One of the many things that make Rio de Janeiro, Brazil such a fascinating place to visit is that this part of the world is a unique blend rainforest and the ocean.  Without doubt, Rio de Janeiro has often been referred to as the most beautiful city in the world, with the locals calling it “cidade maravilhos”, which means magnificent city.  Just as there are places in Brazil where you can enjoy peace and quiet, there are other places that are much like New York City, never sleeping and always exciting. 

In Rio de Janeiro, you will find two spectacular beaches called Copacabana and Ipanema that stretch out over 45 miles of pristine, white sand.  When you visit Brazil, there are three things you must experience.  The first is the rainforests, the second is the electrifying nightlife, and the third is the magnificent beaches.  Keep in mind that people in Rio de Janeiro often go topless so do not be offended as this is just a local custom.  All along the beach will find wonderful people and quaint café culture that Brazil is so well known for. 

The city of Rio de Janeiro has a history of 500 years, being founded in 1502.  Here, you will enjoy a festival like atmosphere with lots of color, song, dancing, and a true youthful, lust for life.  The people of Brazil are very warm and endearing, eager to show off the incredible land and life they enjoy.  In fact, Rio de Janeiro is considered the art and cultural center of the continent and with good reason.  Once you leave the beach for the day, you can treat yourself to contemporary art museums and galleries or shop for gorgeous jewelry all at very affordable prices. 

Most of the hotels in Rio de Janeiro offer breathtaking views of Pao de Acucar, also known as Sugarloaf, which is a large, tranquil mountain or the Tijuca rainforest just 25 minutes away!  If you prefer, you can stay in a home with locals, renting out a room to get a first-hand look at the life and culture.  Therefore, whether you want to experience the natural environment around Rio de Janeiro or urban cultural adventures, this city has it all.  Rio is so loved that more than 12 million people call it home and the numbers keep climbing. 

What you find when you reach Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is a city that is sprawled out along a narrow strip of land that is nestled between two mountains with tropical vegetation and rock expanses on one side and then the wonderful, dark blue sea dotted with rocky islands to the other side.  Truly, this is a travelers’ paradise with a big city atmosphere but small town hearts.