A mixture of old classical statues and newer vibrant nightlife and carnivals, Rio offers the visiting traveler something to satiate all their needs. Whether you wish to visit some of its famous landmarks or sample its cosmopolitan clubs and bars, it's a wonderful city to make your acquaintance of.

Mention Rio to anyone and the first response you'll probably get is "Carnival". This is understandable - probably the most famous musical and cultural event in the world today, the annual Carnival in Rio de Janeiro attracts visitors from far and wide to sample not only its music and local cuisine, but the whole vibrant and colorful atmosphere portrayed.

A combination of a number of smaller carnivals, perhaps the most famous is the Mardi Gras, which is actually the signal for the Carnival to end. A celebration of music, life, food and belief, it's an unforgettable memory for those lucky enough to partake in it. However, there is also the parade of local Samba schools, known as the Escolas de Samba, as well as the Simpatia e Quase Amor, which is an extremely popular parade through the city that celebrates love and friendship.

However, it's not just the carnival that holidaymakers choose Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Many New Year revelers visit the city, to enjoy one of the most elaborate and colorful fireworks displays to welcome in the New Year. This, coupled with the fantastic nightlife that the city has to offer (so good, in fact, that the likes of Naomi Campbell and Mick Jagger are known to frequent the city), makes Rio a haven for those seeking the ultimate in indulgence and fun.

Sport has always played a part in Brazilian history and Rio de Janeiro is no exception. Chosen to host the 2007 Pan American Games, it's also famous for its Moto GP superbike racetrack, as well as its beach volleyball. For the adventurous, you can try hang-gliding, kite surfing, or rock climbing, to name but a few. Indeed, Rio has been named as one of the favorite haunts for rock climbers, due to the likes of the famous Sugar Loaf granite mountain.

For the more sedate traveler, Rio also offers wonderful fishing opportunities. Take a boat out into the deep blue seas off the coats and allow yourself to relax as the breeze passes by, while you fish for the local delicacy, Brazilian copperfish. With a wide variety of these little fish alone, it's a very traditional meal and a nice way to ease the excesses of the previous night from out of your system.

Recommended WebSites and Travel Services

Before You Go | Online Shopping Center: Amazon.com

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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

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About the Author: Luca Robi is the owner and co-editor of BrazilReplies.com where you can great news and information about Brazil and other related information. Visit us if you want to learn more Brazil - Rio De Janeiro.