Rio de Janeiro
Rio, my eternal favorite city in THE WHOLE WORLD! Why? you would ask. Let me tell you.
Imagine you open your eyes and what you see is from an aerial view. First, you’ll notice that the city is surrounded by the sea which leads you to notice that there are several beaches (let’s dive into that a bit later). You will then rapidly note the Christ Redeemer and the Pao de Azucar as well as all the colorful favelas hanging on the edge of the hills. The streets are numerous, and very green due to the amount of trees contained in them. What about this bridge over there (arches, not bridge!)? That is in Lapa, where you’'ll also find the famous Selaron staircase (The colorful stairs) and the best blocos during Carnival [Read more]. You would be right if you told me you could see a big blue shape. That is the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, a massive lake linking many districts together.
Let’s zoom in. Rio has many barrios (neighborhoods) but only certain ones are worth visiting/are considered relatively secure.
Barrios you should visit in Rio:
Lapa: Lapa has a very bohemian side to it. It is known for its second hand shops, Carioca arches, Selaron staircase, street art, local markets, and nightlife.
Copacabana Beach: To me, Copacabana is over rated. But it has to be said that when you step out of the plane coming from a cold and grey country like Belgium, then Copacabana’s warm temperatures, burning sun and very long broadwalk full of life, is worth seeing! At night you will be able to wander through the night market located on Avenida Antlantico.
Santa Teresa: Santa Teresa is a charming and bohemian neighborhood nestled in the hills of Rio de Janeiro. It is known for its artistic vibe, colonial architecture, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a unique and picturesque part of the city. You can get there by taxi or with the small tram that runs there from the center. THIS PLACE IS A GEM. The views you can get from the sidewalks are astonishing, and all the small shops selling handcrafted object are super cute. You also get to eat very well in Santa Teresa, as most restaurants try to keep a certain standard while remaining affordable.
Ipanema:
Beach: For some it may look like any other beach, and I’m sorry to say but you are wrong! The waves there are huge (which can be a little dangerous) and give this dramatic side to the whole scenery. If you imagine yourself facing the water, you have praia do Leblon and the impressive Morros Dois Irmãos mountain. On your right you see Praia do Arpoador and the Pedra do Arpoador
Morros Dois Irmâos: Morro Dois Irmãos consists of two distinct peaks, hence its name "Two Brothers Hill." These peaks rise prominently above the neighborhood of Leblon and offer fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding areas. During sunset this is THE PLACE to be.
Lemme: Lemme is a peaceful little neighborhood, filled with charm with its traditional bakeries, bars and restaurants. Although it is located at the end of the broadwalk that links Lemme to Copacabana, people there seem more relaxed. Inside of Lemme you will find a safe Favela (Favela do Lemme). I recommend staying in that Favela in a hostel called Aquarela do Lemme, a very friendly and colorful hostel that offers privates and dorms, as well as a beautiful view of the city and sea in the distance. The breakfast is homemade and you have a wide variety of products.
Centro: Rio’s city center is very eclectic. You will find located between government and business buildings many historic monuments such as the Paco Imperial, a former royal palace dating from the 1750s.
If you are a found of all sorts of markets, here are some you must check out:
Feira Hippie de Ipanema (flea market)
Avenida Atlantica in Copacabana (night market) - Closed on Sundays
O Mercado – Estilistas Independentes (a market of independents - artists and stylists)
O Mercadão de Madureira (Madureira): You can find anything from arts and crafts to organic food
What to do/places to see: Apart from all the places I have already mentionned, you should take some time to visit the:
Corcovado with at its top, the Christ Redeemer
Pao de Azucár
Tijuca Forest
The Selaron staircase
The Botanical Garden
The Amanhã museum
Parque Lage
Where to eat: I’ll have to be honest, there are THOUSANDS of restaurants here and there that are all very good. I will try my best to keep the list short including various options:
Churrascaria grill Inn - Buffet style restaurant (Copacabana)
Farro Souza Lima - Bakery (Copacabana)
Açai : You have Maria Açai which is a good option because they have shops all around the city so it is easy to keep on getting your favorite, but you can find some really good (and better) ones sold on the side of the road !
Mô cafe - This coffee place offers great hot drinks as well as breakfast in the cutest of atmospheres. Bonus: They have a thrift shop linked to it (Santa Teresa)
Botequim Ledeirinha - Traditional brazilian food (Santa Teresa)