Rio Travel Tips
Bikinis on the beach, samba in the streets, a stunning mountainous backdrop, and a rainforest within city limits… how many more reasons can there be to book a holiday in Rio de Janeiro, the vibrant heart of Brazil?
Best known for its dazzling annual Carnival, thought to be the biggest party in the world, Rio is a fun, sexy city irresistible to party-goers. All year round, the Rio nightlife is lively, so those missing the Carnival needn’t worry that they won’t experience the legendary energy of the city. Of course, a holiday in Rio de Janeiro is also perfect for sun-lovers, with 100km of beaches flanking the city. Travellers will find a booming restaurant scene and a rich and varied culture in Rio de Janeiro, with museums and galleries enough to please any committed sightseer.
When is the best time to visit Rio? With holiday beach weather the order of the day almost every day of the year, there is never a bad time to visit Rio de Janeiro and better yet South African’s do not require a visa for Brazil however they do need yellow fever vaccinations at least 10 days before travelling
Nearly all hotels add a service charge to the bill, usually 10 percent. Waiters appreciate another five percent if their service has been good.
Brazil is politically stable, in metropolitan areas, however, crime is a fact of life. Visitors should not attempt to visit slum areas (favelas) even on a guided tour. Visitors should dress down, conceal cameras, and avoid wearing jewellery and expensive watches. Keep sight of your card at all times and do not use an ATM if you notice anything suspicious. Valuables should be deposited in hotel safes. Leave your passport and other valuables in a safe place. Visitors should avoid taking valuables to the beach.
When interacting with the locals, don’t be surprised if you’re pulled in for a kiss on either cheek. It seems a little strange but it’s the normal social custom.
Fun facts
Rio has more than 46 miles (74km) of bicycle trails, mostly along the beaches.
The giant statue of Jesus is struck by lightning several times a year
In 2014, Rio de Janeiro legalized street art on many types of city property, turning the already colorful city into an outdoor art gallery. Street artists are allowed to decorate columns, walls and construction siding, so long as they’re not historically designated.
Rio hosted the largest ever concert. Rod Stewart played to an estimated 3.5 million people on Copacabana beach in 1994.
Some mistakenly think Rio is Brazil’s capital, but that honour actually belongs to Brasilia. It hadn’t always been that way: between 1763 and 1960, Rio was the capital.
Rio is Brazil’s second largest metropolitan city after Sau Paulo, and there are roughly 6.3 million inhabitants inhabiting Rio.
Things to do in Rio
Stand with the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and take in the city below.
Catch a soccer game at the celebrated Estadio do Maracana.
Enjoy Ipanema’s glorious beaches and feisty nightlife.
Explore Santa Teresa, a charming, maze-like, old district.
Shop and sunbathe in the famous coastal neighbourhood of Copacabana.
Ride the cable car up Sugar Loaf for the best views of the city.
Book an excursion to the many islands of Angra dos Reis.
Beach hop! Among the most popular are Red Beach, Ipanema, Copacabana, Prainha Beach, Barra da Tijuca, Sao Conrado, Leme, and Arpoador.
Every Monday night in Rio’s city center, the streets come alive with the mesmerizing tunes of samba.
Coffee beans are one of the top imports and exports in Brazil. As you wander the streets of Rio, stop in at any of the many coffee shops and have a sip. You won’t be disappointed!
Top tips for visiting Rio.
In Rio de Janeiro, you need to call a bus just like you would do with a taxi. Even if you’re at a bus stop, it won’t pick you up unless you raise your hand and manifest your interest.
Do not drink tap water! Even locals don’t do that. You’ll easily find bottled water everywhere. I know it’s really not eco-friendly, so you can also use any purifying device you have and a reusable bottle.
You can use your card at most places but if you prefer to use cash, draw at the airport. Banks can be problematic with drawing cash with a forgein card.
Use the metro! It’s very clean and efficient. The metro and bus systems are actually very tourist-friendly and more affordable than taxis.
Rio isn’t very fluent in English, so learn a few key phrases in Portuguese to help you get around.
Pack insect repellent. It’s quiet humid and it’s also home to the Tijuca Forest, a massive rainforest so mosquito’s will be plentiful
Book a trip to Rio https://mytravelguy.co.za/tours/cruise-brazil-uruguay-and-argentina/
