Take the time to explore Rio
2010-09-17
Travelers looking for a great mix of culture, famous sights and beautiful beaches should look no further than Rio de Janeiro, a sprawling metropolis that has something to offer every traveler.
Now is a great time to visit Rio, as the city is preparing for the massive influx of travelers that the 2014 World Cup will bring. That means that tons of new restaurants, art galleries and attractions are opening, making Rio a great destination for vacationers.
Even novice travelers probably know of the Copacabana beach and Sugar Loaf mountain, but Rio contains plenty of secrets that are worth searching out. The city has recently made an effort to highlight the poorer districts of the city, called favelas, with new initiatives. According to the New York Times, one of these is the a new elevator that connects the upscale Ipanema district with the Cantagalo favela above it. The new ride includes an observation deck that offers a breathtaking view of Rio.
Right nearby is the Rua Dias Ferreira, a street famous for its many restaurants. Here, travelers will find Brazilian twists on world cuisine, like the exotic sushi joint Sushi Leblon or Quadrucci, which offers bold dishes like shrimp risotto with mangos.
Rio is one of the top spots in the world for South American travel, and with so many new and exciting hotspots springing up, it's well worth a visit.
View Larger MapSee also ...