Rio General Information

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Rio is an awe-inspiring city where impossibly steep granite mountains rise from the ocean between glorious stretches of golden sand. Brash skyscrapers vie for space with impeccable colonial buildings, and lush forests tumble down hillsides into densely populated residential areas.Entry point for cruise ships is the Baía de Guanabara, a huge crescent-shaped bay backed by the stunning cityscape of man-made structures and dramatic natural attractions. Rio has a unique history and culture, passionate people and vibrant beach, city and nightlife, characterised by football, samba and above all Carnival. The cidade maravilhosa (marvellous city) will not fail to impress.

Sightseeing
It's relatively easy to orient yourself in Rio as its harbour and beaches run the length of its seaward side and the landscape is dominated by the twin peaks of Pão de Açúcar (Sugar Loaf) and the Corcovado (Hunchback), which is topped by the Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue.

Copacabana and Ipanema beaches remain the focal point for many visitors to Rio but those prepared to venture a little further will discover a bustling city with exceptional museums, art galleries, historic buildings and parks amid the skyscrapers and favelas (shantytowns). The contrasts continue into the suburbs which eventually give way to the wildlife rich wilderness of the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic forest).

Highlights

• Pão de Açúcar cable car
• Corcovado views
• Paço Imperial (Imperial Palace)
• Mosteiro de São Bento (Monastery of St Benedict)
• Museu Histórico Nacional (National History Museum)
• Maracanã (football stadium)
• Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas (lake and park)
• Tijuca National Park (world's largest urban park)

Tourist Information

Riotur - City of Rio de Janeiro Tourism Authority
Praça Pio, 119/9th - Downtown, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Tel: +55 21227 17000.
Website: www.riodejaneiro-turismo.com.br

Shopping
Rio is the place to invest in good quality beach and swimwear, competitively priced fashion, antiques and jewellery. Brazilian soccer shirts also make great gifts. Leblon and Ipanema are the areas to head for exclusive boutiques. There are several large shopping malls throughout the city. Quality arts and crafts are available at colourful outdoor markets.

Eating Out
Rio de Janeiro is a phenomenal destination for foodies, where traditional and contemporary Brazilian mix with a huge range of international flavours. The local speciality is feijoada - a thick stew of black beans and meats traditionally eaten on Fridays.

When To Go
It can get very hot and sticky during the summer (December to February), which culminates with Carnival, when Rio is heaving. The cooler months outside this period make sightseeing more pleasurable. It can rain at any time of the year.

Time Zone GMT - 3.
Currency Real (R$) = 100 centavos.
Language Portuguese.
Location Southeast Brazil, South America.
Population 6 million.
Government Federal Republic.
Religion Most people are Roman Catholics but a number of evangelical cults are also represented, as are animist beliefs, particularly candomblé.

Social Conventions In informal situations, it is common to kiss women on both cheeks when meeting and taking one's leave. Handshaking is customary between men. Swimwear is the norm on and around the beaches. Casual clothes are acceptable in most neighbourhoods but suits are worn in the business district, and a shirt and tie or smart eveningwear is still expected in the most exclusive restaurants.

Tipping: 10% is usual for good service in bars and restaurants, where it is not already added to the bill.

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