Rio de Janeiro

BBC picked in 2002

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : Brazil

Currency : Real

Big Mac Index : 4.24

Travel Safety : Moderate Risk

Rio de Janeiro, also known as "Cidade Maravilhosa" or "Marvelous City," is a vibrant and bustling metropolis located in the southeastern region of Brazil. Known for its beautiful beaches, world-renowned Carnival celebration, and iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro is a must-see destination for any traveler. Getting There: Rio de Janeiro is served by two airports, one is Santos Dumont Airport which is located in the city center and the other is Galeão International Airport which is located in the northern suburbs. Both airports are well connected to the city center by taxis, buses, and trains. Things to See and Do: - The Christ the Redeemer Statue: This iconic statue stands atop Corcovado Mountain and is one of Rio’s most recognizable landmarks. The statue is 98 feet tall and offers panoramic views of the city and the bay. Visitors can take a train or a taxi to the top of the mountain for a closer look. - Sugarloaf Mountain: This 396-meter-high peak offers views of Guanabara Bay and the city. Visitors can take a cable car to the top for a breathtaking view of the city and the ocean. - Copacabana Beach: This famous beach is one of Rio’s top attractions, with its two-and-a-half-mile stretch of sand and turquoise waters. The beach is a great place to sunbathe, swim, or participate in a variety of water sports. - Maracanã Stadium: This world-famous stadium is the largest in South America and is home to some of Brazil’s top soccer teams. Visitors can take a tour of the stadium or attend a match to experience the excitement of this iconic venue. - Escadaria Selarón: This famous staircase is located in the Lapa neighborhood and is covered in colorful tiles. The staircase was created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón and is a popular spot for photos and art lovers. When to Visit: Rio de Janeiro has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The city experiences two seasons: a dry season from June to September and a wet season from October to May. The best time to visit Rio de Janeiro is during the dry season, when temperatures are mild and the skies are clear. However, this is also the busiest time of year for tourism, so visitors should plan ahead to avoid peak crowds. Tips: - Learn some Portuguese: English is widely spoken in Rio de Janeiro but it is always helpful to know a few basic Portuguese phrases. Like Bom dia! - Stay safe: Rio de Janeiro is a large city and visitors should take precautions to stay safe. It is recommended to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables and to avoid walking alone in quiet or poorly lit areas at night.

Photo - Unsplash: Raphael Nogueira