants offering tasty Brazilian fare. Santa Teresa was once the hideaway of Ronnie Briggs, the infamous train robber. Today it is home to artists who have their studios here. For sun and surf visitors flock to the famous beaches at Copacabana which have inspired many songs, the most famous being Barry Manilows Copacabana. There is a beautiful old fort which offers splendid views of the ocean at Copacabana. The Planetarium and the City Park with its Historic Museum are all located at Gvea. Rio de Janeiro also has a large Botanical Garden at Jardim Botnico, but to get the most spectacular views of Rio de Janeiro take a drive or walk through the Floresta da Tijuca, a tropical forest in the middle of the city, more than 1000 feet above sea level. Here you can also visit the Emperor Table, Chinese View and the Acude Museum. One of the most famous sights at Rio de Janeiro is the Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue that was placed at the top of Corvcovado mountain in 1931. There are many tales of miracles surrounding the statue.
Day trips
Take a boat ride to the Ilha de Paquet, said to be one of the most beautiful islands in the Guanabara Bay. It is not a well known tourist spot but is frequented by the locals who love the charm of the island. The island has many colonial buildings and shops selling all sorts of interesting souvenirs. Niteri is known to be the sister city of Rio de Janeiro with beautiful beaches and an art museum by Oscar Niemeyer. Paratay, just a few hours away from Rio de Janeiro, is situated between the sea and the mountain where during the 17th century many prospectors arrived in search of gold. Paratay, with its cobbled streets and old buildings dating back to the colonial days, quaint hotels and restaurants is well worth a visit.
Activities and leisure
Water activities including motorised paragliding, water skiing, scuba diving and snorkelling which are available at many of the beaches in Rio de Janeiro. One of the more popular water activities are the specially arranged dives to swim with sharks. Wind surfing is allowed at the Devil and Arapoador beaches. Hikers will enjoy climbing the 2800 feet mountain of Pedra da Gvea choosing from several trails or having a guided tour to the top. At Lagoa, sports enthusiasts can use the large public sport complex facilities that include tennis courts, football fields, bicycle and jogging tracks, and a skate and roller skate bowl. You will also want to visit the Maracana, the stadium that is Brazils temple of soccer.
Visitors will be spoiled for places to dance the night away at Rio. Copacabana is well known for its nightlife with its bars, restaurants, hotels and also strip clubs. Ipanema and Lagoa are trendy areas with many restaurants, bars and shops.
Safety issues
Rio de Janeiro is a haven for pickpockets and snatch thieves. Travellers are advised to keep a close watch on their bags, cameras and belongings. It is not wise to leave packages unattended and it is suggested that you keep a hand on all belongings at all times, even when seated. Having travel insurance will provide some peace of mind and certainly come in useful should something inadvertent occur.