O Rio, Rio how lovely art thou, Rio!

O Rio, Rio how lovely art thou, Rio! Rio de Janeiro is without a doubt one of the most popularly visited spots worldwide. If you think about it, it really has it all--the mountains, beaches, Arts, museums, sophisticated and bargain shopping facilities of all kinds, historical sites, red hot night life, and the list goes on forever.

Many people start with Sugar loaf Mountain (Pao de acucar). Its name describes the way the mountain juts out of the ocean and dazzles you with its sweet appearance. You can reach the top of it by cable car, which will stop halfway up at Morro de Urca. Both of these sites will provide picturesque views of the sea and city below.

Don't forget about Corcovado Mountain with the famous Jesus Statue. This is the most visited spot in Rio. The view here is also fabulous and a must see for anyone with a sense of adventure.

Speaking of adventure, perhaps you are one who looks to turn the adrenaline up a few notches. Hang gliding from the popular, Pedra da Gavea (Topsail rock) is a real hit for adrenaline junkies. It boasts a height of about 3000 feet and includes your landing on Pepino beach below.

Speaking of beaches, lets chat a bit about some of Rio's world renowned beaches. Copacabana is often talked about and even makes its way into the lyrics of a couple of our songs. It is a very popular beach among tourists and the Brazilians alike. Along with Epinema (of the famous song entitled "The Girl from Epinema"), Leblon, Leme, Sao Conrrado, And Arpoador you have some of the most elite beaches of Rio.

It is not at all unusual to see some of the famous soccer players like Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, or maybe even Pele himself playing a game of Futevoley (a combination of soccer and volleyball) at one of these popular spots. Copacabana also boasts one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the world at their New Year's celebration. The fireworks are done in the most organized fashion from atop hotels and in boats well out in the harbor. Though often the attendance reaches the two million mark, it is a safe and joyous affair.

Some of the other famous districts where the middle and upper classes like to congregate include: Barra de Tijuca, Lagoa, Jardim Botanica, Gavea, Flamengo, Botafogo, and Laranjeiras. Most of which can be reached easily and somewhat luxuriously on Rio's sophisticated underground metro system.

Speaking a bit more abstractly, picture some junctures that simply don't exist in such harmoniously perfect forms in most countries. For example, the mountains meet the ocean and the forest meets the mountains in such blissful synergy it is impossible to describe with words.

Even photos are no substitute for the real thing--you have to witness it for yourself! Another unusual intersection that is not typically contemplated is where the urban jungle meets the real jungle. The Tijuca Forest (in Rio) boasts the second largest forest adjacent to a major city in the world. The largest one is coincidentally also in Rio. We provide the best for you in Brazil. See you in Brazil !!! contact us.

Recommended WebSites and Travel Services

Before You Go | Online Shopping Center: Amazon.com

• View Travel Guidebooks on Places To See in Rio de Janeiro
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Hotels, Condos, B&B's | Hotel Booking Service: Hotels.com

Outdoor Adventure Travel | Adventure Travel Service: GAP Adventures

Rio de Janeiro Tours | Online Tour Operator: Viator.com

• Find and book Rio de Janeiro tours and activities on Viator.com. Book ahead to save time and money!

Holiday Alternatives | Other Services

• Home Swapping Service: HomeExchange.com "You stay in my home while I stay in yours"

About the Author: Luiz Silva from seeyouinbrazil.com

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